Farmers can apply for new conservation easement program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service in Kansas is now accepting applications for its new Agricultural Conservation Easements Program.

The program combines the former farm and ranch lands protection, grassland reserve, and wetlands reserve programs.

Applications must be submitted by June 6.

The new program has two components, one for wetland reserve easements and one for agricultural land easements.

Wetland reserve easements would restore and enhance wetlands and improve habitat. Eligible lands include farmed or converted wetlands that can be successfully and cost-effectively restored.

Under the agricultural land component, funds are provided to eligible entities that can use funding to purchase agricultural land easements that protect the agricultural use of eligible land.