Ten-year old terraces open to plant to grass

"Terraces are designed for a 10-year life, but will last longer if properly maintained," said Chick. "This option can extend that life and the grass will provide additional filtering for water quality and protection from wind erosion. There are thousands of miles of eligible terraces across the state.

Any area of the terrace, including a ten-foot strip on either side of the terrace, up to a total width of 60 feet, will be eligible. "In western Nebraska, where there are a lot of level or flat channel terraces, farmers may wish to only seed the terrace itself and keep the terrace channel for crop production since it is typically best for crop production," said Chick.

Only terraces that are being cropped are eligible. Terraces already seeded to grass will not qualify. Annual payment rates are based on soil type over a 10-year contract period.

This practice is now one of ten buffer strip practices eligible for enrollment in the Continuous Conservation Reserve Program. Farmers may enroll their acres at any time.

More information about this new buffer strip option is available at any local Farm Service Agency or Natural Resources Conservation Service office.