Benton County awards non-lethal wildlife deterrents grants

Benton County’s Agricultural and Wildlife Protection Program (AWPP) has awarded over $20,000 in non-lethal wildlife deterrent grants for 2022.

Through the AWPP, agricultural operations of any size in Benton County that wish to prevent conflicts with wildlife can apply annually for up to $5,000 for the purchase of non-lethal wildlife deterrents to protect livestock and crops. Applications were reviewed by an award committee comprised of Benton County staff, representatives from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife, OSU Extension, Chintimini Wildlife Center, and an at-large citizen member.   

“We had a number of outstanding grant applications this year and were fortunate to fund several of these around the County to protect poultry, livestock, and a variety of crops while co-existing with wildlife native to Benton County. We still have reimbursable grant funds up to $5,000 available year-round for Benton County residents who wish to implement non-lethal deterrent and mitigation methods for beavers who may be affecting their property” said Sheanna Steingass, AWPP Coordinator.

The AWPP grant program is in its fifth year. This year’s grantees are located throughout the County and include a variety of non-lethal deterrent projects including scare devices, new and updated fencing, and protective netting.   

The next round of general wildlife deterrence grants AWPP funding grants will occur be available in 2023. Currently, reimbursable funds of up to $5,000 can be applied for by landowners who are concerned about conflicts with beaver; these applications are accepted year-round. Information about the AWPP and its associated grant program can be found at co.benton.or.us/awpp.

Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pioinfo@co.benton.or.us.