Olney, IL, USA / WVLN 740 AM/107.1 FM | CBS Sports Radio Jan 6, 2021 7:51 AM (SPRINGFIELD) The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has announced the application period for the 2021 Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP-WRE), which helps provide long-term protection of Illinois’ farmland, wetlands, and grasslands. Applications that are received and meet program eligibility by February 5, 2021 will be considered for the 2021 program. While $4.5 million has been allocated for the Illinois program in FY21, farmers and landowners are reminded that they can apply for ACEP and all conservation programs at any time, as sign-up is continuous and applications can be submitted any time. For details, landowners can contact their local NRCS office or logon at nrcs.usda.gov.