From Fields to Streams, CRP Protects our Natural Resourse
A new sign-up period for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is now underway! A cornerstone conservation program since 1985, CRP has remained one of the largest voluntary private lands conservation programs, with more than 22 million acres across the country currently enrolled. For more than three decades now, CRP enables a farm operator or owner the ability to voluntarily plant a “resource-conserving” type of grass/forb or tree/shrub mix that effectively addresses soil erosion, improves water quality and further enhances vital wildlife habitat.
Farmers enrolled into CRP receive a cost-share payment to help establish the conservation practice(s), along with a yearly “rental payment” in exchange for removing environmentally sensitive land from agricultural production. Per Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) specifications, a type of cover will be planted that will improve the health and quality of the soil and water sources. The deadline for sign up for this General CRP is March 11th. For those interested in finding out more about CRP or to get the application process underway, contact your local USDA Service Center at your earliest convenience. The Erie-Huron USDA Service Center is located next to the Huron County fairgrounds in Norwalk; agency representatives can be reached at 419-668-4113.