MLF's Rural Partners program strives to create a "zero depredation" region where both domestic and wild animals are protected through the use of best management practices.

Grants are available to groups and individuals interested in decreasing depredation and reducing the risk of human-wildlife conflicts. You should apply if:

  • You have pets or livestock and want to learn how to increase your animal’s safety.
  • You know how to better protect your domestic animals but the cost is prohibitive.
  • You already have protective measures in place and want to share these methods with others.
  • You are concerned and want to help your community reduce conflicts with wildlife.
  • You live in Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sierra, or Tuolumne County.

CRITERIA FOR ACCEPTANCE

Projects must:

  • involve a youth group in development and implementation of best management practices
  • better protect pets, livestock and wildlife
  • develop a means for continued community education
  • raise matching funds in the form of goods or services
  • be completed by December 2008
TIMELINE

Application Deadline:  Friday, May 30, 2008


MATCHING GRANT

Rural Partners Grants will be awarded equal to the amount raised by the grant applicant, to cover half of the total project cost. Matching Grants will be awarded up to $2,500. The resources raised by the grant applicant can be in the form of goods or services, which can be purchased or donated. Applicants do not need to have resources in hand at the time of applying for the grant.

The Rural Partners Grant and the applicant’s resources must be directly applied toward the implementation of the project. Any excess funds or supplies will be used to expand the project.