Endangered Resources_Content Page_LIP

Landowner Incentive Program

Helping private landowners protect rare plants and animals

Landowner Incentive Program project
A Landowner Incentive Program project in Iowa County.

The goal of the Landowner Incentive Program (LIP) is to help private landowners create and manage habitat for species that are rare or declining. The program provides management advice, assistance with management plans and cost-share funding to individuals and organizations on private lands — with a focus on the Driftless Area of Wisconsin.

LIP has no funding available at this time.

Private landowners and conservation

The biggest threat to plants and animals worldwide is the loss or degradation of habitat. With more than 85% of Wisconsin’s landscape under private ownership, landowners play a key role in helping conserve the beauty and diversity of Wisconsin’s natural heritage for future generations. As a landowner, you can make a difference.

Would you be interested in:

  • improving or creating habitat for native plants and wildlife;
  • receiving technical help to improve your property; or
  • helping wildlife and plant species, especially rare species?

If your property is located within the Driftless Area, the Landowner Incentive Program may be able to help.

Cost-share assistance

The LIP is a cost-share program, and the DNR can reimburse a landowner for up to 75% of the cost for the on-the-ground practices that are involved in the management of the project. The landowner is required to contribute the matching percentage. Read our "frequently asked questions" to learn more.

Technical assistance

Technical assistance is available to Wisconsin landowners free of charge and is not contingent on applying for or receiving an LIP cost-share grant. The LIP biologist can work with you over the phone or email. And if your property is located in the Driftless Area, a one-on-one site visit may also be possible. Technical assistance can include:

  • identifying what habitats (or species) may be present on your land;
  • suggesting approaches to management;
  • help in determining priorities and timelines;
  • guidance in developing management plans;
  • referrals for cost or technical assistance, either through the LIP or another program; and
  • providing information on land protection options.