NRCS SD ANNOUNCES ACEP PROGRAM SIGNUP DEADLINE
DECEMBER 1, 2017
NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE (NRCS), Huron, S.D. November 7, 2017 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) officials announce December 1, 2017 as the deadline for applications for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) administered by the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
South Dakota landowners interested in enhancing their property through a Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) have several options to consider, one of those being the component of Reserved Grazing Rights. Through WRE Reserved Grazing Rights, NRCS partners with landowners to protect, restore and enhance enrolled lands, while retaining the rights to graze the offered area following a NRCS approved grazing plan.
Brandon Kottke, NRCS Easement Program Manager says, “There are two easement options available with Reserved Grazing Rights, a 30-year easement and a permanent easement. With the 30-year option, NRCS will pay 75 percent of the restoration cost. With the permanent easement, NRCS will pay 100 percent of the restoration.” Kottke said, “Through both options landowners retain the rights to graze; however, they must follow an NRCS approved grazing plan.”
Restoration plans work to restore the enrolled wetland and upland areas to the native vegetation community. Landowners interested in exploring USDA NRCS easement options are encouraged to apply early. Kottke said December 1, 2017 is the deadline for applications for Fiscal Year 2018 funding consideration. Applications are available online or at any USDA Service Center.
For information about technical assistance and conservation programs, visit www.nrcs.usda.gov/GetStarted. For more information about the ACEP or to apply, please contact your local NRCS office or visit http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Programs/FinancialAssistance/ACEP.
