USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service is now accepting applications from Pennsylvania landowners interested in the Wetlands Reserve Program.  Although applications are accepted throughout the year, interested landowners are encouraged to sign up by June 28.

A new round of funding authorizes Pennsylvania NRCS over $7 million to enroll up to 800 additional acres into WRP.

Anyone interested in these voluntary programs should contact their state or local NRCS office. The Wetlands Reserve Program helps landowners restore and protect wetland ecosystems on private lands. They may select a permanent or 30-year easement or a restoration cost-share agreement, retaining ownership of the land once the agreement is in place. Nationwide, more than 11,000 private landowners participating in WRP are already protecting more than 2.6 million acres of America's wetlands.

"The benefits of these reserved wetlands reach well beyond their boundaries to improve watershed health, the vitality of agricultural lands, as well as the aesthetics and economies of local communities," said NRCS Acting Chief Jason Weller.

For more information, visit the NRCS-PA Wetlands Reserve Program webpage.

6/10/2013