The Vegetative Filter Strip Assessment Law (35ILCS 200/10-152) providing tax incentives for the installation of vegetative filter strips for the primary reason of reducing soil erosion became effective on January 1, 1997. Qualifying vegetative filter strips must meet NRCS standards and specifications to be assessed at a reduced tax rate.  

What is a Vegetative Filter Strip?  
A filter strip is an area of permanent vegetation located between cropland or grazing land and an environmentally sensitive area. Filter strips can:

• reduce soil erosion
• protect and improve water quality by filtering and slowing runoff thus trapping contaminants such as sediment, chemicals and excess nutrients in the vegetation
• provide significant habitat for grassland wildlife    

The vegetative filter strip legislation sets the following criteria for land eligible to be certified as a vegetative filter strip:

•  A strip or area of permanent, herbaceous vegetation situated between cropland or grazing land and environmentally sensitive areas including lakes, streams, rivers,
  and ponds
• The width of the filter strip must be determined by the slope of the land on which the vegetative strip is located (based on NRCS standards)
• The filter strip must be part of a conservation plan and must provide uniform ground cover, have a heavy fibrous root system, and tolerate pesticides used
  in farm fields

Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) can certify vegetative filter strips that meet the requirements. Once a filter strip is certified by the SWCD, the landowner can qualify for a property tax reduction.  

Application Form for Vegatative Filter Strips

Certification of Vegetative Filter Strip 

Contact our office for more information.