TRLT Projects Help Boost Local Economy

We are proud to report that in 2008 we raised $1,657,000 of restricted funds that went directly to land protection projects and purchasing bargain- sale conservation easements. The sources included North American Wetlands Conservation Council, Farm and Ranchland Protection Program, Idaho Department of Fish and Game Landowner Incentive Program and private foundations. These dollars went to local landowners to protect their properties as well as benefiting the local businesses that help the process, such as appraisers, title companies and surveyors.

On the habitat restoration front, we spent approximately $174,000 in 2008 on projects like the Rainier Reach restoration on the Teton River and many others. These funds went to local contractors, excavators and plant nurseries, to name a few.

We plan to continue our grant fundraising efforts in 2009. Our biggest goal is to write two North American Wetland Conservation Council grants - one for the Teton Basin and one for the Henry’s Fork. These $1,000,000 grants from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provide funding for acquisition and restoration of high conservation valued properties that help protect habitat for migratory birds, water birds and waterfowl. We plan to seek Congressional Appropriation dollars for land protection projects along the South Fork and Henry’s Fork Area of Critical Environmental Concern. In addition, we will seek funds from other federal and state agencies as well as private foundations for restoration, acquisition and research projects. Finally, we are keeping a watchful eye on any potential sources in the federal stimulus package.

We appreciate all the support donors and members give to our grant writing efforts. With your help, we will continue to raise funds to protect our beautiful home while assisting the local workforce and businesses. ■