MY MEETING CONFERENCE CALL March 30, 2005 for PRELIMINARY TRAINING and INFORMATION involving the

MY MEETING CONFERENCE CALL

March 30, 2005

for

PRELIMINARY TRAINING and INFORMATION

involving the

CREP II DRAFT PROPOSAL

for

SE, SW, and NW, MN

BreakBreakTelephone on MuteTelephone on Mute

Sign in SheetSign in SheetMy Meeting SoftwareMy Meeting Software

Conservation Reserve Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program IIEnhancement Program II

(CREP II)(CREP II)Today's session will include:Today's session will include:Opening RemarksOpening RemarksPreliminary InformationPreliminary InformationProceduresProceduresEligibilityEligibilityRolesRolesResponsibilitiesResponsibilitiesPromotion and OutreachPromotion and Outreach

Joint Agency EffortJoint Agency Effort The information being presented today will be The information being presented today will be

from the Minnesota State Offices of the:from the Minnesota State Offices of the: Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR)Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) USDA - Farm Service Agency (FSA)USDA - Farm Service Agency (FSA) USDA – Natural Resources Conservation USDA – Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)Service (NRCS)

OPENING REMARKSOPENING REMARKS John Monson – FSA State Executive DirectorJohn Monson – FSA State Executive Director Ron Harnack – BWSR State Executive DirectorRon Harnack – BWSR State Executive Director Bill Hunt – NRCS State ConservationistBill Hunt – NRCS State Conservationist

UPDATESUPDATES Status of State Funding (Bonding Bill)Status of State Funding (Bonding Bill) CREP II Draft Agreement approval timeframeCREP II Draft Agreement approval timeframe CREP II projected sign-up start dateCREP II projected sign-up start date

PURPOSE PURPOSE Provide field staff information to date that has been Provide field staff information to date that has been

developed for the proposed CREP II Agreement for developed for the proposed CREP II Agreement for SE, SW, and NW MN.SE, SW, and NW MN.

NOTE: there is a need to understand that the CREP II NOTE: there is a need to understand that the CREP II proposed agreement HAS NOT YET been approved. proposed agreement HAS NOT YET been approved. USDA is not going to move forward with a formal USDA is not going to move forward with a formal approval process until there is a substantial financial approval process until there is a substantial financial commitment from the State of Minnesota (the state’s commitment from the State of Minnesota (the state’s substantial financial commitment is tied to the substantial financial commitment is tied to the bonding bill which is hopefully only a few days away bonding bill which is hopefully only a few days away from the Governor’s approval). from the Governor’s approval).

WHAT IS CREP IIWHAT IS CREP II The CREP II proposal is a 120,000 acre Federal/State The CREP II proposal is a 120,000 acre Federal/State

Partnership in SE, SW, and NW MN that involves the Partnership in SE, SW, and NW MN that involves the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Reinvest-Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Reinvest-In-Minnesota (RIM) Program.In-Minnesota (RIM) Program.

CREP II involves a 15-year CRP Contract and either a CREP II involves a 15-year CRP Contract and either a 45-year or permanent RIM easement (an exception is 45-year or permanent RIM easement (an exception is contour buffer strips in SE, MN which will involve a contour buffer strips in SE, MN which will involve a 15-year CRP contract only). In either case the first 15 15-year CRP contract only). In either case the first 15 years are administered through CRP provisions. years are administered through CRP provisions.

The ability to enter into CREP is derived from CRP The ability to enter into CREP is derived from CRP authority and therefore CRP provisions govern CREP authority and therefore CRP provisions govern CREP II (without CRP CREP would not be possible). II (without CRP CREP would not be possible).

FUNDNG LEVELSFUNDNG LEVELS The State of Minnesota minimum contribution The State of Minnesota minimum contribution

is 20% and the Federal Government maximum is 20% and the Federal Government maximum contribution is 80%. Funding levels are contribution is 80%. Funding levels are approximately $200 million dollars from the approximately $200 million dollars from the Federal Government and approximately $50 Federal Government and approximately $50 million dollars from the State. million dollars from the State.

CREP II ProtocolsCREP II Protocols The CREP II proposal is the product of The CREP II proposal is the product of

extensive negotiation between governmental, extensive negotiation between governmental, agricultural, and environmental stakeholders. agricultural, and environmental stakeholders. As a result of these negotiations a set of As a result of these negotiations a set of protocols was developed in an attempt to protocols was developed in an attempt to address the issues raised by various interests address the issues raised by various interests with respect to the CREP II proposal. These with respect to the CREP II proposal. These protocols were agreed to by John Monson, protocols were agreed to by John Monson, MN FSA State Executive Director and Ron MN FSA State Executive Director and Ron Harnack, MN BWSR State Executive Director Harnack, MN BWSR State Executive Director in April, 2004. in April, 2004.

CREP II ProtocolsCREP II Protocols With these protocols in mind the CREP II With these protocols in mind the CREP II

proposal was designed to target only those proposal was designed to target only those most environmentally sensitive acreages most environmentally sensitive acreages identified in the three CREP areas’ original identified in the three CREP areas’ original proposals with the concept of using minimum proposals with the concept of using minimum acreages necessary to address the resource acreages necessary to address the resource concern. CREP II is not to be used to just concern. CREP II is not to be used to just enroll acreage with a mind set of a land enroll acreage with a mind set of a land retirement program. retirement program.

Landowner Bill of RightsLandowner Bill of Rights As part of the conditions of the protocols a As part of the conditions of the protocols a

“Landowner Bill of Rights” was developed. This bill “Landowner Bill of Rights” was developed. This bill of rights was developed to explicitly spell out what of rights was developed to explicitly spell out what rights are maintained, what rights are forfeited, and rights are maintained, what rights are forfeited, and that all of this information is clearly communicated to that all of this information is clearly communicated to the CREP II participant.the CREP II participant.

The Landowner Bill of Rights will be one of the first The Landowner Bill of Rights will be one of the first documents CREP II applicants receive and it must be documents CREP II applicants receive and it must be reviewed with and signed by the landowner. reviewed with and signed by the landowner.

CREP II INTRODUCTION CREP II INTRODUCTION CREP II seeks to convert 120,000 acres of CREP II seeks to convert 120,000 acres of

environmentally sensitive cropland and environmentally sensitive cropland and marginal pastureland (only a small area in marginal pastureland (only a small area in NW, MN) to native vegetation in order to NW, MN) to native vegetation in order to improve water quality, reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, reduce soil erosion, increase flood damage reduction/storage, and increase flood damage reduction/storage, and provide for fish and wildlife habitat in SE, provide for fish and wildlife habitat in SE, SW, and NW, MN. (CRP-1 needs to be SW, and NW, MN. (CRP-1 needs to be approved by 9-30-07) approved by 9-30-07)

WHY TRAINING NOWWHY TRAINING NOW The State CREP II team ( County FSA, NRCS, The State CREP II team ( County FSA, NRCS,

SWCD, and Watershed personnel; State Level SWCD, and Watershed personnel; State Level BWSR, FSA, NRCS personnel) decided that the BWSR, FSA, NRCS personnel) decided that the CREP proposal process is at a stage where it would CREP proposal process is at a stage where it would be beneficial to provide preliminary training and be beneficial to provide preliminary training and information to county staff in anticipation that an information to county staff in anticipation that an official CREP II approval is only weeks away. official CREP II approval is only weeks away.

Again, keep in mind the information provided should Again, keep in mind the information provided should be considered draft and may be changed upon final be considered draft and may be changed upon final review and approval. review and approval.

CREP II areasCREP II areas THE MN CREP II proposal provides authority THE MN CREP II proposal provides authority

for continuous enrollment of not more than for continuous enrollment of not more than 120,000 acres in the Lower Mississippi River 120,000 acres in the Lower Mississippi River Watershed in Southeastern, MN; Missouri/Des Watershed in Southeastern, MN; Missouri/Des Moines Watersheds in Southwestern, MN; and Moines Watersheds in Southwestern, MN; and the Red River Watershed in Northwestern, the Red River Watershed in Northwestern, MN.MN.

CREP II CountiesCREP II Counties Northwest CREP area whole counties include: Northwest CREP area whole counties include:

Kittson, Marshall, Pennington, Red Lake, Polk Kittson, Marshall, Pennington, Red Lake, Polk (East and West), Norman, Mahnoman, Clay, (East and West), Norman, Mahnoman, Clay, and Wilkin. Partial counties include: Roseau, and Wilkin. Partial counties include: Roseau, Lake of the Woods, Beltrami, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Beltrami, Koochiching, Itasca, Clearwater, Becker, Ottertail (East and Itasca, Clearwater, Becker, Ottertail (East and West), Grant, Stevens, Traverse and Big West), Grant, Stevens, Traverse and Big Stone. Stone.

CREP II CountiesCREP II Counties Southwest CREP whole counties include: Southwest CREP whole counties include:

Rock and Nobles. Partial Counties include: Rock and Nobles. Partial Counties include: Lincoln, Lyon, Pipestone, Murray, Lincoln, Lyon, Pipestone, Murray, Cottonwood, Jackson, Martin.Cottonwood, Jackson, Martin.

Southeast CREP whole counties include; Southeast CREP whole counties include; Goodhue, Wabasha, Dodge, Olmsted, Winona, Goodhue, Wabasha, Dodge, Olmsted, Winona, Mower, Fillmore, Houston. Partial Counties Mower, Fillmore, Houston. Partial Counties include: Blue Earth, Dakota, Scott, Rice, include: Blue Earth, Dakota, Scott, Rice, LeSueur, Waseca, Steele, Faribault, Freeborn.LeSueur, Waseca, Steele, Faribault, Freeborn.

Acreage Allocations and TargetsAcreage Allocations and Targets

The following are the acreage allocations and The following are the acreage allocations and targets for each of the three areas:targets for each of the three areas:

Northwest (Red River) – 51,000 acres of which: Northwest (Red River) – 51,000 acres of which: 35,435 acres are riparian areas (15 yr CRP/45 35,435 acres are riparian areas (15 yr CRP/45

yr RIM); yr RIM); 13,440 acres are wetland restoration (15 yr 13,440 acres are wetland restoration (15 yr

CRP/perpetual RIM); CRP/perpetual RIM); 2,125 acres of flood damage reduction (15 yr 2,125 acres of flood damage reduction (15 yr

CRP/perpetual RIM).CRP/perpetual RIM).


Southeast (Lower Mississippi) – 51,000 acres of which:Southeast (Lower Mississippi) – 51,000 acres of which: 14,828 are riparian areas (15 yr CRP/45 yr RIM).14,828 are riparian areas (15 yr CRP/45 yr RIM). 6,179 acres are groundwater protection (15 yr 6,179 acres are groundwater protection (15 yr

CRP/45 yr RIM); CRP/45 yr RIM); 18,058 of highly erodible (15 yr CRP/45 yr RIM); 18,058 of highly erodible (15 yr CRP/45 yr RIM); 2,850 acre of contour buffer strips (15 yr CRP only);2,850 acre of contour buffer strips (15 yr CRP only); 6,960 acres of wetland restoration (15 yr. 6,960 acres of wetland restoration (15 yr.

CRP/perpetual RIM); CRP/perpetual RIM); 2,125 acres of flood damage reduction (15 yr 2,125 acres of flood damage reduction (15 yr

CRP/perpetual RIM).CRP/perpetual RIM).


Southwest (Missouri/DeMoines) – 18,000 acres Southwest (Missouri/DeMoines) – 18,000 acres of which: of which:

11,634 acres are riparian areas (15 yr CRP/45 11,634 acres are riparian areas (15 yr CRP/45 yr RIM); yr RIM);

2,016 acres of wellhead/groundwater (15 yr 2,016 acres of wellhead/groundwater (15 yr CRP/45 yr RIM); CRP/45 yr RIM);

3,600 acres of wetland restoration (15 yr 3,600 acres of wetland restoration (15 yr CRP/perpetual RIM); CRP/perpetual RIM);

750 acres of flood damage reduction (15 yr 750 acres of flood damage reduction (15 yr CRP/perpetual RIM).CRP/perpetual RIM).

Basic Procedures Basic Procedures CREP II FormsCREP II Forms

National CRP forms will be used for the CRP National CRP forms will be used for the CRP portion of CREP II;portion of CREP II;

State RIM forms will be used for the RIM State RIM forms will be used for the RIM portion of CREP II;portion of CREP II;

Basic ProceduresBasic ProceduresEligibility CriteriaEligibility Criteria

Must have owned or operated the land for a year from Must have owned or operated the land for a year from the date of CRP-1/CRP-2C application;the date of CRP-1/CRP-2C application;

Must be cropland and meet the 4 of 6 year cropping Must be cropland and meet the 4 of 6 year cropping history requirements 1996-2001;history requirements 1996-2001;

An exception for CREP II is marginal pastureland An exception for CREP II is marginal pastureland areas in NW, MN that have suffered scour damage;areas in NW, MN that have suffered scour damage;

The CREP II land must be entirely within the The CREP II land must be entirely within the CREP II project boundaries as defined by the four CREP II project boundaries as defined by the four

watersheds.watersheds.

ProceduresProceduresCREP II PaymentsCREP II Payments

CREP II Payments will be comprised of the CREP II Payments will be comprised of the following: following:

CRP - annual rental payment which includes a 30% CRP - annual rental payment which includes a 30% incentive and the maximum allowable per acre incentive and the maximum allowable per acre maintenance rate as outlined in 2-CRP (Rev. 4), maintenance rate as outlined in 2-CRP (Rev. 4), paragraph 124C; paragraph 124C;

SIP for CP21, CP22, CP26, and CP29;SIP for CP21, CP22, CP26, and CP29;


CREP II Payments will be comprised of the CREP II Payments will be comprised of the following:following:

CRP Cost-share payment not to exceed 50% of CRP Cost-share payment not to exceed 50% of eligible costs for practice establishment;eligible costs for practice establishment;

CRP mid-contract management 50% cost-share; CRP mid-contract management 50% cost-share; PIP for CP15A, CP21, CP22, CP26, and CP29;PIP for CP15A, CP21, CP22, CP26, and CP29; 25% incentive for CP23 and CP23A. 25% incentive for CP23 and CP23A.


RIM RIM One time up front bonus payment based on One time up front bonus payment based on

the average township farm land value reported the average township farm land value reported on the Minnesota Land Economics website;on the Minnesota Land Economics website;

Cost-share not to exceed 50% of eligible costs. Cost-share not to exceed 50% of eligible costs.

CREP ELIGIBILITYCREP ELIGIBILITY Each Watershed has unique criteria which Each Watershed has unique criteria which

defines the locations eligible for CREP.defines the locations eligible for CREP.

Technical Determinations: Technical Determinations: 1) Identify if the requested location is within the 1) Identify if the requested location is within the

Watershed’s eligibility criteria; Watershed’s eligibility criteria; 2) Determine the extent of the eligible area and the 2) Determine the extent of the eligible area and the

extent to be enrolled; extent to be enrolled; 3) Determine the CREP practice to be implemented; 3) Determine the CREP practice to be implemented; 4) Design the practice.4) Design the practice.

CCRP Conservation PracticesCCRP Conservation Practices

Each application will have a Each application will have a

1. “CREP 1. “CREP LocationLocation Documentation Eligibility Documentation Eligibility WorksheetWorksheet” and” and

2. “CREP 2. “CREP PracticePractice Documentation Eligibility and Documentation Eligibility and Suitability WorksheetSuitability Worksheet that NRCS or SWCD fills out that NRCS or SWCD fills out and gives to FSA County Office.and gives to FSA County Office.

SOUTHEAST CREP SOUTHEAST CREP

Eligible LocationsEligible LocationsI. Excessively Eroded CroplandI. Excessively Eroded CroplandII. Erodible Cropland (Contour Buffer Strips)II. Erodible Cropland (Contour Buffer Strips)III. Riparian AreasIII. Riparian AreasIV. Wetland RestorationIV. Wetland RestorationV. Ground Water ProtectionV. Ground Water Protection VI. Decorah Shale OutcropsVI. Decorah Shale Outcrops VII. Flood Damage Reduction areasVII. Flood Damage Reduction areas

SOUTHWEST CREP SOUTHWEST CREP

Eligible LocationsEligible LocationsI. Riparian AreasI. Riparian AreasII. Wetland RestorationII. Wetland RestorationIII. Ground Water ProtectionIII. Ground Water Protection IV. Flood Damage Reduction areasIV. Flood Damage Reduction areas

NORTHWEST CREP NORTHWEST CREP

Eligible LocationsEligible LocationsI. Riparian AreasI. Riparian AreasII. Wetland RestorationII. Wetland RestorationIII. Flood Damage Reduction areasIII. Flood Damage Reduction areas

ALL CREP LOCATIONS ALL CREP LOCATIONS

Riparian AreasRiparian Areas Perennial Stream;Perennial Stream; Seasonal Stream (contains water for only Seasonal Stream (contains water for only

part of the year but more than just during part of the year but more than just during and/or after rainfall or snowmelt);and/or after rainfall or snowmelt);

Wetland determined by the Cowardin Wetland determined by the Cowardin Classification System;Classification System;

Permanent water body containing water Permanent water body containing water throughout the year in all years.throughout the year in all years.

CREP Eligible Wetlands CREP Eligible Wetlands

HerbaceousHerbaceous Scrub-ShrubScrub-Shrub ForestedForestedSeasonallySeasonallyFloodedFlooded

PEMCPEMC PSS(1-5)CPSS(1-5)C PFO(1,2,4,5)CPFO(1,2,4,5)C

Semi-Perm.Semi-Perm.FloodedFlooded

PEMFPEMF PSS(1-5)FPSS(1-5)F PFO(1,2,4,5)FPFO(1,2,4,5)F

IntermittentlyIntermittentlyExposedExposed

PEMGPEMG PSS(1-5)GPSS(1-5)G NANA

PermanentlyPermanentlyFloodedFlooded

PEMHPEMH NANA NANA

CREP RIPARIAN AREACREP RIPARIAN AREA The riparian area begins at the top of the The riparian area begins at the top of the

stream bank. Some land adjacent to the stream stream bank. Some land adjacent to the stream may not meet the eligibility criteria and will may not meet the eligibility criteria and will not be enrolled in the CREP; however, this not be enrolled in the CREP; however, this ineligible land shall be included:ineligible land shall be included:

In the area used as a riparian buffer;In the area used as a riparian buffer;In the conservation plan;In the conservation plan;When determining the width of the When determining the width of the

riparian riparian area.area.

ALL CREP LOCATIONS ALL CREP LOCATIONS Riparian Areas – Riparian Areas – PRACTICE WIDTHPRACTICE WIDTH

Maximum Average Width needed for filtering is: Maximum Average Width needed for filtering is: between 30 and 120 feet when establishing the between 30 and 120 feet when establishing the practice CP21 Filter Strip.practice CP21 Filter Strip.

OROR

Maximum Average Width needed for filtering Maximum Average Width needed for filtering between 30 and 180 feet when establishing the between 30 and 180 feet when establishing the practice CP22 Riparian Buffer.practice CP22 Riparian Buffer.

ALL CREP LOCATIONS ALL CREP LOCATIONS Riparian Areas – Riparian Areas – PRACTICE WIDTH EXTENSIONPRACTICE WIDTH EXTENSION

Total Width can be extended up to a maximum Total Width can be extended up to a maximum of 350 ft for any of the following purposes:of 350 ft for any of the following purposes:

Water quality improvementWater quality improvement Wildlife habitatWildlife habitat FloodingFlooding Squaring off fieldsSquaring off fields

ALL CREP LOCATIONS ALL CREP LOCATIONS Riparian Areas – Riparian Areas – PRACTICE WIDTH EXTENSIONPRACTICE WIDTH EXTENSION Total width can be extended Not-To-Exceed Total width can be extended Not-To-Exceed

600 ft. only when occasionally or frequently 600 ft. only when occasionally or frequently flooded soils exist (must be at least 51% of flooded soils exist (must be at least 51% of land within extension)land within extension)

Show location and extent of Show location and extent of “frequently/occasionally flooded” soils on “frequently/occasionally flooded” soils on photo, map or sketch.photo, map or sketch.

NORTHWEST CREP ONLY NORTHWEST CREP ONLY Riparian Areas – Riparian Areas – The Northwest will have provisions to enroll non-The Northwest will have provisions to enroll non-

cropland areas that have experienced scour cropland areas that have experienced scour erosion using practice CP-29. erosion using practice CP-29.

CREP Wetland Restoration CREP Wetland Restoration The area offered must be The area offered must be entirelyentirely

within the 100-year floodplain for CP23within the 100-year floodplain for CP23

outside the 100-year floodplain for CP23Aoutside the 100-year floodplain for CP23A

CREP Wetland Restoration CREP Wetland Restoration Technical EvaluationTechnical EvaluationEligible sites are limited to only those wetland areas that Eligible sites are limited to only those wetland areas that

have had the wetland hydrology component have had the wetland hydrology component removed through alteration by drainage and/or removed through alteration by drainage and/or manipulation and where it is feasible and practical manipulation and where it is feasible and practical to restore the wetland. If any of the hydrologic to restore the wetland. If any of the hydrologic components of the wetland cannot be restored components of the wetland cannot be restored through removing, blocking, manipulating or through removing, blocking, manipulating or otherwise rendering inoperable the wetland otherwise rendering inoperable the wetland drainage system, the wetland area is not eligible for drainage system, the wetland area is not eligible for enrollment. enrollment.

CREP Wetland Restoration CREP Wetland Restoration Technical EvaluationTechnical EvaluationCropping cessation and the subsequent Cropping cessation and the subsequent

establishment of vegetation on a wetland establishment of vegetation on a wetland area in itself is not considered an eligible area in itself is not considered an eligible restoration option. restoration option.

Floodplain restorations must be evaluated to Floodplain restorations must be evaluated to insure that the flood storage area is not insure that the flood storage area is not reduced or adversely impacted through the reduced or adversely impacted through the placement of fill, dikes, levees, or placement of fill, dikes, levees, or embankments. embankments.

CREP Wetland Restoration CREP Wetland Restoration Technical EvaluationTechnical EvaluationAll restorable wetland areas must meet USDA All restorable wetland areas must meet USDA

wetland criteria. This means that the site,wetland criteria. This means that the site,1) contains hydric soils, 1) contains hydric soils, 2) meets wetland hydrology criteria 2) meets wetland hydrology criteria

(when restored), and (when restored), and 3) has or will have after restoration, 3) has or will have after restoration,

hydrophytic vegetation. hydrophytic vegetation.

CREP Wetland Restoration CREP Wetland Restoration Technical EvaluationTechnical Evaluation

The goal of this enrollment area is to restore the The goal of this enrollment area is to restore the wetland ecosystem to the wetland ecosystem to the maximum extent maximum extent possiblepossible. .

Initial wetland restoration feasibility assessments Initial wetland restoration feasibility assessments must be completed and must consider must be completed and must consider avoiding impacts to adjacent properties, avoiding impacts to adjacent properties, utilities, or other infrastructures unless utilities, or other infrastructures unless approvals, permits or consents are attainable. approvals, permits or consents are attainable.

CREP Wetland Restoration CREP Wetland Restoration Design Criteria Design Criteria Wetland acreage eligibility can be determined independent of Wetland acreage eligibility can be determined independent of

USDA wetland determinationsUSDA wetland determinations This acreage will typically include all hydric soil map units This acreage will typically include all hydric soil map units

directly affected by the drainage and/or manipulation of the directly affected by the drainage and/or manipulation of the wetland. This is also the wetland acreage that will be used wetland. This is also the wetland acreage that will be used to determine the amount of eligible cost share. to determine the amount of eligible cost share.

The CREP Wetland Restoration practices may also enroll a The CREP Wetland Restoration practices may also enroll a buffer limited to the number of acres required to provide buffer limited to the number of acres required to provide protective buffer to the cropped wetland and to enhance protective buffer to the cropped wetland and to enhance wildlife habitat not to exceed a ratio of 2 acres of buffer to 1 wildlife habitat not to exceed a ratio of 2 acres of buffer to 1 acre of restored wetland. acre of restored wetland.

CREP Wetland Restoration CREP Wetland Restoration Design Criteria Design Criteria Wetlands will be restored using standard 657.Wetlands will be restored using standard 657.Vegetation establishment criteria are dependent on the Vegetation establishment criteria are dependent on the

native ecosystem. The native ecosystem can be native ecosystem. The native ecosystem can be determined by the soil survey or by the native determined by the soil survey or by the native vegetation maps (TRYGG maps). vegetation maps (TRYGG maps).

Buffer areas for sites developed under a grassland Buffer areas for sites developed under a grassland ecosystem will be seeding according to standard ecosystem will be seeding according to standard 645 using a mixed stand with a minimum of 5 645 using a mixed stand with a minimum of 5 native species consisting of at least 3 grasses and 1 native species consisting of at least 3 grasses and 1 forb. forb.

Buffer areas for sites under a woodland ecosystem will Buffer areas for sites under a woodland ecosystem will use standard 612 or 645. use standard 612 or 645.


Excessively Eroded CroplandExcessively Eroded Cropland

FSAFSA will determine and document excessively will determine and document excessively erodible cropland in a field or redefined field erodible cropland in a field or redefined field with an EI of 15 or greater using General with an EI of 15 or greater using General Sign-Up Offer Processing (GSOP). Use the Sign-Up Offer Processing (GSOP). Use the 3 most predominant soils when calculating 3 most predominant soils when calculating the weighted average EI. the weighted average EI.



Documentation required :Documentation required : Attach a printout of the GSOP result showing Attach a printout of the GSOP result showing

the average EI.the average EI. Attach the GIS map/soil map and the CLU of Attach the GIS map/soil map and the CLU of

the eligible areas.the eligible areas.



Applicant, with the assistance of technical Applicant, with the assistance of technical agencies, chooses one the practices: agencies, chooses one the practices:

CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native GrassesGrasses

CP3A Hardwood Tree PlantingCP3A Hardwood Tree Planting CP4D Permanent Wildlife HabitatCP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat


Erodible Cropland (Contour Buffer Strips) Erodible Cropland (Contour Buffer Strips)

FSAFSA will document erodible cropland in a will document erodible cropland in a field or redefined field with an EI of 8 or field or redefined field with an EI of 8 or greater using General Sign-Up Offer greater using General Sign-Up Offer Processing (GSOP). Use the 3 most Processing (GSOP). Use the 3 most predominant soils when calculating the predominant soils when calculating the weighted average EI. weighted average EI.



NoteNote: This determination is : This determination is entirelyentirely different different than the NRCS HEL determination than the NRCS HEL determination processprocess



Documentation required: Documentation required: Attach a printout of the GSOP result showing Attach a printout of the GSOP result showing

the average EI.the average EI. Attach the GIS map/soil map and the CLU of Attach the GIS map/soil map and the CLU of

the eligible areas.the eligible areas.



Documentation required (NRCS)Documentation required (NRCS)

Within eligible fields/redefined fields the area Within eligible fields/redefined fields the area enrolled is restricted to only the contour enrolled is restricted to only the contour buffer strips. buffer strips.


Erodible Cropland (Contour Buffer Strips) Erodible Cropland (Contour Buffer Strips) Conditions of eligibility:Conditions of eligibility: Non-enrolled cropped strips must exist Non-enrolled cropped strips must exist

and be wider than the enrolled buffer and be wider than the enrolled buffer strips that separate them.strips that separate them.

The contract is limited to 14-15 year The contract is limited to 14-15 year CRP-1 only (no RIM)CRP-1 only (no RIM) Must meet the requirements of NRCS Must meet the requirements of NRCS

Conservation Practice Standard 332.Conservation Practice Standard 332.

SOUTHEAST CREP SOUTHEAST CREP Ground Water ProtectionGround Water Protection

Sinkholes and Karst Areas:Sinkholes and Karst Areas: Use a County Soil Survey or in field observation to Use a County Soil Survey or in field observation to

determine that sinkholes and karst areas exist. determine that sinkholes and karst areas exist. Attach a copy of the soil survey or a map showing Attach a copy of the soil survey or a map showing the sinkholes or karst areas.the sinkholes or karst areas.

The buffer can be up to a maximum average width The buffer can be up to a maximum average width of 200 ft. from the edge of the sinkhole or karst of 200 ft. from the edge of the sinkhole or karst area.area.

Use practice CP21 and NRCS Conservation Use practice CP21 and NRCS Conservation Practice Standard Filter Strip, Code 393.Practice Standard Filter Strip, Code 393.

SOUTHEAST and SOUTHWEST SOUTHEAST and SOUTHWEST Ground Water ProtectionGround Water Protection

Wellhead Protection AreasWellhead Protection Areas Eligible land must be Eligible land must be entirelyentirely within 10-year within 10-year

wellhead protection area as defined by the MN wellhead protection area as defined by the MN Dept. of Health (MDH).Dept. of Health (MDH).

The 2000-foot radius rule used for CCRP is The 2000-foot radius rule used for CCRP is not used for CREP. not used for CREP.

SOUTHEAST and SOUTHWEST SOUTHEAST and SOUTHWEST

Ground Water ProtectionGround Water ProtectionWellhead Protection AreasWellhead Protection AreasApplicant with the assistance of technical Applicant with the assistance of technical

agencies, chooses one of the practices below: agencies, chooses one of the practices below: CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native

GrassesGrasses CP3A Hardwood Tree PlantingCP3A Hardwood Tree Planting CP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat CP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat

SOUTHEAST CREP SOUTHEAST CREP Decorah Shale OutcropsDecorah Shale Outcrops Field determination is required based on Field determination is required based on

county soil survey or County Geological county soil survey or County Geological Atlas. Attach a map showing the Decorah Atlas. Attach a map showing the Decorah Shale outcrops.Shale outcrops.

Adjacent areas 50-feet immediately upslope Adjacent areas 50-feet immediately upslope and down slope are eligible for enrollment.and down slope are eligible for enrollment.

Whole fields can be enrolled if more than Whole fields can be enrolled if more than 75% of the field is eligible.75% of the field is eligible.

SOUTHEAST CREP SOUTHEAST CREP Decorah Shale OutcropsDecorah Shale OutcropsApplicant with the assistance of technical Applicant with the assistance of technical

agencies, chooses one of the practices: agencies, chooses one of the practices: CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native CP2 Establishment of Permanent Native

GrassesGrasses CP3A Hardwood Tree PlantingCP3A Hardwood Tree Planting CP4D Permanent Wildlife HabitatCP4D Permanent Wildlife Habitat

ALL CREP LOCATIONS ALL CREP LOCATIONS Flood Damage Reduction AreasFlood Damage Reduction Areas

Those areas that have been reviewed and Those areas that have been reviewed and recommended as flood damage reduction recommended as flood damage reduction projects by the watershed project team. projects by the watershed project team.

SOUTHEAST and SOUTHWEST SOUTHEAST and SOUTHWEST Flood Damage Reduction AreasFlood Damage Reduction Areas are t are those hose

CP21/CP22 sites that have 51% occasionally CP21/CP22 sites that have 51% occasionally or frequently flooded soils and;or frequently flooded soils and;

Are listed in a local flood mitigation plan Are listed in a local flood mitigation plan

OROR

Have been eligible for EWP or ECP in the last Have been eligible for EWP or ECP in the last 20 years. 20 years.

NORTHWEST NORTHWEST Flood Damage Reduction Areas are tFlood Damage Reduction Areas are those hose

sites that are acknowledged by the local sites that are acknowledged by the local Watershed District or Watershed Board as Watershed District or Watershed Board as being capable of mitigating flood damages.being capable of mitigating flood damages.

There is the possibility of another (new) CREP There is the possibility of another (new) CREP practice to help solve flooding problems. practice to help solve flooding problems.

ALL CREP LOCATIONS ALL CREP LOCATIONS Flood Damage Reduction AreasFlood Damage Reduction Areas

You should expect additional clarification You should expect additional clarification and details on these criteria from the state and details on these criteria from the state level CREP team. level CREP team.

CREP II ROLESCREP II ROLES FSAFSA – Administers all aspects of the CRP; – Administers all aspects of the CRP; BWSRBWSR – Administers all aspects of RIM; – Administers all aspects of RIM; SWCDSWCD – Administers all local aspects of RIM; – Administers all local aspects of RIM; BWSR, DNR, NRCSBWSR, DNR, NRCS & SWCD& SWCD – – Provides technical Provides technical

assistance;assistance; Other Partners - Promotes and educates their Other Partners - Promotes and educates their

customers on the benefits of CREP.customers on the benefits of CREP. Note: a joint effort shall be made by all involved with Note: a joint effort shall be made by all involved with

CREP II to provide outreach and promotion to CREP II to provide outreach and promotion to eligible producers.eligible producers.

FSA ResponsibilitiesFSA Responsibilities

FSA is responsible for determining:FSA is responsible for determining: If the producer meets eligibility requirements;If the producer meets eligibility requirements; If the basic land and practice eligibility criteria If the basic land and practice eligibility criteria

are met;are met; If the program policy and practice size If the program policy and practice size

requirements are satisfied according to the requirements are satisfied according to the 2-CRP and CREP agreement;2-CRP and CREP agreement; On-site review if necessary.On-site review if necessary.

FSA ResponsibilitiesFSA Responsibilities

Contact applicant to determine continued Contact applicant to determine continued interest in CREP II enrollment;interest in CREP II enrollment;

Ensure applicant signs CRP-1;Ensure applicant signs CRP-1; Notify NRCS to complete conservation plan. Notify NRCS to complete conservation plan. NoteNote: Consultation with SHPO/THPO for : Consultation with SHPO/THPO for

Cultural Resource issues and the USFWS for Cultural Resource issues and the USFWS for T & E issues may be necessary.T & E issues may be necessary.

BWSR ResponsibilitiesBWSR Responsibilities

Administers all aspects of the RIM easement Administers all aspects of the RIM easement acquisition:acquisition:

Coordination with SWCD on acquisition;Coordination with SWCD on acquisition; Ensures adequate funding, disburses easement Ensures adequate funding, disburses easement

payments, and cost share reimbursements upon payments, and cost share reimbursements upon receipt of proper documentation.receipt of proper documentation.

BWSR ResponsibilitiesBWSR Responsibilities

Coordinates all wetland restoration and other Coordinates all wetland restoration and other engineering practice activities.engineering practice activities.

Provides and/or coordinates Provides and/or coordinates engineering/technical assistance (survey, engineering/technical assistance (survey, design, construction).design, construction).

SWCD ResponsibilitiesSWCD Responsibilities Explains CREP II process to applicant;Explains CREP II process to applicant; Ensures all RIM documents and expectations Ensures all RIM documents and expectations

are explained to applicant;are explained to applicant; Works with applicant to complete RIM forms;Works with applicant to complete RIM forms; Administers local aspects of the easement Administers local aspects of the easement

acquisition and coordination with other local acquisition and coordination with other local staff;staff;

Can perform NRCS duties if proper Can perform NRCS duties if proper agreements and TAA are in place.agreements and TAA are in place.

Technical ResponsibilitiesTechnical Responsibilities

Technical responsibilities performed by NRCS/SWCD:Technical responsibilities performed by NRCS/SWCD: visits the area of the offered acres;visits the area of the offered acres; completes the “Documentation of Eligibility and completes the “Documentation of Eligibility and

Suitability Worksheet” for each practice listed on the Suitability Worksheet” for each practice listed on the CRP-2C;CRP-2C;

fills in block 13 of the CRP-2C;fills in block 13 of the CRP-2C; returns the CRP-2C and a copy of the returns the CRP-2C and a copy of the

“Documentation” worksheets to “Documentation” worksheets to FSA.FSA.

NRCS/SWCD ResponsibilitiesNRCS/SWCD Responsibilities completes the Environmental Evaluation completes the Environmental Evaluation

Worksheet (NRCS-CPA-052); Worksheet (NRCS-CPA-052); completes a conservation plan in ToolKit;completes a conservation plan in ToolKit; completes a Conservation Plan Schedule of completes a Conservation Plan Schedule of

Operations (AD-1155);Operations (AD-1155); completes a detailed practice design and/or a completes a detailed practice design and/or a

job sheet for each practice on the CRP-2C; job sheet for each practice on the CRP-2C;

NRCS/SWCD ResponsibilitiesNRCS/SWCD Responsibilities

All conservation practices designed must meet:All conservation practices designed must meet: the requirements of the corresponding the requirements of the corresponding

FOTG practice standard and CREP II FOTG practice standard and CREP II agreement;agreement;

the Minnesota Upland Treatment Policy; the Minnesota Upland Treatment Policy; the 2-CRP Handbook requirements;the 2-CRP Handbook requirements;

NRCS/SWCD ResponsibilitiesNRCS/SWCD Responsibilities NRCSNRCS will refer all applicable CREP II will refer all applicable CREP II

forestry practices to the forestry practices to the MN Department of MN Department of Natural Resources, Division of ForestryNatural Resources, Division of Forestry to to be designed by a forester. be designed by a forester. DNRDNR--ForestryForestry will will submit the completed forestry practice submit the completed forestry practice design(s) to design(s) to NRCS NRCS for inclusion in the for inclusion in the conservation plan. conservation plan.

DNR-Forestry ResponsibilitiesDNR-Forestry Responsibilities

Through a national level Cooperative Agreement, Through a national level Cooperative Agreement, DNR-Forestry has the responsibility for developing DNR-Forestry has the responsibility for developing tree and/or shrub planting designs for CP3A, CP22, tree and/or shrub planting designs for CP3A, CP22, CP23, and CP23A using the appropriate NRCS CP23, and CP23A using the appropriate NRCS Standards.Standards.

TSP OpportunitiesTSP OpportunitiesNon - Reimbursable Assistance

Conservation partners working with NRCS can work in a non-reimbursable fashion on CREP II which includes all phases of CREP II activities. When this occurs NRCS must review and sign-off on all their work, indicating that it is technically complete and correct (NRCS can do this by delegating “technical approval authority” to specific partners) and NRCS retains the technical responsibility and liability for these work products.

Processing CREP II ApplicationsProcessing CREP II Applications

Customer visits USDA Service Center to discuss long Customer visits USDA Service Center to discuss long term CREP II land retirement options with CREP term CREP II land retirement options with CREP staff (FSA, NRCS, SWCD, and DNR) as well as staff (FSA, NRCS, SWCD, and DNR) as well as other land retirement program options;other land retirement program options;

If customer is interested in proceeding with the CREP If customer is interested in proceeding with the CREP II process a Landowner Bill of Rights is provided to II process a Landowner Bill of Rights is provided to the customer and then customer is;the customer and then customer is;

Referred to FSA County personnel to generate a Referred to FSA County personnel to generate a CRP-2C, map and preliminary CREP II acreage CRP-2C, map and preliminary CREP II acreage amount;amount;


FSA County Office determines if the customer FSA County Office determines if the customer meets eligibility requirements;meets eligibility requirements;

FSA County Office makes initial FSA County Office makes initial determination if the land and the practice(s) determination if the land and the practice(s) meet eligibility criteria;meet eligibility criteria;

If above is met, FSA refers CRP-2C with an If above is met, FSA refers CRP-2C with an aerial map and preliminary enrollment acres to aerial map and preliminary enrollment acres to NRCS or SWCD;NRCS or SWCD;


Based on a field visit:Based on a field visit: NRCS or SWCD completes Documentation of NRCS or SWCD completes Documentation of

Eligibility and Suitability Worksheet for each CREP II Eligibility and Suitability Worksheet for each CREP II practice on the CRP-2C;practice on the CRP-2C;

Determines if the practice(s) meet the eligibility criteria;Determines if the practice(s) meet the eligibility criteria; NRCS/SWCD provides findings to FSA;NRCS/SWCD provides findings to FSA; If the practice(s) is (are) eligible NRCS/SWCD fills in If the practice(s) is (are) eligible NRCS/SWCD fills in

block 13 of CRP-2C and returns the form to FSA (if block 13 of CRP-2C and returns the form to FSA (if ineligible return form unfilled to FSA);ineligible return form unfilled to FSA);


FSA determines if the customer remains FSA determines if the customer remains eligible and determines if still interested in eligible and determines if still interested in enrolling in the CREP II program and if so;enrolling in the CREP II program and if so;

FSA completes the CRP-2C with final FSA completes the CRP-2C with final acreage amounts and applicant completes acreage amounts and applicant completes CRP-2C, item 9 if CREP II application process CRP-2C, item 9 if CREP II application process is to continue.is to continue.


The applicant visits the SWCD office, reviews The applicant visits the SWCD office, reviews CREP II program eligibility and the additional CREP II program eligibility and the additional requirements for the RIM portion of the CREP requirements for the RIM portion of the CREP II and if still interested completes a RIM II and if still interested completes a RIM application; application;


RIM application materials to be submitted:RIM application materials to be submitted:

Conservation Easement ApplicationConservation Easement Application RIM Reserve Easement Area Assessment FormRIM Reserve Easement Area Assessment Form Aerial photo with easement area clearly outlined, Aerial photo with easement area clearly outlined,

or electronic GIS shape fileor electronic GIS shape file Agreement Information FormAgreement Information Form

Processing CREP II ApplicationsProcessing CREP II ApplicationsRIM application materials to be submitted:RIM application materials to be submitted:

CREP payment calculation formCREP payment calculation form Conservation Easement Practice Payment Conservation Easement Practice Payment

Worksheet (CEPPW)Worksheet (CEPPW) Landowner’s deed(s) to the propertyLandowner’s deed(s) to the property Copy of the CREP II NRCS practice eligibility Copy of the CREP II NRCS practice eligibility

worksheetworksheet Wetland Restoration Information Form – required Wetland Restoration Information Form – required

for all wetland restorations.for all wetland restorations.See the SWCD Easement Acquisition Information Packet for further detailSee the SWCD Easement Acquisition Information Packet for further detail


If the CREP II process is to continue, NRCS or If the CREP II process is to continue, NRCS or SWCD develops the conservation plan for all SWCD develops the conservation plan for all practices and a MN-CPA-052 to FSA;practices and a MN-CPA-052 to FSA;

BWSR Board Conservationists receive and BWSR Board Conservationists receive and review RIM easement applications and review RIM easement applications and forwards to BWSR St. Paul;forwards to BWSR St. Paul;

BWSR St. Paul approves the RIM easement BWSR St. Paul approves the RIM easement application;application;

Processing CREP II ApplicationsProcessing CREP II Applications BWSR performs and/or coordinates BWSR performs and/or coordinates

comprehensive site investigations, including comprehensive site investigations, including preliminary plans, and verifies site eligibility preliminary plans, and verifies site eligibility and enrollment acres (CP23, CP23A & CP26).and enrollment acres (CP23, CP23A & CP26).

Processing CREP II ApplicationsProcessing CREP II Applications BWSR easement staff prepares the state’s Agreement BWSR easement staff prepares the state’s Agreement

for RIM;for RIM; CRP-1/CRP-2C are completed if not already done so CRP-1/CRP-2C are completed if not already done so

and are date and time stamped and entered into FSA and are date and time stamped and entered into FSA Website for acreage allocation recording (note: first 5 Website for acreage allocation recording (note: first 5 CREP offers from each county are to be sent to the CREP offers from each county are to be sent to the FSA STO for review and approval). The FSA STO FSA STO for review and approval). The FSA STO will acknowledge on the website if there is an acreage will acknowledge on the website if there is an acreage allocation available based on the sequential date and allocation available based on the sequential date and time stamped on the CRP-1/CRP-2 when offers are time stamped on the CRP-1/CRP-2 when offers are made.made.


Offer Selection ProcessOffer Selection Process

Offers (completed CRP-1/CRP-2C signed by Offers (completed CRP-1/CRP-2C signed by the applicant) MUST BE date and time the applicant) MUST BE date and time stamped and recorded into the FSA Website stamped and recorded into the FSA Website daily so the FSA State Office can authorize daily so the FSA State Office can authorize approval provided there is acreage remaining approval provided there is acreage remaining for that particular resource concern. for that particular resource concern.


SWCD continues to process CREP RIM SWCD continues to process CREP RIM easement as per usual RIM operating easement as per usual RIM operating procedures;procedures;

Once FSA State Office issues CRP-1 Once FSA State Office issues CRP-1 authorization based on website entries the authorization based on website entries the standard CRP procedures for approving CRP-1 standard CRP procedures for approving CRP-1 are to be followed.are to be followed.


Prior to approving the CRP-1 and signing the Prior to approving the CRP-1 and signing the RIM Agreement, all local partners are to meet RIM Agreement, all local partners are to meet with the applicant to make certain everyone with the applicant to make certain everyone thoroughly understands the requirements, thoroughly understands the requirements, obligations, and approximate costs involved;obligations, and approximate costs involved;

The RIM agreement, the conservation plans The RIM agreement, the conservation plans and the CRP-1 are signed by the applicant, and and the CRP-1 are signed by the applicant, and other applicable parties and approved byother applicable parties and approved by the the FSA COC.FSA COC.


FSA COC approves the CRP-1;FSA COC approves the CRP-1; NoteNote: CRP-1 effective start date for CREP is the : CRP-1 effective start date for CREP is the

same policy as CCRP provisions.same policy as CCRP provisions. FSA can then issue a SIP for practices CP21, FSA can then issue a SIP for practices CP21,

CP22, CP26, and CP29;CP22, CP26, and CP29; FSA issues page 2 of the AD-245 to the CREP FSA issues page 2 of the AD-245 to the CREP

participant for practice completion;participant for practice completion;


Upon practice completion, FSA will issue PIP Upon practice completion, FSA will issue PIP for CP15A, CP21, CP22, CP26, CP29;for CP15A, CP21, CP22, CP26, CP29;

FSA will issue 15 years of annual CRP rental FSA will issue 15 years of annual CRP rental payments;payments;

RIM provisions will be followed upon RIM provisions will be followed upon expiration of CRP-1.expiration of CRP-1.

Summary of RIM Easement Acquisition ProcessSummary of RIM Easement Acquisition Process

RIM application completed and sent to BWSR St. RIM application completed and sent to BWSR St. Paul;Paul;

Agreement for Conservation Easement developed and Agreement for Conservation Easement developed and signed by landowner and BWSR;signed by landowner and BWSR;

SWCD obtains title insurance commitment with SWCD obtains title insurance commitment with landowner’s updated abstract and sends to BWSR for landowner’s updated abstract and sends to BWSR for review;review;

RIM conservation plan is finalized and sent to BWSR RIM conservation plan is finalized and sent to BWSR St. Paul;St. Paul;

Summary of RIM Easement Acquisition ProcessSummary of RIM Easement Acquisition Process

Clear title is determined and easement Clear title is determined and easement documents signed and recorded;documents signed and recorded;

Easement payment is issued.Easement payment is issued. Please refer to the Please refer to the SWCD SWCD Easement Easement

Acquisition Information PacketAcquisition Information Packet for more for more detailed information on the documents and detailed information on the documents and procedures associated with completing a RIM procedures associated with completing a RIM application. application.

Conservation Practice Conservation Practice Implementation and PaymentImplementation and Payment

Once practice is complete, CREP applicant Once practice is complete, CREP applicant certifies performance, and required follow-up certifies performance, and required follow-up is complete,is complete, FSA can issue cost-share;FSA can issue cost-share; FSA will issue the 25% incentive for practices FSA will issue the 25% incentive for practices

CP23/CP23A and a PIP for practices CP15A, CP23/CP23A and a PIP for practices CP15A, CP21, CP22, CP26, and CP29;CP21, CP22, CP26, and CP29;

SWCD can submit cost-share to BWSR St. PaulSWCD can submit cost-share to BWSR St. Paul for for reimbursement.reimbursement.

Marketing and PromotionMarketing and Promotion CREP II is a partnership between the BWSR, CREP II is a partnership between the BWSR,

DNR, SWCD, Watersheds, USDA and other DNR, SWCD, Watersheds, USDA and other partners and personnel including marketing partners and personnel including marketing and promotion. Therefore every effort must be and promotion. Therefore every effort must be made by all to coordinate any and all made by all to coordinate any and all marketing and promotion efforts. marketing and promotion efforts.

FOLLOWUP TRAININGFOLLOWUP TRAINING Once there is an official announcement for an Once there is an official announcement for an

approval of the proposed CREP II Agreement, approval of the proposed CREP II Agreement, more in-depth training will be provided. more in-depth training will be provided.

Please keep in mind the information provided Please keep in mind the information provided today should be considered today should be considered DRAFTDRAFT and may and may be changed upon final review and approval.be changed upon final review and approval.

Done!Done! Please fax in your attendance sheets to the Please fax in your attendance sheets to the

FSA State Office.FSA State Office. Please feel free to submit questions, Please feel free to submit questions,

corrections or comments to your state office corrections or comments to your state office representative.representative.

Any More Questions?Any More Questions?

MY MEETING CONFERENCE CALL March 30, 2005 for PRELIMINARY TRAINING and INFORMATION involving the

Documents

Transcript of MY MEETING CONFERENCE CALL March 30, 2005 for PRELIMINARY TRAINING and INFORMATION involving the