Landowner Incentive Programs
Landowner incentive programs work to financially assist landowners in the restoration and protection of endangered species Generally any private landowner or organization can apply for assistance but preference is given to areas in greatest need of protection.
Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP)
WHIP is a voluntary landowner program that is devoted to the improvement of upland wildlife habitat. It is available in all 50 states and has enrolled nearly 11,000 landowners totaling 1,600,000 acres (6,500 km2) since its beginning in 1998. Eligibility is limited to privately owned, federal, tribal and government lands (Limited). Once approved, land management plans are designed with one of two primary agendas.
- Habitat for declining species
- Wildlife and fishery habitats and sustainable practices
Proposed management plans are considered for 5,10 or 15 year time spans with increased cost-share benefits for longer commitments.
Forest Land Enhancement Program (FLEP)
FLEP is a type of USDS incentive program designed to maintain the long term sustainability of non-industrial private forest. The program provides financial and educational assistance to landowners that compose a qualifying management plan. Initially proposed plans must be 10 years management strategies and can manage no more than 1,000 acres (4.0 km2) (additional area can be added in special cases).
Tax incentives
Another way landowners can be persuaded to conserve their private land is through tax incentive programs. For example, Louisiana has a tax exemption program providing tax relief for landowner that commit to specific management plans.
Read more about this topic: Private Landowner Assistance Program
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