2008 Wetlands Reserve Program

Wetlands benefit the environment by providing fish and wildlife habitat, improving water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals, reducing flooding, and recharging groundwater. In an effort to increase the acres of wetlands throughout the United States, the Natural Resources Conservation Service offers the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP). The WRP provides an opportunity for landowners to receive financial incentives to restore, protect, and enhance wetlands in exchange for retiring marginal land from agriculture. The program offers easements and restoration contracts depending on the goals and objectives of the landowner.

The program offers three enrollment options:

• Permanent Easement
• 30-Year Easement
• Restoration Cost-Share Agreement

NOTE: The 2002 Farm Bill expired at the end of fiscal year 2007. A new farm bill may be implemented in 2008 which could change the specific program information within these Web pages. Therefore, all information is based on past policies (2007 and before) and is subject to change at anytime after October 1, 2007.

View the Montana's Wetlands Reserve Program Video.

Application Cut-off Date

The cut-off date for fiscal year 2009 funding consideration in Montana is June 1, 2008. Applications received after June 1, 2008, will be considered for funding in fiscal year 2010.

Goals and Objectives

Montana's goals and objectives for the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) are to assist applicants in the restoration, enhancement, and protection of wetlands on their property through a voluntary, environmentally safe and cost-effective manner.

NRCS is focusing on the restoration of wetlands found in the glaciated prairie pothole region of Montana. These potholes exist in the mountain valleys and across the highline of the state. Other wetland interests are the floodplain wetlands along the riverine systems in other areas of the state.

The Wetlands Reserve Program is administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service through consultation with the State Technical Advisory Committee. Recommendations from the State Technical Advisory Committee have identified the following priorities for the implementation of WRP in Montana.

• Restoration and enhancement of wetlands, riparian, and upland habitat;

• Improved habitat for migratory birds;

• Improved habitat for threatened and endangered plants and animals; and

• Restoration and enhancement of riparian areas.

Additional Information

• 2007 Summary of WRP in Montana
• 2006 Summary of WRP in Montana
• 2005 Summary of WRP in Montana
• 2004 Summary of WRP in Montana
• WRP Application Process
• WRP Application Ranking and Selection
• WRP Implementation
• WRP Forms
• National NRCS Wetlands Reserve Program web site

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

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: 12/17/2008