Resource information
The Grassland Reserve Program (GRP) was established by the 2002 Farm Bill to provide assistance to landowners in conserving and enhancing ecological value of grasslands while maintaining their suitability for grazing and other compatible uses. In response to long-term declines in grassland acreage and their associated benefits, approximately 524,000 acres have been enrolled since fiscal year 2003 in a variety of long-term rental agreements and easements. The program has proven popular with landowners. Whereas wildlife benefits have likely accrued by protection, enhancement, and restoration of grasslands enrolled, little effort has been made to quantify wildlife response during the first 2 years of program operation. Additional studies are needed to document wildlife benefits achieved.
