Conservation Programs

Technical and financial resources are often available through various conservation organizations in the area. The first step usually involves a landowner contacting an organization for more information. A site visit may be held, followed by the development of a project plan and implementation. Here’s a list of popular conservation program offerings:

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Wisconsin’s Managed Forest Law – actively manage your forest while also getting a tax break: http://dnr.wi.gov/files/pdf/pubs/fr/FR0295.pdf
Wisconsin Forest Landowner Grant Program – a cost-share program that provides assistance to protect and enhance your forested lands, prairies, and waters using various practices: http://dnr.wi.gov/Aid/ForestLandowner.html

USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) or Natural Resources Conservation Department (NRCS)

CREP (Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program): http://datcp.wi.gov/Environment/Land_and_Water_Conservation/CREP/Landowners/index.aspx
EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentive Program) – cost-share for various practices: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/wi/programs/financial/eqip/

USFWS

Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program- cost-share for various practices: http://www.fws.gov/midwest/partners/

Ashland and Bayfield Counties Land and Water Conservation Departments

These county departments can provide technical and financial assistance for a variety of practices:

Northwoods Cooperative Weed Management Area

http://www.northwoodscwma.org/

Bayfield Regional Conservancy

www.brcland.org

BRC can help you place a conservation easement on your property, a great tool if you wish to protect your property and its ecological/conservation values in perpetuity. You can work with the land trust to restrict development while still actively managing your property. Fig. 1 BRWA wood turtle project area.jpg