LANSING – The Michigan Department of Natural Resources awarded nearly $1.1 million in grants to improve habitats for game animals.

The DNR announced the 2015 Wildlife Habitat Grants Wednesday for about 20 conservation and nonprofit organizations as well as local governments and landowners. Only two were awarded in the Upper Peninsula including $22,800 for John H. Kelly in Delta County. The Wildlife Management Institute in Iron County was awarded a $15,200 grant.

The program, which began in October 2013, is funded with a portion of the revenue from the hunting and fishing licenses sold each year. It is directly related to the new hunting and fishing licensing structure passed by the Michigan Legislature that took effect in March.

“This program impacts wildlife habitat across the state to ensure there are quality hunting opportunities,” said Russ Mason, Wildlife Division chief. “It expands our work force by having partners spend time on important wildlife priorities.”

Projects receiving grants include the expansion of wetland areas for improved waterfowl habitat and improved food sources for upland game birds in several locations across the state, as well as increased food and shelter for white-tailed deer.

The DNR administers the program through a cooperative effort between its Wildlife Division and Grants Management Section.