Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)
The Indiana CREP provides financial incentives for agricultural producers to retire sensitive land and implement conservation practices that improve water quality, reduce erosion, and restore wildlife habitat statewide.
Funder: Indiana Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: Rolling (applications accepted year-round)
Funding Amounts: Cost-share for conservation practices and annual rental payments for 14–15 year contracts; payment rates vary by practice and land type.
Summary: Supports Indiana agricultural producers in retiring sensitive land to improve water quality, reduce erosion, and restore habitat.
Key Information: Available statewide; voluntary enrollment with multi-year contracts.
Description
The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) is a voluntary land retirement initiative administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources in partnership with the USDA Farm Service Agency and Indiana State Department of Agriculture. CREP provides financial incentives to agricultural producers and landowners to retire environmentally sensitive land from agricultural production. The program aims to improve water quality, reduce soil erosion, restore forests and wildlife habitats, and protect ground and surface water resources. Participants receive cost-share assistance for implementing approved conservation practices and annual rental payments for the duration of their contract.
