While the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and agricultural producers might not seem like obvious partners, there are several areas where mutually beneficial coordination is already occurring in the Southeast. These partnerships not only support wildlife conservation but also promote sustainable agricultural practices, benefiting both the environment and farming communities. Here are some ways that the Service and agricultural partners support one another:
The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program
The Service’s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program enables farmers and ranchers to undertake voluntary and non-regulatory habitat improvement projects that benefit both wildlife and agricultural interests. Through this program, producers can receive technical and financial support for practices such as wetland restoration, riparian riparian
Definition of riparian habitat or riparian areas.
Learn more about riparian buffer establishment, and native grass planting, which enhance local ecosystems and agricultural sustainability.
The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program can be found in every state in the country.
Southeastern state Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program links can be found here:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- The Caribbean
- Florida
- Georgia
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
Conservation Easements
A conservation easement is a voluntary agreement between a landowner and a government agency or qualified conservation organization that helps guide the type and extent of future development to protect the property's natural and ecological value.
These agreements empower landowners to shape the use of their land in ways that preserve conservation values. In return, landowners often receive tax benefits and other incentives. This program helps preserve critical habitat and ensures that agricultural practices can coexist with wildlife conservation.
Partnerships with Farmers and Ranchers
The Service collaborates with farmers and ranchers to implement voluntary conservation measures. Programs such as Safe Harbor Agreements and Candidate Conservation Agreements offer regulatory assurances to landowners engaged in species recovery efforts.
Safe Harbor Agreements are designed to encourage landowners to manage their property in ways that benefit endangered species without incurring additional regulatory restrictions. Under these agreements, producers can enhance habitat for at-risk species, such as the Eastern Black Rail, while continuing their agricultural practices.
Similarly, Candidate Conservation Agreements provide incentives for landowners to take proactive steps that help sustain wildlife populations. By participating in these agreements, agricultural producers can proactively manage their land to support conservation efforts while maintaining their farming operations.
Black Vulture Livestock Protection Pilot Program
The Black Vulture Livestock Protection Pilot Program is the result of the Service’s Migratory Bird Program working with multiple state Farm Bureau Federations to provide a streamlined process for livestock producers to obtain permits to lethally remove a limited number of black vultures in cases where they pose a significant threat to livestock.
Pollinator-Friendly Practices
The Service promotes pollinator-friendly practices to benefit species like bees and butterflies, which are critical for crop production.
Pollinators provide vital benefits to people and wildlife - keeping animals and plants that we depend on thriving while bringing us food and supporting the economy. The Service is focused on helping pollinators, restoring habitat, working with others to meet pollinator needs, and dedicating resources for pollinator science.
Cooperative Farming
Cooperative farming agreements between the Service and farmers or ranchers may permit grazing by cattle or the growing of grain, hay or other crops at a refuge. These agreements provide economic benefits to farmers and ranchers while producing food for wildlife or by improving natural habitat.
