SCI Foundation, through their Conservation Matching Grant program supported the SCI Minnesota Chapter, Pheasants Forever and other Partners to Add 1,300-Acre to Sharp-tailed Grouse Habitat
Valuable habitat for sharp-tailed grouse has been added to one of Minnesota’s Wildlife Management Areas thanks to numerous conservation organizations. The SCI Foundation and SCI Minnesota Chapter were part of a partnership to add 1,300 acres of prime habitat for sharp-tailed Grouse to the Carp Swamp WMA in Lake of the Woods County in north-central Minnesota. The property was purchased in cooperation with Pheasants Forever, and supported by the Paschke family, the Minnesota DNR, The Minnesota Outdoor Heritage Fund administered by the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council, and the Minnesota Sharp-tailed Grouse Society.
The property was recently conveyed to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as part of the Build a Wildlife Area® program. This amazing property will support important species, including grouse, and provide recreation opportunities for the public as an addition to the existing Carp Swamp Wildlife Management Area which covers nearly 14,000 acres. It adjoins Lake of the Woods state forest and one of the state’s grouse management areas.
“By having a strong partnership of committed and dedicated organizations like these, we continue to expand our conservation efforts” said Anthony Roettger, President, Minnesota Chapter, SCI; “This is what conservation partnerships are all about. Helping the wildlife and helping the public.”
The DNR is already working to restore 27 acres of existing cropland to a diverse mix of grasses and forbs on the north unit. During the winter, plans are to remove 622 acres of brush over both the north and south units of the acquisition. By helping grouse and other game birds through habitat improvement, we conserve high-quality upland habitat which also improves soil health, water stewardship and rural economic development, while simultaneously prioritizing and maximizing the benefits for wildlife. We thank all partners involved in this successful conservation teamwork effort!
