(Lewis) John Lorenze, a Fisheries Biologist with the Department of Natural Resources in Lewis, says the deadline to sign up for the Conservation Reserve Program is March 29.
Farmers participating in this program agree to remove environmentally sensitive land from agricultural production. In exchange for this commitment, the farmer receives a yearly rental payment from the government.
The goal is to enhance environmental health and quality by planting species that benefit the ecosystem. CRP contracts typically last 10 to 15 years. During this period, enrolled land is removed from active farming or ranching and devoted to conservation benefits, such as re-establishing valuable land cover.
Additionally, CRP helps Improve water quality by preventing soil erosion, reducing the loss of wildlife habitat, and enhancing overall environmental health.
In 2023, The program issued more than $1.77 billion to agricultural producers and landowners for their participation. CRP now includes a Climate-Smart Practice Incentive to promote carbon sequestration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
