Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program Information

The Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) is a voluntary program for people who want to develop and improve wildlife habitat primarily on private land. Through WHIP USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service provides both technical assistance and up to 75 percent cost-share assistance to establish and improve fish and wildlife habitat. WHIP agreements between NRCS and the participant generally last from 5 to 10 years from the date the agreement is signed.

WHIP has proven to be a highly effective and widely accepted program across the country. By targeting wildlife habitat projects on all lands and aquatic areas, WHIP provides assistance to conservation  minded landowners who are unable to meet the specific eligibility requirements of other USDA conservation programs.

The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 reauthorized WHIP as a voluntary approach to improving wildlife habitat in our Nation. Program administration of WHIP is provided under the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Application Deadline

WHIP applications are accepted throughout the year; however, the cut-off date for Fiscal Year (FY) 2006 funding consideration is November 10, 2005.  Applications received after November 10, 2005, will be considered for funding in FY2007.  Applications are accepted at your local USDA Service Center.

2006 WHIP Program in South Dakota

• How WHIP Works in South Dakota
• How to Apply for WHIP

Links to Other Useful Documents

• WHIP Fact Sheet
• Question and Answer Sheet
• FY2006 WHIP State Plan
• CCC-1200 (3.77 KB)

South Dakota WHIP Archives

• FY2005 WHIP State Plan
• 2001 Accomplishments and Reports

Program Contact

Michael D. Kuck, Assistant State Conservationist for Programs, (605) 352-1206
Denise Gauer, Resource Conservationist, (605) 352-1203

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