Recipients must be livestock producers (or a group of producers). May also be an ag youth organization (4-H, FFA, etc.) or a non-profit (including grazing associations) working on behalf of livestock producers.
The project must protect cattle, bison, swine, horses, mules, sheep, goats, or llamas from depredations caused by wolves, grizzly bears, black bears or mountain lions.
Total grant award may not exceed 10% of the value of livestock to be protected (this is calculated by LLB using standard valuation practices).
Prevention practices must be identified as acceptable in Livestock Loss Board (LLB), USDA Wildlife Services, MT FWP publications or policies (or other publications approved by the LLB).
Livestock and land must be located in Montana.
The LLB will verify that grant applicants have paid per capita fees prior to awarding a grant.
- Tribal members must verify animal numbers using approved third-party verification.
Livestock guard dog expenses are limited to:
Priority is given to applicants with a history of depredation by wolves, grizzly bears, black bears or mountain lions.
Applicants must supply a 30% match.
Grant recipients must provide a written report to the LLB within 12 months of receiving an award.
If working on behalf of other producers, each producer must submit a Loss Prevention Grant Supplement with the application.
Common practices funded have included range riding, carcass composting, fencing, fladry, and livestock guardian dog purchase/support.
O Prevention practices must comply with land use restrictions (such as conservation easements, leases, zoning, etc.) and with federal, state, and local laws.
○ Administrative costs cannot exceed 10% of total funding and may not exceed $25/hour.
○ Purchase costs (up to $500 per dog),
Standard veterinary exams and vaccinations.
Food and other costs incurred while the dogs are protecting livestock.
○ Match funding may include cash or in-kind services (such as labor or equipment).
○ Labor may not be valued over $25/hour.
○ Administrative costs may not be used as in-kind match funding.
Grant recipients who fail to provide adequate reports will not be eligible to reapply for a period of three years.