09/24/2005: "Grants For Habitat Restoration On Private Lands"

The Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has announced in a press release that private landowners can apply for up to $50,000 in federal grant funding to restore habitat on their property for "species at risk".

Applications are being accepted until Dec. 16 for habitat restoration projects through the Landowner Incentive Program (LIP). WDFW is developing a portfolio of potential projects to submit to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for funding in 2006.

Qualifying landowners are typically eligible for up to $50,000 in assistance. In addition, $50,000 will be set aside for small grants. An individual applying for these small grant funds may apply for up to $5,000.

Qualifying landowners are typically eligible for up to $50,000 in assistance. In addition, $50,000 will be set aside for small grants. An individual applying for these small grant funds may apply for up to $5,000.

Eligible landowners must be able to make a 25 percent contribution, which may include cash and/or in-kind work. Project applications are due by Dec. 16.

"Species at risk" are fish or wildlife species that are federally or state-listed as threatened or endangered, or proposed as candidates for listing as threatened or endangered, as well as any other animal species determined to be at risk by WDFW
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"With more than half of Washington in private ownership, it's clear that restoring habitat on privately owned property is an important part of strengthening fish and wildlife populations across the state," said WDFW Director Jeff Koenings.

More information about LIP is available by contacting LIP Coordinator Ginna Correa at (360) 902-2478.