Habitat for Wildlife:
Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)

CREP Pays Landowners Attractive Land Rental Rates to Protect Environmentally Sensitive Areas

Since 1997, Maryland’s Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) has helped thousands of Maryland landowners plant streamside buffers, establish wetlands, protect highly erodible land, and create wildlife habitat while providing them with a steady, dependable land rental income. CREP is a state-federal partnership that makes it easy for farmers to do their part to protect local waterways without hurting their bottom line. New in 2009, Maryland CREP has been redesigned to help even more landowners make the most of marginal crop and pastureland by simplifying program requirements and increasing land rental rates. This completely voluntary program offers a one-time signing bonus, attractive annual rental and incentive payments, cost-share assistance for streamside buffers, wetlands, livestock fencing and more.