Step into our library of conservation wisdom, where we share actionable tips and in-depth guides on maintaining and enhancing land health. Learn how to identify and combat invasive species, create and maintain wildlife-friendly areas, and adopt sustainable land management practices.

 

Our resources are designed to empower landowners with the knowledge and tools needed to foster biodiversity and ecological balance.

Here are 25 land conservation tips for forestry, habitat restoration, and land management:

1. Implement sustainable forestry practices to promote tree growth while ensuring the health of the forest ecosystem.

2. Conduct invasive species removal regularly to prevent non-native plants from overwhelming native vegetation.

3. Create and maintain food plots to support local wildlife populations and increase biodiversity.

4. Engage in selective logging rather than clear-cutting to minimize habitat destruction and promote forest regeneration.

5. Establish buffer zones around water bodies to protect aquatic ecosystems from runoff pollution.

6. Implement erosion control measures, such as planting ground cover and constructing terraces, to prevent soil loss.

7. Promote native plant species in reforestation efforts to ensure ecological compatibility and enhance biodiversity.

8. Conduct regular wildlife population surveys to monitor the health of animal communities and adapt management practices accordingly.

9. Use controlled burns under professional guidance to manage underbrush and promote the health of fire-adapted ecosystems.

10. Limit the use of pesticides and herbicides, opting for natural pest control methods wherever possible.

11. Install wildlife crossings or fencing to reduce animal-vehicle collisions and promote safe wildlife movement across landscapes.

12. Implement water conservation practices, such as rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation, to protect local water sources.

13. Encourage the growth of pollinator-friendly plants to support bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects.

14. Restore wetlands and other natural habitats to enhance water filtration, flood control, and wildlife support.

15. Maintain open land and grassy areas for ground-nesting birds and other wildlife that require specific habitat conditions.

16. Use mulching and other soil health practices to enhance moisture retention and nutrient cycling in the soil.

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17. Participate in or organize community conservation projects to increase awareness and collective action for land protection.

18. Conduct habitat connectivity analyses and strive to connect fragmented habitats to support wider ranges for wildlife.

19. Promote agroforestry practices that integrate trees and shrubs into agricultural land, enhancing ecosystem benefits.

20. Reduce vehicle traffic on sensitive lands to minimize soil compaction and disturbance to wildlife.

21. Monitor and manage tree diseases and pests using integrated pest management strategies to protect forest health.

22. Implement rotational grazing in pastured areas to improve soil health and grassland productivity.

23. Support local land trusts and conservation programs by participating in or donating to land preservation efforts.

24. Educate the community about the importance of land conservation and sustainable land management practices.

25. Collaborate with local universities, conservation organizations, and government agencies to stay informed on best practices and to contribute to regional conservation efforts.

Implementing these tips can help landowners and land managers contribute to the preservation and enhancement of natural habitats, promote biodiversity, and ensure sustainable use of land resources.

Additionally, there are state and federal funds available to help private landowners with conservation:

 

Federal and State Programs: Various federal and state programs offer funding and technical assistance for land improvement and conservation projects. These include energy assistance programs, Environmental Protection Agency programs like the Clean Water Act Section 319 and Wetlands Program Development Grants, as well as tax incentives and federal incentives like the Farm Operating Loans, Microloans, and the Farmable Wetlands Program (FWP)​​.

USDA Conservation Innovation Grants: The USDA has announced funding opportunities for new tools, approaches, practices, and technologies to enhance natural resource conservation on private lands. These initiatives are part of the broader efforts under the Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) program​​.

Bureau of Land Management Programs: The Bureau of Land Management offers funding for wildlife habitat conservation, aquatic resource management, and plant conservation and restoration management, especially through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act​​.

US Forest Service Support: The State, Private, and Tribal Forestry sector of the US Forest Service provides technical and financial assistance to help sustain the nation's forests and grasslands. They focus on shared stewardship and partnership programs​​. Additionally, the Forest Landowner Support offers competitive grants to support underserved and small-acreage landowners in participating in emerging private markets for climate mitigation or forest resilience​​.

Land Trust Alliance: This organization focuses on supporting land conservation efforts and provides information on federal funding programs that support these initiatives. The Farm Bill and the Land and Water Conservation Fund are highlighted as significant sources of funding for private land conservation​​.

Biden-Harris Administration Investment: Record investments have been made in private lands conservation as part of the Investing in America Agenda, which aims to support the improvement and preservation of natural resources​​.

USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS): NRCS offers various tools and programs to help landowners improve and conserve natural resources on their properties. This includes practices that improve production, reduce costs, and ensure future resource conservation​​.