Each July, Montana’s Livestock Loss Board (LLB) receives limited funding for loss prevention grants. All grants require a 30% cost share from applicants, which may include cash and/or in-kind contributions (e.g., labor, materials). All contributions must be documented with receipts and value estimates (e.g., fencing crew time, supplies, range rider gear). Labor types and wage rates must be disclosed.

State law prioritizes funding for grizzly bear and wolf projects over mountain lion projects. Only 10% of the grant may be used for indirect expenses (e.g., office time, consulting); 90% must go toward on-the-ground efforts.

Grants may be paid in segments, with cost share reports required before further payments. Incomplete reports may delay funding.

Scoring Criteria (max 10 points):

• Chronic depredation area: 5 points

• Multiple incidents: 4 points

• Single incident: 3 points

• High-risk location: 2 points

• Predator type (grizzly: 10, wolf: 8, lion: 6; combo max: 10)

Applications due each year by May 31 at 5:00 p.m. Submit via mail or online at www.llb.mt.gov. Two board members screen applications, and selected proposals are reviewed by the full board in June. Applicants will be notified of the meeting details.

Authority: MCA 2-15-3111 – Livestock Loss Reduction Program.