WETLANDS RESERVE PROGRAM WRP 1 WRP Key Points

WETLANDS RESERVE PROGRAM (WRP) 1

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 2

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 3

WRP Key Points • Three program participation options • 10 -year cost-share agreement restorations • 30 -year easement restorations • Permanent easement restorations 4

WRP Key Points • Landowners retains: – control of access – undeveloped recreational uses – right to lease recreational uses for financial gain 5

WRP Key Points • Other uses must be approved by NRCS • Compatible uses further long-term protection and enhancement of wetland other natural values 6

WRP Key Points • National and State level conservation entities assist NRCS with program delivery 7

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 8

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 9

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