Still time to register for Minnesota’s first pheasant summit

There’s still time to register for the first Minnesota Pheasant Summit and contribute to strategies that aim to enhance habitat for this important species.

Gov. Mark Dayton is inviting Minnesotans to register for the summit, which takes place from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, at Southwest Minnesota State University, 1501 State St., in Marshall. Click the “Join us for the event” button at www.mndnr.gov/pheasantsummit to register.
The summit is free and open to all Minnesotans interested in preserving the state’s pheasant population. It will focus on why the pheasant population has declined in the state, and possible collaborative efforts to improve pheasant habitat statewide.

The meeting will bring together hunters, farmers, conservationists, policymakers, key members of the governor's cabinet, and others. Participants will discuss strategies to increase the state’s pheasant population, improve pheasant habitat, and ensure that future generations of Minnesotans have opportunities to enjoy one of the state’s most popular and iconic game birds.

Can’t make it? A survey is available so anyone can share thoughts about what can be done to improve pheasant numbers and habitat, and what should be discussed at the summit. The survey is available by clicking the “Can’t make the event” button at www.mndnr.gov/pheasantsummit/survey.html.

The state’s pheasant population index is up 6 percent over 2013, according to the Department of Natural Resources. Despite this slight increase, the state’s pheasant population is still 58 percent below the 10-year average, and 71 percent below the long-term average.
More about pheasants, pheasant habitat in Minnesota, and the summit can be found at www.mndnr.gov/pheasantsummit.