Conservation

USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service is now accepting applications to enroll eligible agricultural lands and wetlands in the new Agricultural Conservation Easements Program. Applications are due June 6, 2014. Agricultural easements prevent productive working lands from being converted to non-agricultural uses and maximize protection of land devoted to food production. Cropland, rangeland, grassland, pastureland, and nonindustrial private forestland are eligible for this program. 

Wetland reserve easements restore and enhance wetlands and improve habitat. Eligible lands include farmed or converted wetlands that can be successfully and cost-effectively restored.

 

Idaho NRCS State Conservationist Jeff Burwell said: "This is a great opportunity for more people to get involved in conserving natural resources. The program is open to Indian tribes, state and local governments, non-governmental organizations, and private landowners. We are currently accepting applications for both agricultural and wetlands reserve easements " Applications must be submitted to Idaho NRCS by June 6, 2014. They will be rated according to the easement's potential for meeting national and state level program objectives.