FARGO, N.D. (AP) – The federal Agriculture Department is making up to $10 million available to enroll land in the Red River Valley watershed into its Wetlands Reserve Program.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the goal is to reduce flooding, restore wetlands and enhance wildlife habitat. The special initiative will enroll land in North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota.

Residents of the valley are in the middle of another major spring flood battle. Moderate-to-severe flooding happens every year, and Vilsack says expanding the wetlands acres will help mitigate flood damage.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)