The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) is an offshoot of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA) in partnership with states, Tribal governments, and non-governmental organizations.
Partners work with FSA to develop CREP agreements designed to address specific conservation challenges in targeted geographic areas. The program encourages farmers and landowners to enroll in long-term conservation contracts, removing environmentally sensitive land from agricultural production and implementing conservation practices. Participants receive annual rental payments, cost-share assistance for establishing conservation practices, and other financial incentives.
Eligible applicants include farmers and landowners with land in designated CREP project areas. The land must meet specific criteria related to environmental sensitivity and conservation potential. Participants must demonstrate the ability to implement and maintain the proposed conservation practices.
Enrollment periods vary depending on the specific CREP project. Interested participants should contact their local FSA office for details on current and upcoming enrollment opportunities.
To apply for the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, producers and landowners with land in a designated CREP project area must submit an offer to their local FSA office. The offer process includes providing information about the land, conservation goals, and the desired conservation practices. Detailed enrollment instructions and deadlines are available through the local FSA office.
Program Features
- Enrollment Options: CREP targets high-priority conservation issues, such as water quality improvement, soil erosion control, and enhancement of wildlife habitat. Participation involves long-term commitments, typically 10 to 15 years.
- Payments: Annual rental payments based on soil productivity and local rental rates. Cost-share assistance for up to 50% of the costs of establishing approved conservation practices. Additional financial incentives may be available for specific conservation practices or project areas.
- Conservation Practices: Includes planting native grasses, trees, and other vegetation to improve water quality, control soil erosion, and enhance wildlife habitat.
Additional CREP Benefits
- Targeted Environmental Impact: CREP focuses on addressing specific environmental issues in targeted areas, leading to more significant and measurable conservation outcomes.
- Economic Support: Provides stable income to participants through annual rental payments and financial incentives, helping to support the economic viability of their operations.
- Community and Ecological Benefits: Enhances local water quality, reduces soil erosion, and creates wildlife habitat, benefiting the broader community and ecosystem.