By Scout Nelson
For Fiscal Year 2026, Congress appropriated $2 million to support the Water Bank Program (WBP), and the Natural Resources Conservation Service is opening enrollment in North Dakota. The program supports farmers and landowners who want to protect wetlands and improve environmental conditions on their land.
The main goal of the program is to preserve wetlands that serve as habitats for migratory birds and wildlife. It also focuses on conserving surface water, reducing soil and wind erosion, improving water quality, and supporting flood control. In addition, the program helps improve soil moisture and enhances the natural beauty of agricultural landscapes.
Applications are prioritized based on land type and flooding impact. Cropland affected by flooding receives the highest priority, followed by pasture and grazing land. Forestland and other affected land fall into a lower priority group. Projects are also reviewed based on environmental benefits, cost, available funding support, and overall wetland value.
The program offers annual rental payments to participants. Cropland receives $50 per acre per year, pasture and grazing land receive $35, and forestland receives $20. These agreements are fixed for 10 years and cannot be renewed. Payments are made once each year during the contract period.
Several key deadlines guide the program process in 2026. Each state is required to provide signup data on the number of applications and acres requested for enrollment in the WBP to National Headquarters (NHQ) by May 22, 2026.
- States must obligate funds for agreements by July 31, 2026.
- States must make FY 2026 agreement rental payments by November 20, 2026.
Participants cannot crop land enrolled in the program. However, limited haying or grazing may be allowed under specific conditions to support wetland health. While direct funding for conservation practices is not included, participants can apply for support through other programs.
For more information about this program or other NRCS programs, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center at: https://www.farmers.gov/working-with-us/USDA-service-centers
Photo Credit: usda-nrcs
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy