A new appeals process is in place for farmers and ranchers impacted by wetlands easements. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finalized the administrative process for appealing the wetlands maps. North Dakota Farm Bureau President Daryl Lies says an appeal has never been an option before. “They were forced to put out a map and say these are the wetlands we contracted and paid for. When those maps come out, farmers have a chance to appeal and say no, that wasn’t a wetland. It for sure wasn’t one when that easement was taken. It allows farmers to negotiate.” Lies reminds farmers to be watching the mail for maps. “They’re coming out certified mail. I know a few folks have already received them in the last few weeks,” he says. “Farmers have 40 days to decide to appeal. If you are renting property from an absentee landowner or elderly landowner see if they’re getting these things, help them work through it and if you have your own land, you have 40 days to make a decision.”
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