|
 Dozier explains that the ALE program can help address
development and population pressures that pose a threat to
Illinois farmland acres currently used for agricultural
production. Through use of these conservation easements, NRCS
can provide financial assistance to eligible partners, that will
be used to purchase Agricultural Land Easements (ALE). These
easements help farmers/landowners keep working croplands and
grasslands in active, profitable agriculture production. The ALE
sign-up is continuous but the funding cut-off for this fiscal
year runs through June 19, 2020.
Eligible entities, including state and local governments, and
non-governmental organizations that have farmland or grassland
protection programs. Dozier explains, “Agricultural easements
can protect the long-term viability of our nation’s food supply,
which is more important than ever. Easements prevent conversion
of productive working lands to non-agricultural uses and
conserve vital grazing land and pastures,” Dozier added.
Easements can also help keep lands in the hands of family
members, while providing an enhanced opportunity to keep
productive land available for secure crop production. Easements
can offer farming opportunities for other newcomers to
agriculture. To date, producers and partners nationwide have
successfully protected more than 1.1 million acres of farmland
and 340,000 acres of grassland through ACEP’s predecessor
programs – the Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program and the
Grassland Reserve Program.
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Interested partners need to sign up for ALE now at
their local NRCS office. The first funding cutoff will be June 19th,
2020. Interested landowners need to find a partner who is willing to
assist in the purchase of the easement. If they do not know of a
partner, they can contact their local NRCS office to get more
information about the type of partner that would hold an Agriculture
Land Easement.
Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, producers may set up phone
appointments with their local NRCS office if they have any questions
or need information Visit www.nrcs.usda.gov to learn more.
[Paige Buck
Public Affairs Officer
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service] |
