b'Policy The NRCS has conferenced with the USFWS on their Working Lands For Wildlife (WLFW) Monarch There are several possible additions or revisions to currentProject. Farmers who install and manage monarch policies and legislation that would benefit monarchs andhabitat in accordance with an NRCS approved provide incentives for habitat.conservation plan, with WLFW requirements incorporated, will receive ESA predictability. The 1. Farm Lease Changes plan is grandfathered for 30 years if the customer The Agricultural Subcommittee will work with theadheres to the plan throughout that time frame. If University of Illinois to recommend changes to thethe monarch is listed, the farmer will not have to standard farm lease language that will include mowingchange their management of those acres.considerations for wildlife and monarch habitat. 2. Endangered Species Act (ESA) 3. Farm Bill Programs Liabilities to landowners and land managers that lieMany of the wildlife habitat options in the last few Farm within the ESA provide a disincentive to create newBills require significant disturbance of existing ground and protect existing habitat that is important to listedcover to be eligible for enrollment in a program. If species. The ESA should be enhanced to offer betterfarmers and landowners were provided a viable option protections for landowners who have established habitatfor setting aside high-quality remnant habitat, or leaving in good faith. In addition, the USDA should be proactiveexisting cover for longer periods of time, conversion to concerning future potential listings by consulting withother land uses may be voluntarily curtailed.the FWS to provide assurances for farmers who install4. Seed Labeling Lawsconservation practices that serve as habitat throughThere is a need to change seed labeling to show the USDA programs.percent of milkweed in pollinator mixes.26Challenges For the Future and Strategies for Success'