Interim Rule for Grassland Reserve Program Proposed

WASHINGTON, DC, May 12, 2004 (ENS) - Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman Tuesday announced the release of an interim final rule to implement the Grassland Reserve Program (GRP), authorized in the 2002 Farm Bill.

The voluntary program is intended to help landowners restore and protect grassland, rangeland, pastureland, shrubland and certain other lands and provides assistance for rehabilitating grasslands.

The USDA announced earlier this year that nearly $70 million in fiscal year 2004 funding is available for the program. This figure includes $54.2 million for financial assistance and $15.3 million technical assistance.

“This administration is committed to providing voluntary conservation programs that promote a healthy environment. Our nation’s grasslands provide significant ecological benefits and play a key role in environmental quality,” said Veneman. “This program conserves grasslands and helps maintain viable ranching and farming operations.”

The interim final rule will be published in the Federal Register shortly, and the public will have 60 days from that date to comment on the rule.

Under the rule Grassland Reserve Program rental agreements and easements are designed for working agricultural lands and multiple enrollment duration options are available. Applications for GRP enrollment can be filed at any time throughout the year.

The agency proposes that land eligibility criteria should focus on preserving the nation’s most critical grassland resources, the native and natural grasslands and shrublands.

By issuing an interim final rule with request for public comments, USDA can conduct a program sign-up and implementation this fiscal year, Veneman said. USDA will consider all comments received during a 60 day public comment period in developing a final rule for the Grassland Reserve Program.