Monarch Butterfly

Over 90% of Ohio’s remaining wildlife habitat occurs on private lands. Likewise,  migratory birds and other resident bird, mammal, and insect species depend on private  land during their breeding, nesting, and brood-rearing seasons.

A Safe Harbor Agreement (SHA) is a voluntary agreement involving private or other non-Federal property owners whose actions contribute to the recovery of species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

A Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) is a planning document designed to accommodate economic development to the extent possible by authorizing the limited and unintentional take of listed species when it occurs incidental to otherwise lawful activities.

The Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration (WSFR) Program administers grant programs that distribute millions of dollars annually to state agencies and Tribes to manage fish, wildlife, and habitats, evaluate and enhance species of greatest conservation need, and provide recreational opportunities for fishing, hunting, shooting, and boating.

Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund (CESCF) grant programs provide funding to states and territories for species and habitat conservation actions on non-federal lands.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, working with others, is responsible for conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish and wildlife and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people through Federal programs relating to migratory birds, endangered species, interjurisdictional fish and marine mammals, and inland sport fisheries.

A variety of tools are available under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to help States and landowners plan and implement projects to conserve species.