Slide 1

WETLANDS RESERVE PROGRAM (WRP)

Slide 2

WRP Key Points

• Restore and protect functions/values of wetlands in ag landscape

• Optimize wildlife habitat

• Restore at least 70 percent of each project to natural conditions

Slide 3

WRP Key Points

• Provides technical and financial assistance

• Addresses wetland, wildlife habitat, soil, and water resource concerns

• Application ranking factors consider environmental benefits and cost effectiveness

Slide 4

WRP Key Points

• Three program participation options

•10-year cost-share agreement restorations

•30-year easement restorations

•Permanent easement restorations

Slide 5

WRP Key Points

• Landowners retains:

– control of access

– undeveloped recreational uses

– right to lease recreational uses for financial gain

Slide 6

WRP Key Points

• Other uses must be approved by NRCS

• Compatible uses further long-term protection and enhancement of wetland and other natural values

Slide 7

WRP Key Points

• National and State level conservation entities assist NRCS with program delivery

Slide 8

WRP Key Points

• Allows the Secretary to enroll up to 250,000 acres annually, up to a total of 2,275,000 acres, nationally

• Adds an exemption to the 12-month ownership requirement for landowners who exercised their right to redemption after foreclosure

Slide 9

WRP Key Points

• National Accomplishments Through 2002– Easements/Contracts: 6,800 – Acres: 1,275,000

• Kansas Accomplishments – Through 2003– Easements/Contracts: 123– Acres: 12,026– Average: 98 acres/project

Slide 10