The bill establishes a state goal for wetland restoration and protection in Minnesota, aiming to restore or permanently protect at least 1 million acres of lost or significantly degraded wetlands by the year 2050. It mandates that state agencies involved in grant programs or the allocation of appropriated funds must consider opportunities to contribute to this goal in their decision-making processes. Additionally, preference for restoration efforts will be given to counties that have lost more than 50 percent of their prestatehood wetlands.
To ensure accountability and track progress, the bill requires the Board of Water and Soil Resources to submit annual reports starting January 1, 2027, to the relevant legislative committees. These reports will detail the status of wetland protection and restoration efforts, identify areas where wetlands have been successfully restored, and highlight any challenges faced in achieving the established goal.