USDA Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). [NOTE: The USDA 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, conservation planning and practice implementation.
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, filter strips, 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.]