A Nebraska Environmental Restriction Easement, commonly referred to as WERE, is a legally binding agreement that imposes restrictions on land use in order to protect and conserve the environment. These easements are designed to ensure that certain areas within Nebraska are preserved for their natural resources, wildlife habitat, or agricultural purposes. One type of WERE is the Agricultural Environmental Restriction Easement (ARE), which is primarily focused on preserving farmland and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. ARE aims to protect the integrity of agricultural lands, their soil, and water resources. This type of easement may include provisions related to the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation practices, as well as guidelines on the protection of wetlands, grasslands, and wildlife habitats. Another type of WERE is the Natural Resources Environmental Restriction Easement (WERE), which focuses on the conservation and preservation of natural resources and ecosystems. WERE aims to manage and protect areas with significant ecological value, such as wetlands, forests, rivers, or riparian buffers. This type of easement may include restrictions on development, logging, hunting, and other activities that could harm or disrupt the natural balance of these areas. Additionally, Nebraska also has specific environmental easements tailored to protect specific habitats or species. For example, the Nebraska Sandhill Crane Environmental Restriction Easement (SCENE) aims to safeguard the crucial habitats utilized by the Sandhill Crane, a species that passes through Nebraska during its annual migration. SCENE may include provisions to protect wetlands, grasslands, and open space essential for the survival of these birds, as well as restrictions on hunting and disturbance during their nesting season. Overall, Nebraska Environmental Restriction Easements play a vital role in preserving the state's natural resources, wildlife habitats, and maintaining the integrity of its agricultural lands. By imposing restrictions on land use, these easements ensure the long-term sustainability and conservation of Nebraska's diverse ecosystems and contribute to the overall environmental health of the state.