Minnesota DNR announces 44 state conservation grants worth $5.7 million

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently awarded conservation grants totalling $5.7 million to 44 organizations after a record-breaking application period that saw the department receive 68 requests worth a total of $11.1 million.

The grants are provided through the DNR’s Conservation Partners Legacy (CPL) program and range from $5,000 to $400,000. These grants fund projects within the state that will support fish and wildlife habitats, whether through restoration, protection or enhancement.

“We’re happy to fund projects like these that improve fish and wildlife habitat in our state,” DNR Conservation Grants Coordinator Jessica Lee said. “Conservation groups and others are encouraged to continue planning projects in coming months so they can apply when funds are again available.”

The program began in 2009, when the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council recommended it, and has since provided $35 million in funding for conservation projects in the state. The CPL program grants are provided via the Outdoor Heritage Fund, which was created through the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment and is capitalized by a state sales tax that amounts to three-eights of a percentage point.

The DNR will begin accepting applications for the second metro grant cycle for fiscal year 2016 grants on Dec. 14, and the expedited grant cycle for standard projects is continuously open until all available funds are used.