NRCS-WA announces FY25 ACEP-WRE batching deadlines
The first round of applications batching is Oct. 4, 2024, and the second round of applications batching is Dec. 20, 2024.
SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service in Washington (NRCS-WA) is accepting applications from landowners interested in restoring, enhancing, and protecting wetlands with financial and technical assistance through the Wetlands Reserve Easement component of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program - Wetland Reserve Easements (ACEP-WRE).
While applications for ACEP-WRE are taken on a continuous basis, the batching dates to be considered for Fiscal Year 2025 funding are Oct. 4, 2024, for the first round of applications batching, and Dec. 20, 2024, for the second round of applications batching.
Through ACEP-WRE, NRCS helps landowners and tribes restore, enhance, and protect wetland ecosystems. NRCS and the landowner work together to develop a plan for the restoration and maintenance of the easement.
Wetland Reserve Easements component of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program provides habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wetland dependent wildlife, including threatened and endangered species; improves water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals; reduces flooding; recharges groundwater; protects biological diversity; provides resilience to climate change; and provides opportunities for educational, scientific and limited recreational activities.
All ACEP–WRE applications are ranked according to the potential for protecting and enhancing habitat for migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife. Compensation with a payment rate is based on an individual land appraisal (established by the Geographic Area Rate Cap [GARC]), or landowner offer, whichever is less). It is important that applicants provide accurate records of ownership to USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA). All landowners listed on the deed must work with their local FSA to ensure all required documents are filed (including Form CCC–902, Farm Operating Plan, as well as the adjusted gross income and conservation compliance forms).
For more information about ACEP-WRE, please refer to the NRCS ACEP-WRE National webpage and the NRCS-WA ACEP-WRE Program webpage. For questions about the program please email our state easement team at NRCS.WA.Easements@usda.gov.
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