If you want to install a high tunnel and utilize NRCS financial assistance, get your application in as soon as possible!
It's important to not wait until January or February and expect you will be able to get your high tunnel that spring. Typically, the first round of applications is accepted by NRCS staff in the Fall to be funded the following Spring. If you wait until the winter or early spring, you will likely end up in the 2nd or 3rd round and might not be funded.
Ok, so when can you submit your application? You can submit an application for assistance any time during the year. However, applications are compiled and evaluated once a year, normally during the Fall, and contracts will start the following Spring if selected.