Conservation grants available for local groups

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Conservation grants available for local groups
(Released February 3, 2011)


The Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program (CPL) will accept a second round of applications for conservation projects starting Feb. 15. Approximately $775,000 remains from the fiscal year 2011 appropriation for the program to be used for projects requesting between $5,000 and $125,000.

“We’re looking for good, small projects that will benefit Minnesota’s fish, game and wildlife,” said Leslie Tannahill, CPL grant coordinator. “In the first round of fiscal year 2011 applications, we received more applications for larger projects. This round we want to see the smaller ones. This is the perfect opportunity for local groups to get involved.”

Examples of previously funded projects and their locations can be found on the DNR’s website.

Grants are available to local, regional, state and national organizations and to government entities. Projects are eligible in the following categories:

Restore or enhance fish and wildlife habitat on lands permanently protected by conservation easements or public ownership
Protect land through acquisition of fee title or conservation easements that will be open to public hunting and fishing during open seasons.
A nonstate match of at least 10 percent is required for all applications requesting up to $100,000, and at least 15 percent nonstate funds are required for all applications requesting more than $100,000.

All applications must be submitted using the CPL online grant application system on the CPL website. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on March 31.