2009 Wetlands Reserve Program

The Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) is a voluntary program that provides technical and financial assistance to private landowners and Tribes to restore, protect, and enhance wetlands in exchange for retiring eligible land from agriculture. Over 1.9 million acres are currently enrolled in WRP.

Wetlands 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; and provide opportunities for educational, scientific, and limited recreational activities.

The program offers three enrollment options:

1. Permanent Easement is a conservation easement in perpetuity. USDA pays 100 percent of the easement value and up to 100 percent of the restoration costs.
2. 30-Year Easement is an easement that expires after 30 years. USDA pays up to 75 percent of the easement value and up to 75 percent of the restoration costs. For both permanent and 30-year easements, USDA pays all costs associated with recording the easement in the local land records office, including recording fees, charges for abstracts, survey and appraisal fees, and title insurance.
3. 30-Year Contracts for Indian Lands. USDA pays up to 75 percent of the land value and up to 75 percent of the restoration costs.
4. Restoration Cost-Share Agreement is an agreement to restore or enhance the wetland functions and values without placing an easement on the enrolled acres. USDA pays up to 75 percent of the restoration costs.

View the Montana's Wetlands Reserve Program Video.

Geographic Area Rate Caps Map

Application Deadlines

NRCS accepts conservation program applications year-round; however, applications for WRP must be made by August 1, 2009 to be considered for funding in fiscal year 2010. Applications made after the application deadline will be considered in the next funding cycle.

WRP Projects in Montana

The following story describes how some Montana residents are using WRP and NRCS expertise to help make their lands healthier and more productive.

• Rock Creek Wetland Restoration

Prior-Year WRP (Archives)

• 2008 Wetlands Reserve Program Information Archival Purposes Only
• 2007 Summary of WRP in Montana
• 2006 Summary of WRP in Montana
• 2005 Summary of WRP in Montana
• 2004 Summary of WRP in Montana

For More Information

For more information and updates about the WRP, please refer to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Web site, the national NRCS Web site, or contact one of the Montana NRCS personnel listed below.

Contacts

Jeff Combs, Program Specialist
Phone: 406-587-6795
Email: Jeffrey.Combs

Carrie Mosley, Assistant State Conservationist for Programs
Phone: 406-587-6967
Email: Carrie.Mosley

Last Modified: 05/26/2009