01-29 | Funding Available for Grassland Restoration in Central Texas

Jan. 29, 2026

Media Contact: TPWD News, Business Hours, 512-389-8030

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AUSTIN – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), in partnership with the Oaks and Prairies Joint Venture, Quail Forever and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, is now accepting applications for the Grassland Restoration Incentive Program (GRIP).

Texas has lost much of its native grassland habitat due to brush encroachment from shrubs such as mesquite and juniper, as well as urban development and conversion to non-native pasture. This loss threatens wildlife species such as bobwhite quail, meadowlarks and horned lizards that depend on healthy native grasslands.

GRIP provides financial assistance to landowners and agricultural producers who voluntarily implement conservation practices to restore these habitats.

Eligible practices include:

Brush management
Prescribed burning and firebreak installation
Herbaceous weed treatment
Planting native grasses and wildlife-friendly plants

Since starting in 2013, GRIP has successfully restored more than 129,000 acres of native grassland in Central Texas.

Who can apply?

Landowners and producers in the following counties: Archer, Austin, Baylor, Callahan, Clay, Colorado, Delta, Dewitt, Edwards, Ellis, Fayette, Fannin, Gonzales, Hunt, Karnes, Kinney, Lamar, Lavaca, Montague, Navarro, Real, Red River, Shackelford, Stephens, Throckmorton, Uvalde, Val Verde, Washington, Wilson and Wise.

Application Period:

Feb. 2 – March 4, 2026

Applicants should visit their local USDA Service Center before March 4 deadline. Existing USDA clients may apply online at farmers.gov.

For more information, contact your local TPWD biologist or reach out to Derek Wiley, 512-902-7379, derek.wiley@tpwd.texas.gov