USDA expands CLEAR 30 to nationwide program

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USDA expands CLEAR 30 to nationwide program

USDA is expanding its CLEAR30 program nationwide that provides ag producers an incentive for a 30-year commitment to water quality-practices in the conservation reserve program (CRP).

Eligible producers must have certain practices currently enrolled under continuous CRP or through the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) under contracts that expire on September 30 and have until August 6 to enroll.

CLEAR30 was created by the 2018 Farm Bill to better address water quality concerns. Originally, CLEAR30 was only available in the Great Lakes and Chesapeake Bay watersheds. Now, access is expanded to agricultural producers nationwide.

The agency says long-term contracts will help ensure conservation impacts and benefits remain in place for 30 years, reducing sediment and nutrient runoff and algal blooms. Conservation in riparian areas also provides important carbon sequestration benefits.

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