**(May 23Version)**

**Table 1: CREP Watersheds and Page Numbers for**

**Location Eligibility Worksheets**

  -------------------------------------------------------------- --------
  **CREP Watershed**                                             **Pg.
                                                                 No.**

  **Lower Mississippi in Southeastern MN**                       **2**

  **Missouri / Des Moines in Southwestern MN**                   **5**

  **Red River in Northwestern MN**                               **7**
  -------------------------------------------------------------- --------

**Table 2: CREP Practice Codes, Titles and Page Numbers for**

**Practice Worksheets**

  ---------- ---------------------------------------------------- --------
  **CP#**    **Practice Title**                                   **Pg.
                                                                  No.**

  **2**      **Establishment of Permanent Native Grasses**        **10**

  **3A**     **Hardwood Tree Planting**                           **10**

  **4D**     **Permanent Wildlife Habitat**                       **10**

  **12**     **Wildlife Food Plot**                               **11**

  **15A      **Establishment of Permanent Vegetative Cover        **11**
  CREP**     (Contour Grass Strips)**                             

  **21**     **Filter Strips**                                    **12**

  **22**     **Riparian Buffer**                                  **15**

  **23**     **Wetland Restoration within 100 year floodplain**   **19**

  **23A**    **Wetland Restoration outside 100 year floodplain**  **21**

  **34**     **Flood Control System**                             **23**
  ---------- ---------------------------------------------------- --------

**Table 3: Practices Available for Eligible CREP Watersheds**

  ---------------- ------------------- ------------------- --------------
  **CP#**          **Eligible                              
                   Watershed**                             

                   **Lower             **Missouri / Des    **Red River**
                   Mississippi**       Moines River**      

  **2**            **X**               **X**               **X**

  **3A**           **X**                                   

  **4D**           **X**               **X**               

  **12**           **X**               **X**               **X**

  **15A**          **X**                                   

  **21**           **X**               **X**               **X**

  **22**           **X**               **X**               **X**

  **23**           **X**               **X**               **X**

  **23A**          **X**               **X**               **X**

  **34**                                                   **X**

                                                           
  ---------------- ------------------- ------------------- --------------

**Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program**

APPLICANT: [     ]{.mark} COUNTY: [     ]{.mark}

FSA TRACT NO.: [     ]{.mark} FSA FIELD NO.: [     ]{.mark}

**I. Excessively Eroded Cropland**

1.  FSA will document excessively erodible cropland in a field or
    redefined field with an EI of 15 or greater using General Sign-Up
    Offer Processing (GSOP). Use the 3 most predominant soils when
    calculating the weighted average EI. **Note: Do not add the EIs of
    water or wind together**.

2.  Attach a printout of the GSOP result showing the average EI.

3.  Attach the GIS map/soil map of the CLU of the eligible areas.

4.  Landowner, with the assistance of technical agencies, chooses one of
    the practices below:

> CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native Grasses
>
> CP3A Hardwood Tree Planting
>
> CP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat,

**II. Erodible Cropland (Contour Buffer Strips)**

1.  FSA will document erodible cropland in a field or redefined field
    with an EI of 8 or greater using General Sign-Up Offer Processing
    (GSOP). Use the 3 most predominant soils when calculating the
    weighted average EI. **Note: This determination is different than
    the NRCS HEL determination process.**

2.  Attach a printout of the GSOP result showing the average EI.

3.  Attach a GIS map/soil map from the CLU of the eligible area.

4.  Attach a GIS map of the contour strips and buffer areas. Within
    eligible fields the area enrolled is restricted to contour buffer
    strips between 15 and 60 ft in width and field borders up to 60 ft
    in width.

> CP15A CREP Contour Grass Strips

**III. Riparian Areas**

> 1\. LOCATION CRITERIA (Indicate the type of area being protected)

A. Perennial Stream

> B. Seasonal Stream (contains water for only part of the year but more
> than just during and/or after rainfall or snowmelt). Stream identified
> by:
>
> USGS maps

County soil survey maps verified by an on-site visit

> On-site visit and approval of the ARC if stream is unmapped

C. Wetland determined to be Cowardin classification of []{.mark}

D. Permanent water body containing water throughout the year in all
years.

2\. SELECT PRACTICE - Landowner, with the assistance of technical
agencies, chooses one of the practices below and attach practice
documentation worksheet:

> CP21 Filter Strip
>
> CP22 Riparian Buffer

## 

**IV. Wetland Restoration**

1.  Restorable wetland acres must include altered or manipulated
    wetlands or prior converted cropland areas that can have their
    hydrologic component restored.

2.  The area offered must be entirely (Check one):

> within the 100-year floodplain for CP23
>
> outside the 100-year floodplain for CP23A
>
> 3\. Attach practice documentation worksheet and additional map
> documentation must identifying each eligible site.

**V. Ground Water Protection**

[Sinkholes and Karst Areas:]{.underline}

1.  Use a County Soil Survey or in field observation to determine that
    sinkholes and karst areas exist. Attach a copy of the soil survey or
    a map showing the sinkholes or karst areas.

2.  The buffer can be up to a maximum average width of 200 ft. from the
    edge of the sinkhole or karst area.

3.  Landowner, with the assistance of technical agencies, chooses one of
    the practices below:

> CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native Grasses
>
> CP3A Hardwood Tree Planting
>
> CP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat,
>
> CP21 Filter Strip
>
> CP22 Riparian Buffer

[Wellhead Protection Areas]{.underline}

1.  Eligible land must be entirely within a MN Dept. of Health (MDH)
    designated 10-year wellhead protection area. Attach map of area
    offered and with the 10-year wellhead protection area outlined.

2.  Landowner, with the assistance of technical agencies, chooses one of
    the practices below, check one:

> CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native Grasses
>
> CP3A Hardwood Tree Planting
>
> CP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat,

[Decorah Shale Outcrops]{.underline}

1.  In the field determination is required based on county soil survey
    or County Geological Atlas. Attach a map showing the location and
    extent of the Decorah Shale outcrops.

2.  Adjacent areas 50 feet immediately upslope and down slope are
    eligible for enrollment.

3.  Whole fields can be enrolled if more than 75% of the field is
    eligible.

4.  Landowner, with the assistance of technical agencies, chooses one of
    the practices below, check one:

> CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native Grasses
>
> CP3A Hardwood Tree Planting
>
> CP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat,

**VI. Flood Damage Reduction areas**

1.  Select practice

> CP21, Filter Strip
>
> CP22, Riparian Buffer Strip
>
> CP23, Wetland Restoration
>
> CP23A Wetland Restoration

Offered areas for practices CP-21 and CP-22 must have 51% of the soils
mapped as occasionally and frequently flooded.

2.  The acreage offered must meet one of the following:

    A.  Eligible for EWP or ECP in the last 20 years, indicate year and
        program.

    B.  Identified for possible flood mitigation or water retention
        areas through long range planning including comprehensive water
        plans, watershed plans or county and city plans. Indicate the
        type of flood mitigation and the plan.

3.  And must contain one or more of the following, (check all that
    apply):

    A.   Agricultural dikes in flood plains

    B.   Severe scour erosion

    C.   Channel realignment problems

    D.   Areas that will provide direct offsite flood damage benefits to
        public infrastructure

4.  All sites must be approved by the FSA CoC and SWCD as providing long
    term flood reduction benefits.

**Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program**

APPLICANT: [     ]{.mark} COUNTY: [     ]{.mark}

FSA TRACT NO.: [     ]{.mark} FSA FIELD NO.: [     ]{.mark}

**I. Riparian Areas**

> 1\. LOCATION CRITERIA (Indicate the type of area being protected)

A. Perennial Stream

> B. Seasonal Stream (contains water for only part of the year but more
> than just during and/or after rainfall or snowmelt). Stream identified
> by:
>
> USGS maps
>
> County soil survey maps verified by an on-site visit
>
> On-site visit and approval of the ARC if stream is unmapped

C. Wetland determined to be Cowardin classification of []{.mark}

D. Permanent water body containing water throughout the year in all
years.

.

2\. SELECT PRACTICE - Landowner, with the assistance of technical
agencies, chooses one of the practices below and attach practice
documentation worksheet:

> CP21 Filter Strip
>
> CP22 Riparian Buffer

## 

**II. Wetland Restoration**

1.  Restorable wetland acres must include altered or manipulated
    wetlands or prior converted cropland areas that can have their
    hydrologic component restored.

2.  The area offered must be entirely (Check one):

> within the 100-year floodplain for CP23
>
> outside the 100-year floodplain for CP23A

3.  Attach practice documentation worksheet and additional map
    documentation must identify each eligible site.

**III. Ground Water Protection**

[Wellhead Protection Areas]{.underline}

> 1\. Eligible land must be entirely within a MN Dept. of Health (MDH)
> designated 10-year wellhead protection area. Attach map of area
> offered and with the 10-year wellhead protection area outlined.

2.  Landowner, with the assistance of technical agencies, chooses one of
    the practices below, check one:

> CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native Grasses
>
> CP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat

**IV. Flood Damage Reduction areas**

1.  Select practice

> CP21, Filter Strip
>
> CP22, Riparian Buffer Strip
>
> CP23, Wetland Restoration
>
> CP23A Wetland Restoration

Offered areas for practices CP-21 and CP-22 must have 51% of the soils
mapped as occasionally and frequently flooded.

2.  The acreage offered must meet one of the following:

    a.  Eligible for EWP or ECP in the last 20 years, indicate year and
        program.

    b.  Identified for possible flood mitigation or water retention
        areas through long range planning including comprehensive water
        plans, watershed plans or county and city plans. Indicate the
        type of flood mitigation and the plan.

3.  And must contain one or more of the following, (check all that
    apply):

    a.   Agricultural dikes in flood plains

    b.   Severe scour erosion

    c.   Channel realignment problems

    d.   Areas that will provide direct offsite flood damage benefits to
        public infrastructure

4.  All sites must be approved by the FSA CoC and SWCD as providing long
    term flood reduction benefits.

**Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program**

APPLICANT: [     ]{.mark} COUNTY: [     ]{.mark}

FSA TRACT NO.: [     ]{.mark} FSA FIELD NO.: [     ]{.mark}

**I. Riparian Areas**

> 1\. LOCATION CRITERIA (Indicate the type of area being protected)

A. Perennial Stream

> B. Seasonal Stream (contains water for only part of the year but more
> than just during and/or after rainfall or snowmelt). Stream identified
> by:
>
> USGS maps
>
> County soil survey maps verified by an on-site visit
>
> On-site visit and approval of the ARC if stream is unmapped

C. Wetland determined to be Cowardin classification of []{.mark}

D. Permanent water body containing water throughout the year in all
years.

E. Scour Area that dose not meet any other criteria listed above.

> 2\. SELECT PRACTICE - Landowner, with the assistance of technical
> agencies, chooses one of the practices below also attach practice
> documentation worksheet:
>
> CP21 Filter Strip
>
> CP22 Riparian Buffer
>
> CP-2 Establishment of Permanent Native Grasses - Scour areas,
> resulting from a flood event, that do not meet any of the location
> criteria for Filter Strip, CP-21 or Riparian Buffer CP-22 may be
> eligible to be enrolled using practice CP-2. They are limited to the
> same CREP width requirements as practice CP-21.

## 

**II. Wetland Restoration**

1.  Restorable wetland acres must include altered or manipulated
    wetlands or prior converted cropland areas that can have their
    hydrologic component restored.

2.  The area offered must be entirely (Check one):

> within the 100-year floodplain for CP23
>
> outside the 100-year floodplain for CP23A
>
> 3\. Attach practice documentation worksheet and additional map
> documentation identifying each eligible site.

**III. Flood Damage Reduction areas**

1.  Select practice

> CP21, Filter Strip
>
> CP22, Riparian Buffer Strip
>
> CP23, Wetland Restoration
>
> CP23A Wetland Restoration
>
> CP-34 Flood System (see notes \# 7, 8)

Offered areas for practices CP-21 and CP-22 must have 51% of the soils
mapped as occasionally and frequently flooded.

> 2\. The acreage offered must meet one of the following:

a.  Eligible for EWP or ECP in the last 20 years, indicate year and
    program.

b.  Identified for possible flood mitigation or water retention areas
    through long range planning including comprehensive water plans,
    watershed plans or county and city plans. Indicate the type of flood
    mitigation and the plan.

> 3\. And must contain one or more of the following, (check all that
> apply):

c.   Agricultural dikes in flood plains

d.   Severe scour erosion

e.   Channel realignment problems

f.   Areas that will provide direct offsite flood damage benefits to
    public infrastructure

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5.  All sites must be approved by the FSA CoC and SWCD as providing long
    term flood reduction benefits.

6.  All sites involving practice CP-34 must be reviewed and approved as
    meeting flood damage reduction by either the local Watershed
    District or Watershed Organization.

7.  All sites with practice CP-34 have a special status and will
    probably require additional environmental assessment prior to
    approval.

8.  All sites with CP-34 practices must have a local sponsor that will
    provide financial incentives for all construction activities.

**[CREP Practice Implementation]{.underline}**

CREP is a unique program with its own set of rules and guidelines. In
general, prior to determining if a practice is eligible for CREP the
planner must first determine if the land lies within an eligible CREP
watershed location. Once in an eligible location the CREP practice is
selected. This selection must take into account an environmental
assessment of the site, which includes completion of form NRCS-CPA-052.

Part of the CREP approval process was development of a programmatic
environmental assessment. In some cases the environmental requirements
for CREP go beyond those for CRP and CCRP. In our normal environmental
assessment process we generally document that no adverse impact will
occur as a result of implementing each conservation practice. In
addition to these requirements CREP also is emphasizing and promoting
the restoration of threatened, endangered and declining habitats.

To help promote the restoration of declining habitats and fulfill the
requirements of the CREP environmental assessment planners should refer
to the native vegetation maps (Marshner) and their knowledge of the
landscape when providing assistance on practice selection. All
applicants will be made aware of their site's original native vegetative
type. Applicants will retain the ability to choose any eligible practice
except;

1.  All practices will only recommend planting native grass or tree
    species.

2.  All CREP wetland restorations (CP-23 and CP-23A) must have the
    associated buffer area restored to the native vegetation as
    identified on the Marshner maps.

3.  In the Tall Grass Prairie Ecosystem Zone, within the Southwest and
    Northwest CREP areas, tree planting practices will not be
    implemented on sites determined to;

    -   Within ¼ mile of native prairie/native grass plantings greater
        then 80 acres in size

    -   Within 1 mile of known Greater Prairie Chicken lecs

    -   Within 1 mile of Sharp-tailed Grouse lecs

4.  In the Tall Grass Prairie Ecosystem Zone, within the Southwest and
    Northwest CREP areas, modified tree planting practice designs will
    be implemented on sites determined to;

    -   Within ¼ mile of native prairie/native grass plantings greater
        then 80 acres in size

    -   Within 1 mile of known Greater Prairie Chicken lecs

    -   Within 1 mile of Sharp-tailed Grouse lecs

> These modified planting designs will be limited to woody species with
> less then a 20-30 foot expected mature height, see Appendix B for a
> list of acceptable woody species by CREP area.

**[CREP Practices]{.underline}**

**CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native Grass**

**This practice is available in all watersheds.**

The purpose of this practice is to establish native grass species on
eligible cropland. Use NRCS Conservation Practice Standard Upland
Wildlife Habitat Management, Code 645 to install the practice using a
mixed stand with a minimum of 5 native species consisting of at least 3
grasses and 1 forb.

In the Red River watershed only, this practice can be used on land
capable of being cropped that is immediately adjacent to eroded or
scoured channels that do not meet the definition of perennial or
intermittent streams. The width is limited to the same design used in a
CREP CP-21.

**CP3A Hardwood Tree Planting**

**This practice is available for the Lower Mississippi Watershed.**

The purpose of this practice is to establish a native stand of
predominantly hardwood trees in a timber planting that will enhance
environmental benefits. Use NRCS Conservation Practice Standard
Tree/Shrub Establishment, Code 612 to establish this practice with the
qualification that only native species are eligible to be established.

**CP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat**

**This practice is available for the Lower Mississippi and Missouri/Des
Moines River Watersheds.**

The purpose of this practice is to establish a permanent wildlife
habitat cover to enhance environmental benefits for the wildlife habitat
of the designated or surrounding areas. Apply this practice to eligible
cropland that is suitably located and adapted to the establishment of
permanent wildlife habitat. This practice must also include both native
woody and grass vegetation.

Use NRCS Conservation Practice Standard Upland Wildlife Habitat
Management, Code 645 to establish the native grass and woody components.
The native grass component must consist of a mixed stand with a minimum
of 5 native species consisting of at least 3 grasses and 1 forb.

**CP12 Wildlife Food Plot**

**This practice is available in all watersheds as a component of all
CP-2 (except Red River Watershed), CP-4D, CP-23 and CP-23A practices and
certain CP-21 and CP-22 practices.**

The purpose of this practice is to establish annual or perennial
wildlife food plots that will enhance wildlife and wildlife habitat.
Cost share is not authorized for this practice and it may only be used
as a component in an otherwise eligible CREP practice.

Use NRCS Conservation Practice Standard Upland Wildlife Habitat
Management, Code 645 to establish this practice. The practice must
establish suitable plant species for food plots. Determine food plot
location and the total acres to be devoted to food plots. Individual
food plots shall not exceed 5 acres in size. Total food plot acreage
shall not exceed the lesser of 10% of the contract acreage or 5.0 acres.

Food plots must be separated by a sufficient distance to maximize
wildlife benefits and accessibility. Food plots may be placed in one
location throughout the life of the CRP-1 or may be relocated annually.
If relocated, the previous food plot must be seeded to an approved
permanent vegetative cover at the participant's expense.

When this component will be established on practices CP-21 and CP-22 it
must be located so it will not interfere with the water quality function
of the practice. This means it must be set-back from the receiving water
a distance at least equal to the practice design minimum width for water
quality. [If this can not be achieved then a food plot is not an
eligible component on these practices]{.underline}. In the Red River
watershed the food plot must not interfere with the flood damage
reduction function of the practice.

**CP15A Establishment of Permanent Vegetative Cover (Contour Grass
Strips)**

**This practice is available for the Lower Mississippi Watershed only.**

The purpose of this practice is to establish strips of permanent native
vegetative cover generally following the contour on eligible cropland
alternated with wider cultivated strips farmed on the contour that will
reduce erosion to "T" and control runoff. NRCS Practice Standard Contour
Buffer Strips, Code 332 will be used to design this practice with the
qualification that only native species are eligible to be established.
The native grass component must consist of a mixed stand with a minimum
of 5 native species consisting of at least 3 grasses and 1 forb

The buffer strips must be established for erosion control and **must**
be alternated with wider cultivated strips of cropland (not enrolled in
CREP) for eligibility. Contour buffer strips are not eligible to be
installed on terraces within this practice. The buffer strips must be
established for soil erosion and runoff control purposes.

The enrolled contour buffer strips are restricted between 15 and 60 feet
wide while the field borders can be up to 60 feet wide. Field borders
may be included in the offered acres if NRCS documents the need in
writing that the field border is necessary to drain water and insure the
functionality of the contour buffer system.

**CP21 Filter Strips**

**This practice is available for all watersheds.**

The purpose of this practice is to remove nutrients, sediment, organic
matter, pesticides, and other pollutants from surface runoff and
subsurface flow by deposition, absorption, plant uptake,
denitrification, and other processes, and thereby reduce pollution and
protect surface water and subsurface water quality while enhancing the
ecosystems of the water body.

The vegetation to be established must consist of at least 5 native
species of which at least 3 must be native grasses and one native forb.
Use the NRCS Practice Standard Filter Strip, Code 393 to design this
practice with the qualification that only native species are eligible to
be established.

**[Filter Strip Width]{.underline}**

The minimum design filter strip width is that needed to achieve the
water quality function of this practice.

On all sites the filter strip may be extended beyond the normal CREP
maximum limitation of 120 feet. All sites are authorized to extend the
width, up to a maximum of 350 feet, without additional site specific
technical need to provide water quality improvement, wildlife habitat,
and reduce the impacts of flooding.

An extension up to a total width of 600 feet may be allowed if the soil
types on at least 51% of the land within the extension areas are mapped
as frequently or occasionally flooded soils.

Additional land may be enrolled (beyond 600 feet) as determined by FSA
using the "infeasible to farm" provisions.

The filter strip begins at the top of the stream bank. Some land
adjacent to the stream may not meet the eligibility criteria and will
not be enrolled in the CCRP; however, this ineligible land shall be
included:

-   In the area used as a filter strip.

-   In the conservation plan

-   When determining the allowable width of the filter strip.

*Additional Guidance for Watering Facilities*

This practice allows for cost sharing the establishment of alternative
watering facilities and fencing only when livestock are present on the
site and the enrollment into CREP removes the source of livestock water.
Fences will be established according to NRCS Conservation Practice
Standard Fencing Code 382. There are 2 options for alternative water
sources; 1. water facilities such as troughs and tanks, and 2. water
developments for example dug, bored or drilled wells or springs or
ponds. The choice of alternative water source will be the **lowest cost
option** suitable for the situation. Alternative water sources will be
designed according to the NRCS Conservation Practice Standard Watering
Facilities Code 614. All landowners receiving cost share assistance on
watering facilities will be encouraged to develop a separate prescribed
grazing plan on their grazeable non-CRP acres.

[Filter Strip sites determined to provide flood damage reduction
benefits may also be enrolled under the flood damage reduction location
eligibility]{.underline}. When enrolled for this purpose the land must
be placed under a permanent easement.

**Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program**

APPLICANT: [     ]{.mark} COUNTY: [     ]{.mark}

FSA TRACT NO.: [     ]{.mark} FSA FIELD NO.: [     ]{.mark}

**Site Suitability and practice width (from site visit):**

> **Suitable Site Conditions**
>
> \> 50% of field runoff occurs or will occur as uniform sheet flow
> after installation of flow spreading practices. Indicate practices to
> be used to convert concentrated flow areas to sheet flow:
>
> shaping and grading flow diversion level spreaders
>
> vegetative barriers contour buffers contour furrows other

**Unsuitable Site Conditions**

**Check appropriate reasons below**

> \< 50% of field runoff occurs as uniform sheet flow and no measures
> are planned to induce sheet flow.
>
> \> 50% of field runoff bypasses proposed filter strip because of
> surface intakes and associated tile.
>
> inability to support acceptable vegetation.
>
> upland sheet and rill soil losses \>10 tons/ac./yr.
>
> upland sheet and rill soil losses \> 3 tons/ac./yr. and contributing
> watershed will be ≥ 60 times the area of the filter strip.
>
> contributing watershed slope ≥ 10%
>
> channel bank not stabile
>
> **STOP!!!! Unsuitable site**

## 

**Extent of eligible area**:

A.  Minimum width needed for water quality filtering is: [   ]{.mark}
    ft.

B.  Width can be extended up to a maximum of 350 ft. Extended Width
    Selected: [   ]{.mark} ft.

**Note: NTE total width of 350 ft.**

C.  Width can be further extended if the soil mapped types are at least
    51% occasionally flooded or frequently flooded within the extension
    area. Show location and extent of "frequently and occasionally
    flooded" soils on photo, map or sketch.

**Note: NTE total width of 600 ft.**

D.  Total Width

> Total width [   ]{.mark} ft. (NTE 600 ft. total width)

E.  Non Payment Areas

    1.  Are areas present that may not be eligible for payment?
        []{.mark}

    2.  Check appropriate reason(s) below if yes.

> Non-cropland acres between cropland acres and area to be protected
> provide effective filtering
>
> Part or all of offered cropland acres currently provide effective
> filtering.

3.  Effective filtering vegetation in non-cropland and cropland acres
    must: be included in the area used as a filter strip and be in the
    conservation plan. Acreage of this vegetation may be deducted by FSA
    from overall filter strip acreage to determine acreage eligible for
    CRP payments.

    -   For CRP the starting point for measuring minimum riparian widths
        begins immediately adjacent to the feature to be protected.

    -   Land with a restrictive easement or covered by a state or local
        law that requires the establishment of vegetation may not be
        eligible for CRP.

**CP22 Riparian Buffer**

**This practice is available for all Watersheds.**

The purposes of this practice are to: remove nutrients, sediment,
organic matter, pesticides, and other pollutants from surface runoff and
subsurface flow by deposition, absorption, plant uptake,
denitrification, and other processes, and thereby reduce pollution and
protect surface water and subsurface water quality while enhancing the
ecosystems of the water body; create shade to lower water temperature to
improve habitat for aquatic organisms; provide a source of detritus and
large woody debris for aquatic organisms and habitat for wildlife.

Use the NRCS Practice Standard Riparian Forest Buffer, Code 391 to
design this practice with the qualifications that only native species
will be planted.

**[Buffer Width]{.underline}**

The minimum practice width will be that needed to achieve the desired
purpose for this practice.

On all sites the riparian buffer may be extended beyond the normal CREP
maximum limitation of 180 feet. All sites are authorized to extend the
width, up to a maximum of 350 feet, without additional site specific
technical need to provide water quality improvement, wildlife habitat,
and reduce the impacts of flooding.

An extension up to a total width of 600 feet may be allowed if the soil
types on at least 51% of the land within the extension areas are mapped
as frequently or occasionally flooded soils.

Additional land may be enrolled (beyond 600 feet) as determined by FSA
using the "infeasible to farm" provisions.

The riparian buffer begins at the top of the stream bank. Some land
adjacent to the stream may not meet the eligibility criteria and will
not be enrolled in the CCRP; however, this ineligible land shall be
included:

-   In the area used as a riparian buffer.

-   In the conservation plan

-   When determining the allowable width of the riparian buffer.

*Additional Guidance for Watering Facilities*

This practice allows for cost sharing the establishment of alternative
watering facilities and fencing only when livestock are present on the
site and the enrollment into CREP removes the source of livestock water.
Fences will be established according to NRCS Conservation Practice
Standard Fencing Code 382. There are 2 options for alternative water
sources; 1. water facilities such as troughs and tanks, and 2. water
developments for example dug, bored or drilled wells or springs or
ponds. The choice of alternative water source will be the **lowest cost
option** suitable for the situation. Alternative water sources will be
designed according to the NRCS Conservation Practice Standard Watering
Facilities Code 614. All landowners receiving cost share assistance on
watering facilities will be encouraged to develop a separate prescribed
grazing plan on their grazeable non-CRP acres.

**Natural regeneration** of the riparian buffer is acceptable if MN/DNR
documents that:

-   An adequate seed source for trees and shrubs is present.

-   Under normal conditions, the appropriate cover will be established
    within 2 years of CRP-1 effective date.

-   Erosion and runoff will be controlled during the establishment
    period.

-   Weeds, noxious plants, and other unapproved plant species will be
    controlled during the establishment period.

-   **No cost share** is paid for natural regeneration and the producer
    will plant approved cover, without cost share, if the riparian
    buffer is not established within 2 years of CRP-1 effective date.

**Design Guidance for Riparian Buffer Plantings**

In the Tall Grass Prairie Ecosystem Zone, within the Southwest and
Northwest CREP areas, tree planting practices will not be implemented on
sites determined to be;

-   Within ¼ mile of native prairie/native grass plantings greater then
    80 acres in size

-   Within 1 mile of known Greater Prairie Chicken lecs

-   Within 1 mile of Sharp-tailed Grouse lecs

In the Tall Grass Prairie Ecosystem Zone, within the Southwest and
Northwest CREP areas, modified tree planting practice designs will be
implemented on sites determined to be;

-   Within ¼ mile of native prairie/native grass plantings greater then
    80 acres in size

-   Within 1 mile of known Greater Prairie Chicken lecs

-   Within 1 mile of Sharp-tailed Grouse lecs

> These modified planting designs will be limited to woody species with
> less then a 20-30 foot expected mature height, see Appendix B for a
> list of acceptable woody species by CREP area.

[Riparian Buffer sites determined to provide flood damage reduction
benefits may also be enrolled under the flood damage reduction location
eligibility]{.underline}. When enrolled for this purpose the land must
be placed under a permanent easement.

**Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program**

APPLICANT: [     ]{.mark} COUNTY: [     ]{.mark}

FSA TRACT NO.: [     ]{.mark} FSA FIELD NO.: [     ]{.mark}

**Site Suitability (from site visit):**

A.  When the practice purpose is water quality the site must be capable
    of providing this function. Indicate if additional practices need to
    be used to convert concentrated flow areas to sheet flow:

> shaping and grading flow diversion level spreaders
>
> vegetative barriers contour buffers contour furrows
>
> other site is not capable of providing a water quality function

B.  When the site will be used for purposes other then water quality it
    must be determined to be capable of providing that function.
    Potential unsuitable site conditions include;

## Check appropriate reasons below: 

> inability to support acceptable vegetation.
>
> channel bank stability
>
> STOP!!!! Unsuitable site

**Extent of eligible area**:

## 

C.  Minimum width needed for practice purpose is: [   ]{.mark} ft.

D.  Width can be extended up to a maximum of 350 ft. Extended Width
    Selected: [   ]{.mark} ft.

**Note: NTE total width of 350 ft.**

E.  Width can be further extended if the soil mapped types are at least
    51% occasionally flooded or frequently flooded within the extension
    area. Show location and extent of "frequently and occasionally
    flooded" soils on photo, map or sketch.

**Note: NTE total width of 600 ft.**

F.  Total Width

> Total width [   ]{.mark} ft. (NTE 600 ft. total width)

G.  Non Payment Areas

    a.  Are areas present that may not be eligible for payment?
        []{.mark}

    b.  Check appropriate reason(s) below if yes.

> Non-cropland acres between cropland acres and area to be protected
> provide effective filtering
>
> Part or all of offered cropland acres currently provide effective
> filtering.

c.  Effective filtering vegetation in non-cropland and cropland acres
    must: be included in the area used as a filter strip and be in the
    conservation plan. Acreage of this vegetation may be deducted by FSA
    from overall filter strip acreage to determine acreage eligible for
    CRP payments.

    -   For CRP the starting point for measuring minimum riparian widths
        begins immediately adjacent to the feature to be protected.

    -   Land with a restrictive easement or covered by a state or local
        law that requires the establishment of vegetation may not be
        eligible for CRP.

**CREP Practice**

**CP23 Wetland Restoration**

**This practice is available in all Watersheds.**

The purpose of the practice is to restore the functions and values of
wetland ecosystems that are entirely **within** the 100-year floodplain.
Eligible sites are limited to only those wetland areas that have had the
wetland hydrology component removed through alteration by drainage
and/or manipulation and where it is feasible and practical to restore
the wetland. If any of the hydrologic components of the wetland cannot
be restored through removing, blocking, manipulating, or otherwise
rendering inoperable the wetland drainage system and/or the wetland
alteration the wetland area is not eligible for enrollment. Cropping
cessation and the subsequent establishment of vegetation on a wetland
area in itself is not considered an eligible restoration option.

All restorable wetland areas must meet USDA wetland criteria. This means
that it, 1) contains hydric soils, 2) meets wetland hydrology criteria
(when restored), and 3) has or will have after restoration, hydrophytic
vegetation. The goal of this practice is to restore the wetland
ecosystem to the maximum extent possible and practical as agreed to by
the CREP participant, Technical Service Provider (NRCS, SWCD, etc.), FSA
County Committee and the Board of Water and Soil Resources. Initial
wetland restoration feasibility assessments must be completed by a
qualified individual and must consider avoiding impacts to adjacent
properties, utilities, or other infrastructures unless approvals,
permits or consents are attainable. This assessment must include an
evaluation of the extent of the existing drainage system and its impact
on the site's hydric soils. Floodplain restorations must be evaluated to
insure that the flood storage area is not reduced or adversely impacted
through the placement of fill, dikes, levees, or embankments.

The National Food Security Act Manual and 1987 Crops of Engineers
Delineation Manual will be used in making a programmatic determination
to determine the extent of eligible wetland areas. Eligible wetland
areas include farmed wetland (FW), wetland (W), or prior converted
wetland (PC). This acreage will typically include all hydric soil map
units (SMU) directly affected by the drainage and/or manipulation of the
wetland. In other words, when a hydric SMU is altered by drainage all
acres in that SMU count as restorable wetland acres.

Wetlands will be restored using the NRCS Practice Standard Wetland
Restoration, Code 657. Seeding mixes for the wetland zone can be found
in the 657 standard. The CP23 practice may also enroll a buffer limited
to a ratio of 2 acres of buffer to 1 acre of restored wetland. The
entire practice area including the buffer area must be within the
100-year floodplain. Wetland areas including the buffer for sites
developed under a grassland ecosystem will be seeded according to NRCS
Practice Standard Upland Wildlife Habitat Management, Code 645 or
Restoration of Declining Habitats Code 643, with a mixed stand of a
minimum of 5 native species consisting of at least 3 grasses, and 1
forb. Wetland areas for sites under a woodland ecosystem will use NRCS
Practice Standard Tree/Shrub Establishment, Code 612. The buffer areas
for woodland ecosystems can use the 612, 645 or 643 standard. When
restoring woodland ecosystems, plant hard mast species along with other
species suitable for the wet nature of the site. As appropriate the NRCS
Practice Standard Upland Wildlife Habitat Management, Code 645 as above
may also be included in a woodland ecosystem planting.

[Wetland sites determined to provide flood damage reduction benefits may
also be enrolled under the flood damage reduction location
eligibility]{.underline}.

**Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program**

APPLICANT: [     ]{.mark} COUNTY: [     ]{.mark}

FSA TRACT NO.: [     ]{.mark} FSA FIELD NO.: [     ]{.mark}

**Site Suitability (from site visit)**

Will restoration of this site impact adjacent properties either by
ponding water or disruption of a multi-farm drainage system?

Yes

No

Is the restoration of this project dependent on the simultaneous
enrollment of another contract? If yes, list the tract(s) or contract(s)
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Document whether the native vegetation is herbaceous or woodland.

Herbaceous:

Woody

Document the extent of the existing drainage system and its impact on
the hydric soils of the site. Documentation could include the soils map,
drainage worksheet, engineering technician's on-site findings.

[   ]{.mark} Acres of Hydric Soil Map Units with altered hydrology

**Extent of eligible area:**

Size of restored wetland [   ]{.mark} acres

Buffer Area**\***: [   ]{.mark} feet

**\*Will not exceed 2:1 buffer to wetland ratio**

Total Size of practice area [    ]{.mark} acres

Does this site meet the flood damage reduction location criteria?

Yes

No

**CP23A Wetland Restoration, Non-Easement**

**This practice is available for the Lower Mississippi, Missouri/Des
Moines and Red River Watersheds.**

The purpose of the practice is to restore the functions and values of
wetland ecosystem that are entirely **outside** the 100-year floodplain.
Eligible sites are limited to only those wetland areas that have had the
wetland hydrology component removed through alteration by drainage
and/or manipulation and where it is feasible and practical to restore
the wetland. If any of the hydrologic components of the wetland cannot
be restored through removing, blocking, or otherwise rendering
inoperable the wetland drainage system and/or the wetland alteration the
wetland area is not eligible for enrollment. Cropping cessation and the
subsequent establishment of vegetation on a wetland area in itself is
not considered an eligible restoration option.

All restorable wetland areas must meet USDA wetland criteria. This means
that it, 1) contains hydric soils, 2) meets wetland hydrology criteria
(when restored), and 3) has or will have after restoration, hydrophytic
vegetation. The goal of this practice is to restore the wetland
ecosystem to the maximum extent possible and practical as agreed to by
the CREP participant, Technical Service Provider (NRCS, SWCD, etc.), FSA
County Committee and the Board of Water and Soil Resources. Initial
wetland restoration feasibility assessments must be completed by a
qualified individual and must consider avoiding impacts to adjacent
properties, utilities, or other infrastructures unless approvals,
permits or consents are attainable. This assessment must include an
evaluation of the extent of the existing drainage system and its impact
on the site's hydric soils.

The National Food Security Act Manual and 1987 Crops of Engineers
Delineation Manual will be used in making a programmatic determination
to determine the extent of eligible wetland areas. Eligible wetland
areas include farmed wetland (FW), wetland (W), or prior converted
wetland (PC). This acreage will typically include all hydric soil map
units (SMU) directly affected by the drainage and/or manipulation of the
wetland. In other words, when a hydric SMU is altered by drainage all
acres in that SMU count as restorable wetland acres.

Wetlands will be restored using the NRCS Practice Standard Wetland
Restoration, Code 657. Seeding mixes for the wetland zone can be found
in the 657 standard. The CP23 practice may also enroll a buffer limited
to a ratio of 2 acres of buffer to 1 acre of restored wetland. The
entire practice area including the buffer area must be outside the
100-year floodplain. Wetland areas including the buffer for sites
developed under a grassland ecosystem will be seeded according to NRCS
Practice Standard Upland Wildlife Habitat Management, Code 645 or
Restoration of Declining Habitats Code 643, with a mixed stand of a
minimum of 5 native species consisting of at least 3 grasses, and 1
forb. Wetland areas for sites under a woodland ecosystem will use NRCS
Practice Standard Tree/Shrub Establishment, Code 612. The buffer areas
for woodland ecosystems can use the 612, 645 or 643 standard. When
restoring woodland ecosystems, plant hard mast species along with other
species suitable for the wet nature of the site. As appropriate the NRCS
Practice Standard Upland Wildlife Habitat Management, Code 645 as above
may also be included in a woodland ecosystem planting.

[Wetland sites determined to provide flood damage reduction benefits may
also be enrolled under the flood damage reduction location
eligibility]{.underline}.

**Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program**

APPLICANT: [     ]{.mark} COUNTY: [     ]{.mark}

FSA TRACT NO.: [     ]{.mark} FSA FIELD NO.: [     ]{.mark}

**Site Suitability (from site visit)**

Will restoration of this site impact adjacent properties either by
ponding water or disruption of a multi-farm drainage system?

Yes

No

Is the restoration of this project dependent on the simultaneous
enrollment of another contract? If yes, list the tract(s) or contract(s)
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Document whether the native vegetation is herbaceous or woodland.

Herbaceous:

Woody

Document the extent of the existing drainage system and its impact on
the hydric soils of the site. Documentation could include the soils map,
drainage worksheet, engineering technician's on-site findings.

[   ]{.mark} Acres of Hydric Soil Map Units with altered hydrology

**Extent of eligible area:**

Size of restored wetland [   ]{.mark} acres

Buffer Area**\***: [   ]{.mark} feet

**\*Will not exceed 2:1 buffer to wetland ratio**

Total Size of practice area [    ]{.mark} acres

Does this site meet the flood damage reduction location criteria?

Yes

No

**CP34 Flood Control System**

**This practice is available for the Red River Watershed only.**

The purpose of this practice is to create a man-made structural barrier
capable of temporarily impounding or managing run-off water for
potential flood damage reduction and water quality benefits. The primary
purposes for this practice are to reduce downstream flood damage and
improve water quality.

**Note**: This is not a pond development, wetland restoration, sediment
control basin or a grade stabilization control practice. The intent of
this practice is to establish structures that will either temporarily
impound upland water run-off or prevent channelized flood waters from
leaving the flood plain area.

Apply this practice to eligible cropland where water can be impounded or
regulated by dikes, levees, ditches or flood storage structures. Only
*existing* *cropland* is eligible for this practice.

**Note**: Wetlands, farmed wetlands and prior converted cropland soils
where wetland restorations could be established for the same purpose are
not eligible.

Eligibility requirements:

-   Topographic, geologic, hydrologic and soil conditions at the
    proposed site are satisfactory for constructing an impoundment, dike
    or levee.

-   Eligible sites are not otherwise eligible to serve as a wetland
    restoration.

-   The watershed is protected from erosion to the extent that the
    sediment yield will not significantly shorten the planned life of
    the impoundment.

-   All sites must be in a location and determined to be capable of
    serving the intended purpose by a local unit of government
    responsible for mitigating potential flood damages. When evaluating
    a site, consider the water management within the entire floodplain
    including both sides of perennial streams.

-   All sites must be protected by an adequate buffer to protect the
    flood reduction structure.

-   The cover specified in the conservation plan shall have the ability
    to filter sediment and pollutants from runoff water before it
    reaches the inundated portion of the structure.

-   Eligible sites must have all necessary environmental permits and
    safety requirements secured by the applicant prior to construction.

-   All structural work will require and additional environmental
    assessment completed prior to contract approval.

MN NRCS Conservation Practice Standards Dam, Code 402 or Dike, Code 356
or Diversion, Code 362 will be used to design the structure for water
controls. Approved cover will be established on all exposed portions
(embankments, spillway and borrow areas) of the structure consistent
with the soil type and intended purpose. Use MN NRCS Conservation
Practice Standard Critical Area Planting Code 342 for these areas.

CREP will not provide cost share assistance to implement the structural
components of this practice and NRCS will not be responsible to design
the structural components of this practice.

On the required buffer portion of the site a mixed stand consisting of a
minimum of 5 native species of which at least 3 native grasses and at
least 1 forb species according to practice Upland Wildlife Habitat
Management, Code 645 or Restoration of Declining Habitats, Code 543 will
be used. The temporary water storage area will be seeded according to
practice Wetland Restoration, Code 657.

For temporary cover the following seedings are authorized:

Where ground conditions are normal and permanent seeding cannot be
carried out for reasons other than atrazine**\*** residue seed one of
the following:

  ------------------------------------------ ----------------------------
  Plant Material                             Rate #/ac.

  Winter Wheat                               120

  Winter Rye                                 90

  Oats                                       68

  Annual Ryegrass                            24
  ------------------------------------------ ----------------------------

**\***For sites with atrazine carryover seed Sudangrass at 25 #/ac.

**Table 4: Wetland Classifications for CREP Eligibility for CP22**

  ------------------ ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
                     HERBACEOUS        SCRUB-SHRUB       FORESTED

  SEASONALLY FLOODED PEMC              PSS(1-5)C         PFO(1,2,4,5)C

  SEMI-PERMANENTLY   PEMF              PSS(1-5)F         PFO(1,2,4,5)F
  FLOODED                                                

  INTERMITTENTLY     PEMG              PSS(1-5)G         NA
  EXPOSED                                                

  PERMANENTLY        PEMH              NA                NA
  FLOODED                                                
  ------------------ ----------------- ----------------- -----------------

**Note:** For more information about these wetland classifications refer
to the following website: <http://wetlands.fws.gov/mapcodes.htm>.

**Table 5: List of Native Trees for CREP II Watersheds**

Trees and Shrubs for SE Minnesota: Any tree species native to SE
Minnesota may be planted. Use the list of trees in the NRCS Conservation
Practice Standard Riparian Forest Buffer, Code 391 as a guide for
choosing trees.

**5A** Trees and Shrubs for NW and SW Minnesota: Sites adjacent to
existing woodlands, shelterbelts, windbreaks, etc. and outside of the ¼
mile critical distance to native prairie/native grass plantings and
outside of 1 mile for known Greater Prairie Chicken or Sharp-tailed
Grouse leks or other sensitive grassland species. There are no
restrictions in areas where forests are historically located. Match tree
and shrub species to soils and site suitability.

  ---------------------------- ----------------------- --------- ---------
  **Common Name**              **Scientific Name**     **NW MN** **SW MN**

  American hazel               Corylus americana       X         

  American wild plum           Prunus americana        X         

  Balsam poplar                Populus balsamifera     X         

  Basswood                     Tilia americana         X         X

  Beaked hazel                 Corylus cornuta         X         

  Bigtooth aspen               Populus grandidentata   X         

  Black ash                    Fraxinus nigra          X         

  Black cherry                 Prunus serotina         X         

  Black maple                  Acer nigrum                       X

  Black spruce                 Picea mariana           X         

  Black walnut                 Juglans nigra                     X

  Bur oak                      Quercus macrocarpa      X         X

  Common chokecherry           Prunus virginiana       X         X

  Downy serviceberry           Amelanchier arborea               X

  Eastern cottonwood           Populus deltoids        X         X

  Gray dogwood                 Cornus racemosa         X         

  Hackberry                    Celtis occidentalis     X         X

  Hawthorn sp.                 Crataegus spp.          X         X

  Highbush cranberry           Viburnum trilobum       X         X

  Ironwood                     Ostyra virginiana       X         X

  Jack pine                    Pinus banksiana         X         

  Nannyberry viburnum          Viburnum lentago        X         

  Northern pin oak             Quercus ellipsoidalis   X         

  Pagoda dogwood               Cornus alternifolia     X         

  Paper birch                  Betula papyifera        X         

  Pin cherry                   Prunus pensylvanica     X         X

  Red osier dogwood            Cornus sericea          X         X

  Silverberry                  Elaeagnus commutate     X         X

  Smooth sumac                 Rhus glabra             X         X

  Speckled alder               Alnus rugosa            X         

  Sugar maple                  Acer saccharum          X         X

  Trembling aspen              Populus tremuloides     X         

  White Spruce                 Picea glauca            X         

  Willow sp.                   Salix spp.              X         X
  ---------------------------- ----------------------- --------- ---------

**5B** Trees and Shrubs for NW and SW Minnesota: Sites greater than ¼
mile from prairies/native grass plantings (plantings greater than 80
acres), Prairie Chicken (1 mile for known leks) or Sharp-tailed Grouse
leks but not adjacent to existing woodlands, shelterbelts, windbreaks,
etc. Match tree and shrub species to soils and site suitability.

  ---------------------------- ----------------------- --------- ---------
  **Common Name**              **Scientific Name**     **NW MN** **SW MN**

  American hazel               Corylus americana       X         

  American wild plum           Prunus americana        X         

  Beaked hazel                 Corylus cornuta         X         

  Black cherry                 Prunus serotina         X         

  Bur oak                      Quercus macrocarpa      X         X

  Common chokecherry           Prunus virginiana       X         X

  Downy serviceberry           Amelanchier arborea               X

  Elderberry                   Sambucus canadensis               X

  Gray dogwood                 Cornus racemosa         X         

  Hawthorn sp.                 Crataegus spp.          X         X

  Highbush cranberry           Viburnum trilobum       X         X

  Ironwood                     Ostyra virginiana       X         X

  Nannyberry viburnum          Viburnum lentago        X         

  Pagoda dogwood               Cornus alternifolia     X         

  Paper birch                  Betula papyifera        X         

  Pin cherry                   Prunus pensylvanica     X         X

  Red osier dogwood            Cornus sericea          X         X

  Silverberry                  Elaeagnus commutate     X         X

  Smooth sumac                 Rhus glabra             X         X

  Speckled alder               Alnus rugosa            X         

  Trembling aspen              Populus tremuloides     X         

  Willow sp.                   Salix spp.              X         X
  ---------------------------- ----------------------- --------- ---------