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 protects highly erodible and environmentally sensitive lands with grass, trees, and other long-term cover.
New enrollments can replace expired or terminated contracts.
Allows owners or operators who entered into a contract before 1995 to terminate contracts on certain acres after giving written notice. Contracts must have been in effect for at least five years. Lands with high environmental values are not eligible for early release. Gives the Secretary discretionary authority to offer future early outs for CRP acres. Livestock-related conservation practices will receive 50 percent of program funding.