ST. PAUL – The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) is offering about $150 million for both metro and statewide grants to aid in Minnesota habitat restoration, protection and enhancement projects for Fiscal Year 2026.
LSOHC announced the funding in an April 7 news release, in issuing its annual Call for Funding Request from the Outdoor Heritage Fund.
The process is competitive and open to all who wish to apply.
“These monies have funded wildlife habitat projects in every corner of the state, both rural and urban,” Mark Johnson, LSOHC executive director, said in a statement. “If you have a potential project proposal but are unsure, contact us. LSOHC staff are always open to discussing ideas and answering questions. We are here to help.”
Since the Outdoor Heritage Fund’s creation in 2008, $1.8 billion in on-the-ground habitat programs has been allocated by the Minnesota Legislature, and over 1 million acres of Minnesota forests, prairies and wetlands have been restored, protected and/or enhanced. The latest set of funding recommendations totaling $161 million is currently before the Minnesota Legislature.
Requests are due to the LSOHC by 4 p.m. Friday, May 23. Programs approved by the Legislature can begin spending funds on July 1, 2026.
Proposal requirements and terms of funding are outlined in the
Call for Funding Request
at lsohc.mn.gov/FY2027/index_call.
- More info: www.lsohc.mn.gov .
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