Recently, MDHA was awarded Conservation Partners Legacy Grants for six noteworthy habitat projects across the state. These initiatives, designed to restore and enhance vital habitats, reflect our dedication to preserving Minnesota's rich biodiversity for future generations.

Crow Wing County
MDHA Crow Wing County Seeding
With a grant of $5,500, the MDHA Crow Wing County Seeding project aims to rejuvenate 4 acres of county land through the planting of a native seed mix. This initiative partners with the Crow Wing County Land Services Department and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR), creating a collaborative effort toward ecological rehabilitation. By reintroducing native flora, this project will contribute to a more balanced ecosystem, benefiting wildlife and restoring natural beauty to the area.

MDHA Crow Wing County Oak Release
Furthering efforts in Crow Wing County, the Oak Release project has been allocated $55,000 to enhance the growth of young oak trees over 212 acres. Oaks provide crucial habitats and food sources for numerous species, and ensuring their growth strengthens the broader ecosystem. By removing competing species, this project, in partnership with local and state bodies, enhances the vitality of these young oaks, allowing them to thrive and support the environment.

Itasca County
Upland Thermal Cover Protection and Enhancement 2
Conifer trees play a vital role in providing thermal cover during Minnesota’s harsh winters. To foster this natural protective habitat, the Upland Thermal Cover Protection project has been granted $55,000 for browse protection on conifer trees on 271 acres. This initiative focuses on promoting future thermal cover, ensuring that wildlife can endure cold temperatures by utilizing natural refuges. The Itasca County Land Department and MN DNR are instrumental partners in this crucial conservation effort.

Koochiching County
MDHA TEC Thermal Cover II
To further expand conifer coverage, the TEC Thermal Cover II project in Koochiching County has been awarded $22,000. This funding supports both the planting of conifers and the removal of competing vegetation over 60 acres on both county and state land. By partnering with the Koochiching County Land & Forestry Department, this project promotes natural regeneration, ensuring a sustainable environment where conifers can continue to thrive and support local wildlife.

Kittson County
MDHA-RMEF Karlstad Buckthorn Treatment 2
Addressing ecological balance requires a firm stance against invasive species. The Karlstad Buckthorn Treatment 2 project is dedicated to treating buckthorn infestations across 400 acres in key Wildlife Management Areas, including Devil’s Playground and East Park. With a substantial grant of $55,000, this project collaborates with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and MN DNR to remove this invasive species, allowing native flora to reclaim their habitat and support native wildlife.

Redwood County
MDHA Redwood County Planting II
Enhancing wildlife management areas in Redwood County, the Planting II project supports the growth of native shrubs on 4 acres at Two Rivers, Phyllis Voosen, and Lamberton Wildlife Management Areas. This $14,520 initiative emphasizes restoring native plant communities, a crucial step in fostering a healthy ecosystem. Partnering with MN DNR ensures the project aligns with broader conservation goals, effectively leveraging expertise for maximum impact.

Driving Change Through Conservation
MDHA habitat projects exemplify a concerted effort to preserve Minnesota's natural landscapes through strategic and impactful conservation practices. By fostering native ecosystems and combatting invasive species, these projects contribute significantly to the health and resilience of local environments.

Funding for these projects is provided by the Outdoor Heritage Fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature and recommended by the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) to restore, protect and enhance Minnesota’s wetlands, prairies, forests and habitat for fish, game and wildlife.