Habitat Enhancement Now Act

The Habitat Enhancement Now Act establishes two competitive grant programs to improve nesting success for migratory waterfowl. It provides $3.5 million annually (2026-2030) for eligible entities - such as state governments, nonprofits, or private landowners - to implement specific habitat improvements. The first program funds strategic placement of hen houses (nesting structures) in the prairie pothole region, while the second targets California to create nesting cover, brood ponds, and incentivize landowners. These grants directly support conservation efforts for species like mallards and gadwalls by addressing documented habitat loss impacting breeding success.