Cost-share

Habitat Improvement Program (HIP)

Idaho Department of Fish and Game

Readiness

Local office first

Who can apply

producer, local government, state government, Private landowners in Idaho (upland game bird / waterfowl habitat on farm and ranch land)

Coverage

ID

Deadline & timing

No application window is stated on the official page (checked 2026-09-30). To apply: "Begin by making a request to the habitat biologist at the nearest Fish and Game office." Projects are documented in a cooperative agreement and project plan.

Eligibility

Technical and financial help for private landowners and public land managers creating or enhancing upland game bird and waterfowl habitat. Eligible work includes grass/legume nesting cover, fencing livestock out of woody areas, farmstead and field windbreaks, winter food plots, managing livestock use of existing cover, and creating or restoring wetlands. Agreements usually require maintaining the project for at least 10 years (food plots 1-2 years). Fee hunting is not allowed on HIP-contract lands. The HIP Guidelines page lists practice rates, e.g. $20/acre for leaving grain stubble (max $2,000 per operation). Some rates there (e.g. a 2009 AUM lease rate) look dated, so confirm with the regional biologist.

Last verified Oct 1, 2026. Always confirm current terms and deadlines on the official site before applying.