Programs are available to provide cost-share reimbursement to private landowners who are engaged in forestry related conservation work. Practices such as tree planting, forested riparian buffers, forest stand improvement, site preparation for natural regeneration, wildlife habitat improvement, and fencing may be eligible for cost-sharing on private lands. The programs listed below may be able to assist you with conservation work on your lands. To determine which program may best suit your needs, contact your Iowa DNR Bureau of Forestry, District Forester.


Forest Land Enhancement Program (FLEP)

FLEP is a federal cost-share program funded through the USDA Forest Service. FLEP funds are administered through the Iowa DNR Bureau of Forestry. All FLEP practices must have a forest stewardship plan written or approved by a District Forester. To review Iowa FLEP Priority Plan click here. For a list of proposed FLEP practices and cost-share rates click here.

Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)

The Conservation Reserve Program is administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA). It cost-shares tree planting on highly erodible land through the general CRP. It also costs shares tree planting on forested riparian buffers and on eligible bottomlands . All Crp programs will pay a landowner an annual rental payment for up to 15 years. For additional and updated information go to http://www.fsa.usda.gov/dafp/cepd/crp.htm

Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)

The EQIP program is administered through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). While EQIP legislation in the Farm Bill clearly states the "private, nonindustrial forest land" is eligible for EQIP funding, it is still unclear what funding, if any, will be available for forestry related conservation practices. For additional information click here.

Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP)

The WHIP program is administered through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). WHIP provides cost-share reimbursement for wildlife habitat practices. A portion of Iowa's WHIP allocation will be set aside for woodland wildlife habitat improvement. WHIP will also cost-share on wildlife practices that improve grassland and aquatic habitat. Contact your District Forester, Private Lands Biologist,*.pdf, or District Conservationist for additional information. For additional information click here.

Iowa DNR Shelterbelt Program

The Iowa DNR Wildlife Bureau will provide cost-share assistance on shelterbelts on private lands. For more information click here