In the Fiscal Year 2016-2017 the MDHA completed Phase I of the Minnesota Moose Habitat Collaborative which was funded for $960,000. In Fiscal Year 2018-2019 the MDHA completed Phase II of the Minnesota Moose Habitat Collaborative funded for $2,000,000. In Fiscal Year 2018-2019 the MDHA was awarded $1,938,000 for Phase III of the Minnesota Moose Habitat Collaborative. The three grants are for habitat enhancement in Northeast Minnesota

to halt and reverse the moose population decline. Project sites were chosen in forested stands that were partially harvested, decadent, poorly stocked with trees, or provided such poor browse condition that they were of little or no benefit to moose.  Restoration efforts have resulted in vigorous new shrub and tree sprouting. Additionally, selective planting of low density conifers on some units will eventually lead to more cover interspersed with browse providing thermal and escape covers in the longer term.  Ultimately, this project will encourage a heterogeneous habitat matrix resulting in a healthier landscape that is more beneficial to moose and other wildlife.