Feds, farmers create habitats for migrating birds

By RAMIT PLUSHNICK-MASTI and JOHN FLESHER Associated Press Writers

MAMOU, La. (AP) - The government is doling out $20 million to farmers in eight states to create habitats for migratory birds whose usual Gulf wintering spots may be fouled by the massive BP oil spill.

The farmers are being paid to keep their rice, crawfish and soybean fields flooded for months longer than usual.

Biologists with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service hope the birds will stop on the farms to find food and rest. They hope that if they arrive at oiled habitats they will know to return to the farms.

The states participating are Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Texas. They are along a major flyway.