Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)
The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) by Maryland DNR supports landowners in adopting science-driven conservation practices to protect water quality and restore habitats on farmland near waterways.
Funder: Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: Rolling (Ongoing enrollment; confirm availability with local office)
Funding Amounts: Up to 87.5% of eligible installation costs (50% federal, 37.5% state); annual rental payments for 10–15 year contracts.
Summary: Supports Maryland landowners in implementing conservation practices—such as riparian buffers and wetland restoration—on farmland near waterways, with financial and technical assistance.
Key Information: No fixed deadlines; funding and eligibility may change—always verify with your local office.
Description
The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) is a collaborative initiative administered by the USDA Farm Service Agency in partnership with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Maryland Agricultural Water Quality Cost-Share (MACS) Program, and local agencies. The program aims to improve water quality, restore wetlands, and enhance wildlife habitat by supporting landowners in establishing riparian forest buffers and retiring highly erodible cropland adjacent to waterways in Maryland.
Landowners enrolled in CREP receive both cost-share payments for installing conservation practices and annual rental payments for the duration of their contract (typically 10–15 years). Maryland Forest Service staff provide technical assistance, including project design and practice implementation, to maximize environmental benefits such as nutrient and sediment reduction.
