Source: USDA NRCS, 3/13/19

Eligible organizations and groups wanting to preserve working agricultural lands have until April 12, 2109, to apply for assistance through the USDA-administered Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP).  USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) accepts ACEP applications on a continuing basis, which are ranked and considered for funding when funds are available. However, to be considered for current funding availability, interested landowners need to apply by close of business on April 12, 2019.

Agricultural Land Easements
Through ACEP-ALE, easements restrict converting land to a non-agricultural use. NRCS provides financial assistance to eligible partners for purchasing the easements. The partner entity is required to match NRCS assistance. Landowners interested in enrolling their working lands must partner with a cooperating entity on their application. They do not directly apply to the NRCS for ACEP-ALE funding. All ACEP-ALE easements are permanent. Eligible lands include privately-owned cropland, grassland, pastureland and forest land. ACEP-ALE partners include state or local agencies, non-profits and tribes. Landowners retain property ownership, but voluntarily enter into a legal agreement with a cooperating entity to purchase an easement.

Wetland Reserve Easements
The ACEP-WRE program is designed to restore and protect wetlands.  Eligible lands include farmed or converted wetlands that can be successfully and cost-effectively restored.  The Wetlands Reserve Easements (WRE) program helps private landowners successfully enhance and protect habitat for fish and wildlife, including threatened and endangered species, improve water quality and reduce flooding, recharge groundwater, and provide opportunities for educational and recreational activities.

More Information
All participants must update their eligibility through their local Farm Service Agency Office for 2019. More information about ACEP-ALE can be found by searching “ACEP” on the North Carolina NRCS website (www.nc.nrcs.usda.gov). Partners interested in agricultural easements should contact their local USDA service center.