WRP Cutoff Date Announced

Harold L. Klaege, State Conservationist for the NRCS in Kansas, has announced the signup cutoff date of March 1, 2007, for the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP). The program is continuous, but applications need to be received by the cutoff date to be considered for the Fiscal Year 2007 funding allocation of $1.2 million. Kansas landowners have previously enrolled 148 sites with 14,178 acres in an easement or restoration agreement.

The WRP is a voluntary program offering landowners the opportunity to protect, restore, and enhance wetlands on their property. NRCS provides technical and financial support to help landowners with their wetland restoration efforts. The NRCS's goal is to achieve the greatest wetland functions and values, along with optimum wildlife habitat, on every acre enrolled in the program. This program offers landowners an opportunity to establish long-term conservation and wildlife practices and protection.

How the Program Works

Landowners who choose to participate in WRP may sell a conservation easement or enter into a cost-share restoration agreement with USDA to restore and protect wetlands. The landowner voluntarily limits future use of the land, yet retains private ownership. NRCS with input from the landowner, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service develops a plan for the restoration and maintenance of the wetland.

The program offers landowners three options: permanent easements, 30-year easements, and restoration cost-share agreements with a minimum 10-year duration.

Other agencies and private conservation organizations may provide additional assistance for easement payment and wetland restoration costs as a way to reduce the landowner's share of the costs. Such special partnership efforts are encouraged.

Uses of WRP Land

A landowner continues to control access to the land--and may lease the land--for hunting, fishing, and other undeveloped recreational activities. At any time, a landowner may request that additional activities be evaluated to determine if they are compatible uses for the site. This request may include such items as permission to cut hay, graze livestock, or harvest wood products. Compatible uses are allowed if they are fully consistent with the protection and enhancement of the wetland.

Apply at Local NRCS Office

Information about the WRP is available on the Kansas NRCS Web site or is available at your local USDA Service Center from the NRCS or conservation district staff. Check the Web site for key points about WRP, testimonials from landowners who have land enrolled in the Kansas WRP, and other information.

Last Modified: 12/13/2006