CRP has played an integral role in altering South Dakota's landscape, returning acres of cropped land to grassland and restored wetlands. Photos provided courtesy Bill Smith, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Commission illustrate the new landscape. With the grasslands and wetlands returned ducks and other wildlife in increasing numbers. As a result, the state has reaped not only reduced erosion rates, but also increased economic activity from hunters and others interested in the growing wildlife populations.

Duck eye-level view of wetland restored under CRP contract. Photographed by Ken Moum.

Through CRP, South Dakota landowners are restoring wetlands and creating wildlife habitat. Photographed by Ken Moum.

CRP Wetland Restoration practice is surrounded by CRP Permanent Introduced Grass mixture. Photographed by Don McCrea.

CRP Wetland Restoration practice amid pasture and noncropland area. Photographed by Ken Moum.