(KNZA)--Federal, state and tribal officials have signed a 30-year contract that will allow for the restoration of degraded wetlands on the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation reservation near Mayetta.

According to a news release from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, the contract is the first of its kind in Kansas.  

NRCS District Conservationist Jamie Johnson said about 30 acres will be restored and then protected and managed for the contract life through the NRCS’s Agricultural Conservation Easement Program-Wetland Reserve Easement.

The release says the NRCS will work the tribe to develop the wetland restoration plan.

Prairie Band Potawatomi Tribal Chairman Joseph Rupnick  said the tribe is thankful for the opportunity to return the portion of land back to its natural wetland condition and for the area’s high potential to provide environmental education.

Over the long-term, the restoration will provide a tribal land preserve.  Rupnick said the preserve is envisioned to offer recreational, cultural and educational opportunities which can enhance the quality of life for tribal citizens.