California Wolf-Livestock Compensation Pilot Program
Can you apply?
This grant is for California livestock producers affected by gray wolf predation. Eligible applicants must operate livestock on land within California and have experienced or be at risk of wolf-related losses. The program compensates verified livestock deaths, nonlethal deterrent costs, and indirect losses from wolf presence in known pack territories. All activities must occur within California state boundaries.
This grant is for California livestock producers affected by gray wolf predation. Eligible applicants must operate livestock on land within California and have experienced or be at risk of wolf-related losses. The program compensates verified livestock deaths, nonlethal deterrent costs, and indirect losses from wolf presence in known pack territories. All activities must occur within California state boundaries.
Program description
In 2021, the California state legislature appropriated $3 million in funding to the Department to develop a Wolf-Livestock Compensation Pilot Program to help minimize the impact of gray wolves on livestock producers. The pilot program offers compensation to eligible livestock producers specific to the following primary areas of need (prongs): Prong 1. Direct Loss – Compensation for verified livestock losses (confirmed/probable wolf) incurred on or after September 23, 2021. Prong 2. Nonlethal Deterrents – Compensation for the use of nonlethal deterrence methods to deter wolf presence near livestock. The Department supports the use of various deterrent tools and techniques as part of a robust, integrated deterrence strategy. Technical assistance may be available through CDFW, County Agricultural Commissions, UC Cooperative Extension, USDA Wildlife Service, and other agency partners. Prong 3. Pay for Presence – Compensation for indirect losses associated with the impacts of wolf presence on livestock in known pack territory. Extenuating circumstances may exist whereby CDFW will consider eligibility for wolf presence outside of known pack territory on a case-by-case basis.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for California livestock producers affected by gray wolf predation. Eligible applicants must operate livestock on land within California and have experienced or be at risk of wolf-related losses. The program compensates verified livestock deaths, nonlethal deterrent costs, and indirect losses from wolf presence in known pack territories. All activities must occur within California state boundaries.
How to apply
Application links
Program contact
- 📧 Wolfprogram@wildlife.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-358-2790
Funding track record
Past applications & awards under this program (California Grants Portal) — how competitive it is.
By fiscal year
| Fiscal year | Applications | Awarded | Award rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-2024 | 113 | 109 | 96% |
Source: California Grants Portal
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