Free technical assistance for wildlife habitat enhancement & food plots

The Otsego Conservation District and the Otsego Wildlife Legacy Society have once again teamed up to help landowners in Otsego County improve wildlife habitat on their property.  There are two programs that are offered through the Conservation District:
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Wildlife Habitat Enhancement Program 2-5 acres

  • The goal of WHEP is to encourage landowners to improve or restore habitat by planting permanent food sources for wildlife such as trees and shrubs that provide year-round forage.  In congruence with planting, landowners are able to enhance wildlife corridors, establish new corridors, and promote buffers to protect, restore, or improve wetlands and riparian areas.
  • Cost-share covers 65% of project costs up to $420 per acre.
  • Plantings are based on soil types and may require site preparation.
  • The District provides a free initial on-site consultation.  If a landowner decides to
  • enter the program, a free planting plan and aerial map of the property will be
  • provided.​
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Food Plots 1-2 acres    

  • The goal of the Food Plots program is to re-establish habitat that has been removed due to increased population in the county. 
  • Food plots created through this program require planting a combination of trees, shrubs, legumes, and grasses.  Annual food plots are not covered by this plan.
  • Cost-share covers 65% of project costs up to $500 per acre.
  • A site inspection and a soil test are required prior to planting.  A soil test can be obtained through the Michigan State University Extension office located in Gaylord.
  • Site preparation and seeding are required.
  • The District provides a free initial on-site consultation.  If a landowner decides to enter the program, a free planting plan and aerial map of the property will be provided.​ 
For more information or to see if you qualify contact Tabitha O'Dell at 
​todell@otsegocountymi.gov  or at (989) 732 - 4021