Accelerated Wildlife Management Area Acquisition, Phase 1
This program will protect and restore 700 acres of new wetland wildlife habitat in wetland complexes in Minnesota through fee title acquisition. Title of all lands acquired will be held by the State and designated as Wildlife Management Area open to hunting, trapping, fishing and compatible outdoor recreation uses.
The Minnesota Statewide Conservation and Preservation Plan states that "Habitat fragmentation, degradation and loss are arguably the most important issues facing the conservation and preservation of Minnesota resources. Over 90% of Minnesota's prairie wetlands have been drained or filled, including 1,500 shallow wildlife lakes. Remaining wetlands and shallow lakes are in a degraded state and upland grass buffers have been largely converted to cropland. DNR will acquire remaining and restorable wetlands and surrounding uplands in high priority wetland complexes as Wildlife Management Areas. Uplands will be restored to native grassland buffers, wetlands will be enhanced where possible and acquisitions will be developed to make them functional units in the outdoor recreation system. Project lists will change, as new parcels become available and as previously included projects become unavailable. Collaborative partnerships will be promoted in order to acquire key lands. DNR will work with and seek a resolution from the County Board of Commissioners approving WMA acquisitions.
$2,900,000 in fiscal year 2010 is to the commissioner of natural resources to acquire land for wildlife management areas. A list of proposed fee title acquisitions must be provided as part of the required accomplishment plan.
Improved aquatic habitat indicators
Improved aquatic habitat indicators
Wetland and upland complexes will consist of native prairies, restored prairies, quality grasslands, and restored shallow lakes and wetlands
Increased availability and improved condition of riparian forests and other habitat corridors
Water is kept on the land
Protected, restored, and enhanced nesting and migratory habitat for waterfowl, upland birds, and species of greatest conservation need
A network of natural land and riparian habitats will connect corridors for wildlife and species in greatest conservation need
Protected habitats will hold wetlands and shallow lakes open to public recreation and huntin
Protect in fee 320 acres of wetlands and 414 acres of prairie