If you are interested in understanding some of the options for winter conservation programs this year, please read on! An updated summary of all Conservation Programs in Rice can be found here.

1. BirdReturns-Sandhill Crane Habitat Program: https://birdreturns.org/program/sandhillcranes/.
   1. Please see this flyer for more info.
   2. Includes Flooded and Non-flooded fields for a minimum of 8 weeks between October 1 and March 15. 
   3. Payment rate is $95/acre. 
   4. Hunting is not permitted during enrollment period. 
   5. Applications open now until August 20, 2024. 

2. Fish Food Program: https://calricewaterbirds.org/fish-food/.
   1. Pulsed flooding of rice or wetlands for a minimum of 3 weeks from Oct to April in areas that drain to fish-bearing streams. 
   2. Payment rates vary (bids). 
   3. Applications open now until September 13, 2024. 

3. California Winter Rice Habitat Incentive Program: https://calricewaterbirds.org/cwrhip/.
   1. Currently a limited funding pool of $250,000.
   2. 70 days of continuous flooding between October 15 and March 15.
   3. Payment rates will be $15/acre on East side and $30/acre on West side.
   4. Applications open from August 16 to September 13, 2024.

For questions, contact Kristin Sesser, Wildlife Programs Manager, at (916) 607-8988 or ksesser@calrice.org.