SF 3796

as introduced - 93rd Legislature (2023 - 2024) Posted on 02/16/2024 10:12am

A bill for an act
relating to natural resources; appropriating money for community tree planting
grants.

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

Section 1. new text begin COMMUNITY TREE PLANTING GRANTS; APPROPRIATION.
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new text begin (a) $....... in fiscal year 2025 is appropriated from the general fund to the commissioner
of natural resources for grants to cities, counties, townships, Tribal governments, and park
and recreation boards in cities of the first class for removing and planting shade trees on
public or Tribal land to provide environmental benefits; to replace trees lost to forest pests,
disease, or storm; or to establish a more diverse community forest better able to withstand
disease and forest pests. For purposes of this appropriation, "shade tree" means a woody
perennial grown primarily for aesthetic or environmental purposes with minimal to residual
timber value. Any tree planted with money under this section must be a climate-adapted
species to Minnesota. Priority for grants made with this appropriation must be given to
grants funding:
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new text begin (1) projects removing and replacing ash trees that pose significant public safety concerns;
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new text begin (2) projects that benefit underserved populations; and
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new text begin (3) projects that benefit environmental justice areas as defined in Minnesota Statutes,
sections 116.065, subdivision 1, paragraph (e).
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new text begin (b) This is a onetime appropriation.
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