Wisconsin Habitat Partnership Fund
Forecasted
Wisconsin Habitat Partnership Fund supports conservation partnerships restoring and maintaining habitat for wild birds and mammals while expanding public hunting, trapping and wildlife viewing in Wisconsin.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027 (annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $10,000–$50,000 for small projects; more than $50,000–$750,000 for large projects; projects typically take two years
Summary: Supports partnerships restoring and enhancing Wisconsin habitat for wild birds and mammals while expanding public hunting, trapping and wildlife viewing.
Key Information: Funded properties must provide public access for hunting, trapping and wildlife viewing for 10 years, 20 years or perpetually, depending on award size.
Description
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) uses the Wisconsin Habitat Partnership Fund to support habitat restoration and enhancement partnerships on public and private land. Funded by the federal Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration program, it focuses on tangible benefits for wild birds and mammals alongside increased public opportunities for hunting, trapping and wildlife viewing.
Projects may restore prairies, wetlands, forests, savannas and streams, or improve habitat through streambank stabilization, timber stand improvement and invasive species control. Maintenance activities include prescribed fire, grassland mowing, upland shrub work and wetland infrastructure maintenance. DNR prioritizes projects that benefit its priority habitats, deliver wildlife conservation and public benefits, create diverse partnerships, and encourage further habitat investment.
