County Agriculture and Wildlife Co-Existence Program accepting grant applications through Nov. 30

The Benton County Agriculture and Wildlife Protection Program (AWPP) will be open for general applications from Benton County farmers Oct. 1 through Nov. 30. The grant program for farmers promotes agriculture and wildlife co-existence by funding non-lethal wildlife deterrents to prevent losses to livestock, crops and property.

Agricultural operations of all sizes and income levels may apply for up to $5,000 in reimbursements for the purchase of non-lethal wildlife deterrents. These may include standard or electric fencing, sound or light scare devices, fladry or flagging, protective animal housing, livestock guardian animals and other approved options.

Property owners experiencing conflicts with beavers, such as tree damage or flooding, can also apply year-round for installation of proven methods to protect trees and crops or prevent flooding.

The AWPP also provides resources for farmers about non-lethal wildlife deterrence and can help guide interested community members in creating successful deterrent plans.

Grant applications and instructions may be downloaded from the AWPP website. Grant awards will be announced in early January, Successful applicants will have until April 30, 2027, to install their projects and request reimbursement after an on-site visit by Benton County staff.

Since 2017, AWPP has provided 50 awards totaling $168,048. Awards are made based upon the applicant’s philosophy of animal damage control, quality of application and likely effectiveness of the proposed plan. Successful applicants must provide a 10% funding match via labor or materials purchases.

The AWPP funds deterrents for wild predator species and beavers, but does not fund deterrents for deer, turkey or elk.

Find more information and application instructions on the Benton County website.