This bill appropriates a total of $25,000,000 from the environment and natural resources trust fund for various environmental and natural resource projects in Minnesota. Key allocations include funding for initiatives such as $2,254,000 for Ducks Unlimited to collaborate with livestock farmers on establishing native grassland habitats, $1,066,000 for the University of Minnesota to develop technology for remediating PFAS-contaminated soils, and $1,400,000 for the city of Shakopee to restore the Minnesota River shoreline at Huber Park. The bill also establishes new requirements for restoration projects, mandating that plans consider environmental factors for long-term success, include a timetable for implementation, and ensure that all projects are located on land protected by conservation easements or public ownership.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing statutes by repealing certain sections related to the advisory council for the grant program and introduces new reporting requirements for the commissioner of natural resources to enhance accountability. It emphasizes that grants awarded must yield measurable results and cannot be given to for-profit businesses, while also ensuring that appropriated funds supplement traditional funding sources rather than replace them. The bill includes provisions for the management and oversight of the appropriated funds, requiring compliance with specific guidelines and standards, and mandates that data collected from these projects be made publicly accessible. The effective date for these changes is set for the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
1st Engrossment: 116X.03