South Carolina 2009 State Grassland Reserve Program Information

SC NRCS Accepting Applications for Grassland Reserve Program

June 5th is deadline to submit applications for funding consideration in 2009

April 29, 2009, Columbia, SC—State Conservationist Niles Glasgow of the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) today announced a June 5th deadline to submit applications for funding consideration in the 2009 Grassland Reserve Program (GRP).

 "South Carolina’s grasslands provide significant economic and ecological benefits and play a key role in environmental quality," said Glasgow." This program helps conserve grasslands and maintain viable ranching and farming operations, and prevents conversion of grassland to other uses, such as crop production and urban development.” GRP is a voluntary program offering landowners the opportunity to protect, restore and enhance grasslands on their property.

Easements are valued at the property value less the grazing value with a state rate cap to be established. Applications that are accepted will be required to have a prescribed grazing plan.

The NRCS and Farm Service Agency are coordinating the implementation of GRP, which can result in cleaner water, healthier riparian areas and reduced sediment in streams and other water bodies.

Applications may be filed for an easement or rental agreement. Participants voluntarily limit future development and cropping uses of the land while retaining the right to conduct common grazing practices; produce hay, mow, or harvest for seed production (subject to certain restrictions during the nesting season of bird species that are in significant decline or those that are protected under Federal or State law); conduct fire rehabilitation; construct firebreaks and fences; and conduct common grazing practices and operations related to the production of forage and seed.

Priority enrollment and ranking criteria for 2009 have not been finalized pending the release of the final program rule. Criteria for acceptance includes grazing operations, protection of eligible acres under the highest threat of conversion to uses other than grazing lands, expiring Conservation Reserve Program acres, plant and animal biodiversity and offers from eligible entities who wish to partner in the acquisition of GRP easements.

All applications meeting the eligibility requirements that have been submitted by close of business on June 5, 2009, will be ranked and considered for funding. Contact your local NRCS office to submit an application.
 

2009 GRP Information