This program provides participating landowners with a tax incentive by freezing assessments, usually at the agricultural rate. Landowners with 5 or more acres enter into an agreement to adhere to a forest stewardship plan for a minimum of 15 years. Landowners may increase their forest acreage in the program by planting trees. C.R.E.P. pays bonus land rental rates and reimburses installation costs for creating forest or grass buffers along watercourses. Landowners with croplands or marginal pastureland by streams or by erodible soils within 1000ft. of water are eligable for 10-15 year contracts.
Permanent easements paid as bonuses for sign-up are also available.
Please contact your local Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service office for assistance with any of these programs.