USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) wants to remind landowners and conservation partners the deadline to submit proposals to protect and restore critical wetlands is June 14. USDA is making available up to $40 million in technical and financial assistance for these projects. Restored wetlands improve water quality downstream and improve wildlife habitat, while also providing flood prevention and recreational benefits to communities.
Funding will be provided through the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP), part of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), a Farm Bill conservation program. Through WREP, states, local units of governments, non-governmental organizations and American Indian tribes collaborate with NRCS through cooperative and partnership agreements. These partners work with tribal and private landowners who voluntarily enroll eligible land into easements to protect, restore and enhance wetlands on their properties.
Farmers, ranchers and forest landowners interested in should contact their local USDA service center, or visit the ACEP webpage by June 14.