We deliver conservation solutions so agricultural producers can protect natural resources and feed a growing world.
The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) aims to protect the agricultural viability and related conservation values of eligible lands by limiting nonagricultural uses. It specifically focuses on preserving grazing uses and related conservation values, restoring or conserving eligible grazing land, and protecting, restoring, and enhancing wetlands on eligible lands. The Wetlands Reserve Easements (WRE) part of the program assists private and tribal landowners in protecting, restoring, and enhancing previously degraded wetlands due to agricultural uses. Benefits of the Wetland Reserve Easements include habitat provision for fish and wildlife, improvement of water quality, reduction of flooding, recharge of groundwater, protection of biological diversity, contribution to climate change resilience, and support for educational, scientific, and limited recreational activities. The program offers several enrollment options, including permanent easements, 30-year easements, term easements, and 30-year contracts for Indian tribes, with varying payment and restoration support percentages.
NRCS will give preference to applications based on the easement’s capacity to safeguard and improve habitats for migratory birds and various wildlife species.