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Programs and Resources in Washington
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Conservation efforts in Washington are supported by a wide range of programs. Landowner incentives, conservation markets, and stewardship tools such as conservation easements and transfer of development rights are some of the avenues that hold the most promise to encourage landowner participation.
Incentive Programs
More than 70 governmental and foundation programs offer some form of incentive to private landowners in Washington to promote conservation activities on their land. Incentive programs are typically categorized as:
- Direct financial incentives, including grants, subsidized loans, cost-shares, and leases.
- Indirect financial incentives such as property or sales tax relief.
- Technical assistance, including referral services, education and training, and design assistance.
- Recognition and certification for products or operations.
Read more about Incentive Programs
Conservation Markets
Conservation markets are financial markets for restoration and conservation “products” produced on private land. The demand often originates with a regulation or mandate that requires a conservation action to compensate for environmental damages.
For example, the largest conservation market in the world—although not yet a market in Washington—is that for carbon credits. It is driven by regulations on greenhouse gas emissions under the Kyoto protocol. Other markets are driven by water quality compliance and environmental mitigation requirements.
Read more about Conservation Markets
Stewardship Tools
These tools are primarily ownership and management options that can be applied to address stewardship needs. They include:
- Land sale or exchange
- Conservation easements
- Transfer or purchase of development rights
Read more about Stewardship Tools
Featured Programs and Resources in Washington
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Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program
The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) provides funding for parks, water access sites, trails, wildlife habitat, and farmland preservation.
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Conservation Futures Programs
The Conservation Futures Programs are acquisition programs in counties applying the state Current Use Taxation law. It provides authority for local governments to raise funds for open space preservation through purchase of easements, development rights, or outright acquisition.
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Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service administers several programs aimed at implementing habitat conservation plans for endangered species.
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Salmon Recovery Funding Board
The Salmon Recovery Funding Board (SRFB) administers two grant programs for protection and restoration of salmon habitat. The board also supports feasibility assessments for future projects and other activities.
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Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account
The Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA) Grant Program provides grant-in-aid support for the purchase, improvement, or protection of aquatic lands for public purposes, and for providing and improving access to such lands.
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Biodiversity Project Incentives Overview
The Washington Biodiversity Project has developed a web page with a tremendous amount of information about conservation funding. Their overview describes the basic categories of conservation incentives and gives examples.
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