Minnesota RIM Reforestation Easements

Pilot RIM easement program paying landowners in the Redeye, Long Prairie and Rum River watersheds to permanently protect and reforest historically forested open land, plus cost-share for a Forest Stewardship Plan and tree planting. Minimum 35 acres; parcels prioritized by Landscape Stewardship Plan ranking. Landowners apply through their local Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), which submits the package to BWSR.

Must be at least 35 acres; must be in the Redeye, Long Prairie or Rum River watersheds; all RIM program eligibility requirements are met; current Forest Stewardship Plan that meets RIM requirements (can be done concurrently); must include reforestation.

Perpetual easement at tax-assessed rate; cost-share for planting and management; Forest Stewardship Plan required.

Published amounts: Landowners can receive payment for enrolling in a perpetual conservation easement, financial assistance towards the completion of a Forest Stewardship Plan, and cost share for tree planting and other management activities that improve the land. CEFW Tax Assessed Calculation.

Through your local SWCD: RIM Application Guidance, Conservation Easement Application, Area Assessment Form, RIM Reforestation Scoresheet, CEFW Tax Assessed Calculation, Agreement Information Form, W-9.

Deadline text on the page: No dates on page; 'In the pilot phase three watersheds will be eligible: the Redeye, Long Prairie and Rum River watersheds.' Not on the 2026 easement programs poster/index.

Confirm current funding availability with your SWCD before applying — this pilot was not listed on BWSR's 2026 Conservation Easement Programs index.