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Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) in New Jersey

NRCS accepts applications for all of our conservation programs throughout the year, but establishes funding periods to facilitate application review and contract development. The current funding period for WRP will close on August 15, 2008, for the 2009 program.

restored wetlands in Burlington CountyThe Wetlands Reserve program is a voluntary program that offers landowners a chance to receive payments for restoring and protecting wetlands on their property. The term "wetland” describes a landscape area with unique soils, plants, hydrology and wildlife. Some wetlands have water year round while other wetlands dry out seasonally. WRP funds have been used to restored wetlands in New Jersey to help reduce flooding, filter pollutants from water, provide critical wildlife habitat, protect open space, and help keep our ecosystem healthy.

WRP also provides an opportunity for landowners to enter into a conservation easement with NRCS on the land. Either a permanent or thirty-year easement can be requested through the program. Based on the type of application (temporary easement, permanent easement or restoration agreement), NRCS pays some or all of the costs for establishing the easement and restoring the functions and values of the wetland.

Benefits of Wetlands
  • Wetlands enhance fish and wildlife habitat, including habitat for important migratory birds. In fact, two-thirds of the threatened and endangered species in New Jersey rely on wetlands.
  • Wetlands act as nature's sponge, retaining storm water and improving ground water recharge while protecting downstream communities from flooding.
  • Wetlands serve as a natural filter system, removing nutrients, sediment and other pollutants from ground and surface water.
  • Wetlands increase open space areas and provide opportunities for environmental education.

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NJ 2009 WRP Fact Sheet (74 KB)

 

Contact:  Janice Reid, Assistant State Conservationist, Programs
Contact Phone: 732-537-6042

Last Modified: May 29, 2008