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MICHIGAN’S LANDOWNER INCENTIVE PROGRAM – TIER 2 I-8-T-1 LANDOWNER INCENTIVE PROGRAM GRANT PROPOSAL AND SEGMENT 1 FOR THE PERIOD: SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 – SEPTEMBER 30, 2010 MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES Dusted skipper Eastern massasauga rattlesnake Eastern prairie fringed orchid Kirtland’s warbler Mitchell’s satyr butterfly All photographs taken at sites funded by Michigan LIP and by LIP staff. SUBMITTED: FRIDAY, AUGUST 15, 2008 TABLE OF CONTENTS PROJECT STATEMENT: A Landowner Incentive Program that targets at-risk species on private lands and takes action to conserve, protect and enhance habitat for these species using both technical and financial assistance to landowners. ................................................................... 4 SUMMARY: ................................................................................................................................4 Michigan’s Successful Landowner Incentive Program .......................................................... 4 Michigan LIP Accomplishments to Date ............................................................................ 5 NEEDS: .......................................................................................................................................6 Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands Priority Area ..................................... 7 Mitchell’s Satyr Butterfly and Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake ....................................... 7 Copperbelly Watersnake ..................................................................................................... 8 Karner Blue Butterfly ......................................................................................................... 8 Eastern Prairie Fringed-Orchid ........................................................................................... 8 Jack Pine Highlands Priority Area......................................................................................... 9 Kirtland’s Warbler .............................................................................................................. 9 Dusted Skipper, Secretive Locust and Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake ........................... 9 Lake Superior Forest Priority Area ...................................................................................... 10 Canada Lynx ..................................................................................................................... 10 Red-Shouldered Hawk, Northern Goshawk and Cerulean Warbler ................................. 11 OBJECTIVES: ...........................................................................................................................11 Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands Priority Area ................................... 11 Objective 1. Wetlands .................................................................................................... 11 Objective 2. Prairies and Savannas ................................................................................ 11 Jack Pine Highlands Priority Area....................................................................................... 12 Objective 3. Jack Pine Forests And Barrens .................................................................. 12 Lake Superior Forest Priority Area ...................................................................................... 12 Objective 4. Mesic Conifers .......................................................................................... 12 EXPECTED RESULTS AND BENEFITS: ..............................................................................12 Preventing extinction ............................................................................................................ 15 APPROACH: .............................................................................................................................15 Program Implementation: Conservation priorities for Michigan’s LIP; addressing local, state, regional and national conservation plans ................................................................... 15 Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands Priority Area................................. 16 Jack Pine Highlands Priority Area .................................................................................... 16 Lake Superior Forest Priority Area ................................................................................... 16 Program Implementation: Specific types of conservation projects, actions and activities .. 17 Detailed Description of Activities ......................................................................................... 18 Prescribed Burning............................................................................................................ 18 Mechanical Shrub Control ................................................................................................ 18 Removal of Invasive Plants .............................................................................................. 19 Wetland Restoration.......................................................................................................... 19 I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 2 of 38 Tree Planting ..................................................................................................................... 20 Fiscal Administrative Procedures: Process to ensure contractual and fiscal accountability ............................................................................................................................................... 20 Fiscal Administrative Procedures: State has approved legal instrument to enter into agreements ............................................................................................................................ 21 System for Fund Distribution: Describe State’s selection or ranking criteria and process to select projects........................................................................................................................ 21 System for Fund Distribution: Ranking criteria are adequate to select projects based on conservation priorities identified in proposal....................................................................... 21 System for Fund Distribution: Objective selection procedure ............................................. 21 Monitoring: Compliance Monitoring ................................................................................... 21 Monitoring: Biological monitoring ...................................................................................... 22 ESTIMATED COST: ................................................................................................................22 Percentage of LIP tier 2 funds used on private lands as opposed to administrative costs .. 22 Non-federal cost sharing ...................................................................................................... 23 Previous LIP funds expended or encumbered ...................................................................... 23 COMPLIANCE: ........................................................................................................................23 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) ........................................................................ 23 Section 7, Endangered Species Act (ESA) ............................................................................ 25 National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) ........................................................................ 25 Other Federal Compliance Issues ........................................................................................ 25 PROJECT PERSONNEL: .........................................................................................................26 LITERATURE CITED: .............................................................................................................26 APPENDIX A: Segment 1 Accomplishment and Budget Detail for the Expenditure Period 30 September 2008 through 30 September 2010 ............................................................................... 28 APPENDIX B: At-risk species that are expected to benefit from Michigan LIP. ................. 30 APPENDIX C: LIP Landowner Agreement........................................................................... 33 APPENDIX D: LIP Project Description Form ....................................................................... 35 APPENDIX E: MDNR In-kind Match Form ......................................................................... 36 APPENDIX F: LIP Funding Evaluation Form ...................................................................... 38 I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 3 of 38 PROJECT STATEMENT: A Landowner Incentive Program that targets at-risk species on private lands and takes action to conserve, protect and enhance habitat for these species using both technical and financial assistance to landowners. SUMMARY: The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), Wildlife Division is requesting $765,760 in federal funds through this Tier 2 Landowner Incentive Program grant proposal. This proposal identifies 12 species at-risk and their associated habitats as our conservation priorities based on their urgency and need for immediate conservation action, their dependency on private land and their listing as species of greatest conservation need in Michigan’s Wildlife Action Plan (WAP). To focus our efforts and maximize benefits for our 12 conservation priorities, we propose to provide financial and technical assistance to private landowners in 3 priority regions across the state: 1) Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands, 2) Jack Pine Highlands and 3) Lake Superior Forest. In the Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands priority region we propose to restore wetlands for the Mitchell’s satyr butterfly (Neonympha mitchellii mitchellii), the eastern massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus cantenatus) and the copperbelly watersnake (Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta). Prairie and savanna will be restored in this priority region for the Karner blue butterfly (Lycaeides melissa samuelis) and the eastern prairie fringed orchid (Platanthera leucophaea). In the Jack Pine Highlands we propose to restore jack pine and jack pine barrens for Kirtland’s Warbler (Dendroica kirtlandii), dusted skipper (Atrytonopsis hianna), secretive locust (Appalachia arcana) and the eastern massasauga rattlesnake. In the Lake Superior Forest we propose to restore mesic conifers for Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis), Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea), Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) and the Redshouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus). Conservation actions proposed to benefit our 12 conservation priorities include prescribed fire, mechanical shrub removal, removal of invasive plants, prairie planting, wetland restoration and tree planting. Benefits to the targeted species atrisk include minimizing the potential for the extinction of the Mitchell’s satyr butterfly, Karner blue butterfly and the copperbelly water snake and increasing the population viability of the remaining nine species at-risk. Overall, the MDNR will provide financial assistance to landowners managing or restoring 2,800 acres of habitat for 12 target at-risk species as well as 79 associated at-risk species. Michigan’s Successful Landowner Incentive Program The Michigan Landowner Incentive Program conserves, protects and enhances habitat for species at-risk on private lands by providing technical and financial assistance to landowners. Michigan’s program is targeted, ecosystem-based and identifies key priority areas to restore habitat for species at-risk. This approach compliments the structure of the habitat-based Wildlife Action Plan, developed as part of Michigan Department of Natural Resource’s participation in I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 4 of 38 the State Wildlife Grant program. Consequently, Michigan’s LIP is an important tool for implementing MDNR’s Wildlife Action Plan. In addition, these priority habitat focus areas were developed in cooperation with MDNR’s Wildlife Division Management Team and regional steering committees comprised of natural resource professionals from federal and state agencies along with non-profit organizations. Michigan’s LIP was initiated in 2003 with MDNR’s first successful LIP grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Before LIP, MDNR’s private lands program was information based and did not provide direct assistance to landowners. The addition of LIP funds has allowed us to manage for at-risk species directly by providing financial assistance along with technical guidance for habitat management. Successful LIP grants have allowed us to add five full time employees (four regional biologists and a LIP program coordinator) to address private lands habitat specifically for at-risk species. By 2006, demand for LIP assistance had already outpaced funding with many needed restoration projects being delayed until 2007 and 2008 because of insufficient funds. Without additional Tier 2 funding, these restoration projects will not be conducted. Michigan LIP Accomplishments to Date Restored more than 5,700 acres of grassland and wetland habitat for atrisk species in southern Michigan. Managed 73% of 15 known private lands sites for Mitchell’s satyr butterfly in Michigan. The amount of satyr habitat has more than doubled at many sites where LIP provided technical and financial assistance (Figure 1). Figure 1. Locations of all known Mitchell’s satyr butterfly populations worldwide and those managed with Michigan’s LIP. Provided technical or financial assistance to 13 landowners with Karner blue butterflies. One landowner had over 3,000 Karner blue butterflies on his property in 2006. Planted over 480,000 jack pine seedlings and created approximately 400 acres of habitat for the federally endangered Kirtland’s Warbler. Approximately 1,300 acres of barrens habitat has been restored using prescribed burning, brush removal and invasive exotic species removal for at-risk species such as dusted skipper and eastern massasauga rattlesnake. Over 1.1 million mesic conifers have been planted in the Upper Peninsula on nearly 4,300 acres for species at-risk such as Northern Goshawk and Red-shouldered Hawk. Documented 79 new occurrences of rare and declining species and 7 new occurrences of natural communities on private lands. One LIP project site was newly documented as the largest pine barren natural community in the state. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 5 of 38 Have spent more than $500,000 annually to restore, enhance and manage more than 12,000 acres for at-risk species since 2004 (Figure 2). LIP Fiscal Year Expenditures and Cumulative Acres 2004-2007 Dollars Cumulative Acres Dollars 12,000 10,000 $600,000 8,000 $400,000 6,000 4,000 $200,000 Cumulative Acres 14,000 $800,000 2,000 $0 0 2004 2005 2006 2007 Year Figure 2. LIP fiscal year expenditures and cumulative acres. AAcresAcres. NEEDS: Loss of habitat through succession, invasive species, timber cutting and agriculture threaten most of the 655 species listed as threatened, endangered or special concern by MDNR and USFWS. Many of these species are only found in globally rare habitats such as prairies, savannas and barrens, which have declined by 99% since the early 1800s. In the Upper Peninsula, over 78% of the conifer forests have been lost and many of the mixed northern forests have also lost their conifer component. Michigan is 79% private land. Many of Michigan’s rarest federally listed species depend almost entirely on private land, and for those species that occur on both public and private land, Federal Recovery Plan goals cannot be met without the assistance of private landowners. For example, there are only 19 known occurrences of the federally endangered Mitchell’s satyr butterfly worldwide; 15 of those sites are on private land in Michigan. Of the four known sites worldwide with the northern subpopulation of copperbelly water snake, three are on private land in Michigan. Overall, more than 75% of the 13,150 occurrences of state and/or federally listed species in Michigan are located on private land, despite the fact that surveys have traditionally targeted public land. Despite the importance of private lands to endangered species and overall biodiversity in the state, only a small fraction of Michigan’s private lands are actively managed to enhance or protect habitat for at-risk species. However, technical and financial support from Michigan’s LIP is critical to these management efforts. Without federal LIP funding, assistance to private landowners will be drastically reduced due to budget constraints within MDNR (Reeves, MDNR Wildlife Division Assistant Chief, 2007, pers. com.). This directly affects the continued existence of critically rare species like the Mitchell’s satyr and copperbelly water snake, which Michigan LIP is actively funding habitat management at more than 50% of occupied sites in the world. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 6 of 38 The importance of private lands for species in decline is documented and supported in several recent planning efforts. Michigan’s Wildlife Action Plan (WAP) was formally approved by USFWS in 2005. The Michigan WAP states that “private lands play a pivotal role in meeting Michigan’s Wildlife Conservation strategies of protecting statewide wildlife diversity” (Eagle et al. 2005). The Michigan WAP identifies the species of greatest conservation need and priority habitats. Using coarse and fine scale information from the WAP, Michigan’s LIP has developed a list of key target species and ecosystems. The implementation of LIP is a key component for the WAP. Michigan has taken a prioritized regional approach to LIP and has grouped the species and habitats into the following priority areas: 1) the Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands, 2) the Jack Pine Highlands of northern Lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula and 3) the Lake Superior Forest region. Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands Priority Area Michigan has lost over 99% of its prairies and savannas and over 50% of its non-forested wetlands. Much of this loss has occurred in the southern part of the state. Prairies, savannas and unique wetlands like prairie fen are home to more rare and declining species than any other habitat type in Michigan (Eagle et al. 2005), including federally threatened and endangered species such as the Mitchell’s satyr, Karner blue butterfly and eastern prairie fringed orchid. These ecosystems are extremely rare and are more endangered than tropical rain forests (Noss et al. 1995). What little habitat remains will continue to decline in the absence of management, putting further pressure on at-risk species. Prolonged fire suppression has led to the invasion of trees and shrubs in formerly open prairie, savannas and wetlands. Invasive species have also taken over extensive areas of habitat. Many wetlands and barrens areas have been converted to agriculture with marginally fertile soil. Overall, species that require open habitat are being pushed to the edge of extinction. Continued funding of Michigan’s LIP is needed to continue to build on past successes in 1) reducing these threats by targeting projects to occupied or potential sites and 2) improving habitat and population viability through habitat restoration activities, which includes prescribed burns and other treatments that set back succession, remove invasive species, restore prairie and savanna in agricultural ground and restore and enhance wetlands. Examples of at-risk species most in need of continued funding, along with their primary habitat threats, are listed below: Mitchell’s Satyr Butterfly and Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Habitat and threats: Prairie fen, a type of wetland unique to the glaciated Midwest with vegetation of both tall grass prairies and calcareous fens. Threats include fire suppression and invasive species. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 7 of 38 19 populations of Mitchell’s satyr butterfly remain worldwide, 15 of which occur entirely on private land in Michigan. Three populations of Mitchell’s satyr have been extirpated since 1990 and an additional six sites had less than five satyrs observed in 2006, putting them in imminent danger of extirpation. Michigan’s LIP provides the primary source of funding for Mitchell’s satyr butterfly habitat management at more than half of the known populations in the world. Continued funding will help prevent extinction of the species. Michigan is the last stronghold for the eastern massasauga rattlesnake and 87% of occupied sites are on private land in southern Michigan. Continued habitat management will help prevent federal listing of the eastern massasauga through Michigan’s participation in a Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (CCAA). Copperbelly Watersnake Habitat and threats: Diversity of wetland types in close proximity in the landscape with vegetated travel corridors in between. Threats include wetland modification, conversion to agriculture and persecution. Only four sites for the listed population remain, three of which are on private land in Michigan. LIP compliments a recent Preventing Extinction Grant awarded to the East Lansing USFWS Field Office for recovery of the copperbelly water snake. Karner Blue Butterfly Habitat and threats: Oak savanna with wild lupine, the only known larval host plant. Habitat is threatened by fire suppression and resulting succession of savanna to closed canopy oak forest. Only 0.02% of Midwest savannas remain (Nuzzo 1986). Michigan is one of the last strongholds for this species. The Recovery Plan sets goals for population and habitat for specific metapopulations. The Bigelow Creek metapopulation, one of Michigan’s largest, exists entirely on private land. Delisting cannot occur without significant participation by private landowners. Eastern Prairie Fringed-Orchid Habitat and threats: Lakeplain prairie, located on flat plains near the Great Lakes. Habitat is threatened by fire suppression, shrub invasion and invasive species. 80% of occurrences are on private land. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 8 of 38 LIP is funding habitat management at one site identified as critical in the Recovery Plan. With continued funding and management, progress will be made toward meeting delisting criteria. Jack Pine Highlands Priority Area Historically, nearly 270,000 acres of pine barrens existed in the state, primarily in northern Lower Michigan where 74% of the land is privately owned. Barrens also are found in portions of the Upper Peninsula. Approximately 99% of Michigan’s barrens habitat has been lost and only a few hundred acres of high quality habitat remain. Forested areas of early successional jack pine (Pinus banksiana) have also severely declined. Historically, wildfire maintained a mosaic of open barrens and dense stands of jack pine. Fire suppression has caused these habitats to convert to closed canopy forest and many species that depend on these communities have declined and are no longer sustainable. Michigan’s Wildlife Action Plan identifies pine barrens and jack pine forests as critically important habitats for at-risk species. There are more globally rare (G3 or rarer) species associated with pine barrens than any other single habitat in northern Lower Michigan; including the federally endangered Kirtland's Warbler, the dusted skipper, the eastern massasauga rattlesnake and the secretive locust. The Kirtland’s Warbler is the most imperiled of these species and its nesting habitat is currently endemic to just a few counties in Michigan’s northern jack pine forests. Progress has been made in managing habitat for this species, but the Kirtland's Warbler Recovery Plan (USFWS, 1985) highlights the need for additional management on private land. Examples of at-risk species most in need of continued funding, along with their primary habitat threats, are listed below: Kirtland’s Warbler Habitat and threats: Nests in young, dense jack pine forests with scattered openings. Threats include fire suppression and conversion of suitable nesting habitat to mature forest. Michigan provides the only nesting habitat in the world, much of which occurs on private land. Additional habitat on private land is needed according to USFWS Recovery Plan. Dusted Skipper, Secretive Locust and Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake Habitat and threats: Jack and oak pine barrens with a 5 to 60% canopy and a diversity of grasses and forbs. Threats include: fire suppression, succession and intensive forestry practices. Over 50% of dusted skipper occurrences and 75% of massasauga rattlesnake occurrences are on private land in the northern Lower Peninsula. Secretive locust is endemic to Michigan and has recently been discovered at numerous private sites. Prescribed burning is necessary to restore and maintain habitat. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 9 of 38 Private landowners are reluctant to take on expensive habitat management without LIP assistance. Lake Superior Forest Priority Area Michigan’s Upper Peninsula contains some of the Midwest’s largest remaining tracts of forested land. While 74% of the land is forested, much of it has undergone a dramatic transition over the past 150 years. Mesic conifers, consisting primarily of white pine (Pinus strobus) and hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), were once important components of the northern hardwood forest but were over-harvested due to their value for lumber and leather tanning purposes. Poor logging practices resulted in severe slash fires that destroyed remaining regeneration. As a result, over 85% of Michigan’s mesic conifer composition has been lost. Because few seed trees remain in many areas today, the only means to reestablish these species is through manual under-planting. Widespread loss of forest cover resulted in the precipitous decline or outright loss of numerous species. As forests have recovered, some species, like the gray wolf, have rebounded. However, other species that require the greater diversity and structure provided by mesic conifers have not recovered. The loss of mesic conifers has resulted in the decline of many neotropical migrant birds and raptors, including the Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea), Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) and Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus). Without mesic conifers on the landscape, the recovery potential for these species is uncertain. On the other hand, the recent documentation of a Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis) in the recovering forest in the Upper Peninsula suggests these forests may provide previously unrecognized potential habitat for this species. Without private land management, restoring forest diversity necessary to sustain at-risk species cannot succeed. While public land managers are seeking to gradually restore white pine and hemlock through programs like the Mesic Conifer Initiative, the initiative offers few resources for private landowners. LIP fills this critical conservation need to assist with the restoration of mesic conifers on private land. Land ownership patterns in the Upper Peninsula are also rapidly changing as corporate timber companies sell large blocks of land to private individuals. This changing ownership represents a critical window of time to educate landowners on the importance of mesic conifers and to assist with planting and retention efforts to benefit species at-risk. Examples of at-risk species most in need of continued funding, along with their primary habitat threats, are listed below: Canada Lynx Habitat and threats: Extensive landscapes of conifer or mixed forest. Threats include forestry practices that reduce the conifer component in the forest (Hoving et al. 2005). Canada lynx occurred historically in Michigan. Because only one specimen has been verified in the state since 1983 (Beyer et al. 2001), no critical habitat was designated in Michigan. Michigan is within dispersal distance of lynx populations in Minnesota and Canada, but extensive habitat with mesic conifers is lacking. Both private and public land is critical due to large home ranges (6,000 – 25,000 acres). I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 10 of 38 Planting mesic conifers will restore lynx habitat lost over a century ago. Red-Shouldered Hawk, Northern Goshawk and Cerulean Warbler Habitat and threats: Large blocks of core nesting habitat in mature, closed canopy hardwood forest with conifer component. Threats include forest fragmentation and lack of tree and prey diversity. Population loss of Red-shouldered Hawk has been estimated at 94% (Brown 1971). A significant number of goshawk and Red-shouldered Hawk nest sites occur on private land in Michigan. Nest productivity is higher in areas with greater mesic conifer abundance and diversity (D. Cuthrell 2006, pers. com). LIP compliments mesic conifer restoration efforts on public land, and is the only program specifically addressing private adjacent land and in-holdings. OBJECTIVES: Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands Priority Area Objective 1. Wetlands Restore or enhance 200 acres of prairie fens and emergent wetlands to benefit Mitchell’s satyr butterfly, eastern massasauga rattlesnake, copperbelly water snake and other associated at-risk species within the grant timeframe. The outcomes of this objective are to: Improve suitable habitat on at least five privately owned prairie fens that harbor Mitchell’s satyr butterfly, thereby preventing the extinction of the species. Improve suitable habitat on three sites for the copperbelly water snake, which will increase connectivity between isolated patches of occupied habitat. Restore or enhance suitable habitats in at least 10 prairie fens for the eastern massasauga rattlesnake. Restore or enhance suitable habitat on 20 sites for 23 additional prairie fen and emergent wetland at-risk species (Appendix A). Objective 2. Prairies and Savannas Restore or enhance 600 acres of savanna and prairie to benefit Karner blue butterfly, eastern prairie fringed-orchid and other associated at-risk species within the grant timeframe. The outcomes of this objective are to: Increase suitable habitat in two metapopulations of the Karner blue butterfly in Michigan. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 11 of 38 Restore or enhance two lakeplain prairie sites occupied by the eastern prairie fringed orchid. Restore or enhance suitable habitat on 15 sites for 29 additional prairie and savanna at-risk species (Appendix A). Jack Pine Highlands Priority Area Objective 3. Jack Pine Forests And Barrens Restore or enhance 500 acres of jack pine and oak/jack pine barrens for Kirtland’s Warbler, dusted skipper, secretive locust, eastern massasauga rattlesnake and other associated at-risk species within the grant timeframe. The outcomes of this objective are to: Increase suitable habitat on five sites for the dusted skipper and the secretive locust. Increase foraging/basking sites for eastern massasauga rattlesnakes on two sites. Increase suitable habitat for the Kirtland’s Warbler on five private in-holdings in state and federal Kirtland’s Warbler Management Areas. Restore suitable habitat on 10 sites for 20 additional jack pine and oak/jack pine barrens atrisk species (Appendix A). Lake Superior Forest Priority Area Objective 4. Mesic Conifers Restore or enhance 1,500 acres of mesic conifers for Cerulean Warbler, Canada lynx, Northern Goshawk, Red-shouldered Hawk and other associated at-risk species within the grant timeframe. The outcomes of this objective are to: Increase landscape connectivity of suitable habitat for Canada lynx. Increase nesting and foraging habitat for Cerulean Warbler, goshawk and Red-shouldered Hawk on 10 sites. Restore suitable habitat on 10 sites for 17 additional mesic conifer at-risk species (Appendix A). EXPECTED RESULTS AND BENEFITS: By completing the objectives of this grant, progress will be made towards the overall goal of Michigan’s LIP to conserve and restore at-risk species. The conservation actions identified in this proposal are expected to benefit 91 at-risk species (Appendix A). Because of their urgency and need for conservation, however, 12 target species have been chosen as priority species for the program. These 12 at-risk species have specific habitat requirements, threats identified in the literature (including the Michigan WAP), conservation actions that are needed and short and long-term benefits (Table 1). I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 12 of 38 Table 1. Expected results and benefits for target species in each priority area. Ranking Criteria: Priority Area 4a Species and Status1 4b Habitat Requirements Mitchell’s satyr Prairie fen Southern butterfly interspersed with Prairies, tamarack Savannas, & (E, SE) Wetlands Karner blue butterfly (E, SE) Oak barrens with lupine Copperbelly watersnake (northern population) (T, ST) Diversity of wetland types in close proximity; travel corridors with vegetative cover Prairie fen and associated upland savanna Eastern massasauga (C, SC) 4c Threats identified in literature including Michigan WAP Invasive plants; Altered fire regime; Habitat fragmentation Conservation Actions Remove invasive plants; Conduct prescribed burns; Reconnect fragmented habitat through corridors 4d Short-term Benefits (0-10 years) Improve habitat quality at 25% of occupied satyr sites in the world; Increase amount of habitat; Improve genetic diversity in fragmented populations Altered fire regime; Conduct prescribed burns; Increase host plant Conversion of habitat Remove pine plantations abundance; Improve habitat to pine plantations; and restore barrens; Requality and quantity; Habitat fragmentation connect fragmented habitat Improve genetic diversity Wetland modification; Restore and enhance Improve habitat quality for Conversion of upland wetlands; 75% of the listed populahabitat to agriculture Restore uplands to native tions in the world; Reduce disrupting travel vegetation; mortality by improving corridors and foraging; Educate private vegetative cover in travel Indiscriminant killing landowners corridors; Reduce killing Altered fire regime; Conduct prescribed burns; Improve habitat by setting Habitat loss through Remove shrubs; back succession; succession; Reconnect fragmented Improve habitat Habitat fragmentation; habitat through corridors; connectivity between Indiscriminant killing Educate private wetland hibernation sites landowners and upland basking sites; Reduce killing 4e Long-term Benefits (10+ years) Increase viability of populations; Prevent imminent extinction of species at one or more sites Meet and exceed federal recovery plan delisting criteria for one or more metapopulations Improve population viability; Prevent imminent extinction of subspecies Improve population viability; Compliment Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (CCAA) actions on public land; Prevent federal listing of species Eastern prairie Open lakeplain Altered fire regime; Conduct prescribed burns; Increase habitat by setting Improve population fringed orchid prairie Habitat loss through Remove shrubs; back succession, viability; (T, ST) succession and Restore agricultural land to preventing imminent local Meet federal recovery conversion to prairie extinction; plan goals for one or agriculture Increase available habitat more populations 1 Status abbreviations: E: Federal Endangered, T: Federal Threatened, C: Federal Candidate, SE: State Endangered, ST: State Threatened, SC: Special Concern. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 13 of 38 Table 1 (continued). Expected results and benefits for target species in each priority area. Ranking Criteria: Priority Area 4a Species and Status1 Kirtland’s warbler (E, SE) 4b Habitat Requirements Threats identified in literature including Michigan WAP Large tracts of Replacement of jack young, dense jack pine with other tree pine with scattered species; openings Altered fire regimes; Habitat fragmentation Upland pine Altered fire regime; barrens in close Habitat loss through proximity to succession; lowland cedar Habitat fragmentation; swamps Indiscriminant killing Jack pine and oak Altered fire regime; barrens with little Conversion of habitat bluestem to closed canopy forest; Habitat fragmentation 4c Conservation Actions 4d Short-term Benefits (0-10 years) 4e Long-term Benefits (10+ years) Increase habitat by 100 Help maintain high, acres; Increase core area of stable population; nesting habitat by targeting Help meet federal sites near existing manage- recovery plan goals for ment units on public land population and habitat Eastern Improve habitat quality and Improve population massasauga quantity by setting back viability; Compliment (C, SC) succession; Improve habitat CCAA actions on public connectivity; land; Prevent federal Reduce killing listing of species Dusted skipper Restore and enhance Improve population (ST) habitat at 5 or more viability; occupied sites; Reconnect Increase potential for fragmented habitat and downgrading or improve genetic integrity delisting species Secretive locust Jack pine and oak Altered fire regime; Conduct prescribed burns; Restore and enhance Improve population (SC) barrens, often with Conversion of habitat Restore oak and pine habitat at 5 sites viability; Prevent bog depressions to closed canopy forest barrens federal listing Canada lynx Extensive Forestry practices that Restore and enhance forest Restore habitat on 500 Improve habitat Lake (T, SE) landscapes of reduce conifer by planting conifers in acres; suitability for this Superior forest with conifer component; cutover areas; Educate Retain conifer trees that species; Help meet Forest component Fragmentation of large landowners on importance landowners routinely cut; recovery potential. forest landscapes of retaining conifers Increase prey base Red-shouldered Mature closed Fragmentation of forest Restore and enhance forest Restoring habitat on 500 Improve viability of hawk (ST), canopy hardwood reducing core nesting by planting conifers in acres; population; goshawk (SC), forest with conifer areas; Lack of tree cutover areas; Retain conifer trees that Increase likelihood of and cerulean component diversity in forest Educate landowners on the landowners routinely cut; downgrading species warbler (SC) which threatens proimportance of retaining Improve nest productivity; ductivity; Lack of prey conifers Increase prey base 1 Status abbreviations: E: Federal Endangered, T: Federal Threatened, C: Federal Candidate, SE: State Endangered, ST: State Threatened, SC: Special Concern. Jack Pine Highlands I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Plant jack pine on private in-holdings and at sites adjacent to public land managed for this species; Conduct prescribed burns Conduct prescribed burns; Reconnect fragmented habitat by restoring barrens; Educate private landowners Conduct prescribed burns; Restore oak and pine barrens; Reconnect fragmented habitat Page 14 of 38 Preventing extinction Mitchell’s satyr butterflies are restricted to prairie fens, which are unique and globally rare wetlands. Hydrology and fire historically maintained zones of tamarack savanna that graded into open fen. Altered hydrology, invasive exotic shrub species and lack of periodic fires imperil the survival of the satyr. In the past 15 years, 3 Mitchell’s satyr sites have been extirpated and half of the remaining sites are threatened with imminent extinction due to dwindling habitat. The Mitchell’s Satyr Recovery Team, involving leading scientists from federal and state agencies, universities and non-profit conservation organizations, has concluded that it is critical to retain every population to reduce a potential genetic bottleneck that is an immediate threat to the survival of the entire species. Michigan’s LIP has initiated work on 11 of the 15 privately owned Mitchell’s satyr sites, and in most cases is the sole source of funding for management activities. Management on these lands includes prescribed burns, shrub removal and invasive species control on over 400 acres. Without this habitat management, the Mitchell’s satyr population will continue to collapse towards extinction. The federally listed population of the copperbelly water snake is found only along the Michigan-Indiana-Ohio border in sites with numerous, diverse types of wetlands concentrated in a forested landscape matrix. Occurring in agricultural landscapes, the species is threatened by draining and filling of wetlands, unsuitable travel corridors between remaining wetlands and persecution. Eight populations have become extirpated within the past 25 years in Michigan alone. The northern subpopulation of the copperbelly watersnake remains in only four sites, three of which occur on private land in Michigan. Surveys over the past 20 years indicate these populations are also declining due to habitat loss. Michigan’s LIP is active at two of the three sites, working to restore and enhance wetlands, restore suitable travel corridors and educate local landowners in partnership with the East Lansing USFWS Field Office, which recently received a Preventing Extinction Grant to avert the imminent loss of the species. Without active management, this population of copperbelly watersnake will continue to decline and may become extinct in the near future. The federally endangered Karner blue butterfly is dependent on remnant oak savanna. Historically, frequent fires maintained the open conditions and grassy understory characteristic of savannas. Wild lupine (Lupinus perennis), the only known food source for Karner larvae, is found in remnant oak savanna patches. In addition to dwindling core habitat, critical corridors that connect habitat fragments are in jeopardy. Michigan’s LIP is active at several metapopulations, including one that is located entirely on private land, where post-management monitoring shows progress is being made towards meeting delisting criteria. LIP is providing funding to manage this site and failure to continue habitat management will result in succession, a reduction in the host plant and will threaten the survival of the metapopulation. APPROACH: Program Implementation: Conservation priorities for Michigan’s LIP; addressing local, state, regional and national conservation plans I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 15 of 38 Twelve at-risk species and their habitats were selected as conservation priorities for Michigan’s LIP. These species were selected based on the following criteria: their urgency and need for immediate conservation action, the potential for these species to benefit from habitat restoration work, their dependency on private lands and their listing as species of greatest conservation need in the Michigan WAP. These at-risk species are listed with their habitat type and organized by their priority area: Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands Priority Area See Figure 3: Mitchell’s satyr butterfly and eastern massasauga rattlesnake in prairie fens Karner blue butterfly in savannas Copperbelly watersnake in wetland Figure 3. Locations of Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and complexes Eastern prairie fringed orchid in lakeplain prairie Wetlands Priority Area and location of at-risk species and communities. Jack Pine Highlands Priority Area See Figure 4: Kirtland’s Warbler, eastern massasauga rattlesnake, dusted skipper and secretive locust in pine barrens and early successional jack pine forests Lake Superior Forest Priority Area See Figure 5: Figure 4. Locations of Jack Pine Highlands Priority Area, at-risk species and Kirtland’s Warbler recovery areas. Canada lynx, Red-shouldered Hawk, Northern Goshawk and Cerulean Warbler in areas historically dominated by mesic conifers The above listed priority areas were selected based on the known locations of the target at-risk species, the historical locations of priority habitats, the proportion of private lands and the ability to partner with larger-scale conservation efforts. An integral component of Michigan’s LIP is I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 16 of 38 the ability to work with these conservation efforts including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Partners for Wildlife Program Focus Areas, The Nature Conservancy portfolio sites, the Upper Peninsula Mesic Conifer Initiative and the Recovery Plans for the Mitchell’s satyr butterfly, Karner blue butterfly, copperbelly watersnake, eastern prairie fringed orchid, and Kirtland’s Warbler. This approach provides the framework for our program to work on lands with the best Figure 5. Locations of Lake Superior Forest Priority Area and potential to positively affect the 12 private lands that were historically dominated by mesic conifers. target at-risk species as well as 79 associated at-risk species. There are numerous conservation efforts that Michigan’s LIP is complementing on a local level and include working through land conservancies, townships and watershed groups. The Michigan WAP was developed to provide an ecological, habitat based framework to aid in the conservation and management of species of greatest conservation need. Michigan’s LIP is addressing the following statewide priorities and threats identified in the WAP: Develop and use best management practices, recommended plans or strategies for conservation and management of species at risk. Assist private landowners and create partnerships between conservation organizations/agencies and private landowners for conservation of species at risk and natural communities. Provide education to the public about primary threats to species at-risk. Reduce invasive species and fragmentation, which are the two top priority threats to species at-risk as identified by the Michigan WAP. Program Implementation: Specific types of conservation projects, actions and activities Michigan’s LIP implements a variety of conservation projects and actions to restore or enhance habitat for targeted at-risk species. The LIP biologist determines specific conservation actions to implement based on site-specific threats to multiple species at-risk. To address these threats, the LIP biologist applies one or a combination of the following conservation actions: prescribed burning, mechanical shrub control, removal of invasive plants, prairie planting, wetland restoration and tree planting. Each conservation action helps restore suitable habitat for multiple targeted at-risk species (Table 2). I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 17 of 38 Table 2. Specific conservation projects, actions and activities to benefit target at-risk species. Priority Species in each focus area Activity 1: Prescribed burning Activity 2: Activity 3: Mechanical Removal of shrub control invasive plants Southern Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands Mitchell’s satyr X X X Karner blue butterfly X X X Copperbelly watersnake X Eastern massasauga X X X Prairie fringed orchid X X X Jack Pine Highlands Kirtland’s warbler X Eastern massasauga X X X Dusted skipper X X X Secretive locust X X X Lake Superior Forest Canada lynx Red-shouldered hawk Goshawk Cerulean warbler Activity 4: Prairie planting Activity 5: Wetland restoration Activity 6: Tree planting X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Detailed Description of Activities Prescribed Burning Prescribed burning is an important management tool in fire-dependent ecosystems, including prairies, savannas, fens and barrens. Decades of fire suppression has led to the loss of prairie grasses and forbs required by rare and declining species, has increased shrub invasion and has exacerbated the spread of invasive species. Prescribed burning is conducted according to a carefully designed plan that maximizes benefits to the habitat while minimizing adverse impacts to rare species. For federally listed species, all guidelines are followed regarding amount of occupied habitat that is burned in any given year. Prescribed burns that occur for Michigan LIP projects are conducted by professional contractors. Typically, the LIP biologist meets with the contactor and private landowner to review the management objectives, burn units and weather parameters. Most burns are conducted in the spring and fall. Cost-share is occasionally provided through in-kind match by the landowner for site preparation activities (e.g., establishing fire breaks). Mechanical Shrub Control Mechanical shrub control is used where shrub invasion is so severe that other management tools like prescribed fire are not effective. Shrubs have invaded many formerly open areas in prairies, savannas, barrens and fens due to fire suppression and altered hydrology, virtually eliminating habitat for many rare and declining species like the Mitchell’s satyr butterfly. Shrub control on Michigan LIP projects is conducted by qualified landowners and professional contractors. Activities include using heavy equipment and methods such as brush-hogging and hydroaxing or hand-operated tools such as brush saws and loppers. Methods are selected based I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 18 of 38 on cost efficiency and sensitivity of the site (i.e. wetlands, steep slopes, presence of T/E species, etc.). Where it is appropriate, approved herbicide is applied to cut stumps to prevent resprouting. Landowners frequently take an active interest in their property and conduct the work themselves, with the Michigan LIP program providing training and supplies. Cost-share is provided through in-kind match by landowners. Timing of shrub control is dependent on the biology of the species and ecology of the site but is typically conducted from summer through winter. Removal of Invasive Plants Removal of invasive plants is conducted where infestation poses a critical threat to rare and declining species and their sensitive habitat. This includes shrubs like glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus) and autumn-olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) as well as herbaceous species like reed grass (Phragmites australis), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) and spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa). In sites supporting dwindling Mitchell’s satyr populations, invasive species have reduced available habitat for federally endangered species by 99% and species recovery is dependent upon immediate removal of invasives. Removal of invasive plants is conducted similar to shrub control -- by the landowner or by a contactor that specializes in natural areas restoration. Plants are controlled using one or more of the following techniques: manual, mechanical, chemical, biological and prescribed fire. In all cases, care is taken to maximize control while minimizing non-target damage to other plants and animals. As with mechanical shrub control, landowners may conduct the work themselves, with the Michigan LIP program providing training and supplies. Timing of plant removal is conducted year-round and is dependent on the biology of the species, ecology of the site and the best techniques established in literature and by practical experience. Prairie Planting Prairie planting is conducted in former agricultural areas and each project is carefully selected to maximize benefits to target at-risk species. Planting is conducted by a contractor or the landowner. Frequently, the landowner provides cost-share through site preparation and followup activities like mowing and herbicide application. Supplies and seed are also provided to Conservation Reserve Program landowners in specific areas to increase effectiveness and plant species diversity, enhancing benefits to target at-risk species. Though the landowner has an obligation to maintain a site for the duration of the contract, care is used to ensure planted sites have a high probability of remaining in prairie for perpetuity. Wetland Restoration Wetland restoration is used to reverse draining, filling and hydrologic disruption of wetland ecosystems. Restoration activities may include breaking drain tiles in agricultural fields, plugging ditches and in some cases wetland creation. Overall, wetland restoration is reserved for those sites with a rare species in critical need of additional habitat, such as the copperbelly water snake. Existing wetlands may also be enhanced by removing shrubs and invasive species. Wetland restorations are typically done by contractors through a bidding process, while wetland enhancement is done by both contractors and landowners. Timing of work is dependent on the nature of the work, but may be done year round. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 19 of 38 Tree Planting Tree planting is used when natural regeneration is insufficient to provide the necessary habitat for rare and declining species. To restore vegetated travel corridors between wetlands occupied by the copperbelly water snake, native, fast growing tree seedlings are planted to provide the necessary connectivity in the landscape. To create nesting habitat for the Kirtland’s Warbler, jack pines are planted in trenches at a rate of 1,200 seedlings per acre in a weave pattern, leaving approximately 25% of the land within the planting area in openings for ground nesting and insect foraging. To restore mesic conifers in the Lake Superior Forest region, areas are selected that have a target basal area of approximately 60-80 feet in order to provide enough light for the planted seedlings. White pine and hemlock are the primary species planted with some associated hardwoods to diversify the stand. Seedlings are hand-planted at a rate of 300-400 per acre, targeting canopy gaps and a general spacing of 8 x 12 feet. Fiscal Administrative Procedures: Process to ensure contractual and fiscal accountability When the landowner and LIP biologist agree to implement a project to benefit at-risk species, both will sign a Landowner Agreement (Appendix B). This Agreement is an approved legal contract between the State of Michigan and the landowner. The Agreement references the Project Description (Appendix C), which contains specific contractual items that dictates the roles and responsibilities for all parties involved. Once the Landowner Agreement has been signed and the Project Description form completed, the project will be implemented. Funding for the project will be distributed via one of the following three processes: Landowner initiated – the landowner will be reimbursed for expenses authorized through the Landowner Agreement and Project Description. State initiated – the State will contract with qualified vendors through authorized purchasing procedures. Contracts for individual properties or groups of properties will be acquired through a bid process. State materials – the State will provide the materials directly to the landowner or a contractor for use on a project. To ensure fiscal and contractual accountability, each project will be reviewed and certified by a LIP biologist before the release of funds to either a landowner or contractor. The LIP biologist ensures the project adheres to the terms of the Landowner Agreement and Project Description. If any deviation is found, a committee will review the project for compliance with intended outcomes. For example, tree plantings will be inspected for proper planting and spacing. A total of 36% non-federal match will be supplied to the program, with the State of Michigan providing 29% of non-federal match through internal funds, and the remaining 7% match coming from landowners. Landowners will be encouraged to donate their own labor, equipment and funds. Cost-share provided through in-kind match is accounted for using standard federal guidelines and is entered on a “record for professional services or skilled labor donation of time, materials or equipment” form (Appendix D). I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 20 of 38 Fiscal Administrative Procedures: State has approved legal instrument to enter into agreements The MDNR has developed a Landowner Agreement (Appendix B) specifically for LIP. This document was approved in 2004 by the Department’s legal staff and the Wildlife Division Management Team. It is a legally binding agreement between the State and the landowner and details the responsibilities, costs and liabilities of the State and the landowner. System for Fund Distribution: Describe State’s selection or ranking criteria and process to select projects The LIP biologist selects projects to fund through a decision making process guided by the results of the Funding Evaluation form (Appendix E). The LIP biologist visits with numerous private landowners and evaluates many potential projects throughout the year. The Funding Evaluation form clearly identifies the specific criteria used by the LIP biologist and is completed for each landowner. These criteria were developed in cooperation with the regional steering committees and are identified below: Presence of target at-risk species (on site or adjacent) Presence of target habitat (existing or potential) Location of project in a LIP Priority Area Cost-benefit evaluation (short-term and long-term) Threats and opportunities Landowner/partner match System for Fund Distribution: Ranking criteria are adequate to select projects based on conservation priorities identified in proposal Each LIP biologist will prioritize and select projects based on funding availability and the above criteria. Priority will be given to the 12 target at-risk species identified as conservation priorities for Michigan’s LIP and projects that have potential to achieve the greatest ecological benefit. By focusing on the best possible impact to at-risk species, this qualitative ranking process will be objective and allow experienced professionals to choose the best projects with the least administrative cost to the program. System for Fund Distribution: Objective selection procedure As a final step in project selection, an internal committee reviews the slate of projects proposed for funding and the results of the Funding Evaluation forms. This committee is comprised of LIP staff, the MDNR’s private lands coordinator and federal aid coordinator and staff from the Michigan Natural Features Inventory. Monitoring: Compliance Monitoring I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 21 of 38 Projects will be monitored for compliance immediately upon project completion and at least once thereafter until the end of the agreement (averaging 10-15 years). Landowners that fail to meet the requirements of the Landowner Agreement will be subject to investigation. If the investigation shows the landowner did knowingly alter the habitat from the original intention of the Agreement, then they will be required to reimburse the State’s LIP funds. Monitoring: Biological monitoring A LIP biological monitoring plan has been developed for LIP based on protocol used by the U.S. Forest Service and this plan is currently being implemented on a pilot basis. The strategy includes an assessment of potential monitoring methods as well as detailed methods for specific target species and their habitat. In general, a hierarchical approach will be used that allows resources to be concentrated on sites, habitats and species of greatest interest. Where progress toward accomplishing short-term and long-term benefits is determined to be unsatisfactory, adaptive management strategies will be used to ensure goals and objectives are met. Monitoring will be conducted by LIP biologists as well as by conservation partners such as the Michigan Natural Features Inventory in a way that maximizes the quality of information and expertise while minimizing time and resources. Specifics of the monitoring plan are as follows: At all project sites, photo points will be used to document baseline conditions and monitor habitat changes over time due to management. At selected sites (including occupied habitat for federally listed species), more intensive habitat monitoring such as plot sampling and course-level metrics will be utilized to track progress toward specific restoration goals. On sites with potential habitat or old records for listed species, a presence/absence survey will be conducted with the assistance of the Michigan Natural Features Inventory. At sites with known rare species, population monitoring will range from presence-absence to marked-recapture studies, depending on the species, listing status and site. In general, more intensive methods will be used for rarer species. For federally listed species, all monitoring will be done in conjunction with established protocols to guarantee compatibility with data collected by other public agencies and nongovernmental organizations. Long term monitoring with additional partners such as universities and research organizations will be established when possible. This will ensure that benefits to at-risk species initiated by LIP effects will be monitored well beyond the scope of this proposal. ESTIMATED COST: Percentage of LIP tier 2 funds used on private lands as opposed to administrative costs Only 2 % of the total budget is spent on administrative costs. A majority of the funds (98%) will be used directly for providing technical and financial assistance. Additional administrative costs I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 22 of 38 such as presentations, meetings, planning and staff support will be implemented using Tier 1 funds. Non-federal cost sharing The following estimated costs cover the period from October 2007, through September 2009. The total non-federal match is found below, amounting to $430,740 (36%). Landowners may provide in-kind match on their individual agreements up to 25% of the agreement costs that will provide an estimated $86,702. All of the state match provided to this proposal will be cash. We will accept partial funding if full funding is not available. FY 08-09 Segment 1 Objectives 1. Prairie fens and emergent wetlands $325,000 2. Savannas and prairies $325,000 3. Jack pine forests and barrens $250,000 4. Mesic conifers $296,500 Totals $1,196,500 Federal Share (64%): State Share (29%): Other Share (7%): $765,760 $344,038 $86,702 Previous LIP funds expended or encumbered Previously awarded federal Tier 2 funds from 2003 total $1,351,717, and from 2005 total $475,000. To date 79% of these funds have been encumbered or spent. A portion of funds will be spent on staff salary yet this fiscal year in order to implement projects, but are not reported as encumbered. Last year, an additional $765,760 Tier 2 grant was awarded to Michigan’s LIP program. COMPLIANCE: In developing the Michigan LIP, methods for complying with state and federal statutes have been developed and used. During the process of assessing various needs for compliance, we have strived for streamlining procedures while ensuring requirements have been met. Our process for complying is tracked and organized for each individual landowner. Implementation of this program occurs in a manner that does no harm to cultural, historical and environmental resources. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) The activities supported by this grant for this project statement will not have a significant impact on the quality of the human environment. These activities are completely covered by categorical I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 23 of 38 exclusions 1.3 and 1.10 in Appendix 1 to 516 DM Chapter 2 and/or 1.4A(2-3), 1.4B(3-6, 8) and 1.4C(1) in 516 DM Chapter 8.5. The definitions of the categorical exclusions used are as follows: 516 DM 2, Appendix 1 – Department of the Interior Categorical Exclusions revised in the Federal Register: March 8, 2004 (Volume 69, Number 45) 1.3 Routine financial transactions including such things as salaries and expenses, procurement contracts (in accordance with applicable procedures and Executive Orders for sustainable or green procurement), guarantees, financial assistance, income transfers, audits, fees, bonds, and royalties. 1.10 Activities which are educational, informational, advisory, or consultative to other agencies, public and private entities, visitors, individuals, or the general public. 516 DM 8.5 – US Fish and Wildlife Service Categorical Exclusions – Effective Date 5/27/2004 1.4A(2) Personnel training, environmental interpretation, public safety efforts, and other educational activities, which do not involve new construction or major additions to existing facilities. 1.4A(3) The issuance and modification of procedures, including manuals, orders, guidelines, and field instructions, when the impacts are limited to administrative effects. 1.4B(3) The construction of new, or the addition of, small structures or improvements, including structures and improvements for the restoration of wetland, riparian, instream, or native habitats, which result in no or only minor changes in the use of the affected local area. The following are examples of activities that may be included. (a) The installation of fences. (b) The construction of small water control structures. (c) The planting of seeds or seedlings and other minor revegetation actions. (d) The construction of small berms or dikes. (e) The development of limited access for routine maintenance and management purposes. 1.4B(4) The use of prescribed burning for habitat improvement purposes, when conducted in accordance with local and State ordinances and laws. 1.4B(5) Fire management activities, including prevention and restoration measures, when conducted in accordance with Departmental and Service procedures. 1.4B(6) The reintroduction or supplementation (e.g., stocking) of native, formerly native, or established species into suitable habitat within their historic or established range, where no or negligible environmental disturbances are anticipated. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 24 of 38 1.4B(8) Consultation and technical assistance activities directly related to the conservation of fish and wildlife resources. 1.4C(1) The issuance, denial, suspension, and revocation of permits for activities involving fish, wildlife, or plants regulated under 50 CFR Chapter 1, Subsection B, when such permits cause no or negligible environmental disturbance. These permits involve endangered and threatened species, species listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), marine mammals, exotic birds, migratory birds, eagles, and injurious wildlife. Section 7, Endangered Species Act (ESA) During the first phase of Tier 2 implementation, we found it necessary for long-term survival of federally listed endangered species to work in occupied habitat. To date four federally listed species, the Mitchell’s satyr butterfly, Karner blue butterfly, copperbelly water snake and eastern prairie fringed orchid, have required formal consultation with the USFWS under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. Because of the urgency to work in occupied habitat while maintaining efficiency, we have sought a programmatic consultation for these species. This approach has resulted in our ability to obtain permission to work in occupied habitat on multiple sites for the Mitchell’s satyr butterfly and Karner blue butterfly under one consultation. We are also refining our final draft Phase 1 form for the copperbelly water snake and eastern prairie fringed orchid. National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Many management methods will not have any effects on sites that are listed or potentially eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. These would include those activities on lands that have been in active agriculture in the past 50 years and do not involve soil disturbance below normal plow depth. This includes plowing, seeding using no-till drill, cultipacking, hand clearing of brush and trees and prescribed fire for those areas with no structures more than 50 years old present. For sites that have not been in active agriculture in the past 50 years and those activities likely to disturb the soil below the average plow depth, the State Historic Preservation Officer will be contacted and a site specific Section 106 review will be prepared. Other Federal Compliance Issues The activities supported by this grant for this project statement do not involve any other federal compliance issue. MDNR will comply with all applicable Federal laws, regulations and policies including but not limited to Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, Executive Order 11987 Exotic Organisms, Floodplains and Wetlands Protection, Animal Welfare Act of 1985 and Coastal Barriers Resources Act of 1982. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 25 of 38 PROJECT PERSONNEL: Federal Aid Coordinator Eric Sink MDNR Federal Aid Coordinator Financial Services Division (517) 335-1064 Grant Coordinator Stephen Beyer Wildlife Division Federal Aid Coordinator Wildlife Division (517) 241-3450 Project Leader Mark Sargent Private Lands Coordinator Wildlife Division (517) 241-0666 Objectives Coordinator Susan Tangora LIP Coordinator Wildlife Division (517) 241-1153 LITERATURE CITED: Beyer, D.E. Jr, B.J. Roell, J.H. Hammill, R.D. Earle. 2001 Records of Canada lynx, Lynx canadensis, in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, 1940-1997. Canadian Field-Naturalist 115 (2) 234-240. Brown, W.H. 1971. Winter population trends in the Red-shouldered Hawk. Am. Birds 25:81317. Eagle, A.C., E.M. Hay-Chmielewski, K.T. Cleveland, A.L. Derosier, M.E. Herbert, and R.A. Rustem, eds. 2005. Michigan's Wildlife Action Plan. Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Lansing, Michigan. 1592 pp. http://www.michigan.gov/dnrwildlifeactionplan Hoving, C.L., D.J. Harrison, W.B. Krohn, R.A. Joseph, and M. O’Brien. 2005. Broad-scale determinates of Canada lynx occurrence in eastern North America. Journal of Wildlife Management. 69:739-751. Noss, R.F., E.T. LaRoe III, and J.M. Scott. 1995. Endangered Ecosystems of the United States: A preliminary assessment of loss and degradation. Biological Report 28, National Biological Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, DC. Nuzzo, V. 1986. Extent and status of Midwest oak savanna: presettlement and 1985. Natural Areas Journal 6:6-36. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 26 of 38 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1985. Kirtland’s warbler recovery plan (updated 1985). An unpublished report prepared by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service). 1997. Recovery plan for Mitchell’s satyr butterfly (Neonympha mitchellii mitchellii French). Ft. Snelling, MN. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1999. Agency Draft Indian Bat (Myotis sodalis) Revised Recovery Plan. Fort Snelling, Minnesota. 53pp. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1999. Eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid (Platanthera leucophaea) Recovery Plan. Fort Snelling, Minnesota. 62pp. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2003. Final Recovery Plan for the Karner Blue Butterfly (Lycaeides melissa samuelis). US Fish and Wildlife Service, Fort Snelling, Minnesota. 122pp. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 27 of 38 APPENDIX A: Segment 1 Accomplishment and Budget Detail for the Expenditure Period 30 September 2008 through 30 September 2010 SUMMARY: This Grant Segment supports the continued expansion of MDNR’s Landowner Incentive Program to address at-risk species’ needs on private lands. This Segment targets 12 species atrisk and their associated habitats as our conservation priorities based on their urgency and need for immediate conservation action, their dependency on private land and their listing as species of greatest conservation need in Michigan’s Wildlife Action Plan. To focus our efforts and maximize benefits for our 12 conservation priorities, we will provide financial and technical assistance to private landowners in 3 priority regions across the State: 1) Southern Michigan Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands, 2) Jack Pine Highlands and 3) Lake Superior Forest. PLANNED ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ESTIMATED COSTS BY PROJECT STATEMENT OBJECTIVES: Project Statement and Objectives Planned Accomplishments Reporting Units Estimated Cost1 A Landowner Incentive Program that targets at-risk species on private lands and takes action to conserve, protect and enhance habitat for these species using both technical and financial assistance to landowners. 1. Prairie fens and emergent wetlands 200 Acres $325,000 2. Savannas and prairies 600 Acres $325,000 3. Jack pine forests and barrens 500 Acres $250,000 1,500 Acres $296,500 4. Mesic conifers Project Total $1,196,500 1 The costs provided are for grant evaluation purposes only. These values will not be included in Financial Status Reports nor are they subject to financial audits. Actual grant expenditure tracking with supporting documentation necessary for audit purposes will not be maintained by MDNR at the objective level. All financial tracking and reporting for the purposes of audits is at the grant level only. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 28 of 38 BUDGET SUMMARY: Expenditure Period: 30 September 2008 – 30 September 2010 Salaries and Wages $123,915 Fringe Benefits (38%) $47,088 Salary Sub-total Indirect Rate (18.11%) $171,003 $30,969 Total Salaries Contracts $201,971 $725,000 Travel $5,000 Equipment $10,000 Supplies, Services and Materials $250,000 Project Sub-total Indirect for Audit (0.38%) $1,191,971 $4,529 TOTAL COST $1,196,500 Federal Share: $765,760 Other Share: $86,702 State Share: $344,038 SEGMENT CONDITIONS REQUEST 1. MNDR requests that expenditures for Segment 1 not be subject to the prior written approval requirements of 43 CFR 12.70(c)(1)(ii), the “10 percent rule.” I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 29 of 38 APPENDIX B: At-risk species that are expected to benefit from Michigan LIP. (91 species total, target species in bold.) Southern Prairies, Savannas and Wetlands (52 species, targeted species bold) Common Name Animals American bittern Angular spittlebug Black rat snake Blanchard's cricket frog Blanding's turtle Blazing star borer moth Copperbelly water snake Culver's root borer moth Dickcissel Eastern box turtle Eastern fox snake Eastern massasauga Frosted elfin Grasshopper Sparrow Henslow's Sparrow Karner blue butterfly King Rail Kirtland's snake Land snail Leadplant flower moth Least shrew Maritime sunflower borer Marsh Wren Loggerhead Shrike Mitchell's satyr Newman's brocade Ottoe skipper Persius duskywing Phlox moth Poweshiek skipperling Prairie vole Regal fritillary Short-eared Owl Silphium borer moth Spartina moth Spotted turtle Swamp metalmark Tamarack tree cricket Tawny crescent Three-staff underwing Woodland vole (continued) Scientific Name Botaurus lentiginosus Lepyronia angulifera Elaphe obsoleta obsoleta Acris crepitans blanchardi Emys blandingii Papaipema beeriana Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta Papaipema sciata Spiza americana Terrapene carolina carolina Elaphe vulpina gloydi Sistrurus catenatus catenatus Incisalia irus Ammodramus savannarum Ammodramus henslowii Lycaeides melissa samuelis Rallus elegans Clonophis kirtlandii Catinella exile Schinia lucens Cryptotis parva Papaipema maritima Cistothorus palustris Lanius ludovicianus migrans Neonympha mitchellii mitchellii Meropleon ambifusca Hesperia ottoe Erynnis persius persius Schinia indiana Oarisma poweshiek Microtus ochrogaster Speyeria idalia Asio flammeus Papaipema silphii Spartiniphaga inops Clemmys guttata Calephelis mutica Oecanthus laricis Phyciodes batesii Catocala amestris Microtus pinetorum I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR MI Status SC SC SC SC SC SC E SC SC SC T SC T SC T T E E SC E T SC SC E E SC T T E T E E E T SC T SC SC SC E SC US Status SOC LT SOC C PS SOC LE SOC SOC SOC SOC LE SOC SOC SOC SOC SOC SOC SOC GRank G4 G3 G5T5 G5T5 G4 G3 G5T2T3 G3G4 G5 G5T5 G5T3 G3G4 G3 G5 G4 G5T2 G4 G2 G2 G4 G5 G4 G5 G4T3 G1G2 G3G4 G3G4 G5T1T3 G2G4 G2G3 G5 G3 G5 G3G4 G2G4 G5 G3G4 G1G2 G4 G4 G5 Wetland Prairie/ Savanna X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Page 30 of 38 Common Name Plants Edible valerian Leiberg's panic-grass Kitten-tails Mat muhly Pale moonwort Prairie fringed orchid Prairie smoke Skinner's gerardia Sullivant's milkweed Tall green milkweed White lady-slipper Scientific Name Valeriana edulis var. ciliata Panicum leibergii Besseya bullii Muhlenbergia richardsonis Botrychium pallidum Platanthera leucophaea Geum triflorum Agalinis skinneriana Asclepias sullivantii Asclepias hirtella Cypripedium candidum MI Status T T T T SC E T E T T T US Status SOC SOC LT SOC GRank G5T3 G5 G3 G5 G2G3 G2 G5 G3 G5 G5 G4 Wetland Prairie/ Savanna X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Jack Pine Highlands (24 species, targeted species bold) MI Status US Status Nicrophorus americanus Papaipema beeriana Merolonche dolli Atrytonopsis hianna Sistrurus catenatus catenatus Incisalia irus Lepyronia gibbosa Pyrgus wyandot Dendroica kirtlandii Hesperia ottoe Erynnis persius persius Eacles imperialis pini Dendroica discolor Prosapia ignipectus Appalachia arcana Tympanuchus phasianellus Pygarctia spraguei Falcipennis canadensis H SC SC T SC T T SC E T T SC E SC SC SC SC SC LE Prunus alleghaniensis var. davisii Asclepias ovalifolia Cirsium hillii Agoseris glauca Festuca scabrella Juncus vaseyi SC Common Name Scientific Name Animals American burying beetle Blazing star borer Doll's merolonche Dusted skipper Eastern massasauga Frosted elfin Great plains spittlebug Grizzled skipper Kirtland's Warbler Ottoe skipper Persius duskywing Pine imperial moth Prairie Warbler Red-legged spittlebug Secretive locust Sharp-tailed Grouse Sprague's pygarctia Spruce Grouse Plants Alleghany plum Dwarf milkweed Hill's thistle Pale agoseris Rough fescue Vasey’s rush I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR E SC T T T C SOC SOC LE SOC SOC GRank G2G3 G3 G3G4 G4G5 G3G4 G3 G3G4 G1G2Q G1 G3G4 G5T1T3 G5T3 G5 G4 G2G3 G4 G5 G5 G4T3 SOC G5 G3 G4G5 G5 G5 Page 31 of 38 Lake Superior Forest (21 species, targeted species bold) Common Name Animals Bald Eagle Cerulean Warbler Cooper's Hawk Gray wolf Land snail Long-eared Owl Lynx Merlin Moose Northern Goshawk Rapids clubtail Red-shouldered Hawk Spike-lip crater Wood turtle Scientific Name Haliaeetus leucocephalus Dendroica cerulea Accipiter cooperii Canis lupus Vertigo paradoxa Asio otus Felis lynx Falco columbarius Alces alces Accipiter gentilis Gomphus quadricolor Buteo lineatus Appalachina sayanus Glyptemys insculpta MI Status T SC SC T SC T E T SC SC SC T SC SC US Status SOC LT SOC GRank G4 G4 G5 G4 G3Q G5 G5 G5 G5 G5 G3G4 G5 G5 G4 Plants Assiniboia sedge Fairy bells Goblin moonwort Hart's-tongue fern T E T E Large toothwort Carex assiniboinensis Disporum hookeri Botrychium mormo Asplenium scolopendrium var americanum Dentaria maxima T G5Q Three-birds orchid Walking fern Triphora trianthophora Asplenium rhizophyllum T T G3G4 G5 I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR SOC LT G4G5 G5 G3 G4T3 Page 32 of 38 APPENDIX C: LIP Landowner Agreement Michigan Department of Natural Resources – Wildlife Division LANDOWNER INCENTIVE PROGRAM - WILDLIFE HABITAT MANAGEMENT Required under authority of Act 451 of PA of 1994, as amended. LANDOWNER AGREEMENT This Agreement between ____________________________ hereinafter referred to as “Cooperator(s),” and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division, hereinafter referred to as “Division,” is authorized by the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451. The Division and the Cooperator(s) agree to carry out certain wildlife management practices and habitat developments on land owned by the Cooperator(s) as described in the attached Project Description and identified on the attached map and/or aerial photograph. The Cooperator(s) agrees to join as a participant in a Landowner Incentive Program, hereinafter referred to as Program. The Cooperator(s) grants authorization to the Division to carry out wildlife habitat developments and/or agrees to personally carry out wildlife habitat development and management activities with financial or material support, as described in the Project Description. Any supplies, equipment or direct payment from the Division to the Cooperator(s) for carrying out wildlife habitat developments are also detailed in the Project Description. The Cooperator(s) further agrees to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Assume responsibility for securing federal, state and local permits needed to carry out the proposed habitat development project. Allow the wildlife habitat development project described in the Project Description to remain in place for a period of __________ years from the date of the Cooperator’s signature on this Agreement. Allow the Division staff or an appropriate representative reasonable access to the described property for the period of this Agreement in order to complete the agreed upon habitat development project and to make periodic inspections of the habitat development for program monitoring purposes. Notify the Division in writing at least 30 days before closing of any planned sale or other change in the ownership of the described property. Complete all Cooperator(s) responsibilities as listed in Section ____ of the Project Description. The Division assumes no authority over the described property for purposes of controlling trespass, for controlling noxious weeds, for identifying or removing pre-existing hazards including waste materials, for granting rights of way, or for any other incidents of ownership. The Cooperator(s) shall own all of the completed or installed developments and shall be solely responsible for paying all taxes and assessments on the described property. LIABILITY. The Cooperator(s) hereby releases, waives, discharges and covenants not to sue the State of Michigan, its departments, officers, employees and agents, from any and all liability to Cooperator(s), its officers, employees and agents, for all losses, injury, death or damage, and any claims or demands thereto, on account of injury to person or property, or resulting in death of Cooperator(s), its officers, employees or agents, in reference to the activities authorized by this Agreement. If the Division secures a third party vendor to provide services or equipment for any part or all of the wildlife habitat development project, the Division will require the contractor to list the Cooperator, including its shareholders, officers, employees, and agents, as additionally insured on contractor insurance policies. I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 33 of 38 LANDOWNER INCENTIVE PROGRAM - WILDLIFE HABITAT MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT INDEMNIFICATION. The Cooperator(s) hereby covenants and agrees to indemnify and save harmless, the State of Michigan, its departments, officers, employees and agents, from any and all claims and demands, for all loss, injury, death or damage, that any person or entity may have or make, in any manner, arising out of any occurrence related to (1) issuance of this Agreement; (2) the activities authorized by this Agreement; and (3) the use or occupancy of the premises which are the subject of this Agreement by the Cooperator(s), its employees, contractors, or its authorized representatives. This Agreement may be modified at any time by mutual written consent of the parties. It may be terminated by either party upon 30 days advance written notice to the other party. However, if the Cooperator(s) terminates the Agreement before its expiration, or if the Cooperator(s) should fail to maintain the wildlife habitat development for the length of the Agreement, then the Cooperator(s) agrees to reimburse the DNR Wildlife Division prior to final termination for the pro-rated costs of all habitat development projects placed on the described land through this Agreement. For these purposes the total cost of the development projects to the State are agreed to be $___________________. This agreement becomes null and void upon land being accepted into any USDA Farm Bill program, including extensions, as long as current wildlife habitat development project is maintained. Cooperator Division Signature – Cooperator Signature - Wildlife Biologist Printed name Printed name Date Date Cooperator Signature – Cooperator Printed name Date I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 34 of 38 APPENDIX D: LIP Project Description Form Michigan Department of Natural Resources – Wildlife Division LANDOWNER INCENTIVE PROGRAM PROJECT DESCRIPTION Requested under authority of Act 451 of PA of 1994, as amended. I. LANDOWNER INFORMATION Name Address City State Zip II. DESCRIPTION OF LAND County Township Name Town Range Section Latitude Longitude III. PROJECT PLAN Project Type Wetland acres Grassland acres Jack Pine acres Mesic Conifers acres Barrens acres Provide a brief narrative of the project. (please print) The DNR will: The Cooperator(s) will: IV. FUNDS Partner Equipment Materials Funds Total Cost In-kind $ $ $ $ Total DNR Cost: $ Total Project Cost: $ I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 35 of 38 APPENDIX E: MDNR In-kind Match Form Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division Record for Professional Services or Skilled Labor Donations of Time, Materials and Equipment INSTRUCTIONS: This form must be used by DNR Bureaus/Divisions/Offices for DNR projects that use volunteers when the project is supported with federal funds and/or the volunteer’s time is being used as part of the DNR’s match toward a federal grant. This form or a similar form must also be used by subrecipients of a federal grant made available to another organization by the DNR. The completed form must be submitted to the DNR Wildlife Division in compliance with financial reporting procedures, generally along with a payment request. A copy should be retained by the grant subrecipient. Completed form will also be maintained in the project file of the Wildlife Division along with a copy to the DNR Federal Aid Coordinator. Separate forms shall be completed for each non-DNR person donating professional services or skilled labor to the project MAKE ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THIS FORM AS NEEDED DNR Project OR Subrecipient Project FOR ALL PROJECTS: Federal Grant Number and Title: DNR Project Manager: DNR Grant Coordinator: DNR Project/Activity Code: FOR SUBRECIPIENT PROJECTS: Subrecipient Organization: Subrecipient’s Representative: DONATIONS OF TIME Name of Company or Organization: Person Donating Services: Profession or Skill Area: Description of Work Performed: PROVIDE THE DATE AND HOURS WORKED FOR EACH DAY THAT TIME WAS DONATED TO THE PROJECT: Date Hours Date Hours Date Hours Date Hours Date Hours Date Hours Date Hours Date Hours Valuation Method (for example – Hourly Rate X Total Hours), include notes/comments if necessary: Total Value of Time Donations: I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 36 of 38 OTHER DONATIONS PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY/PERSON ABOVE TOWARD THE PROJECT: MATERALS AND SUPPLIES Description/Amount How Used in Project Valuation Method Value Notes/Comments: Total Value of Materials and Supplies Donated: $ 0.00 EQUIPMENT Description How Used in Project Date Hours Hourly Rate Value $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 0.00 Notes/Comments: Total Value of Donated Equipment Use: $ 0.00 TOTAL VALUE OF ALL DONATIONS: $ 0.00 CERTIFICATIONS Person Donating Services Printed Name Signature Date Signature Date Signature Date Signature Date Signature Date Company or Organization Official Printed Name DNR Grant Coordinator Printed Name FOR DNR PROJECTS: DNR Project Manager Printed Name FOR SUBRECIPIENT PROJECTS: Subrecipient’s Representative Printed Name I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Page 37 of 38 APPENDIX F: LIP Funding Evaluation Form Michigan Department of Natural Resources – Wildlife Division LANDOWNER INCENTIVE PROGRAM PROJECT FUNDING EVALUATION Requested under authority of Act 451 of PA of 1994, as amended. What is the overall impact of the project? What is project size? What is project cost effectiveness ($ per acre)? Is the project technically feasible? Yes No What element occurrences are present? What remnant habitats are present? What is long-term viability of project? What other extenuating circumstances may affect ability to fund? What partners and/or funding sources are involved? Does this project warrant funding? Yes No If yes, what is reason for funding? If no, should project be re-evaluated next year? Yes No EVALUATED BY (please print) Signature I-8-T-1 Michigan’s Landowner Incentive Program – Tier 2, MI DNR Date Page 38 of 38