There is funding available for shallow flooding of fallow rice fields this summer and early fall. More information on the two programs below.
Bid4Birds
The California Ricelands Waterbird Foundation is soliciting applications for the Bid4Birds. Applications are submitted through the Bid4Birds website and the application period closes on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at noon.
Bid4Birds Fall Program Key Details:
- Application Period: May 15 to June 10, 2026
- Approximate level of funding: $100,000 (although we may receive additional funding in time to increase this)
- Payment rates vary and are generated by the grower, based on their individual costs of providing the habitat
- Time period: July 15 to October 7, 2026
- Duration: maintain flooding for 3- or 4-week contract period plus an evaporative drawdown
- Flooding: maximum of 4 inches throughout contract period
- Field preparations required (little to no standing vegetation)
- Contracts are ranked on timing, habitat quality, and price
- Please read Practice Requirements thoroughly before applying as some details have changed.
To apply please visit the Bid4Birds webpage. For questions, contact Kristin Sesser, Wildlife Programs Manager with the California Rice Commission at (916) 607-8988 or ksesser@calrice.org.
BirdReturns
The BirdReturns Late Summer Farmlands Habitat Program is now accepting applications through the BirdReturns website and the application period closes on Wednesday, June 22, 2026.
Late Summer Farmlands Habitat Program Key Details:
- Application Period: June 1 to 22, 2026
- Approximate level of funding: TBD
- Payment rates vary and are generated by the grower, based on their individual costs of providing the habitat
- Time period: August 3 to September 30, 2026
- Crop Types: Broad suite of crop types, including rice (see website for details)
- Duration: 5-week contract (3 weeks of flooding plus 2 weeks of drawdown)
- Flooding: maximum of 4 inches throughout contract period
- Field preparations required (little to no vegetation)
To learn more and apply, please visit the BirdReturns website. For questions, contact The Migratory Bird Conservation Partnership at birds@tnc.org.
