The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) has been an economic benefit to Dennis Clark's farming operation in Stutsman County, North Dakota. "My son would not have become part of the family operation without the 880 CRP acres that I have enrolled," said Dennis. "CRP has been an economic safety net for me and for the county. There would be fewer farmers here without the guaranteed CRP income."

Dennis also believes CRP saved livestock producers during drought emergencies. "It has been a win, win program. The ranchers and government have worked together. We are able to hay and graze CRP, allowing for a reduced payment to the landowner, which helped the government's budget." Haying and grazing a portion of CRP acres during a drought emergency also helps to improve the cover, making for better nesting and habitat during the next season. As a direct result of CRP, the Sharp Tail Grouse, pheasants, and waterfowl have made a big comeback in Stutsman County.

Two CRP practices, Permanent Introduced Grasses and Legumes and Grass Vegetative Cover Already Established, provide habitat on the majority of Dennis' CRP contracts. Dennis has also installed Shelterbelts under CRP.

"CRP is like an insurance policy. It gives me a guaranteed income, and it is cheaper for the government than disaster payments." Finally Dennis said, "We are caretakers of the land; we can't use it up in my generation, we must save it for the next."

Clutch of Northern Pintail Duck eggs hidden in CRP cover.

Dennis Clark calls CRP a 'win-win' program.

Permanent Introduced Grass and Legumes installed on CRP by Dennis Clark.

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Volunteer flowers add diversity for wildlife among CRP grass cover.