PROJECT TITLE: Sportsmen's Training and Developmental Learning Center

I. PROJECT STATEMENT
The Minnesota Forest Zone Trappers Association (MFZTA) is requesting an $85,000 grant to complete a site evaluation and a master plan for their for their Sportsmen's Training and Developmental Learning Center located on a 38 acre parcel owned by the MFZTA in Hibbing.  The site evaluation would include infrastructure (water, sewer, electrical) needs, wetlands, permitting, survey, elevations, cost estimates and soil building conditions.  The master plan would include base maps, development concept and drawings, design workshops, conceptual evaluations, cost estimates, public engagement, site layouts and a public relations plan.  

The site would include 24 RV and 24 primitive camp sites, bog walk trails, training facility, educational areas, parking space, equipment/maintenance building, restroom/shower facilities and seating bleachers.  Educational activities will include trapping and hunting, environmental/wetlands training, drafting training manuals and providing workshops to designed to get more people involved in outdoor activities; especially youth.

The MFTZA is a non-profit 501C3 Corporation operating under the laws of Minnesota.  They encompass over seven counties throughout northeastern Minnesota.  The primary purpose of the MFTZA will be to achieve the best possible, highest quality outdoor experience.  Their work to date to develop this project include meetings with regional, state and federal government officials, educating the general public, holding outdoor programs, regulation enforcement training, support wildlife research and developing relationships with wildlife officials and promoting good sportsmanship and ethic outdoor practices.  The MFZTA offers multi-day conventions, annual workshops and numerous training sessions throughout the year that focus on education and environmental stewardship.

The MFTZA has developed satellite programs in which they partner with Delta Waterfowl, MN Deer Hunters Association, Pheasants Forever, Grouse Society, MN Darkhouse and Angling Association, Ducks Unlimited, NRA, National Turkey Association and others to promote outdoor activities throughout the region.  

The completion of the site evaluation and the master plan will enable the MFZTA to promote their programs throughout the United States.  The completion of this work will also provide detailed cost estimates for all of the activities proposed for their site and will be the foundation for MFZTA to seek local, state and Federal funds to construct their facility.  The ultimate goal will be to own and operate the premier outdoor training and educational facility in the country.

II. PROJECT ACTIVITIES AND OUTCOMES

Activity 1 Title: Site Evaluation
Description: Evaluation will include surveys, permit needs, activity area siting, infrastructure needs and ADA requirements.

ENRTF BUDGET: $25,000



Outcome
Completion Date
1.  A well designed site
November 2022
2.  Infrastructure needs identified
December 2022
3.  Detailed cost estimates for the site
April 2023


Activity 2 Title: Master Plan Completion
Description: The plan will include maps, conceptual drawings, public engagement and a public relations plan.

ENRTF BUDGET: $60,000


Outcome
Completion Date
1.  Conceptual drawings completed
June 2022
2.  Public relation plan and public engagement (Ongoing)
August 2022
3. Master Plan completed
April 2023



III. PROJECT PARTNERS AND COLLABORATORS:
MFZTA Board of Directors
State and Federal Agencies
State and Regional Outdoor and Environmental Groups
Consulting Engineers, Landscape Architects, Planners, Financial Advisors
Local governmental entities

IV. 	LONG-TERM IMPLEMENTATION AND FUNDING:
The first step in this process is to complete the site evaluation and the master plan.  Upon the completion of this step, the MFZTA will begin the process of identifying potential funding agency and to submit applications to build-out their site and extend infrastructure.  Once a feasible funding package is secured, the MFZTA will hire several key staff members, complete final site and infrastructure plans and specifications, bid the project and complete the construction phase.


	
V. 	SEE ADDITIONAL PROPOSAL COMPONENTS:

A. Proposal Budget Spreadsheet 
B. Visual Component or Map
C. Parcel List Spreadsheet
D. Acquisition, Easements, and Restoration Requirements
E. Research Addendum (Not required at proposal submission stage. Required later in process, if proposal is recommended. Staff will provide further information at that time)
F. Project Manager Qualifications and Organization Description
G. Letter or Resolution
H. Financial Capacity