Friday marks livestock loss deadline

Friday is the deadline for applications for funding projects to reduce livestock kills by grizzlies and wolves.

Funding is available this year and the next for grizzly bear and wolf loss prevention projects. Proactive preventive measures include fencing, night penning, livestock herders and guard animals.

George Edwards, executive director of the Montana Livestock Loss Board, said the board will meet Aug. 24 in Red Lodge to review applications for grants.

The Montana Livestock Loss Board was established by the Legislature in 2007 to address economic losses due to wolf predation and to create incentives for producers to take proactive, preventative steps to decrease the risk of loss.

The program provides financial reimbursements to producers for losses caused by wolves or grizzly bears based on program criteria and applies prevention tools and incentives to decrease the risk of wolf or grizzly bear caused losses.

All grants issued by the board require a 50 percent cost share from the applicant. Cost share can be in the form of cash and/or in-kind contributions. All cost-share information must be documented. Receipts for materials are required.

Applications are due Aug. 12. To download the form, visit www.llb.mt.gov. Call 406-444-5609.