Minnesotans Can Protect and Restore Critical Habitats

Pictured: The Koester family's efforts towards habitat protection and restoration were recognized at the land dedication ceremony for the Koester Prairie addition to the Prairie Creek State Wildlife Management Area in 2023. Photo credit: Alan Krau

Minnesota landowners hold the power and responsibility to conserve and restore critical habitats to preserve the state's natural heritage for future generations.

Wetlands and prairies are two vital habitats in Minnesota that require our attention. According to the Minnesota Department of Resources, almost half of the state's original wetlands and almost all of its natural prairies have disappeared. Both of these landscapes support various plants and animals and offer valuable benefits to the environment.

Wetlands are crucial for water purification, flood control, and carbon storage. They also provide homes to fish, birds, and other wildlife. Natural prairies host various plant and animal species and help maintain soil health, prevent soil erosion, and support pollinators.

The losses we are experiencing today can be attributed to the impact of urbanization, agriculture, mining, and deforestation on the environment. The thought of losing these critical habitats forever is daunting, but the people of Minnesota can reverse this situation through conservation efforts like habitat protection.

Minnesota residents can play a significant role in preserving and reviving these essential habitats, particularly in prairie regions. Since most of the land in these areas is privately owned, residents may choose to use conservation easements or donate or sell their land. Conservation organizations can leverage these agreements to restore the land and ensure the ecosystem's long-term well-being and diversity.

As a local non-profit working towards improving the environmental health of the Cannon River watershed, we have prioritized water, land, and climate health as a primary initiative in our most recent strategic framework. Part of this work is connecting landowners with partner organizations and resources to protect and restore lands in our watershed. We’ve worked with organizations like the Trust for Public Land, Great River Greening, and more to protect approximately 2,900 acres in the watershed through funding from the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council.

It's time for Minnesotans to take a stand and work towards preserving the state's natural beauty. We must act now to protect and conserve our water resources, restore natural habitats, and prevent further degradation. We must unite to make a positive impact and ensure that future generations can experience the same natural beauty we enjoy today.

If you're a landowner in the Cannon River Watershed area, please reach out to Clean River Partner’s Conservation Program Manager, Alan Kraus, to learn more about the various options to leave a legacy with your land. Alan can be reached by email at alan@cleanriverpartners.org or by phone at 507-786-3913. To learn more about our Habitat Protection and Restoration project, visit our website at cleanriverpartners.org.