USDA is offering a stewardship incentive payment, a signing bonus. Eligible practices include filter strips, streamside buffers, grassed waterways, windbreaks, shelter belts and snow fences. Marginal pastures pay more. Buffers cost less. USDA pays half the cost of building buffers.
Maintenance fees rise.
The new incentives are paid for continuous CRP approved on or after April 6, 2000. The enhancements are not retroactive. Current contracts cannot be terminated and the land re-enrolled. The money doesn't resolve every complaint about buffers. Trees are still required on marginal pasture.