USDA is expanding its partnership to support the voluntary conservation of private working lands and migratory big game populations in Wyoming to also include Idaho and Montana.
USDA is now accepting applications from agricultural producers in Wyoming, Idaho and Montana for assistance through the USDA Migratory Big Game Initiative. Signups are open for opportunities through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), and Grassland Conservation Reserve Program (Grassland CRP).
Conservation Programs
USDA is supporting this initiative with a focused application of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), and Grassland Conservation Reserve Program (Grassland CRP):
- ACEP assists producers who want to protect sensitive landscapes and prime farmlands from conversion to non-compatible land uses such as residential subdivision through establishment of long-term conservation easements.
- EQIP focuses on integrating practices on working lands, such as prescribed grazing systems, wildlife-friendly fencing, and cheatgrass control.
- Grassland CRP is used to provide participating landowners with 10- or 15-year contracts in exchange for continued management of sustainable grassland habitats.
USDA has expanded compatibility among these programs to streamline delivery to farmers and ranchers and will continue to do so.
Project Location
The initiative is open to producers statewide in Wyoming, Idaho and Montana, but there are several priority areas where big game migrations are known to be prevalent. Contact your local USDA Service Center to discuss how your property aligns with these priority areas.
How to Apply
EQIP and ACEP
NRCS accepts applications year-round, but producers should apply by their state's ranking dates to be considered for funding in the current cycle. Funding is provided through a competitive process. If you apply after the program ranking date, NRCS will automatically consider your application during future funding cycles.
Grassland CRP
Wyoming producers interested in Grassland CRP should contact their local USDA Service Center..
To apply or learn more, contact your local USDA Service Center.
Additional Resources
- Learn more about the initiative and accomplishments in Wyoming since May 2022.
- Western WLFW website (Migratory Big Game)
- Fact Sheets:
- June 2, 2024 Press Release: Producers and Landowners Can Now Sign Up for USDA's Grassland Conservation Reserve Program
- November 21, 2023 Press Release: USDA Expands Migratory Big Game Pilot in Wyoming to Broader Landscape Initiative, Expanding Next to Idaho and Montana
- November 18, 2022 Farmers.gov blog: Saving Time, Money and Wildlife through Conservation Practices
- August 3, 2022 Farmers.gov blog: New Partnership in Wyoming Rewards Landowners for Stewarding Wildlife Habitat
- Learn more about wildlife conservation
Find Your Local Service Center
USDA Service Centers are locations where you can connect with Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, or Rural Development employees for your business needs. Enter your state and county below to find your local service center and agency offices. If this locator does not work in your browser, please visit offices.usda.gov.
Learn more about our Urban Service Centers.
Visit the Risk Management Agency website to find a regional or compliance office or to find an insurance agent near you.