Who Qualifies for WRE?
Eligibility for Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) includes private landowners with farmed or converted wetlands that have been previously altered for agricultural use and can be successfully and cost-effectively restored.
Types of Land
Ranking and enrollment priority is given to applications that include:
- Farmed wetlands
- Prior converted cropland, pasture, or hayland
Other eligible lands may include:
- Former or degraded wetlands
- Riparian (stream-side) areas
- Some CRP lands
NRCS will evaluate and prioritize applications based on the land’s eligibility and the easement’s potential to improve water quality and protect and enhance habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.
To enroll land through Wetland Reserve Easements, NRCS enters into purchase agreements with eligible private landowners or federally recognized Indian Tribes. NRCS and the landowner work together to develop and implement a wetland reserve plan to guide the restoration process. This plan provides for the restoration, enhancement and protection of the wetland’s functions and values.
