The Farmland Raptor Project - Taking flight with your support!

The Farmland Raptor Project is a collaborative effort by MTM Environmental, LLC, the Foothills Land Conservancy, and other partners that unites landowners that aim to help conserve bird of prey species and farmland and grassland habitats in the Southeast. In recent years, there has been a decline in raptor populations, mainly due to loss of grassland and farmland habitats from development, changes in agricultural practices, and use of harmful pesticides. Raptor species play an important role in rodent and insect control and as overall indicators of ecosystem health. Their conservation is vital to preserving our farmland and grassland habitats.

One of the primary goals of this project is collaborating with landowners to install and monitor nesting boxes for the American kestrel and barn owl. These birds naturally nest in tree cavities and structures like barns and silos, however, those are in high demand or fewer to find. Therefore, providing alternative nesting structures can help support local populations, and through monitoring we can collect data that contributes to conserving the species.

Another goal of the project is to work with landowners and land trusts, like Foothills Land Conservancy, to enhance and protect grassland habitats and farmlands. Not only does this benefit the birds, but participating landowners will have the ability to play a huge role in conservation efforts.

Your donation greatly assists the Farmland Raptor Project with these priority areas:

• Nest Box Installation and Maintenance: Donations fund the materials, construction, and installation of nest boxes for American kestrels and barn owls on private farmland and grassland properties. Donations will also support the ongoing maintenance of these boxes to ensure they remain safe and suitable for raptor use for several years.
• Monitoring and Research: Donations support efforts to monitor the raptors using these nest boxes. This includes purchasing equipment like cameras, extension poles, ladders, banding supplies, and other data collection tools. Donations may also fund research personnel who collect and analyze data, contributing to raptor conservation efforts.
• Habitat Restoration and Enhancement: Financing projects that restore and enhance grassland and farmland habitats. This could involve planting native grasses, controlling invasive species, and managing the land in ways that benefit both raptors and other wildlife, while keeping working lands working.
• Educational Outreach: Providing resources and supporting staff time for educational programs aimed at landowners, schools, and the general public. These programs will focus on the importance of raptor conservation, the role of raptors in ecosystem health, and best practices for land management to support these species.

*Please note that 10% of your donation will be provided to the Foothills Land Conservancy for transaction and donation handling related expenses.

To learn more, please visit the Farmland Raptor Project webpage. If you or someone you know would be interested in participating in or volunteering with this project, please contact Katheryn Albrecht, katheryn@mtmenvironmentalllc.com, for more information.