2016 Project Abstract For the Period Ending June 30, 2019 PROJECT TITLE: Restoration of Elk to Northeastern Minnesota PROJECT MANAGER: James D. Forester AFFILIATION: University of Minnesota MAILING ADDRESS: 2003 Upper Buford Cir., Suite 135 CITY/STATE/ZIP: St. Paul/MN/55108 PHONE: (612) 626-6721 E-MAIL:
[email protected] WEBSITE: foresterlab.cfans.umn.edu FUNDING SOURCE: Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund LEGAL CITATION: M.L. 2016, Chp. 186, Sec. 2, Subd. 03l APPROPRIATION AMOUNT: $300,000 AMOUNT SPENT: $300,000 AMOUNT REMAINING: $ 300,000 Sound bite of Project Outcomes and Results This study examined the feasibility of restoring elk to northeastern Minnesota. It provides information for determining where elk restoration will be successful, should it occur. Results show that habitat suitability and landowner support are not limiting factors for restoring elk to northeastern Minnesota. Overall Project Outcome and Results Elk historically occupied most of Minnesota prior to the early 1900s, but now only 3 small groups occur in northwestern Minnesota. These groups are managed at low levels to reduce human-elk conflict. Forested areas of the state could avoid some conflict and see ecological and economic benefits from returning elk to the landscape. Evidence from other states indicates elk restoration can be successful, but success is dependent on forest management and public support for elk by local communities. This study examined the feasibility of restoring elk to 3 study areas in northeastern Minnesota. It provides information that will be useful for determining where elk restoration will be successful, should it occur, including information about social acceptance and habitat suitability.