Conservation Reserve Program
Conservation Reserve Program
The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) provides technical and financial assistance to eligible farmers and ranchers to address soil, water, and related natural resource concerns on their lands in an environmentally beneficial and cost-effective manner. The program provides assistance to farmers and ranchers in complying with Federal, State, and tribal environmental laws, and encourages environmental enhancement. The program is funded through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). CRP is administered by the Farm Service Agency, with NRCS providing technical land eligibility determinations, Environmental Benefit Index Scoring, and conservation planning.
The Conservation Reserve Program reduces soil erosion, protects the Nation's ability to produce food and fiber, reduces sedimentation in streams and lakes, improves water quality, establishes wildlife habitat, and enhances forest and wetland resources. It encourages farmers to convert highly erodible cropland or other environmentally sensitive acreage to vegetative cover, such as tame or native grasses, wildlife plantings, trees, filterstrips, or riparian buffers. Farmers receive an annual rental payment for the term of the multi-year contract. Cost sharing is provided to establish the vegetative cover practices.
Farm Service Agency's Conservation Reserve Program
CREP Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program
USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the State of Vermont have launched a $2 million Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) to protect the 490-square-mile Lake Champlain and its tributaries.
Goals
The goals of the Vermont CREP are to:
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Reduce phosphorus loading to Lake Champlain by 48.3 tons per year.
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Enhance wildlife and aquatic habitat.
For local information or to apply, contact your Local NRCS or FSA Office.
Electronic application filing is available through the Electronic Government website.
VT NRCS Office Locations and Contact Information
VT Farm Service Agency Office Locations and Contact Information
