The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service established the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program to  restore historic habitat types which benefit native fishes and wildlife.  The program adheres to the concept that restoring or enhancing habitats such as wetlands or other unique habitat types will substantially benefit federal trust species on private lands by providing food and cover or other essential needs.  Federal trust species include threatened and endangered species, as well as migratory birds (e.g. waterfowl, wading birds, shorebirds, neotropical migratory songbirds).

HOW TO PARTICIPATE ...

• Interested landowners contact Partners for Fish and Wildlife Biologist to discuss the proposed project and establish a site visit. 

• A visit to the site is then used to determine which activities the landowner desires and how those activities will enhance habitat for trust resources.  Technical advice on the proposed activities is provided by the Service, as appropriate. 

•  Proposed cost estimates are discussed by the Service and landowner. 

• A detailed proposal which describes the proposed activities is developed by the Service biologist and the landowner.  Funds are competitive therefore, the proposal is submitted to the Service’s Ecosystem team for ranking and then to the Regional Office for funding.

• After funding is approved the landowner and the Service co-sign a Wildlife Extension Agreement. 

• Projects installation begins.

• The Service reimburses the landowner after receipts and other documentation are submitted according to the Wildlife Extension Agreement, when the project is completed. 

PEOPLE TO CONTACT...
 

Brad Bingham Partners for Fish and Wildlife  Biologist  Tennessee Field Office Cookeville, Tennessee (931) 528-6481 ext. 205

TYPES OF PROJECTS AVAILABLE...

• Livestock Exclusion Fencing/Alternate Water Supply Construction.

• Streambank Stabilization.

• Restoration of Native Vegetation.

•  Wetland Restoration/Enhancement.

•  Riparian Reforestation.

•  Restoration of In-stream Aquatic Habitats.

GENERAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS...

• Projects must benefit Federal Trust Resources (threatened or endangered species, wetlands, migratory birds)

•  Minimum Ten Year Agreement

•  Voluntary participation

•  Landowner does not forfeit property rights

•  Activities will benefit wildlife

SIMILAR PROGRAMS AND PARTNERS...

•  USDA Conservation Programs (WHIP, EQIP, CRP, WRP)

•  Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Small Game Program

•  Kentucky Division of Fish and Wildlife Resources

•  Quail Unlimited

•  Ducks Unlimited

•  The Nature Conservancy