Northeast Washington Wolf Livestock Management Grant

The Northeast Washington Wolf Livestock Management Grant is administered by the Washington State Department of Agriculture to support community-based efforts that reduce livestock depredation by wolves through nonlethal methods. The program is funded through a state-managed account established under Washington law and is designed to address conflicts between livestock producers and wildlife in specific regions of the state. The grant focuses on collaborative, locally driven approaches that emphasize prevention and coexistence strategies rather than lethal control measures. The primary purpose of the program is to deploy effective nonlethal deterrence resources in areas where wolf-livestock conflicts are most prevalent. These methods include increased human presence such as range riders or herd monitors, as well as the strategic use of equipment and tools designed to discourage wolf activity near livestock. Funded projects must demonstrate the ability to implement proactive and preventative strategies that have been proven to reduce depredation risks, while also maintaining coordination with other ongoing efforts in the region. The program is geographically limited to four counties in northeastern Washington: Okanogan, Ferry, Stevens, and Pend Oreille. Projects must take place in these counties and align with statutory requirements governing the use of funds. The program is structured to ensure that grant funding is directed by a four-member advisory board with expertise in wolf management and livestock protection. This board plays a central role in reviewing applications and guiding funding decisions to ensure resources are allocated effectively and in accordance with legislative intent. The application process for this funding cycle began with the release of the Request for Proposals on May 22, 2025. Proposals were due on June 6, 2025. Applications were reviewed through a structured process that included eligibility screening, technical review by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and final evaluation by the advisory board. Applicants were notified of funding decisions in mid-September, and grant agreements were distributed for signature by the end of September. Funding for this cycle totaled approximately $840,000 available for awards after administrative costs. Projects funded under this opportunity were required to operate within a defined performance period from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2027. Grant funds were restricted to allowable uses that directly support nonlethal deterrence efforts and could not be used for unrelated purposes. Indirect costs were not permitted, and recipients were required to comply with reporting and operational requirements, including documentation of activities and coordination with relevant agencies. Eligible applicants were limited to nonprofit community-based collaborative organizations with advisory boards that include representatives from relevant agencies such as the United States Forest Service and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Individuals and for-profit entities were not eligible to apply. Applicants were expected to demonstrate strong collaboration, community engagement, and the capacity to implement effective livestock protection strategies within the eligible counties. The program operates on a biennial funding cycle aligned with state legislative appropriations. While the application period for this round has closed, additional competitive solicitations may occur in future funding cycles. Applicants are encouraged to monitor announcements from the Washington State Department of Agriculture for updates on future opportunities and program modifications.

Ensure strong collaboration with agencies and demonstrate proven nonlethal deterrence strategies with clear documentation and reporting mechanisms.