Grant application period for non-lethal agricultural wildlife deterrence program opens July 1

The approved 2021-23 biennial budget includes $45,000 to continue a program that supports and encourages the proactive use of non-lethal animal damage deterrents in an effort to foster the coexistence of agriculture, livestock, and wildlife in Benton County.

The Agriculture and Wildlife Protection Program (AWPP) funding includes $5,000 for educational outreach and expert consultation services, $35,000 for a merit-based, cost share reimbursement grant program, and $5,000 to mitigate human/beaver conflicts which arise after the grant application deadline.

Agricultural operations of all sizes in Benton County that wish to prevent conflicts with wildlife may qualify for up to $5,000 in reimbursement grant funds for the purchase of proactive non-lethal wildlife deterrents to protect livestock and crops. These deterrents include standard and electric fencing, scare devices, fladry or flagging, birthing or lambing structures, animal housing, and livestock guardian animals. Property owners experiencing conflicts with beavers may also qualify for grant funds for the purchase of deterrents to protect trees or prevent flooding.

Grant applications may be downloaded and submitted beginning July 1, 2022 at co.benton.or.us/awpp. The application period closes July 31, 2022 and grant awards will be announced on September 1, 2022.

Since 2017, the AWPP has awarded 24 farms in Benton County over $66,000 in reimbursement grant funds to Benton County farms for the purchase of wildlife-friendly animal damage deterrents to prevent conflicts with wildlife. Awards are made based upon the applicant's philosophy of animal damage control and the likely effectiveness of the proposed non-lethal deterrents project plan. Successful applicants must provide a 10% match via labor or materials; projects must be completed by December 31, 2022 and funds are dispersed after a farm visit by County staff.

Learn more about the AWPP and find information about the grant program at co.benton.or.us/awpp.