Funding Deadline for NRCS Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program Approaching

May 2, 2007

For More Information:
Jeff Combs, 406-587-6795

Bozeman-- The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has set the deadline for private landowners to submit conservation program applications as June 1, 2007.

One of the programs that the application deadline applies to is the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP). The WHIP is a voluntary program that provides both technical and financial assistance to private landowners to develop and improve fish and wildlife habitat. WHIP funding is available on a competitive basis and is used to assist landowners in implementing conservation practices identified in a conservation plan.

“The program is an effective tool for all landowners in Montana to address fish and wildlife resource concerns on their property,” said Chuck Gordon, NRCS acting state conservationist. “Many species benefit from the high quality habitat developed when landowners utilize WHIP.”

NRCS accepts conservation program applications year-round. However, applications must be made by the June 1, 2007, cutoff date to be considered for funding in fiscal year 2008. Applications made after the application deadline will be considered in the next funding cycle.

For more information about WHIP, please contact the NRCS conservationist in the local USDA Service Center or visit http://www.mt.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/.

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