The Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society has joined a broad coalition of conservation organizations urging Minnesota legislative leaders and Gov. Tim Walz to pass the Outdoor Heritage Fund appropriations bill before the legislative session adjourns on May 18.
In a joint letter signed by leaders across Minnesota’s conservation community, organizations called on lawmakers to set aside ongoing governance disputes and advance the $191 million funding package that supports critical habitat and public access projects across the state.
The proposed legislation would invest in land protection, wetland restoration, prairie and forest habitat, fish and wildlife habitat improvements and public outdoor access projects throughout Minnesota.
“Conservation work can’t afford to sit idle because of political disagreements,” said Karl Malcolm, RGS & AWS Vice President of Conservation. “Minnesotans overwhelmingly supported the Legacy Amendment because they value healthy forests, quality wildlife habitat and strong outdoor traditions. These are elements of life in Minnesota that define prosperity and well-being. Passing the Outdoor Heritage Fund bill ensures this work continues on the ground for hunters, conservationists, landowners and communities across the state.”
Since Minnesota voters approved the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment in 2008, the Legislature has consistently passed an Outdoor Heritage Fund appropriations bill with bipartisan support. Conservation leaders noted that long-standing record is now at risk despite continued public support for the program and the ongoing need for habitat investment.
For RGS & AWS, investments in actively managed forests and wildlife habitat are essential to sustaining healthy populations of ruffed grouse, American woodcock and countless other forest wildlife species. Minnesota remains one of the nation’s most important strongholds for grouse and woodcock hunting traditions, making conservation funding critical for both habitat health and outdoor recreation opportunities.
The coalition emphasized that the Outdoor Heritage Fund supports more than wildlife habitat alone. The investments also benefit local economies, outdoor recreation opportunities and working landscapes across Minnesota.
A press conference held May 14 at the Minnesota State Capitol highlighted the urgency of passing the bill before adjournment. Representatives from several conservation organizations participating in the coalition urged lawmakers to move the legislation forward and maintain Minnesota’s long-standing conservation leadership.
RGS & AWS encourages Minnesota legislators to pass the Outdoor Heritage Fund bill and continue delivering meaningful conservation outcomes for wildlife, forests and future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.
To support RGS & AWS and our ongoing efforts to improve forest habitats for future generations, visit Ruffed.org.
Read the full joint letter from Minnesota’s conservation community here:
