Press Release :USDA/NRCS Is Now Accepting Applications for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service sent this bulletin at 01/29/2020 10:13 AM EST

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For Immediate Release

January 29, 2020

Contact: Laura T. Anderson, Public Affairs Officer

Phone: (601)863.3922

Email: laura.t.anderson@usda.gov

Jackson, Miss - The United States Department of Agricultural Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) is now accepting applications for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP). The deadline is March 6, 2020.

This program consists of two components: the Agricultural Land Easement (ALE) option and the Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) option. The ALE assists conservation organizations to prevent the conversion of productive working lands to non-agricultural uses and maximizes protection of land devoted to food production. The WRE option restores, protects, and enhances enrolled wetlands and improves wildlife habitat. Eligible WRE lands include farmed or prior-converted wetlands that can be successfully and cost-effectively restored.

“It is imperative we educate and promote ACEP to the landowners of Mississippi. We are proud to provide this service throughout the state” said State Conservationist Kurt Readus.

Landowners interested in Agricultural Land Easements should contact local land trusts to develop partnerships for land easements. Applications will be accepted from eligible entities for potential ALE projects. Landowners interested in WRE easements should submit an application at the local field office.

"This is an exciting new opportunity for even more people to get involved in the long-term conservation of our natural resources," said Assistant State Conservationist for Easements, Jason Keenan. "We invite any interested applicant to visit with us to learn more about the easement programs USDA-NRCS can offer.”

Applications are currently being accepted and can be obtained anytime at your local field office or available online at www.nrcs.usda.gov /GetStarted.

The application deadline for consideration is March 6, 2020.

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