Brown County Pheasants Forever Receives $950,000 L-SOHC Grant, Acquires 146 Acre Tract for Preservation, WMA

August 25, 2015 by Tim Kraskey

In 2008, Minnesota voters overwhelmingly approved the “Dedicated Funding” amendment to the Minnesota Constitution, setting aside certain sales tax proceeds for Fish and Wildlife habitat acquisition, conservation and restoration, administered through the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (“LSOHC”). Through the work of PF, the generosity of a local conservation partnesr and a willing landowner/seller, Brown County PF has received a $950,000.00 “dedicated funding” grant and acquired 146 Brown County Acres for protection and eventual inclusion in the Wildlife Management Area (WMA) program. The property, located in Section 17 or Milford Township, Brown County, Minnesota consists of wetlands, CRP and cropland. The property will be turned over to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for inclusion in the Wildlife Management Area Program (WMA). Wildlife Management Areas are part of Minnesota’s outdoor recreation system and are established to protect areas that have a high potential for wildlife production, public hunting, trapping, fishing, wildlife viewing and other compatible recreational uses. In addition to pheasants, deer, waterfowl, small game and any number of non-game species will utilize the property. Prior to donation, Brown County PF will restore the remaining cropland to native prairie. Working in collaboration with PF, Inc., habitat specialists, and the DNR, a restoration plan will be prepared. This marks the third acquisition project in Brown County utilizing Outdoor Heritage Funds appropriated by the LSOHC. Over $2.2 million in Outdoor Heritage Funds have been spent to acquire over 450 acres in Brown County since 2008. In each case, PF was approached by the landowner to initiate the project. In addition to LSOHC, the Sleepy Eye Sportsmen’s Club, Minnesota Deer Hunters Association, Nicollet Conservation Club, and the Estate of Harlan Schulz contributed to the project. Brown County PF has one additional project in the works that we hope to announce in next year’s newsletter. Pheasants Forever welcomes additional conservation opportunities, including habitat improvement projects and acquisitions. If you or anyone you know have a suggestion for a project, please contact a chapter member.

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