I am working with a new client this week in central MN that operates a 350 acre dairy farm. There are very few wildlife benefits or environmental benefits on the farm at present, plus a lot of high risk in the farming operation due to soils, topography and current land uses.

I have completed a preliminary proposal and am projecting an increase of $10 and acre, or $3,500 in annual income above and beyond what the owner is currently making. In addition, there will be another $15,000 in payments. I’m also projecting a 90% cost share for all conservation projects but often end up with 100% due to my connections. This farmer should also experience a 30% to 50% reduction in operating costs (chemicals, fertilizers, fuel, labor, seed, etc.).

The financial opportunities should result in this farmer going ahead with the whole plan, which will also result in a substantial increase in wildlife on the property (deer, turkeys, pheasants and waterfowl not to mention all of the non-game species). It also will result in a substantial increase in flood retention from wetland restorations and an increase in water quality due to the protection of surface waters.

These last items are the frosting on the cake since the primary objectives discussed with this landowner are to improve farming efficiency and profitability and reduce operating costs, since we understand and appreciate that his primary objective is to make a living from the land.

We have a farmer making more money (guaranteed money, too!), saving more money, and a property that is providing much greater wildlife and environmental benefits! And just as important ... he is still operating a very functional farm and still running his dairy herd!

None of these options include perpetual easements or public access to private land ... it maintains all rights and privileges of the landowner.

This is remarkable!