§ 752.1 - Program objective.

(a) The regulations in this part set forth the terms and conditions for the Water Bank Program. The Secretary is authorized to enter into agreements and make payments to eligible persons in important migratory waterfowl nesting and breeding areas. Specified wetlands identified for the conservation of water or related uses on a conservation plan shall be developed in cooperation with the Soil and Water Conservation District in which the lands are located.

(b) The objective of the Water Bank Program (hereinafter referred to in this part as the “program”) is to preserve, restore, and improve the wetlands of the Nation, and thereby: (1) Conserve surface waters, (2) preserve and improve habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wildlife resources, (3) reduce runoff, soil and wind erosion, (4) contribute to flood control, (5) contribute to improved water quality and reduce stream sedimentation, (6) contribute to improved subsurface moisture, (7) reduce acres of new land coming into production and to retire lands now in agricultural production, (8) enhance the natural beauty of the landscape, and (9) promote comprehensive and total water management planning.