Submit applications by Jan. 15 for funds to protect wetlands and preserve farmlands

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service in Delaware is now accepting applications from landowners and governmental and non-governmental groups interested in protecting Delaware’s wetlands and working farms through the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program.

This signup includes both the Wetland Reserve Easement and Agricultural Land Easement components of this 2014 Farm Bill program. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis, but NRCS requires individuals interested in WRE funding and eligible entities interested in ALE funds for this fiscal year to submit applications by Friday, Jan. 15.

WRE applicants must have farm records established with USDA's Farm Service Agency, and the land should have been owned for two years. Eligible land includes farmed wetlands that can be successfully and economically restored; former or degraded wetlands with a history of agricultural use; wetlands farmed under natural conditions; and prior-converted cropland converted on or before Dec. 23, 1985. Conservation Reserve Program land established with trees may also be eligible for enrollment through a waiver process.

Landowners have two options under WRE:

• Permanent Easements - NRCS pays 100 percent of the easement value for the purchase of the easement. Also, NRCS pays up to 100 percent of the restoration costs.
• 30-Year Easements - NRCS pays the landowner 50 to 75 percent of the easement value for the purchase of the easement and 50 to 75 percent of the restoration costs.

ALE focuses on preserving productive cropland, grassland, pastureland and nonindustrial private forestland from conversion to non-agricultural uses. Eligible partners include state and local governments and non-governmental organizations that have farmland or grassland protection programs. Under the ALE, NRCS may contribute up to 50 percent of the fair market value of the agricultural land easement.

“Our wetlands are critical for reducing flood impacts, improving water quality and providing wildlife habitat while our farms provide the food and fiber that we all require. Having landowners and partners that work with us to protect these beneficial lands has been invaluable,” said Delaware State Conservationist Kasey Taylor. “Last year, we funded four easement applications for $3.74 million to protect nearly 700 acres of wetlands and ag lands in the state. We aim to further preserve these lands in 2016.”

For applications, visit a local USDA Service Center or go to www.nrcs.usda.gov/GetStarted. For more information, go to www.de.nrcs.usda.gov.