$543K Grant to Boost Native Grasslands in Western South Dakota

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - The Second Century Habitat Fund (SCHF) has received a $543,500 grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Northern Great Plains Program to help landowners in western South Dakota restore native grasslands on marginal cropland. The initiative aims to improve habitat for wildlife while supporting sustainable ranching practices.

The program targets acres that consistently underperform in row crop production—such as those prone to flooding or with saline soils—and offers landowners a 10-year voluntary agreement to convert those fields into native grass cover.

“This is about putting the right acres to the right use,” said Elysabeth Kierl, Executive Director of SCHF. “We’re not taking land out of production — we’re helping landowners manage it differently, in a way that benefits their bottom line and South Dakota’s wildlife.”

Unlike traditional land retirement programs, SCHF’s model allows for grazing and haying after a one-year establishment period. Participants may graze half the field annually or the full field every other year. Preference is given to fields adjacent to existing grasslands to strengthen habitat corridors.

Landowners who enroll receive:

·        $450 per acre over 10 years

·        $75 per acre in high-diversity native seed

·        Biologist support for planning, seeding, and long-term management

The restored grasslands will benefit a wide range of species, including Greater Prairie-Chickens, Baird’s Sparrows, Western Meadowlarks, Mule Deer, White-tailed Deer, Pronghorn Antelope, grouse, pheasants, and native pollinators. The program also improves soil health, water retention, and forage quality—delivering both environmental and economic value.

SCHF has already restored more than 13,000 acres statewide. With the new grant, the organization plans to restore an additional 1,000 acres in western South Dakota, with over 600 acres ready for immediate implementation.

“This is a conservation model that works — because it works for producers,” Kierl said. “It’s flexible, it’s voluntary, and it’s already making a difference on the ground.”

Landowners interested in participating can contact their local Private Lands Habitat Biologist or visit habitat.sd.gov/ADVISORS for more information.

The Second Century Habitat Fund is a South Dakota-based nonprofit focused on habitat conservation, wildlife support, and sustaining outdoor traditions. Learn more at sdhabitatfund.com.