Private Land Management Assistance

Through the Landowners for Wildlife Program the LDWF offers technical assistance to landowners, land managers, hunting clubs and others who desire to improve habitat and manage wildlife on their land.    Assistance can vary from an answer to a simple question to a comprehensive written management plan.  Assistance is not limited to traditional game species, but is available for all wildlife and their habitats - from hummingbirds to longleaf pine savannahs.

This assistance is delivered by LDWF private lands biologists who are available to meet with landowners and managers to discuss their objectives for the property.  With these objectives in mind, the biologist can then assess the current condition of the property and provide suggestions and guidance for management of the property.   Biologists may provide recommendations related to forest management, management of openings, grassland habitat management, integration of wildlife habitat with farming or grazing operations, wetland habitat management, management of impoundments, control of nuisance and invasive species, and harvest recommendations. 

This technical assistance is provided at no cost to the landowner.  However, the landowner is responsible for costs associated with implementation of any management practices.  In some cases, landowners may be eligible for a variety of cost-share programs that provide financial assistance for habitat improvement.  LDWF private lands biologists will help landowners identify these opportunities and provide assistance with the planning and application process.

Many landowners are already working with a natural resource professional such as a consulting forester or are enrolled in state or federal programs such as DMAP, Forest Stewardship, WRP, or CRP.  LDWF private lands biologists will cooperate with other natural resources professionals to achieve the landowner's objectives.  Most importantly, landowners are encouraged to develop a cooperative relationship with LDWF private lands biologists and other natural resource professionals.  Wildlife habitat is dynamic and with the assistance of knowledgeable professionals, landowners can provide productive habitat for wildlife while meeting other goals they may have, such as income generation and recreational opportunity.

For more information or to contact a LDWF private lands biologist, contact one of the LDWF offices.