The deadline for this year’s Wetland Reserve Easement Program (WRE) is right around the corner, February 12, 2021. The overall goal of the WRE is to PREVENT further decreases in water quality through land protection and FIX water quality issues by restoring wetlands so they can hold and clean water before it reaches our coastal estuaries.
WRE purchases conservation easements on degraded or former wetlands in need of restoration. Priority given to applications where it can be demonstrated that wetlands have been converted into other agricultural uses, and those based on the potential for protecting and enhancing habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.
There can be restrictions on WRE’s and prices are set by the Geographic Area Cap Rate (GARC); some properties are now subject to an appraisal. For the most up to date information and application process please contact Francis Crenel Crenel.francis@fl.usda.gov(352) 338-9508 or cell: 352-538-3937 or Roney Gutierrez Roney.Gutierrez@fl.usda.gov – 352-338-9502 or visit https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/fl/programs/easements/acep/