Activities should be those that the landowner would not, or could not, undertake without financial and technical assistance. Cost Share Program Program promotes the management, restoration and enhancement of fish and wildlife resources and natural habitats on public and private lands in partnership with nonfederal entities. Projects may occur on National Wildlife Refuges, fish hatcheries, research facilities and private lands. The Conservation Easement Debt Cancellation Program allows landowners to reduce their FmHA debt in exchange for a permanent conservation easement on valuable lands, including wetlands. Debt reduction easements will not apply to debts with other lending institutions.
Landowners receive annual rental payments, technical assistance and cost-sharing.
Purpose is to reduce soil erosion and sedimentation, improve water quality, maintain fish and wildlife habitat, and provide support income to the landowner. FIP may apply to wetlands conservation and restoration of wooded swamps. FIP is limited to landowners of 10 to 1,000 acres. Exceptions to the acreage limitation may be obtained for up to 5,000 acres. FIP is offered only in designated counties where a suitable number of ownerships capable of producing at least 50 cubic feet of timber per year each exist.