Frequently Asked Questions

Are private landowners required to participate in one of these programs?

No. All programs are voluntary. Habitat Biologists are available to help you decide if one or more of these programs would meet your needs. Biologists can work with you to choose the most beneficial improvements and practices, develop a management plan, and help you through the application procedure.

If I participate in one of these programs, do I have to allow public access to my land?

No. All of the assistance programs focus on habitat improvements and do not require public access. However, if you are interested in allowing sportsmen's access to your land, Idaho Fish and Game offers a program that compensates willing landowners for allowing public access. Please see the Access Yes! website for more information. Improving habitat on your land may increase your eligibility for Access Yes!

Are there other sources of funding that can help with out-of-pocket expenses?

Yes. Generally, federal Farm Bill programs cannot be linked with one another, but they can often be joined with other state, or privately sponsored programs. Your local Habitat Biologist can help you weed through these options.

Is financial assistance available through private conservation organizations?

Yes. In Idaho, national groups such as those in the list below have money available to assist private landowners, as do some local wildlife clubs. They usually piggyback their dollars on projects approved for federal and/or state funding to further reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for improving habitat.

What is a conservation easement?

If you want to avoid or reduce estate and income taxes and maintain your property in an undeveloped state, you may want to investigate donating a conservation easement to a land trust organization like the Idaho Fish and Game Foundation or a non-profit group like
The Nature Conservancy.