Wetland Easement

What is a Wetland Easement?

A wetland easement is a legal agreement signed with the United States of America, through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), that pays you to permanently protect wetlands. Wetlands covered by an easement cannot be drained, filled, leveled, or burned. When these wetlands dry up naturally, they can be farmed, grazed, or hayed. Wetlands covered by an easement are mapped and a copy is sent to the landowner. No signs are placed on the property and the easement will not affect the hunting or mineral rights.

Land Qualifications: Does any land qualify for a wetland easement?

No. The property must have wetlands of value to waterfowl and be in a county which has been approved for the easement program. This easement program is offered only in the prairie pothole region of Montana, North and South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa.

Land Use and Other Rights: Will the easement affect my farming of the wetlands?

The easement does not affect normal farming practices such as cropping, haying, grazing, plowing, or working wetlands when they are dry due to natural causes.

The Easement Process: How do I apply for the program and begin the process?

Simply call Chase Lake Prairie Project and any questions will be further explained. A site inspection of your property will be scheduled if you determine you are interested and would like to participate in the program.

The Payment Process: How is the payment determined?

A Service appraiser estimates the value of the easement based on a fair market value appraisal. This appraisal is based on the affect of the easement on your property. The appraisal is then approved by a Service review appraiser.

If the Proposed Land is Mortgaged: What if I have a mortgage on the property?

In most cases, this will not affect the easement transaction. If it is necessary to have the mortgage holder give consent to the easement, we will ask the mortgage holder to sign an agreement known as a subordination agreement, which subordinates the rights of the mortgage to those of the easement.

Please contact us for more information.

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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service