The bill proposes an appropriation of $750,000 from the arts and cultural heritage fund for the fiscal year 2026, specifically designated for a lake sturgeon project at the Great Lakes Aquarium. This initiative will be carried out in collaboration with the commissioner of natural resources, the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. The project aims to focus on the rearing and stocking of lake sturgeon, as well as providing public education regarding the historical, cultural, and biological importance of lake sturgeon in the St. Louis River.
This funding is intended to enhance conservation efforts and raise awareness about the lake sturgeon, which is a significant species in the region. The collaboration among various stakeholders underscores the importance of community involvement and inter-agency cooperation in promoting environmental stewardship and cultural heritage related to the Great Lakes ecosystem.