WRE’s are critical to the protection of Florida’s water resources. WRE’s PREVENT further decreases in water quality through land protection and ADDRESS water quality issues by restoring wetlands so they can hold and clean water before it reaches our coastal estuaries.
Several NRCS programs are available to landowners interested in land conservation, including the Wetland Reserve Easement Program (WRE).WRE’s purchases conservation easements on degraded or former wetlands in need of restoration. Wetlands that have been converted into other agricultural uses are prioritized. NRCS will prioritize applications based on the easement’s potential for protecting and enhancing habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. WRE’s can be more restrictive than other easements; NRCS has the right to restrict grazing rights for restoration purposes. NRCS has not restricted grazing rights in Florida as part of the WRE program, as cattle can be an important management tool in Florida. Landowners also have the option to secure grazing rights on a WRE in perpetuity for a reduced rate. WRE prices are set by the Geographic Area Cap Rate (GARC).
For more information or if you are interested in pursuing a Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) please contact: Crenel Francis Crenel.francis@fl.usda.gov – (352) 338-9508
Go to www.nrcs.usda.gov for information and application materials.
This material is based upon work supported by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under grant number 2004.17.058692 through the National Wildlife Refuge Association. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.” Any publication prepared with funding from this agreement must include acknowledgement to USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service.