Implement restoration and management activities for properties enrolled in the agricultural conservation easement program, wetlands reserve easement (acep-WRE), and the wetlands reserve program (WRP).

On September 8, 2025, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) awarded a cooperative agreement totaling $893,666.35 to Western Maryland Resource Conservation And Development Area, Inc. (WMRCD) under the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), CFDA 10.931. The award funds the implementation of restoration and management activities for properties enrolled in ACEP-Wetlands Reserve Easement (ACEP-WRE) and the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) through December 31, 2029. As a nonprofit conservation organization, WMRCD will deliver technical assistance and project implementation services focused on wetland restoration, habitat management, and stewardship activities across enrolled easement properties in Maryland.

The cooperative agreement leverages WMRCD's established expertise in environmental conservation and federal partnership delivery to augment NRCS capacity in wetland conservation stewardship. Services are expected to encompass restoration planning and design, habitat enhancement implementation, easement monitoring and management support, and technical assistance to landowners participating in wetland conservation easement programs. This award aligns with NRCS's strategy of utilizing non-federal partnerships to maximize conservation delivery outcomes across the ACEP-WRE portfolio in Maryland.