Potential land of interest for Habitat Restoration Agreements would be land that is cultivated, previously cultivated, like tame grass, and is adjacent to native grasslands. Cultivation of land in these critical areas leads to habitat fragmentation and decreased connectivity for species at risk. Location of land close to critical habitat for species at risk will be ideal.
All native seed, including host plants for specific species at risk, are sourced and purchased by the SSGF. The rancher is responsible for weed control, land preparation, seeding and establishment. Seed mixes will be developed by SODCAP Agrologist’s and partners to ensure certificates for purity and germination. The seed mixes could be designed to include host plants for species at risk such as, Mormon Metalmark and Monarch Butterfly.
The land must be rested for up to 2 years post establishment to give the native plant species the best chance of survival. Grazing plans will be made in collaboration with a SODCAP Agrologist and the site must be maintained in perennial cover for 30 years. There will be no land use restrictions for the rancher following the terms of the agreement.
Financial incentive will be based on all activities above plus an estimate of lost opportunities through conversion back to perennial cover. In the event that demand for restoration exceeds the financial support available, an environmental benefits index (EBI) was created to prioritize sites for restoration. The habitat restoration EBI takes into account location of the site, proximity to native grasslands and/or critical habitat, species at risk richness in the area, size of restoration site, length of agreement, conservation ethic and producer commitment.