Wetland and Riparian Conservation

Support Private Wetland and Riparian Zone Creation, Restoration, and Conservation Tax Credits with HB1577

The Issue

Arkansas’s water resources are under serious pressure because of increased use by agriculture, industry, and individuals. According to a recent Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation study, water withdrawals in Arkansas increased by 55 percent between 1980 and 2000.  Add to this the millions of gallons needed for natural gas production and it is easy to see the challenge of sustaining water resources in the future.

The quality of our water will become even more important as populations increase.

We need improved water management practices now if we are to avoid a crisis.

The Solution

By adding conservation tax credits to the Wetland and Riparian Zones Tax Credit Program, we can increase the potential of an existing water management program. While the original bill recognizes the value of natural systems safeguarding vital water resources, projects have not come forward to fully use restorative tax credits. By adding conservation tax credits, we broaden a landowner’s options for protecting water assets and increase the likelihood of their voluntary participation.

The cost of prevention will be much less than the cost of a cure.  Restoration of wetlands and riparian damage is extremely costly.  Dollars spent securing well functioning natural systems prevent future stream instability for less than repairs would cost taxpayers.

Increased involvement by land owners could serve as a pilot study for future conservation at no added cost.  Before Arkansas can have a successful conservation tax credit program, a chance to test this concept is needed.  This bill’s expanded options will interest land owners, land trusts organizations, and professionals facilitating the process.  It will provide an opportunity to evaluate a practice successful in other states before making a larger commitment in Arkansas.

Act Now – Call Your Senator!

Call your Senator and ask them to VOTE YES on HB1577!  HB1577 passed the Arkansas House on February 27th 97-1!  Now it goes to the Arkansas Senate Revenue and Tax Committee.

You can help protect Arkansas’ most critical wetland habitats.