By Scout Nelson
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has announced statewide deadlines for Fiscal Year 2026 funding under the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP). Kansas landowners and eligible entities may apply at any time, but applications for funding consideration must be received by 4 p.m. CST, Friday, December 5, 2025.
ACEP, authorized under the 2018 Farm Bill, offers funding to purchase conservation easements that retain productive farmland, protect grasslands, and restore vital wetlands. The program has two main components:
- ACEP–ALE (Agricultural Land Easements): Helps protect croplands and grasslands from being converted to non-agricultural uses.
- ACEP–WRE (Wetland Reserve Easements): Restores wetlands, improves water quality, reduces flooding, recharges groundwater, and enhances biodiversity.
For ACEP–WRE, Kansas NRCS is prioritizing lands high in organic carbon and important areas such as playa wetlands and grasslands. Landowners may choose permanent or 30-year easements, while Tribal landowners can opt for 30-year contracts.
“Conservation easements offer a multitude of advantages to Kansans, encompassing the safeguarding of open landscapes, wildlife habitats, and wetlands, as well as the restoration and preservation of vital natural resources,” stated David S. Doctorian, State Conservationist.
Applications are ranked based on their potential to protect and restore wetlands. Compensation is determined by land appraisals, Geographic Area Rate Caps (GARC), or landowner offers. For ACEP–ALE, the federal share is based on before-and-after appraisals.
Applicants must also provide accurate ownership records through the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA). All required documents, including Farm Operating Plans (Form CCC–902), adjusted gross income forms, and conservation compliance paperwork, must be submitted by 4 p.m. CST, Friday, January 23, 2026.
For 90 years, NRCS has worked alongside landowners to conserve air, water, soil, and wildlife habitat. Through science-based practices and voluntary conservation programs, NRCS continues to strengthen working lands and agricultural economies.
Photo Credit:usda
Categories: Kansas, Government & Policy