Building Wildlife Corridor Research Capacity in Idaho
GrantID: 56683
Grant Funding Amount Low: $4,000,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $5,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Capacity Gaps in Idaho’s Wildlife Management
Idaho's diverse ecosystems, ranging from the Rocky Mountains to the Snake River Plain, face considerable challenges in wildlife management, particularly due to habitat fragmentation and climate change. According to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, certain species, including elk and salmon, have shown significant population declines due to these pressures. As urban areas expand, the natural corridors that wildlife depend on become increasingly restricted. This situation makes addressing these capacity gaps crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring healthy ecosystems across the state.
The primary stakeholders confronting these challenges include state wildlife managers, conservation organizations, and local community groups, all of whom play a part in creating and maintaining wildlife corridors. Rural communities, which often have a deeper connection to the land, are particularly impacted by these shifts. Many residents rely on hunting and fishing for their livelihoods and cultural practices, and thus, the decline in species availability poses both economic and social issues. In addition, urban expansion often leads to increased encounters between wildlife and human populations, raising public safety concerns and further complicating wildlife management efforts.
Fortunately, funding initiatives aimed at conducting wildlife corridor research have been made available to address these pressing needs. By focusing on the establishment of connectivity between habitats, targeted research can help identify how wildlife moves across Idaho’s fragmented landscapes. This funding supports initiatives that tap into data-driven methodologies to document animal movements, assess impacts of human activities, and suggest policy recommendations for wildlife conservation. The ultimate goal of this funding is to facilitate the development of comprehensive wildlife management plans that are tailored to the state's unique geographic and ecological context.
Furthermore, collaboration between ecologists, land developers, and state agencies can lead to sustainable development outcomes that balance economic growth and ecological integrity. By investing in research-driven solutions, Idaho can create a roadmap that reflects its commitment to preserving its iconic wildlife while addressing the concerns of its residents. The research findings can pave the way for new policies that protect critical habitats, promote biodiversity, and ultimately improve Idaho’s ecological health.
This funding addresses not only ecological priorities but also social dimensions, as better wildlife management fosters healthier ecosystems, which in turn benefit local communities. Enhanced wildlife populations can lead to increased tourism opportunities, providing economic benefits to rural areas. Moreover, continuing to push for improvements in wildlife management strategies aligns with Idaho's long-standing values of conservation and respect for nature, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the state's natural heritage. Through productive partnerships and a focus on research, Idaho aims to overcome the challenges posed by habitat fragmentation and climate change, securing a future where both wildlife and communities thrive.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
