Slide 1 WETLANDS RESERVE PROGRAM (WRP)

Slide 2 WRP Key Points Restore and protect functions/values of wetlands in ag landscape Optimize wildlife habitat Restore at least 70 percent of each project to natural conditions

Slide 3 WRP Key Points Provides technical and financial assistance Addresses wetland, wildlife habitat, soil, and water resource concerns Application ranking factors consider environmental benefits and cost effectiveness

Slide 4 WRP Key Points Three program participation options 10-year cost-share agreement restorations 30-year easement restorations Permanent easement restorations

Slide 5 WRP Key Points Landowners retains: –control of access –undeveloped recreational uses –right to lease recreational uses for financial gain

Slide 6 WRP Key Points Other uses must be approved by NRCS Compatible uses further long-term protection and enhancement of wetland and other natural values

Slide 7 WRP Key Points National and State level conservation entities assist NRCS with program delivery

Slide 8 WRP Key Points Allows the Secretary to enroll up to 250,000 acres annually, up to a total of 2,275,000 acres, nationally Adds an exemption to the 12-month ownership requirement for landowners who exercised their right to redemption after foreclosure

Slide 9 WRP Key Points National Accomplishments Through 2002 –Easements/Contracts: 6,800 –Acres: 1,275,000 Kansas Accomplishments – Through 2003 –Easements/Contracts: 123 –Acres: 12,026 –Average: 98 acres/project

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