By Scout Nelson
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has announced application deadlines for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) for Fiscal Year 2025 in Kansas.
Kansas landowners and eligible entities can apply year-round; however, applications must be submitted by the following dates for funding consideration:
- December 20, 2024: Inflation Reduction Act Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) and Agricultural Land Easements (ALE).
- January 3, 2025: General WRE and ALE applications.
ACEP, under the 2018 Farm Bill, supports purchasing conservation easements to retain farmland and restore critical wetlands. The program includes two options:
- ACEP–ALE: Prevents converting agricultural lands to non-agricultural uses.
- ACEP–WRE: Restores wetlands to improve water quality, wildlife habitat, and flood prevention.
Eligible landowners can enroll in permanent or 30-year easements, with Tribal landowners having the additional option of 30-year contracts. NRCS and partners offer personalized guidance to help participants implement conservation easements that align with their operations.
“Conservation easements provide many public benefits to Kansans, including the protection of open spaces, wildlife habitat, and wetland restoration and protection,” said David Doctorian, State Conservationist for Kansas NRCS. “We encourage private landowners, Tribes, and non-governmental organizations to contact their local NRCS office to apply.”
Applications are ranked based on their potential to enhance habitat for wildlife. Payments are determined by land appraisals, Geographic Area Rate Caps (GARC), or landowner offers. Accurate land ownership records must be provided to the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), ensuring required forms and documents are filed.
Landowners and organizations are encouraged to contact their local NRCS office for application guidance and more details about the program. These easements play a critical role in supporting sustainable land management and environmental conservation.
Photo Credit:usda
Categories: Kansas