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2008 Federal Duck Stamp Contest Phone: 608-221-1206 Ext. 14Address: |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Partners for Fish and Wildlife (PFW) program?
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service administers this popular program, which provides technical assistance and funds to private landowners. The Partners for Fish and Wildlife program works in cooperation with landowners who voluntarily restore wetlands and associated uplands on their lands. Program biologists provide advice on the design and location of potential restoration projects, plus financial assistance to implement respective projects.
Who can become a partner?
Although primary partners are private landowners, non-federal landowners interested in restoring and protecting fish and wildlife habitats on private and tribal lands can become involved in PFW. Partners not only include landowners, but national, regional, state, county and local agencies, communities, corporations and educational institutions. See our Partners
What type of lands and waters are eligible to be restored?
Any type of potential fish and wildlife habitats that have been altered and/or degraded are eligible.
Do landowners have to allow public access to their lands if they participate in PFW.
No. Landowners retain the right to restrict public access and egress. Through prearranged agreements, Service employees occasionally receive access to respective projects to check on progress.
What is a landowner agreement?
Before implementing habitat projects, the Service and landowners must sign management agreements that protect the federal investment of public funds. The length of each agreement must be at least 10 years. An agreement states that a landowner will not return the project to its former use, or damage or destroy the project during the agreement period without reimbursing the Service for the funds spent on the project. Otherwise the landowners retain all legal rights to their property, including the right to limit public access.
How is financial assistance provided?
The Service and its project partners provide financial assistance to landowners for restoration projects. The landowners may perform the restoration construction and be reimbursed directly for some or all of their expenses. The Service may also hire a contractor to complete the project work, or the Service may conduct the work itself.
While not a program requirement, a dollar-for-dollar cost-share is sought on a project-by-project basis. Up to 100 percent funding may be available. Financial assistance may not be used to purchase or lease real property interest or to make rental or other incentive payments to landowners.
When will restoration activities be done?
The project will be completed as soon as possible based on the site selection priorities, available funds, permit acquisition and site (seasonal) conditions. Most projects are completed within six months.
Where does the PFW program focus its effort?
The program focuses on projects what will provide the greatest benefits for federal trust species (migratory birds, threatened and endangered fish and wildlife species, anadromous fish). The highest priority is given to projects to benefit declining migratory bird and fish species, species that are endangered, threatened or proposed for listing, and to projects that complement national wildlife refuges, waterfowl production areas and fisheries.
Other considerations include: permanently protected lands, lands identified by the Service or other conservation agencies/organizations as a priority; to reduce habitat fragmentation and to conserve significant natural communities.
Who is responsible for project maintenance?
Most restored habitats require little maintenance. Activities required, however, will be the responsibility of the landowners. The Service will repair problems that occur from failure in project design or construction technique.
