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. More than 1.9 million acres are currently enrolled nationally
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. 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.
Legislative Changes for WRP in 2008 Farm Bill
The Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (2008 Farm Bill)
changes the process for determining the easement value, directing the Secretary
of Agriculture to pay the lowest of:
• the fair market value of the land according to the Uniform
Standards of Professional Appraisal Practices or an area-wide market
analysis;
• the geographic area rate cap as determined by the Secretary of
Agriculture; or
• the landowner’s offer.
Other important legislative changes include:
• The total number of acres that can be enrolled in the
program is 3,041,200 – an increase of 766,200 additional acres.
• Payments for easements valued at $500,000 or more will be made in at least
five annual payments.
• For restoration cost-share agreements, annual payments may not exceed
$50,000 per year.
• No easement shall be created on land that has changed ownership during the
preceding seven years
• Eligible acres are limited to private and Tribal lands.
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