Enhanced Conservation Program

Venemon ANNOUNCES ENHANCED CONSERVATION PROGRAM IN WEST VIRGINIA

WASHINGTON, March 8, 2000 — Agriculture Secretary Anne Venemon today announced that U.S. Department of Agriculture and the State of West Virginia will launch a conservation program to address soil, water and wildlife resource concerns of selected watersheds in West Virginia.

"This project is aimed at reducing the occurrence of runoff, sediment and nutrients from agricultural enterprises into the designated watersheds" said Venemon. "This program will focus on improving water quality and enhancing wildlife habitats through the installation of riparian buffers, filter strips, tree planting, establishing grasses and restoring wetlands."

"Farmers and ranchers of this Nation continue to be the best stewards of the land" said Venemon. "This program will help them protect the most environmentally sensitive lands next to the rivers and streams without impacting the economic viability of the farm operation. Farmers can restore small strips of lands next to a stream while continuing to farm the rest. In return the producer receives an equitable compensation package for the rent of the land and water quality is enhanced. This is truly a win-win situation."

The West Virginia Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) is a Federal and State partnership that initially targets 4,160 acres in the Potomac, New and Greenbrier, and Little Kanawha Rivers. An initial investment of over $1.5 Million will be provided to the producers of West Virginia through annual rental payments for 10 to 15 year contracts. The enhanced financial incentives are to encourage the protection of water quality and reduce runoff, sedimentation and nutrients entering the waterways while improving the wildlife environment.

Additionally, this program also includes assistance with the financial cost of installing the practices as well as providing technical assistance. Federal and State agencies have joined efforts in this project to offer the highest level assistance available in order to ensure long term protection of water quality and enhance the vitally important soil, water and wildlife resources.

CREP uses state and federal resources to help solve environmental problems. The CREP combines an existing USDA program, the Conservation Reserve Program, with state programs to provide a framework for partnerships to meet specific state and national environmental objectives. The program provides for voluntary agreements with farmers to convert cropland and/or pastureland to native grasses, trees, and other vegetation, in return for rental payments and other incentives.

 

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