WHIP Quick Facts

This page briefly describes basic information about the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP).

• Individuals, groups and entities who own or manage farmland or non-industrial forest land are eligible to apply. Publicly owned lands are not eligible.

• Contracts can last from 2 to 10 years. In some cases, a 15 year contract may be used for critical habitat restoration.

• There is a $50,000 annual payment limitation per participant.

• There is no minimum acreage requirement to apply for WHIP, however, projects that address significant resource concerns are more likely to receive funding.

• Beginning, socially disadvantaged and limited-resource farmers may be eligible for higher payment rates. Click on the links to find out if you are eligible.

• Participants will be reimbursed for the costs of installing conservation practices after the practices have been installed.

• You may sign up for this program at any time through your local NRCS office. Applications are accepted all year, but are reviewed in a competitive ranking process when funding becomes available - usually once each year.