RIM-WRP Partnership: Phase V
The Reinvest in Minnesota (RIM) Wetlands Partnership Phase V protected and restored 2,041 acres of previously drained wetlands and adjacent native grasslands on 23 conservation easements. All easements have been recorded. $35,000 of funds from other sources were also used.
The RIM Wetlands Partnership Phase V accelerated the restoration and protection of 2,041 acres of previously drained wetlands and associated upland native grassland wildlife habitat complexes via permanent conservation easements. The goal of the RIM Wetlands Partnership was to achieve the greatest wetland functions and values, while optimizing wildlife habitat on every acre enrolled in the partnership.
Twenty-three permanent conservation easements were recorded, protecting 2,041 acres in permanent RIM easements. These protected wetland and grassland complexes will provide critical habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wetland dependent wildlife species in Minnesota.
The RIM Wetlands Partnership utilized a local-state-federal partnership, delivered by Soil and Water Conservation Districts and the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR). In addition, the project included collaboration with Ducks Unlimited, the Minnesota Waterfowl Association, Pheasants Forever, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the United States Department of Interior - Fish and Wildlife Services.
Ducks Unlimited (DU) was a full partner in the RIM Wetlands Partnership. DU promoted RIM easements, and provided engineering services, technical assistance and project management services through DU specialists.
RIM Wetlands Partnership statewide sign-up was completed in early 2015. Applications were scored and ranked using the RIM Wetland Restoration Evaluation Worksheet. The worksheet determined which restoration projects provided the greatest wetland functions and values and optimized wildlife habitat. The highest scoring applications were funded.
$13,390,000 in the first year is to the Board of Soil and Water Resources to acquire permanent conservation easements and restore wetlands and associated upland habitat in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture Wetlands Reserve Program and Ducks Unlimited, including $1,000,000 for an agreement with Ducks Unlimited to provide technical and bioengineering assistance. Up to $120,000 is for establishing a monitoring and enforcement fund, as approved in the accomplishment plan and subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 97A.056, subdivision 17. A list of permanent conservation easements must be provided as part of the final report.
2041 acres protected (in easement)
NRCS