Agricultural Producers and Landowners Encouraged to Apply for Agricultural Conservation Easement Program

GAINESVILLE, Fla., February 25, 2026 -The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida announces Fiscal Year 2026 (February 23, through March 23, 2026) easements enrollment opportunities for agricultural producers and partners for Agricultural Land Easements (ALE), Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE)and the Wetland Reserve Easements (ACEP-WRE) Reserved Grazing Rights.

The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)protects the agricultural viability and related conservation values of eligible land by limiting nonagricultural uses which negatively affect agricultural uses and conservation values. The program protects grazing uses and related conservation values by restoring or conserving eligible grazing land, and protecting, restoring and enhancing wetlands on eligible land. ACEP has two components:

The Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) component funds permanent agricultural land easements that not only protect the future of the nation's food supply, but also support environmental quality, wildlife habitat, and historic preservation and protection of open spaces. Landowner applicants who are interested must apply through an eligible entity - such as a land trust, municipality, or State agency. NRCS will prioritize applications that protect agricultural uses and related conservation values of the land and those that maximize the protection of contiguous acres devoted to agricultural use.

Under the Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component, landowners may apply directly to NRCS for a conservation easement to restore wetlands impacted by agriculture. Wetland Reserve Easements provide habitat for fish and wildlife, including threatened and endangered species, improve water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals, reduce flooding, recharge groundwater, protect biological diversity, provide resilience and provide opportunities for limited recreational activities. And increase natural vitality.

Under the Wetland Reserve Easements (ACEP-WRE) Reserved Grazing Rights, the landowner retains the right to graze. The Parties hereby agree that the grazing of the easement area is a management tool necessary to achieve the desired wetland functions and values. The landowner agrees to conduct grazing activity in accordance with the terms and conditions identified in the grazing management plan, which is a component of the Wetland Reserve Plan of Operations (WRPO) developed by NRCS.

Not sure how to begin? Visit our website where you will find information on benefits, how to apply, all the forms you will need, and more.

To speak to someone about filling out eligibility forms with the Farm Service Agency (FSA), or to obtain an application, contact your local USDA Service Center.

NRCS has provided leadership in a partnership effort to help America's private landowners and managers conserve their soil, water, and other natural resources since 1935.