FY 2009 Program Information:  How WHIP Works in Oregon

In Oregon the emphasis of WHIP is placed on:

1. Enhancement and restoration of upland habitats and plant communities (Grasslands, Oak savanna, and sage shrub/steppe), and aquatic habitats,
2. Enhancement and restoration of habitats for threatened and endangered plant and animal species, and state species listed as species oat risk and species of concern, and
3. Wildlife habitats and wildlife species that the basins have identified as high priorities through the local working group based on ODF&W Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy.

In 2009, WHIP cost-share for eligible practices will be at 50% of the average cost (AC). A funding allocation will be distributed at the basin level for selection of contracts. Available conservation practices, cost-share rates, and funding are set by the state NRCS office. A WHIP ranking tool, based on recommendations from Local Working Groups (LWGs), Basin Work Groups (BWGs), and the Oregon Technical Advisory Committee (OTAC) will be used within each basin in Oregon to prioritize WHIP applications for funding. The ranking tool accounts for national, state and local priorities as well as economic and environmental considerations.

Funding Allocations:

WHIP funding is distributed within the eight major basins in Oregon. Funds may be moved between basins by the State Conservationist as needed to obtain the highest wildlife habitat benefits from the overall program.

The Oregon WHIP allocation procedure is based on state and basin priorities, anticipated projects, and the obligation of prior year(s) WHIP fund allocation and implementation of prior year contracts
 

Priorities:

The Oregon NRCS WHIP priorities dovetail with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODF&W) “Conservation Strategy for Oregon” document. This document was developed by federal, state, local and private wildlife agencies and partners to instill a common direction in the creation, restoration, and enhancement of wildlife habitats in Oregon.

The restoration and enhancement of native plant communities is the cornerstone of achieving diverse wildlife habitat. Special emphasis will be placed on wildlife habitats that serve multiple species and are critical to threatened and endangered species and species of concern. The basin work group will identify areas of concern and utilize the WHIP and other partnering sources to address these priority areas.

Screening and Ranking Procedure:

WHIP applications are being accepted for FY09 funding. The application cutoff date has not yet been announced.

Eligible applications will be screened and ranked into high, medium, and low categories, in accordance with each  basin’s identified fish and wildlife priorities (basins wildlife issues and ranking), and funded accordingly.

Oregon WHIP Contacts

Local Contact:
Please contact the District Conservationist in the USDA Service Center nearest the location of your property.

Oregon WHIP Program Manager:
Todd Peplin
USDA-NRCS Farm Bill Specialist
625 SE Salmon Avenue
Redmond, OR 97756
Phone: (541) 923-4358 x131 or
           (503) 414-3292
Email:  todd.peplin@or.usda.gov

Last Modified:  02/02/2009

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