Ohio Offers Landowners Incentives to Plant Grassland Habitats

By Andi Anderson

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is offering financial incentives for landowners to create grassland habitats, with $9 million available for the initiative.

This project, funded through the USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program, was awarded in November 2023 and aims to restore wildlife populations, such as the bobwhite quail and other grassland-nesting birds, that have been impacted by habitat loss.

According to John Kaiser from ODNR’s Division of Wildlife, “This grassland habitat program is a win-win for landowners and wildlife. Healthy native grasslands support pollinators, improve soil health, and create vital cover for birds and other wildlife.”

The initiative not only benefits wildlife but also provides valuable resources for landowners, including free technical assistance through the National Bobwhite and Grasslands Initiative Foundation.

Ohio is largely privately owned, with 95% of the land in the state being privately held, making landowners crucial to the success of this program. Both cropland and non-cropland are eligible for participation, and grants will be awarded based on the size of the acreage. Landowner agreements can span one to four years, offering flexibility in planning.

ODNR encourages interested landowners to contact one of its Wildlife Management Consultants to receive support in developing land management strategies. This initiative is an excellent opportunity for Ohio landowners to contribute to wildlife conservation while improving their land’s health and productivity.

Photo Credit: pexels-jeffrey-czum