On March 13, the North American Wetlands Conservation Council approved four grants under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA). 

The combined federal funding totals $300,000. 

The NAWCA Grants Program requires, at a minimum, the grant amount to be matched equally with non-federal contributions.  This is typically accomplished by partners from State, Tribal and other non-governmental organizations.  The combined non-federal partner contribution for this effort was over $638,600.

Since Minnesota and Iowa are in Region 3 of the Fish and Wildlife Service and these states are in the eastern most portion of the Prairie Pothole Joint Venture, Region 3 assists with the administration of NAWCA.  Collectively, these projects will protect, restore and enhance 1,383 acres of wetland and wetland associated upland habitat.

All of these projects will benefit priority migratory birds and other wetland associated wildlife species.  Individually and cumulatively, these projects will advance the goals identified in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, the Prairie Pothole Joint Venture Implementation Plan, Partners in Flight, U.S. Shorebird Plan, North American Waterbird Conservation Plan and the State Wildlife Action Plans.