This bill appropriates a total of $30 million from the Minnesota environment and natural resources trust fund for various environmental projects and research initiatives for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The funding is designated for specific purposes, including wildlife management, habitat restoration, and environmental monitoring. Notable projects include research on walleye physiology, deer mortality in relation to wolves, and the development of a centralized wildlife movement database at the University of Minnesota. The bill also supports ongoing projects such as mapping bumblebee distributions and enhancing water quality monitoring, emphasizing collaboration among state agencies, universities, and conservation organizations to address climate change impacts and promote sustainable resource management.
Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for entities receiving appropriations, including conducting evaluations of restoration efforts and ensuring projects occur on permanently protected land. It mandates that all data collected from funded projects be publicly accessible and outlines specific conditions for appropriations, such as project completion deadlines and the use of native plant species. The bill extends the availability of appropriations until June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027, while emphasizing public acknowledgment of funding sources and compliance with existing regulations. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in environmental restoration and conservation efforts in Minnesota.