Conservation Partners Legacy Program

The statutes creating the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council, Minnesota Statutes Section 97A.056, Subd. 3(b), requires the council to encourage and support local conservation efforts by establishing a conservation partners program.

It further states: "Local, regional, state, or national organizations may apply for matching grants for restoration, protection, and enhancement of wetlands, prairies, forests, and habitat for fish, game, and wildlife, prevention of forest fragmentation, encouragement of forest consolidation, and expansion of restored native prairie."

The legislature, in implementing the council recommendations, established this conservation partners program in the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

A variety of different organizations are eligible to apply for CPL funding, including 501(c)3 nonprofits, federally recognized tribal governments, state and local government agencies, and federal agencies. Visit the Department of Natural Resources’ "How to Apply" webpage for more information.