USDA assistance also helps individuals and committees restore after floods, fires, or other natural disasters. The conservation provisions of the 1996 farm bill simplify existing conservation programs and improve their flexibility and efficiency. The bill also creates new programs to address high priority environmental protection goals. The CRP reduces soil erosion, protects the nation's ability to produce food and fiber, reduces sedimentation in streams and lakes, improves water quality, establishes wildlife habitat, and enhances forest and wetland resources. It encourages farmers to convert highly erodible cropland or other environmentally sensitive acreage to vegetative cover, such as tame or native grasses, wildlife plantings, trees, filterstrips, or riparian buffers.
Farmers receive an annual rental payment for the term of the multi-year contract.
Cost sharing is provided to establish the vegetative cover practices. New enrollments can replace expired or terminated contracts. Contracts must have been in effect for at least 5 years. Lands with high evironmental values are not eligible for early release. Gives the Secretary discretionary authority to offer future early outs for CRP acres.