NRCS Sets Conservation Easement Program Funding Application Dates

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Montana is accepting applications for Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) and Agricultural Land Easements (ALE). There are several dates to be aware of for the current funding cycle of these programs.

ALE Farm Bill: Nov. 29, 2024

Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (WRE and ALE) Inflation Reduction Act-2: Dec. 20, 2024

Agricultural Land Easements: Part of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, ALEs help private and tribal landowners, land trusts, and other entities such as state and local governments protect croplands and grasslands on working farms and ranches by limiting non-agricultural uses of the land through conservation easements. Interested landowners work with eligible easement partners in Montana.

Wetland Reserve Easements: Part of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, WREs help private and tribal landowners protect, restore, and enhance wetlands which have been previously degraded due to agricultural uses. These easements provide habitat for fish and wildlife, including threatened and endangered species, improve water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals, reduce flooding, recharge groundwater, protect biological diversity, provide resilience to climate change, and provide opportunities for educational, scientific, and limited recreational activities.