California Waterfowl Association (CWA) is extending the application period for the Rice Levee Program, through November 30, 2023. This program is funded by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and provides incentives for rice farmers that are willing to manage their internal levees for upland nesting bird species (Mallard, Gadwall and Pheasant). To participate in this program, rice levees must be reconstructed before January 1st or left from the previous growing season. Enrolled levees must be left undisturbed from January 1st until July 15th.
If you are willing to forgo reworking your rice levees for one year, this might be a program for you! To find out more and to apply visit the California Waterfowl Association’s Website. Application must be submitted by November 30, 2023. All applications will be ranked and successful applicants will be notified by December 8, 2023.
Key Program Requirements:
- Rice levees must be left undisturbed from the growing season or reconstructed by January 1st.
- Rice levees must be left undisturbed until July 15th.
- Participating farmers must allow monitoring of enrolled levees, to document nesting activities.
- Bids are submitted as a cost per linear foot.
- Landowners may be given flexibility if fields are unplanted in the spring.
For questions, please contact Jason Coslovich: 408-644-3525 or jcoslovich@calwaterfowl.org
