New Critical Habitat License Plates
Frequently asked questions
When will the license plates be available?
They are available now. Plates may be ordered from Minnesota Department of Public Safety by calling 651-297-3304.
How is the money from the critical habitat plates used?
The money from the $30 contributed for each critical habitat license plate is used to match private donations of land or cash and contributions to the Nongame checkoff. The matching dollars are spent by the DNR to purchase critical resource lands such as wetlands prairies, old-growth forests, and other habitat important for the very animals that are featured on the license plates, the loon, chickadee, whitetail buck, fish, and showy ladyslipper. Critical habitat license plates are also used to fund Nongame research and surveys, habitat enhancement, and educational programs.
Will the old loon and deer plates still be available?
Yes, both of these plates will still be available. The previous deer plate will likely be taken out of production when supplies run out at deputy registrars.
Will I be able to keep my old loon or deer plate?
Yes, motorists who wish to keep their existing critical habitat plates to show their individual identity.
Why is the DNR spending money on creating new license plates during a time of economic crisis?
Motorists have not had a new license plate option since 2002. The program has been popular and the purchase and protection of critical habitat is important now more than ever. The important wetlands, forests and other habitats are at risk and need our help now more than ever. Critical habitat won’t receive funding from other sources, and species that depend on these habitats could suffer in hard economic times. These plates will help preserve a legacy for future generations.
How many license plates have been sold until now?
Currently, about 100,000 habitat plates are on Minnesota vehicles and motorists make a minimum annual contribution of $30 to the RIM (Reinvest in Minnesota) program when they make a purchase.
What are some examples of land purchased with critical habitat money?
The 360-acre Mule Lake Wildlife Management Area in Cass County, Pine Bend Bluffs SNA in Rosemount and 1.9 miles of shoreline in Crow Wing County.
Where does the money for critical habitat plates go?
The DNR has purchased nearly 9,000 acres of land with the license plate funds and all of these acres are designated as a State Wildlife Management Area, State Forest, Aquatic Management Area, or Scientific and Natural Area. All of these acquired lands are open for the public to enjoy and nearly 7,000 of the 9,000 acres are open to public hunting.
Who all receives the money from the critical habitat plate sales?
The DNR spends the money from the critical habitat plates. Not one penny is given, granted, or “turned over” to any group or individual to spend.