The Stearns County SWCD, the Sauk River Watershed District, and the Minnesota Land Trust are looking for willing landowners to participate in the Sauk River Watershed Easement Program. This is a Habitat Protection and Restoration Program to permanently protect high-quality habitat throughout the Sauk River Watershed. The Sauk River is a crucial corridor that supports a wide variety of wildlife, supplies numerous fishing and hunting opportunities, and is an important source of drinking water. The River is also a state-designated water trail providing outdoor recreational opportunities for the region. 

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Anyone with property in the Sauk River Watershed is eligible to apply. Land protected by a conservation easement remains in a landowner's private ownership, with the landowner retaining the right to use and manage the land in line with the terms of the easement. Properties are scored and ranked based on size, habitat quality, proximity to the Sauk River or a tributary, and proximity to permanently protected land.  

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