Cost Share Programs for Wildlife Habitat Management
Wisconsin Forest Landowner Grant Program (WFLGP):
Funder: The State of Wisconsin (Wisconsin DNR).
What it funds: stewardship plans, tree planting, tree protection (fencing, tree shelters), site prep, rental equipment for these projects, invasive species management.
How much does it fund: Up to 50% of the cost of your project. You can count the time you invest into implementing the project at $15/hour toward match.
More Information: On the DNR Website.
Good way to start: Call your County Forester and talk to them about the project you are thinking about. Ask them if your project idea would likely get funded. You can also ask if the Forester is available to do a site visit. Submit your Wisconsin Landowner Grant Application (Form 2400-126) and W-9. Be sure that you are awarded funds BEFORE you start work on your project!
US Fish and Wildlife Service:
Requirements: None.
Funder: The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) - Federal
What it funds: Through voluntary agreements, the USFWS provides expert technical assistance and cost-share incentives directly to private landowners to restore fish and wildlife habitat.
How much does it fund: All depends on the project. Many projects they match 50%. Higher priority projects in high priority conservation areas they may fund more.
More Information: On the USFWS Website.
Good way to start: Call your local USFWS biologist.
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP):
Upland Wildlife Habitat Management (CPS-645)
Requirements: a MFL Forest Management Plan, Stewardship Plan, or CAP-106 Forest Management Plan.
Funder: The Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) - Federal
What it funds: Establishment of seasonal forage or milkweed for monarch habitat.
How much does it fund: $70-$400 an acre, depending on if the property is establishing forage or cover on cropland or non-cropland. Limit of $10,000.
More Information: On the NRCS Website.
Good way to start: Call your county NRCS office. Phone numbers available here.
Click here if you want to learn more about cost share programs for forest stands and invasive species.