North Carolina Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)

The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) is a voluntary program utilizing federal and state resources to achieve long-term protection of environmentally sensitive cropland and marginal pastureland. These voluntary protection measures are accomplished through 10-year, 15-year, 30-year, and permanent conservation easements.

The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program encourages farmers to place environmentally sensitive land near streams or other approved water bodies into a vegetative cover for a period of time.  In return, landowners receive annual payments and are reimbursed for establishing the conservation practices.  Landowners choosing to enroll in a 30-year or permanent easement will also receive a one-time state incentive payment and may also be eligible to receive a tax incentive.

To learn more about the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program visit the North Carolina Division of Soil & Water's website or call the Chatham Soil & Water Conservation District at (919) 542-8240.