Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP)

The Wetlands Reserve Program is a competitive program using a combination of statewide and county ranking systems to fund the most environmentally beneficial projects. The Wetlands Reserve Program is a voluntary program that protects, restores and enhances wetlands, while maximizing wildlife benefits.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is announcing that the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) has been renewed through Title II of the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008, better known as the Farm Bill. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) administers WRP.

Many of the provisions of the Farm Bill will become effective October 1, 2008. There has been an immediate change in easement compensation. The change in easement compensation is to the lowest of the following: fair market value of the land enrolled based on either a Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practices appraisal or market survey, geographic cap established by the Secretary, or the landowner offer. The WRP geographic rate cap in Louisiana is $900.00 per acre. NRCS will keep the public informed as the final rule to WRP is implemented.

To be eligible for WRP, land must be restorable and be suitable for wildlife benefits. Lands eligible for WRP are wetlands farmed under natural conditions; farmed wetlands; prior converted cropland; farmed wetland pasture; land that has become a wetland as a result of flooding, rangeland, pasture, or production forest land where the hydrology has been significantly degraded and can be restored; riparian areas which link protected wetlands; lands adjacent to protected wetlands that contribute significantly to wetland functions; and values and previously restored wetlands that need long-term protection.

Through WRP, NRCS is committed to assisting all eligible applicants in the restoration, creation, protection and enhancement of wetlands on their property through a voluntary, environmentally safe and cost-effective manner.

The application process for WRP is continuous throughout the year. NRCS is committed to delivering all Farm Bill programs authorized through the 2008 Farm Bill and is eager to consult all with interested parties about the many benefits that WRP and other programs have to offer.

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WRP Success Story – Black Bear Populations Increase
	Through restoration efforts such as Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP), bear numbers are now estimated at 500 to 700 black bears in Louisiana. Louisiana Black Bear once was considered abundant, but in the 1950s it reached its all time lows with only six parishes reporting sightings. These numbers were down from the 1890s with 17 parishes that once reported sightings.
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Last Modified: 08/11/2008