Grassland Reserve Program

Introduction

grassland photoThe Grassland Reserve Program (GRP) is a voluntary conservation program that emphasizes support for working grazing operations, enhancement of plant and animal biodiversity, and protection of grassland under threat of conversion to other uses.

Participants voluntarily limit future development and cropping uses of the land while retaining the right to conduct common grazing practices and operations related to the production of forage and seeding, subject to certain restrictions during nesting seasons of bird species that are in significant decline or are protected under Federal or State law. A grazing management plan is required for participants.

Program Information

These documents require Adobe Acrobat Reader:

2012 GRP Massachusetts Eligible Practices and Payment Portrait
2012 GRP Massachusetts Practice Guide
2012 GRP Massachusetts Ranking Tool and Rental Rates

GRP Final Rule - published November 29, 2010 in the Federal Register

GRP Fact Sheet
GRP At-A-Glance
GRP Key Points

2009 Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)
2009 Environmental Assessment

More GRP information and forms (national NRCS website)

Archived GRP information

Massachusetts Program Contacts

Thomas Akin
Conservation Agronomist
413-253-4365
thomas.akin@ma.usda.gov

Barbara Miller
State Resource Conservationist - Massachusetts
413-253-4380
barbara.miller@ma.usda.gov