CT Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Agricultural Land Easements (ALE)

The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) aims to protect the agricultural viability and conservation values of eligible lands by restricting nonagricultural uses that negatively impact these values. It focuses on preserving farming and grazing uses through the conservation of agricultural lands and wetlands. The program also promotes the protection and restoration of eligible grazing lands and enhances wetlands. Specifically, Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) support the protection of croplands and grasslands on working farms and ranches from being converted to non-agricultural uses, thereby safeguarding the nation’s food supply and providing public benefits like environmental quality, historic preservation, and wildlife habitats. Additionally, ALE easements are designed to foster local partnerships, with local entities matching NRCS funding and taking responsibility for long-term stewardship of the lands. Financial assistance is provided to eligible partners for purchasing easements that maintain the land's agricultural use and conservation values, with NRCS contributing up to 50% or, in certain significant cases, up to 75% of the fair market value of the easement. These easements can be permanent or for the maximum term allowed by law.