Idaho Forest Legacy Program

Idaho's Forest Legacy Program buys development rights (conservation easements) from private forest landowners so the land stays in working timber production. Owners keep the land, manage it, keep harvest income and pay property tax. Projects go through a land trust partner to IDL, then compete nationally for USDA Forest Service funds.

• Privately owned, over 5 acres, 75% forested

• Within Idaho priority landscape areas per the Idaho Forest Action Plan

• Requires a Forest Stewardship Plan and Forest Practices Act-compliant management

• Must be submitted through a land trust sponsor

Perpetual conservation easement on development rights; landowner contributes 25% match (often a donated portion of easement value).

Published amounts: Under FLP, forestland owners sell their development rights but retain ownership, management, and profits from their land. Participating landowners contribute a 25% match, typically via tax-deductible donations.

Contact a local land trust (Idaho Coalition of Land Trusts members list); land trust submits application to IDL by June 1 (rough drafts acceptable) via email to Jennifer Barker.

Deadline text on the page: Idaho Department of Lands is accepting Fiscal Year 2028 Forest Legacy applications through June 1, 2026. (Project development January – May 31, 2026; National Panel November 2026.)