We deliver conservation solutions so agricultural producers can protect natural resources and feed a growing world.
The grant program focuses on protecting agricultural lands and wetlands through conservation easements. Key goals include preventing non-agricultural uses of lands that negatively affect their agricultural and conservation values, restoring or conserving eligible grazing lands, and protecting, restoring, and enhancing wetlands. The Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) aim to protect working farms and ranches, preserving the nation’s food supply and providing public benefits like environmental quality and wildlife habitat. The Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) focus on the protection, restoration, and enhancement of degraded wetlands, offering benefits such as habitat for wildlife, water quality improvement, flood reduction, groundwater recharge, biodiversity protection, climate change resilience, and opportunities for education and recreation. The program emphasizes the importance of local partnerships to match funding and ensure the long-term stewardship of the easements.
ALE Program: The NRCS will give preference to applications focused on preserving the farming potential and conservation aspects of the land. Special emphasis will be on proposals that aim to safeguard extensive, continuous agricultural areas, including farms and ranches.
WRE Program: The NRCS will favor applications that demonstrate a strong likelihood of improving or safeguarding habitats vital for migratory birds and various wildlife species.