Buying Land Enrolled in CRP (Conservation Reserve Program)

Image of CRP land
February 8, 2023

Are you interested in buying land for sale enrolled in CRP (the Conservation Reserve Program)? If so, it’s important to understand how this program works and what it means for potential buyers. CRP is a federal program that provides incentives to farmers and landowners who voluntarily enroll their land in long-term conservation practices. These practices are designed to reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, enhance wildlife habitat, and protect vulnerable lands from development. As a buyer of CRP land, there are several key factors you should consider before making an offer on property enrolled in this program. In this blog post, we will discuss understanding the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) when buying land so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for your needs.

duration of contract

First, you should understand the duration of the CRP contract. Many landowners enroll their land in 10-15 year contracts with the understanding that they will receive payments from the government for conservation efforts during this period. These contracts are renewable, meaning that once they expire, you may have to renegotiate or allow the property to revert back to its previous uses before it was enrolled in CRP.

Closeup of blades of dormant prairie grassland use restrictions

Second, you need to be aware of any restrictions on how you can use the land while it is still enrolled in CRP. Before buying a piece of property under this program, it’s important to ask your real estate agent about what activities are allowed and which ones will not be permitted due to environmental regulations set by the government.

financial considerations

Finally, you should also consider the financial implications of buying land enrolled in CRP. The government pays a certain amount of money for conservation efforts on each acre annually and this can be a source of revenue for landowners who are looking to use their land for recreational activities or agricultural production after their CRP contract expires. However, buyers should be aware that the cost of maintaining the land may exceed these payments and they may need to invest additional capital into the property.

More information about CRP can be found on USDA’s website.

Buying land for sale in Conservation Reserve Program is an appealing option for many people who want to purchase land with environmental benefits while still having potential income-generating possibilities down the line. Understanding what’s involved with purchasing CRP lands before making an offer can help you make an informed decision that will best suit your needs.

For more information on understanding the Conservation Reserve Program when buying land, contact us today at 970-522-7770 or by email at [email protected]. We’re happy to  provide you with up-to-date details on regulations and payment structures so that you can make an informed decision about purchasing a CRP property.