CPL Funding Changes: Why Rural Minnesota Is Being Left Behind

Minnesota's Conservation Partners Legacy (CPL) Grant Program has helped conservation organizations put millions of dollars directly into habitat projects across the state. But a major change to the program could leave much of rural Minnesota on the outside looking in. In this episode of **Down the Barrel**, Jimmy, Deno and Jared break down what the CPL program is, where the money comes from, how organizations like the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association use these grants, and why the new geographic restrictions are raising serious concerns for hunters and conservationists across Greater Minnesota. MDHA alone has used CPL funding to complete roughly 140 habitat projects representing millions of dollars in habitat work and tens of thousands of acres across Minnesota. These aren't projects designed to fund an organization's operating budget—they are locally driven conservation projects that require matching funds, documentation and reimbursement for actual habitat work. The guys discuss why MDHA believes Minnesota can—and should—continue investing in metro-area habitat **without sacrificing conservation projects throughout the rest of the state**. They also explain how these projects support more than wildlife by putting money into local contractors, businesses and rural communities. The message is simple: **Conservation shouldn't stop at the metro line.** The episode also covers MDHA's new petition calling for statewide CPL opportunities to be restored and why hunters, conservationists and rural Minnesotans need to make their voices heard. Then the conversation shifts gears to Game Fair, the Arctic Cat Prowler and FLOE CargoMax giveaway, MDHA's Education Raffle, the 50 BMG giveaway, upcoming chapter events—and, naturally, plenty of the usual Down the Barrel banter. **CPL funding comes from Minnesotans. Habitat opportunities should benefit Minnesotans across the entire state.** BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhutners.com) First Call (www.firstcall211.net) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report)