Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

The Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) is a voluntary program for the restoration and protection of wetlands on private property. Technical and financial assistance is provided in return for placing a conservation easement on the property either permanently or for a period of 30 years. Financial assistance is provided to landowners for restoration and enhancement practices that are implemented on the WRE.

Wetland reserve easements allow landowners to successfully enhance and protect habitat for wildlife on their lands, reduce impacts from flooding, and provide outdoor recreational and educational opportunities.

If you are interested in applying please contact the NRCS office.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers in order to address natural resource concerns and deliver environmental benefits such as improved water and air quality, conserved ground and surface water, reduced soil erosion and sedimentation or improved or created wildlife habitat.

The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) aims to reward farmers who are already exhibiting resource conservation and stewardship. This is done through financial assistance to help maintain and improve upon existing conservation activities, and to adopt additional practices to address priority resource concerns. 

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis and are selected for funding on a competitive basis.

The Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) provides funding to producers and land owners who own property in the St. Joseph Watershed and are interested in implementing conservation practices aimed at improving water quality.

The 2018 signup period is currently underway, and more information and applications can be found at the District office.