USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Delaware is now accepting applications from landowners interested in restoring, protecting, and enhancing wetlands through the Wetland Reserve Easement component of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP-WRE). 

Wetland Reserve Easements compensate private landowners for restoring the hydrology of previously-drained farmland. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis; however, the deadline to apply in order to be considered for fiscal year 2023 funding is February 17, 2023.

“Restored wetlands play an integral role in reducing flooding from extreme weather events, improving water quality, and establishing habitat for wildlife, among many other valuable benefits,” said Kasey L. Taylor, Delaware NRCS State Conservationist. “Our world, and that of future generations, will only get better if we take steps to protect and restore critical wetland systems.”

Read the news release for more details.

A video series from NRCS and farmers.gov, Conservation at Work, presents short and easy to understand videos about popular conservation practices. These videos feature producers explaining how an individual practice helps their land and why they are using it.

The videos shine the spotlight on farmers, and forestland owners from across the U.S. who explain why they’ve implemented the conservation practices and how they work on their land. They also provide insight into how each practice is helping them protect and improve resources and save time and money.

We’ve got videos showcasing high tunnels, no-till, cover crops, prescribed grazing, and many more.

Check out the Conservation at Work video series at farmers.gov/conserve/conservationatwork.

USDA is asking for public input through a Federal Register request for information on implementation of more than $19 billion provided by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will use the investments provided through IRA-funded conservation programs to support farmers and ranchers in adopting and expanding climate-smart activities and systems. NRCS asks for comments on how to target program benefits, quantify impact, and improve program delivery and outreach, especially for underserved producers. Comments are due December 21.

Read the full news release for more details. 

Did you get your invitation? In November, the USDA mailed survey codes to all known agriculture producers across the 50 states with an invitation to respond online to the 2022 Census of Agriculture at agcounts.usda.gov. If you missed it or prefer paper, the paper questionnaires will follow in December.

The ag census is the nation’s only comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every state, county, and territory. By completing the survey, producers across the nation can tell their story and help generate impactful opportunities that better serve them and future generations. It is a powerful voice for U.S. agriculture.

You need only respond once, whether securely online or by mail. The online option offers timesaving features ideal for busy producers. All responses are due Feb. 6, 2023.