Why We Play
Lottery Dollars Help Preserve Deer-Hunting Lands
Since 1990, Lottery dollars, through the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, have touched more than 100,000 acres of land across Minnesota that serve as habitats for the state’s deer and other game populations.
Every time you play the lottery, a portion of every dollar goes to support Minnesota’s environment and wildlife, including our beloved white-tailed deer!
How Lottery Dollars Help Keep White-Tailed Deer Thriving
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a nature lover, or just someone who enjoys spotting deer at dusk, these graceful creatures are a vital part of Minnesota’s ecosystem.
Minnesota’s diverse landscape—from dense northern forests to southern prairies—provides the perfect habitat for white-tailed deer. Their ability to thrive in different environments makes them a key species in our state’s wildlife conservation efforts.
How Lottery Dollars Support Deer Conservation
Through the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF), funded in part by lottery proceeds, Minnesota has been able to invest in important projects that benefit white-tailed deer and other wildlife. These include:
-Habitat Restoration & Management – Restoring prairies, forests, and wetlands means more food, water, and shelter for deer and other wildlife. Healthy habitats keep Minnesota’s great outdoors thriving!
-Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Research & Prevention – CWD is a serious disease affecting deer populations. Lottery funds help support research, testing, and management strategies to slow its spread and protect our herds.
-Public Lands & Wildlife Areas – Lottery dollars help maintain Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and other public lands, giving hunters, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts well-maintained spaces to enjoy.
-Pollinator & Forest Health Programs – A healthy environment means healthy deer! Programs that support forests and grasslands also benefit pollinators, which help sustain food sources for all wildlife.
A Win-Win for Minnesota
Every time you buy a lottery ticket, you’re not just playing for a chance to win—you’re playing a part in protecting Minnesota’s natural resources. Since 1990, lottery proceeds have funded over $1.15 billion in environmental projects, many of which directly or indirectly support the state’s white-tailed deer population.
So, the next time you see a deer bounding through the woods or grazing in an open field, remember: lottery players like you are helping keep Minnesota wild! It’s a winning combination for conservation, hunters, outdoor lovers, and wildlife alike!
