Wetlands Reserve Program Enrollment Options

Permanent Easement

This is a conservation easement that will be in place in perpetuity. Easement payments for this option equal the lowest of three amounts: a before and after land appraisal value of the land, an established payment cap, or an amount offered by the landowner. In addition to paying for the easement, USDA pays 100 percent of the costs of restoring and enhancing the wetlands and associated uplands.

30-Year Easement

Easement payments through this option are 75 percent of what would be paid for a permanent easement. USDA also pays up to 75 percent of restoration costs.

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 for both permanent and 30-year easements.

Restoration Cost-Share Agreement

This is an agreement (generally for a minimum of 10 years) to reestablish degraded or lost wetland habitat. USDA pays up to 75 percent of the cost of the restoration activity. This enrollment option does not place an easement on the property. Other agencies, conservation districts, and private conservation organizations may provide additional incentive payments as a way to reduce the landowner's share of the costs. Such special partnership efforts are encouraged.

Last Modified: 07/16/2007