CORVALLIS — The Benton County Agriculture and Wildlife Protection Program encourages the proactive use of non-lethal animal damage deterrents in an effort to foster the coexistence of
agriculture, livestock and wildlife in Benton County. The AWPP funds educational outreach and expert consultation services and a merit-based, cost share, reimbursement grant program.
Agricultural operations in Benton County that wish to prevent conflicts with wildlife may qualify for up to $5,000 in reimbursement grant funds for the purchase of proactive non-lethal wildlife deterrents to protect livestock and crops. Individuals experiencing conflicts with beavers may also qualify for grant funds for the purchase of deterrents to protect trees or prevent flooding.
Grant applications are available online beginning at co.benton.or.us/awpp. Applications are due July 30. Grants will be awarded Sept. 1.
Last year, the AWPP awarded over $10,000 in reimbursement grant funds to Benton County farms for the purchase of wildlife-friendly animal damage deterrents to prevent conflicts with wildlife. Awards were made based upon the applicant’s philosophy of animal damage control and the likely effectiveness of the proposed non-lethal deterrents project plan.
The AWPP grant program is in its fourth year. Last year’s grantees were located throughout the county and implemented a variety of non-lethal deterrent projects including upgraded fencing and construction of small barns for enclosing livestock at night.
Learn more about the AWPP, and find information about the grant program at co.benton.or.us/awpp.