Jackson — The Farm and Ranch Land Protection Program provides matching funds to help purchase development rights to keep productive farm and ranchland in agricultural uses.

Working through existing programs, USDA partners with state, tribal or local governments and non-governmental organizations to acquire conservation easements or other interests in land from landowners. USDA provides up to 50 percent of the fair market easement value of the conservation easement.

Depending on funding availability, proposals must be submitted by the eligible entities to the appropriate NRCS State Office during the application window.

Mississippi will accept applications from eligible entities throughout the year. However, all applications received by Dec. 31, will be considered for 2011 funding. Applications should be submitted to Al Garner, assistant state conservationist, Suite 1321 Federal Building, 100 West Capitol Street, Jackson, MS 39269.