FARMINGTON — Landowners, including nonagricultural and forestry landowners, who would like technical and financial assistance in developing, improving or managing wildlife habitat or restoring natural ecosystems, are encouraged to apply for the federal Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program, administered by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

The voluntary program encourages establishment of high quality wildlife habitats that support wildlife populations of national, state, tribal and local significance. Through the program, the conservation service provides technical and financial assistance to landowners and others to develop upland, wetland, riparian and aquatic habitat areas on their property.

Applications for the program are accepted at local USDA Service Centers on a continuous basis. Applicants must then complete a conservation plan with the assistance of NRCS conservationists. Applications which are received by Sept. 1 will be considered for funding in fiscal year 2011.

“NRCS is committed to providing conservation tools and resources to help Maine landowners ensure that their land remains healthy and productive,” said NRCS District Conservationist Paul Hersey.

“The NRCS field staff in Franklin County is available to help landowners develop a conservation plan to address their wildlife resource needs. We encourage landowners to inquire about WHIP and our other conservation programs,” he said.

Producers should call or visit the local office at 107 Park St. to submit an application and complete the necessary paperwork to establish their eligibility. General program information is available at www.me.nrcs.usda.gov.

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