Grassland Reserve Program

GRP 2005 applications closed.  Program not funded in 2006-8.

When properly managed, grasslands can result in cleaner, healthier streams, and reduced sediment loads in water bodies. These lands are vital for the production of livestock forage and provide forage and habitat for maintaining healthy wildlife populations. They also add to the beauty of the landscape, provide scenic vistas and open space, provide for recreational activities and protect the soil from water and wind erosion.

Dairy and livestock farmers should seriously consider the Grassland Reserve as a way to support permanent pasture and hayland.

This is the first time that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has offered a program to help landowners with long-term protection of open grasslands. 
 

What's Eligible and How Does It Work?

The Grassland Reserve Program (GRP) offers eligible producers who own at least 40 contiguous acres several enrollment options:

• Permanent Easements.  USDA makes a payment based on the fair market value of the property less the grazing value.
• 30-year easements.  USDA pays 30 percent of the fair market value – less the grazing value.
• Rental Agreements.  10, 15, 20 or 30-year duration.  USDA pays 75 percent of the grazing value in annual payments for the length of the agreement.  GRP Rental Rates are available for each Wisconsin county.
• Restoration Agreements. USDA pays up to 90 percent of the restoration costs on grassland and shrubland that has never been cultivated and not more than 75 percent on restored grassland and shrubland (land that once was cultivated).
   

How Applications Are Scored and Ranked

Applications will be scored and ranked based upon several criteria.  Higher points are generally awarded for grazing operations, plant and animal biodiversity, and other eligible land under the greatest threat of conversion. The conversion threat may include conversion to agriculture or non-agriculture uses.

The more points your application gets, the higher your score.  The higher your score, the more likely you will be accepted into the Grassland Reserve Program.