The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Georgia (NRCS-GA) wants to remind landowners in the state that Friday, October 6 is the deadline to sign-up for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) for fiscal year 2024.
ACEP has two components, the Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) and Wetlands Reserve Easements (WRE).
ACEP-WRE applications are accepted directly from producers on eligible lands. These easements will restore and enhance wetlands and improve habitat. Eligible lands include farmed, prior converted or forested wetlands that can be successfully and cost-effectively restored.
Applications for the ACEP-ALE are accepted from eligible entities only. These eligible entities may submit proposals to NRCS to acquire a conservation easement on eligible agricultural land. NRCS does not accept applications for ACEP-ALE directly from producers. Producers will need to work with an eligible entity to pursue funding for an ACEP-ALE conservation easement.
To be considered for the upcoming fiscal year’s funding pool, applications must be submitted by October 6, 2023. Conservation program applications are available through NRCS at your local USDA Service Center. Or, for more information, go to NRCS-GA website.