Minnesota United announced today it is partnering with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to support loon populations throughout Minnesota by way of the Minnesota Loon Monitoring Program.
The partnership is part of Minnesota United’s ‘Itasca Society’, a program made up of the first 11,842 season ticket holders – one for every lake in Minnesota - which provides exclusive perks and opportunities for fans who become season ticket holders ahead of United’s inaugural season in Major League Soccer.
“We are proud to partner with a great organization like the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources,” said United President Nick Rogers. “Supporting our state parks and iconic wildlife in Minnesota is something our organization is passionate about. These values are reflected in what the DNR does on a daily basis. This partnership is a perfect way for our organization and our fans to give back to the state we love and the support the mighty loon, our state bird, which is proudly represented on our club crest.”
As part of the partnership, a portion of all Itasca Society members’ season ticket purchases will go to the DNR to support the Loon Monitoring Program. Additionally, all inaugural season ticket holder accounts will receive a complimentary Minnesota State Parks Day Pass.
The Minnesota Loon Monitoring Program (MLMP), currently in its 23rd year, is the principal tool for monitoring the health of Minnesota’s loon population. MLMP is a popular program with volunteer citizen scientists, who assist with loon monitoring. Minnesota United’s support will be used to expand loon surveys to lakes throughout Minnesota where there are currently no active volunteers. The contribution will also enhance the DNR’s analysis of the survey data being collected.
“We are excited about our partnership with Minnesota United and grateful to the team for their generous support of our Loon Monitoring Program,” said DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr. “We also appreciate the club’s enthusiasm for connecting soccer fans to Minnesota state parks and trails by providing one-day passes for season ticket holders.”
There are multiple opportunities for United fans to take part in and support the loon population through the MLMP.
Minnesota Loon Facts:
- The Common Loon is Minnesota’s state bird and a source of pleasure to thousands of residents and visitors who enjoy its enchanting sights and sounds.
- Minnesota is the summer home to over 12,000 adult loons, more than in all other states combined, excluding Alaska.
- Minnesota’s loon populations are currently stable.
- As a diving bird, loons use sight to hunt prey and therefore thrive in clear lakes and healthy fish populations.
- The Loon Monitoring Project has over 1000 volunteers and provides the DNR with information that helps direct loon conservation throughout the state.
Minnesota United, commonly referred to as ‘the Loons’ is a professional soccer club which will make its debut in Major League Soccer in 2017, playing home matches at the University of Minnesota’s TCF Bank Stadium.
Don’t miss out on the excitement of Major League Soccer coming to Minnesota, secure your seat for the inaugural season today. More than 9,000 deposits have already been sold. These 9,000 deposit holders will be given the opportunity to secure their seats at TCF Bank Stadium beginning November 2. To become a member of the Itasca Society and support the loon populations in Minnesota call 763.4SOCCER or visit mnunitedtickets.com.
