The 2026 MWF Conservation Leadership Academy program wrapped up this month with a day spent in St. Paul that gave student participants an up-close look at how conservation work gets done through the efforts of the legislature and state agencies.
After a historical tour of the Capitol building itself, the group learned about the role of a Legislative Assistant and how best to effectively communicate with elected leaders. A lunch alongside government relations staff from Conservation Minnesota, The Trust for Public Land, The Minnesota Land Trust, and Park Street Public provided an opportunity to chat with lobbyists who are engaged with the legislature and active on conservation issues on a daily basis.
A trip to the capital city also provided the group with the chance to visit state agencies active in conservation. Staff from the Board of Water and Soil Resources, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and the Minnesota Clean Water Council all shared their roles in conservation while providing insight into how to make conservation a career.
Since 2019, the Minnesota Wildlife Federation Conservation Leadership Academy has provided over 50 college students in Minnesota with an opportunity to experience hunting and fishing activities while also learning about career opportunities with volunteer conservation mentors.
Thanks to the following organizations for their financial support of the 2026 CLA program!
-Lake City Sportsman Club
-Snake River Valley Conservation Club
-Frontenac Sportsman Club
-New Brighton Sportsman Club
-The Outdoor News