HF 2262

as introduced - 86th Legislature (2009 - 2010) Posted on 02/09/2010 02:01am

A bill for an act
relating to natural resources; appropriating money for forest protection.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1. new text begin FOREST PROTECTION APPROPRIATIONS.
new text end

new text begin (a) $1,500,000 is appropriated from the general fund to the commissioner of natural
resources to establish a statewide early detection system for invasive tree pests that
threaten the health of Minnesota's community and natural forests. The early detection
system shall include increasing public awareness for purposes of preventing introduction
and promoting detection through the training and coordination of volunteers throughout
the state to be early detectors of invasive tree pests. This appropriation shall also be used
to determine a baseline contribution of the Minnesota community and natural forests to
the achievement of state environmental goals in clean water, reducing greenhouse gases,
and reducing fossil fuel energy demands through renewable fuel provision and energy
savings. This paragraph shall be implemented in partnership with the Department of
Agriculture and the University of Minnesota.
new text end

new text begin (b) $125,000 is appropriated from the general fund to the Minnesota Forest
Resources Council for its support of the Forest Protection Task Force in further developing
a tree pest response plan that involves all stakeholders in the development of roles and
responsibilities. The Departments of Agriculture and Natural Resources shall provide
expertise and advice to the task force.
new text end

new text begin (c) $30,000,000 is appropriated from the general fund to the commissioner of natural
resources for the releaf program under Minnesota Statutes, section 88.82. Up to five
percent of this appropriation is available for storm damage replanting. The commissioner
shall advise local governments applying for these funds on the value of planting a more
diverse and disease resistant forest, the use of trees for storm water retention, and selection
and planting methods that reduce the energy consumption of nearby buildings.
new text end

new text begin (d) $5,000,000 shall be transferred from the general fund to an emergency forest
pest response account in the natural resources fund that is available as needed as a
short-term loan to the commissioner of agriculture to fund emergency response to a tree
pest invasion that exceeds general agency resources until it can be repaid by state and
federal appropriations.
new text end