The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Private Lands Division has opened the second round of its Conservation Incentive Program, making $650,000 available to private landowners for wildlife habitat enhancement projects across the state.
Applications opened January 6, 2026, at 8 a.m. and will be accepted through February 6, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. Funding is competitive, and approved applicants may receive up to $20,000 per landowner for eligible conservation practices.
The program focuses on improving upland forests and native habitats that benefit ground-nesting birds and a wide range of wildlife species. Eligible practices include timber stand improvement at $200 per acre, prescribed burning at $50 per acre, and invasive tree removal at $200 per acre. Each practice requires a minimum of 10 acres and must be supported by a management plan and detailed property map.
Projects are ranked by conservation priority, and funding is awarded to the highest-scoring applications until funds are exhausted. AGFC biologists will assist with planning and will verify project completion before payments are issued. Approved participants must also submit a W-9 form for payment processing.
AGFC officials say the expansion of funding and the increased per-landowner cap reflects strong interest and success from previous pilot rounds of the program, demonstrating a growing commitment to conservation partnerships with private landowners.
Landowners interested in applying can find program details and application materials through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Private Lands Division.
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