Apply Now for Incentive Program

Applications are due by June 27 for the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program, or WHIP, which provides assistance to conservation-minded landowners who want to develop and improve wildlife habitat.

WHIP offers financial and technical assistance for landowners who help restore declining habitats in Florida, according to statement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service, which administers the program.

A conservation plan is developed with the landowner or manager; final ranking will be based on the presence of declining habitats and management for declining species.

Landowners who submit applications early have more time to resolve program or land eligibility issues, said the statement.

The short turn-a-round for applications stems from the recent passing of the new federal Farm Bill, which provided additional funds for WHIP and other programs.

The sign-up will be statewide. Applications will be accepted until close of business on June 27. For additional details and specific eligibility requirements, contact the District Conservationist, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, 111 Yelvington Road, Suite 4, East Palatka, FL 32131, (386) 328-6522 or the state office at P.O. Box 141510, Gainesville, FL 32614, or go to http://www.fl.nrcs.usda.gov.

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