Governor convening hunters, farmers, conservationists, policymakers, and other stakeholders to discuss strategies to increase the state's pheasant population

ST. PAUL, MN - Today, Governor Mark Dayton invited Minnesotans to register for the state's first-ever Minnesota Pheasant Summit, which will be held at Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall on December 13, 2014. The Minnesota Pheasant Summit will bring together hunters, farmers, conservationists, policymakers, key members of the Governor's Cabinet, and others. During the Summit, 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. Governor Dayton first announced plans for the Summit at a Pheasants Forever event last month.

"For almost 60 years, I have enjoyed pheasant hunting in Minnesota," said Governor Dayton. "But the decisions we make today will determine whether future generations of Minnesotans will have those same opportunities. I look forward to convening this Minnesota Pheasant Summit, and developing strategies to improve the pheasant population in our state."

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the state's pheasant population index is up 6 percent over 2013. 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. The Minnesota Pheasant Summit will focus on why the pheasant population has declined in Minnesota, and what collaborative efforts can be undertaken to improve pheasant habitat statewide.

Register Now for the Minnesota Pheasant Summit
The Minnesota Pheasant Summit will be held at the Southwest Minnesota State University (1501 State Street, Marshall, Minnesota, 56258) on Saturday, December 13, 2014 from 9:30am - 4:30pm. The Summit is free and open to all Minnesotans interested in preserving the state's pheasant population for future generations to enjoy. Registration is available on the DNR website. On the website, you can also find additional logistical details and learn more about pheasants and pheasant habitat in Minnesota.

Tell Governor Dayton What the Pheasant Summit Should Cover
Ahead of the December 13 Summit, the Governor is asking Minnesotans to propose discussion topics for the event, and suggest ideas for what the state can do to improve our pheasant population and habitat. Governor Dayton encourages Minnesotans to submit their ideas through this online form.

Can't Make the Summit? Fill Out the DNR Survey
For those Minnesotans who cannot make the Summit on December 13, the DNR is developing a survey to collect additional public input. Minnesotans who wish to provide that input can register to receive the survey via email on the DNR website. The survey will be available online in mid-November.