Wyoming Department of Agriculture March 9, 2009 Financial Assistance Programs Division Natural Resources Conservation Service Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program comments PO Box 2890, Room 5237-S Washington, D.C. 20013 Dear Natural Resources Conservation Service: Following are the comments from the Wyoming Department of Agriculture (WDA) on the proposed interim rules on the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP), 7 CFR Part 636. Our comments are specific to our mission within state goverment: dedicated to the promotion and enhancement of Wyoming's agriculture, natural resources, and quality of life. As this proposal has major impacts upon our agriculture industry, our natural resources and the welfare of our citizens, we believe it is important you continue to inform us of proposed actions and decisions and provide us the opportunity to express pertinent issues and concerns. The WDA supports the conservation, protection and restoration of America's farm and ranchlands. We believe the benefits to these programs are multifaceted for the private landowner, the wildlife utilizing these private lands and the public for their water quality, aesthetic values and open space. We write in support of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in its efforts to improve WHIP, which has proven very successful in Wyoming on our farm and ranchlands. The Summary of Statutory Changes and Summary of Changes to the Regulations are minimal and we support the changes as proposed. We specifically support Section 2602(b) of the 2008 Act - Other Types of Wildlife Habitat. The example of pivot corners and utilizing these lands for wildlife habitat is very important to wildlife by providing vital cover for wildlife using the irrigated hay or crops for food. The clarification of the inclusion of these lands may prompt EQIP recipients to place the additional lands under WHIP. The WDA thanks the NRCS for receiving our comments. We look forward to reviewing the final rules and to the implmentation of these programs onto farm and ranchlands across Wyoming. Sincerely, /Karen Everett/ for John Etchepare Director cc: Governor's Planning Office WDA Board of Agriculture Wyoming Stock Growers Association Wyoming Wool Growers Association Rocky Moutain Farmers Union Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation Wyoming State Grazing Board Wyoming Game and Fish Department Wyoming NRCS State Office