Types of Land Eligible for WHIP:

Privately owned land

Federal land when the primary benefit is on private or Tribal land

State and local government land on a limited basis

Tribal land


Eligible Land Can Be Any of the Following:

Grasslands

Woodlands

Croplands

Pasturelands

Wetlands

Streams and Riparian Lands


Cost-share is provided for up to 75% for establishing, maintaining, or replacing wildlife habitat practices.

Generally, the total cost-share cannot exceed $10,000 per contract.


Please contact our office at          (320) 968-5300 Ext. 3 for more information regarding WHIP.
Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP)

The Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) is a voluntary program that encourages the creation of high quality wildlife habitats that support wildlife populations of National, State, Tribal, and local significance.  Through WHIP, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides cost-share payments for development and protection of upland, wetland, riparian, and aquatic habitat areas. WHIP contracts generally last from 5 to 10 years from the date the agreement is signed.
Practices Eligible for Cost-Share:

Instream Fish Habitat Structures

Trees and Shrubs

Native Grasses and Flowers

Fencing to Exclude Livestock

Wetland Restorations and Enhancements

Shelterbelts and Farmstead Windbreaks


WHIP proposals will be evaluated based on Minnesota wildlife concerns. WHIP applications will be ranked on a number of factors, including type of habitat to be established or managed, proximity to other wildlife areas, expected habitat quality improvement and benefits to "at risk" species.

Funding is subject to ranking and fund availability.