Minnesota Session Laws - 2026 Regular Session

CHAPTER 104--H.F.No. 3426

An act

relating to natural resources; appropriating money from environment and natural resources trust fund; extending certain prior appropriations; modifying provisions on expenditures from environment and natural resources trust fund; modifying requirements for community grants program;

amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 116P.08, subdivision 4, by adding a subdivision; 116P.09, subdivision 6; 116X.03, by adding subdivisions; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116P.17.

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

Section 1. new text begin APPROPRIATIONS. new text end

new text begin The sums shown in the columns marked "Appropriations" are appropriated to the agencies and for the purposes specified in this act. The appropriations are from the environment and natural resources trust fund, or another named fund, and are available for the fiscal years indicated for each purpose. The figures "2026" and "2027" used in this act mean that the appropriations listed under them are available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, or June 30, 2027, respectively. "The first year" is fiscal year 2026. "The second year" is fiscal year 2027. "The biennium" is fiscal years 2026 and 2027. new text end

			new text begin APPROPRIATIONS new text end
			new text begin Available for the Year new text end
			new text begin Ending June 30 new text end
				new text begin 2026 new text end		new text begin 2027 new text end

Sec. 2. new text begin MINNESOTA RESOURCES. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end new text begin Total Appropriation new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 102,036,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the environment and natural resources trust fund. The amounts that may be spent for each purpose are specified in the following subdivisions. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end new text begin Definition new text end

new text begin "Trust fund" means the Minnesota environment and natural resources trust fund established under the Minnesota Constitution, article XI, section 14. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end new text begin Resiliency new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 10,641,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Community Resiliency through AmeriCorps new text end

new text begin $3,312,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with ServeMinnesota to conduct environmental and natural resource management; outdoor recreation; and improvement, enhancement, or rehabilitation projects and to build community resiliency and capacity by recruiting, training, and deploying AmeriCorps members to local and Tribal agencies and nonprofit organizations. new text end

new text begin (b) Preparing Resilient Communities with Model Land Use Ordinances new text end

new text begin $468,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency to: new text end

new text begin (1) develop and improve Minnesota-specific model land-use ordinances for sustainable and resilient development that help protect, conserve, preserve, and enhance the environment and natural resources; and new text end

new text begin (2) work with local communities to adopt and apply the model ordinances to their needs and priorities. new text end

new text begin (c) Resilient and Biodiverse Community Spaces new text end

new text begin $612,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Water and Soil Resources to partner with Great River Greening, Audubon Upper Mississippi River, and Metro Blooms to develop a planning guide, implement case studies, and provide technical assistance that helps local communities plan and create climate-resilient and biodiverse community spaces. new text end

new text begin (d) Northwoods and Waters Community Resilience Collaborative new text end

new text begin $1,220,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission, in partnership with the Headwaters Regional Development Commission and the Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership at the University of Minnesota, to work with and provide technical assistance to northeast and central Minnesota counties, Tribal Nations, and agencies to develop a regional climate resilience plan. new text end

new text begin (e) Protect Community Forests for Community Resiliency new text end

new text begin $2,603,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to reduce emerald ash borer impacts by providing canopy gap and planting assessments, trainings, technical assistance, and grants for communities to monitor and manage emerald ash borer impacts, plant a diversity of trees, and engage citizens in community forestry activities. new text end

new text begin (f) Identifying Flooding Hazards on Mille Lacs Tribal Lands new text end

new text begin $800,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe to develop hydrologic and hydraulic models for the Big Sandy Lake and upper Rice River watersheds to map flood-prone areas, identify restrictive infrastructure that may contribute to flooding, and incorporate results into emergency preparedness plans. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (g) Advancing Dehydration Technologies for Resilient Minnesota Food Systems new text end

new text begin $300,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to: new text end

new text begin (1) assess opportunities and develop technology for solar dehydration and curing of produce that reduces climatic impact of food loss and waste; and new text end

new text begin (2) develop and distribute findings to farmers, farming organizations, community partners, and other supply chain and market players in Minnesota. new text end

new text begin (h) Climate-Smart Counties and Communities: Collaborative Resiliency Solutions new text end

new text begin $827,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Institute on the Environment to provide technical expertise and support to predominantly rural and small communities and counties across Minnesota to develop climate resiliency plans and implement projects that enhance local resiliency. new text end

new text begin (i) Mahnomen Emerald Ash Borer Preparation Project new text end

new text begin $62,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Mahnomen to remove and replace ash trees vulnerable to emerald ash borer and to create a more diverse and resilient tree canopy. new text end

new text begin (j) Sustainable Food Security, Ecosystem Restoration, and Indigenous Empowerment new text end

new text begin $437,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Duluth, to combat food insecurity in Indigenous communities through community-driven agriculture, ecosystem restoration, improved local supply chains, and outreach and education. Notwithstanding subdivision 12, paragraph (e), this appropriation may be spent on green infrastructure and pollinator plantings on lands with a long-term commitment from the landowner. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end new text begin Water new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 17,014,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Statewide Ecological Risk Estimates for Contaminants of Emerging Concern new text end

new text begin $175,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the University of St. Thomas to compile and analyze Minnesota's contaminant of emerging concern occurrence data for lakes and rivers to generate ecological risk estimates and publicly accessible and user-friendly dashboards that will support managing and restoring freshwater habitats. new text end

new text begin (b) Eliminating Phenolic Compounds from Water Using Enzyme Filter new text end

new text begin $300,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to evaluate enzymes and design an enzyme membrane filter to capture and eliminate harmful phenolic compounds from Minnesota's rivers and lakes. new text end

new text begin (c) Vadnais Lake: Nature-Based Recreation and Drinking Water Protection new text end

new text begin $2,842,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Vadnais Heights to install water quality improvement ponds, recreational features, and educational signage near East Vadnais Lake to connect underserved community members with natural resources, protect drinking water, and promote water stewardship. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (d) Almanac's Statewide Environment and Natural Resources Desk new text end

new text begin $632,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Twin Cities Public Television to establish Almanac's environment and natural resources desk that reports on environment and natural resources issues and solutions across the state and hosts community conversations that raise awareness and increase appreciation of Minnesota's air, water, land, and other natural resources. new text end

new text begin (e) Studying Dam Removal Feasibility for the Mississippi Gorge new text end

new text begin $923,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Friends of the Mississippi River to assess the feasibility, environmental benefits, river restoration potential, and costs of dam removal for the Lower St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam and Lock and Dam 1 in the Mississippi River gorge. new text end

new text begin (f) Protecting Minnesota's Waters from Plastic- and Rubber-Derived Chemicals new text end

new text begin $418,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to develop stormwater treatment strategies and recommendations to protect surface water and groundwater from pollutants leached from polymers, coatings, plastics, and tire rubbers by assessing pollutant sources, presence, and reactivity. new text end

new text begin (g) Public Toolbox to Forecast Toxic Cyanobacteria Blooms new text end

new text begin $509,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Natural Resources Research Institute in Duluth to validate the concept of a field-deployable toolbox to proactively and rapidly detect harmful algal blooms and forecast associated toxin production, evaluate the feasibility of the integrated toolbox, and seek feedback from potential users to inform further refinement. new text end

new text begin (h) PFAS in Precipitation: Assessing a Critical Statewide Threat new text end

new text begin $910,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Minnesota Sea Grant college program in Duluth to create a multiyear, multisite, foundational dataset of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in rain and snow and to investigate the processes and sources that influence PFAS levels in rain and snow to inform management and remediation efforts. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (i) Assessment of Microplastic Pollution in Minnesota Karst Aquifers new text end

new text begin $458,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to determine the nature and extent of microplastic pollution in shallow karst aquifers, identify potential sources, and assess human and ecosystem health implications to inform mitigation and prevention strategies. new text end

new text begin (j) Ash Recovery and Recycling Center new text end

new text begin $1,177,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Otter Tail County to construct and equip a facility to store and recycle resource-recovery-generated ash as an alternative to landfilling. new text end

new text begin (k) PFAS and Microplastics: Potential Impacts of Environmental Co-Occurrence new text end

new text begin $721,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency to analyze water, sediment, and fish for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and microplastics to determine whether co-occurrence has an impact on bioaccumulation in aquatic habitats. new text end

new text begin (l) Brookdale Park Shingle Creek Restoration and Access Improvements new text end

new text begin $409,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Brooklyn Park to stabilize and enhance Shingle Creek through Brookdale Park and a portion of Palmer Lake Environmental Nature Area to improve wildlife passage and habitat, hydrologic function, water quality, and recreational opportunities through streambank and outfall stabilization, native plantings, and stream enhancements. new text end

new text begin (m) Determining Fracture Characteristics for Karst Groundwater Flow Modeling new text end

new text begin $375,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to develop and validate machine-learning software to identify complex fracture characteristics and improve predictions for groundwater flow and pollutant transport in Minnesota's karst aquifers. new text end

new text begin (n) Restoring Wild Rice Waters: Sulfate and Mercury Treatment new text end

new text begin $727,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the White Iron Chain of Lakes Association to test a biological sulfate reduction system to treat sulfate and sequester mercury to improve the health of wild rice waters and aquatic ecosystems in northern Minnesota. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal agent for White Iron Chain of Lakes Association must be approved in the work plan. new text end

new text begin (o) Cheap Portable Sensor to Detect PFAS in Water new text end

new text begin $357,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to develop a cheap, accurate, and easy-to-use sensor to monitor per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in waterbodies and detect PFAS in drinking water. new text end

new text begin (p) Geologic Atlases for Water Resource Management new text end

new text begin $1,275,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Minnesota Geological Survey, to continue producing county geologic atlases to inform management of surface water and groundwater resources. This appropriation is to complete Part A, which focuses on the properties and distribution of earth materials to define aquifer boundaries and the connection of aquifers to the land surface and surface water resources. new text end

new text begin (q) Mitigating Short-Chain Forever Chemicals Toward a PFAS-Free Minnesota new text end

new text begin $299,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to demonstrate, optimize, and provide an energy cost analysis of an enhanced plasma reactor to remove resistant short-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from wastewater and other point sources. new text end

new text begin (r) Anoka Rum River Dam Reconstruction and Modification Project new text end

new text begin $3,110,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Anoka for predesign, engineering, and final design of improvements to the Anoka Rum River Dam to enhance dam safety, restore aquatic habitats, and expand recreational opportunities in the Rum River just upstream of its confluence with the Mississippi River. new text end

new text begin (s) Lake Superior River Watch new text end

new text begin $404,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College to revitalize the river watch program in the Lake Superior watershed by engaging students in water quality monitoring and analysis to support Minnesota's Lake Superior stewardship efforts. new text end

new text begin (t) Red Lake Nation Long-Term Continuous Monitoring Buoys new text end

new text begin $993,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians to procure, install, and collect real-time water quality data from long-term buoys on Upper and Lower Red Lakes and Lake of the Woods and to improve hazardous algal bloom forecasts. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2031, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end new text begin Education and Outdoor Recreation new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 36,554,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Greater Minnesota Children's Museum Coalition Nature Play Curriculum new text end

new text begin $300,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota to collaborate with other greater Minnesota children's museums to standardize and enhance existing curriculum and implement nature-based programming that engages children and fosters environmental stewardship, awareness of natural resources, and sustainability. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal management plan must be approved in the work plan, unless otherwise determined by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (b) Cultivate, Connect, and Train Minnesota's Young Conservation Scientists new text end

new text begin $538,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum to expand a conservation science program that trains teachers and engages students in immersive research experiments and collaborative activities that build their scientific knowledge, skills, and interest and their appreciation for Minnesota's natural heritage. new text end

new text begin (c) Native Fish Exhibits Transforming Aquatic Education in Minnesota new text end

new text begin $299,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Headwaters Science Center to design and construct interactive, year-round exhibits and conduct educational programming featuring native fish species that increase the public's understanding, awareness, and stewardship of northern Minnesota's vital lake resources. new text end

new text begin (d) Inspiring and Connecting the Next Generations with Nature new text end

new text begin $3,085,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the YMCA of the North to increase access for Minnesota youth to outdoor camp and environmental learning experiences through scholarships, transportation assistance, and free equipment rentals. new text end

new text begin (e) River Bend Nature Center's Inclusive Interpretive Plan Implementation new text end

new text begin $293,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the River Bend Nature Center to design and install interactive multilingual interpretive and educational exhibits that provide culturally relevant and accessible information on the environment and natural resources and increase accessibility to nature for multilingual, blind, and deaf communities. new text end

new text begin (f) Fostering Environmental Stewardship Through Art new text end

new text begin $298,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Watermark Art Center, in partnership with the Headwaters Science Center, to engage underserved youth in northern Minnesota in art-related experiences, with regional artists and culture bearers, that integrate art and science to deliver culturally relevant hands-on environmental learning experiences. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal management plan must be approved in the work plan, unless otherwise determined by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (g) Increasing Pollinator Conservation Action Through Education and Engagement new text end

new text begin $501,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to: new text end

new text begin (1) train volunteers and beekeepers to become pollinator ambassadors that lead educational events and increase native pollinator conservation awareness and the adoption of pollinator conservation practices; and new text end

new text begin (2) train volunteers to collect data on bumblebee nests and develop recommendations for conserving bumblebee nesting habitat. new text end

new text begin (h) Flyway Fellows: Engaging Teachers in Bird Migration Education new text end

new text begin $362,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to train teachers in bird monitoring practices and support them in engaging students in scientific research that advances Mississippi Flyway conservation efforts. new text end

new text begin (i) Minnesota Community Schoolyards new text end

new text begin $1,343,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Trust for Public Land to engage students and communities in the creation of nature-focused habitat improvements at schoolyards across the state to encourage environmental stewardship and outdoor learning. new text end

new text begin (j) Bringing Environmental Education and Outdoor Recreation to K-12 Schools new text end

new text begin $192,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center to deliver hands-on environmental education and outdoor recreation learning experiences directly to K-12 school classrooms and students through programs at participating schools. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal management plan must be approved in the work plan, unless otherwise determined by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (k) Improving Trail Accessibility for Minnesotans at Osprey Wilds new text end

new text begin $25,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center to improve trails and install directional and interpretive signage on hiking and cross-country ski trails at the center's campus. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal management plan must be approved in the work plan, unless otherwise determined by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (l) Duluth Traverse Accessibility and Sustainability Improvements new text end

new text begin $85,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Cyclists of Gitchee Gumee Shores to rehabilitate a section of the Duluth Traverse Trail to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities, improve accessibility, reduce erosion, and improve water quality. new text end

new text begin (m) Hardwood Creek Regional Trail Extension new text end

new text begin $1,244,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Washington County to acquire easements for, design, and construct a new section of the Hardwood Creek Regional Trail to fill a gap in a regional trail network near a planned connection of regional trails across three counties. new text end

new text begin (n) College-School Collaboration to Restore Campuses and Activate Stewardship new text end

new text begin $199,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Minnesota State University, Mankato, to build partnerships among natural resource professionals, colleges, and secondary schools in southern Minnesota and expose youth to outdoor experiences, environmental issues, and natural resource career paths through internships, field trips, and environmental projects. new text end

new text begin (o) Urban Farming Education to Increase Urban Environmental Stewardship new text end

new text begin $300,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the East Phillips Neighborhood Institute to (1) design and deliver workshops and youth apprenticeship opportunities related to land and water stewardship and urban farming to reconnect residents to the land and water and foster interest in environmental careers; and (2) conduct soil testing at an urban farming demonstration site. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal management plan must be approved in the work plan, unless otherwise determined by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (p) A State Trail System for 21st-Century Minnesota new text end

new text begin $623,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota to increase participation in outdoor recreation and use of Minnesota's trails by nontraditional users through active adult education programming and community engagement. new text end

new text begin (q) Mississippi River Water Trail Access in Dayton new text end

new text begin $464,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Three Rivers Park District to develop public access to the Mississippi River in Dayton by designing and constructing recreational amenities, including a nonmotorized boat launch and staging area, paved trail connection, and parking. new text end

new text begin (r) YES! Connects Students to Outdoors for Youth-Led Sustainability new text end

new text begin $199,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center to empower Minnesota youth to lead sustainability projects and expose them to environmental and natural resource career opportunities through hands-on environmental education, natural resource-based recreation, and partnerships with local schools and communities. new text end

new text begin (s) Sharing Minnesota's Greatest Environmental Investment - Phase 2 new text end

new text begin $623,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Science Museum of Minnesota, in coordination with the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR), to increase public access to the results of LCCMR-recommended projects, including through an enhanced and expanded online interactive story map, in-depth videos, and public events. new text end

new text begin (t) Diversifying Nature Education Access new text end

new text begin $438,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Ramsey County Parks and Recreation Department to provide culturally relevant and inclusive environmental education programming, including nature center outreach and events, Indigenous-led nature programming, and interpretive nature signage designed by Indigenous artists and educators. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (u) Lebanon Hills Regional Park Natural Resources Restoration and Sustainable Trails Improvements new text end

new text begin $2,126,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Dakota County to reconstruct heavily eroded trails, decommission trails in highly sensitive natural areas, construct new trail connections, and restore land at Lebanon Hills Regional Park to reduce user conflicts, create a more sustainable and functional trail system, and improve habitat for pollinators and wildlife. new text end

new text begin (v) Minnesota State Trails Development new text end

new text begin $4,943,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to expand recreational opportunities on Minnesota state trails by rehabilitating and enhancing existing state trails and replacing or repairing existing state trail bridges. High-priority trail bridges to be repaired or replaced under this appropriation include but are not limited to the Minnesota River State Trail Bridge. High-priority trail segments to be rehabilitated and enhanced include but are not limited to the Glacial Lakes State Trail and the Minnesota Valley State Trail. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (w) Tettegouche State Park Entrance Bridge Replacement new text end

new text begin $3,674,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to replace the Baptism River Bridge in Tettegouche State Park and ensure ongoing accessibility for Minnesotans to recreational opportunities in areas of the park accessed by the bridge. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (x) Expanding Adaptive Outdoor Recreation Opportunities Around the Boundary Waters Canoe Area new text end

new text begin $996,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Adaptive Wilderness Within Reach to remove barriers and promote access to the Boundary Waters region for individuals with physical disabilities through adaptive wilderness experiences, adaptive equipment purchases, and trail accessibility improvements. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal agent for Adaptive Wilderness Within Reach must be approved in the work plan. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (y) Engaging Saint Paul Youth in Meaningful Restoration Work new text end

new text begin $300,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Urban Roots MN to engage underserved youth in paid job training internships and educational programming centered around environmental stewardship, natural resource conservation, and outdoor recreation. new text end

new text begin (z) Expanding and Enhancing Environmental Education Through Partnerships new text end

new text begin $550,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Belwin Conservancy to expand environmental education and partner with schools and Indigenous organizations to provide students with hands-on, standards-aligned, and culturally relevant science and nature programs. new text end

new text begin (aa) Greater Fountain Lake Aquatic and Trail Accessibility Enhancements new text end

new text begin $1,162,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Shell Rock River Watershed District to design and construct pedestrian paths, crossings, bridges, and recreational features that improve public access to fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and public green space located along the Shell Rock River Channel in the city of Albert Lea. new text end

new text begin (bb) Local Parks, Trails, and Natural Areas Grant Programs new text end

new text begin $3,833,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to solicit and rank applications and fund competitive matching grants for local parks, trail connections, and natural and scenic areas under Minnesota Statutes, section 85.019. This appropriation is for local nature-based recreation, connections to regional and state natural areas, and recreation facilities and may not be used for athletic facilities, such as sport fields, courts, or playgrounds. new text end

new text begin (cc) Lake Marion Greenway: Ritter Farm Park to Dodd Boulevard new text end

new text begin $1,797,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Lakeville to construct new trails and pedestrian crossings, improve existing trails and trailhead facilities, and install interpretive and wayfinding signage as part of the Lake Marion Greenway. new text end

new text begin (dd) Restored Bluff and Trail at Owámniyomni new text end

new text begin $2,385,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Owámniyomni Okhódayapi to design, engineer, and construct an ADA accessible pedestrian-only trail and restore the vegetated limestone bluff landscape. new text end

new text begin (ee) Minnesota Water Education for Grades K-5 new text end

new text begin $295,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Science Museum of Minnesota to provide educational programming on water science and conservation to underserved schools in Minnesota. new text end

new text begin (ff) Outdoor Learning Center and Trails new text end

new text begin $250,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Cook County Public Schools to improve and expand access to the outdoor environment and provide spaces for exploration and education through accessible trails, outdoor classrooms, shelter, and seating for students in Cook County public schools. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal management plan must be approved in the work plan, unless otherwise determined by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (gg) Facility Outdoor Improvements new text end

new text begin $180,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Veterans on the Lake to upgrade outdoor recreation facilities at Veterans on the Lake Resort on Fall Lake, including the construction of an accessible fishing pier and an accessible fish-cleaning house, to improve access to the wilderness and outdoor recreation for disabled American veterans. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, approval of the proposed improvements and conditions of funding by the property owner must be demonstrated. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal agent for Veterans on the Lake must be approved in the work plan. new text end

new text begin (hh) Classrooms to Careers: Expanding Environmental STEM Pathways new text end

new text begin $763,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Science Museum of Minnesota to provide hands-on research experiences and mentorship for high school youth and professional development for high school teachers to strengthen environmental STEM education and expose students to STEM career opportunities. new text end

new text begin (ii) Outdoor Learning Professional Development for Educators and Administrators new text end

new text begin $323,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center to train, mentor, and provide professional development opportunities for teachers and administrators to enable them to implement innovative, locally focused outdoor learning at their schools. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal management plan must be approved in the work plan, unless otherwise determined by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (jj) Emerging Conservation Leaders: Expanding the Network new text end

new text begin $786,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Trust, Inc., to introduce metro area youth to the outdoors and conservation professions through apprenticeships, internships, and youth environmental programming. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (kk) Lakewood Elementary School Trail Renewal and Community Engagement new text end

new text begin $288,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Duluth Public Schools to improve the Lakewood School Forest Trail and carry out erosion stabilization and restoration activities along the trail at Lakewood Elementary to ensure continued opportunities for safe outdoor education and community usage. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal management plan must be approved in the work plan, unless otherwise determined by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (ll) Explore Minnesota with COPAL new text end

new text begin $392,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Comunidades Organizando el Poder y la Accion Latina (COPAL) to expand community partnerships, provide environmentally focused programming and outreach focused on Latine and BIPOC communities, support youth environmental and outdoor leadership and engagement, and conduct an evaluation on the accessibility and inclusivity of Minnesota public lands. new text end

new text begin (mm) Expanding Community Boat Building and Outdoor Experiences new text end

new text begin $100,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Urban Boatbuilders to engage youth in hands-on woodworking experiences designing and constructing longboards, canoes, kayaks, and paddles that help develop technical, career-readiness, and leadership skills. Before costs for this appropriation are incurred, a fiscal management plan must be approved in the work plan, unless otherwise determined by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end new text begin Fish and Wildlife new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 18,750,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Which Cisco are Strongest? Identifying Healthy Populations new text end

new text begin $674,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to: new text end

new text begin (1) determine if certain cisco populations are better suited for Minnesota lakes experiencing higher temperatures and lower oxygen levels due to climate change; and new text end

new text begin (2) create a habitat suitability map for different cisco populations under different climate scenarios to guide management decisions. new text end

new text begin (b) Mapping Leech Lake Vegetation: A Closer Look new text end

new text begin $478,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe to: new text end

new text begin (1) survey aquatic vegetation and cultural uses of Leech Lake resources to understand changes over time and to guide future management; and new text end

new text begin (2) conduct public engagement, update aquatic vegetation inventories, and use genetics to distinguish between native and invasive plant species. new text end

new text begin (c) Salvaged Wildlife to Inform Environmental Health, Ecology, and Education - Phase 2 new text end

new text begin $673,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Bell Museum, to expand and support the statewide Salvage Wildlife network, prepare deceased wildlife as museum-quality specimens, and build biodiversity resources for research, education, and conservation of Minnesota's wildlife. new text end

new text begin (d) Partnership for Resilient Landscapes new text end

new text begin $2,638,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Pheasants Forever, Inc. to collaborate with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Fish and Wildlife Services, Board of Water and Soil Resources, and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to accelerate adoption of voluntary conservation practices on working lands in Minnesota by increasing technical assistance to farmers and landowners while also attracting federal matching funds. new text end

new text begin (e) Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza's Impacts on Minnesota Raptors new text end

new text begin $298,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Raptor Center, in partnership with Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, to continue to evaluate Minnesota raptors for current or past infections with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus to better understand disease transmission and outbreak impacts on raptor populations. new text end

new text begin (f) United in Responding to CWD in Minnesota new text end

new text begin $2,200,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the College of Veterinary Medicine to: new text end

new text begin (1) study the environmental persistence and transportation of chronic wasting disease (CWD) prions and the risk factors for CWD outbreaks in deer populations; and new text end

new text begin (2) advance antemortem testing for early detection of CWD in Minnesota, support Tribal and state surveillance efforts, and provide education about the public's role in CWD management. new text end

new text begin (g) Survival and Movement of Deer in Minnesota's Prairie and Transition Zones new text end

new text begin $1,000,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to GPS-collar and monitor deer to examine survival, causes of mortality, predator impacts, seasonal movements, and habitat selection in the state's northwest and central permit zones to determine deer herd health and inform harvest regulations and future CWD management. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2031, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (h) Uniting Minnesota's Insect Record new text end

new text begin $932,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Bell Museum, to develop the first comprehensive list of Minnesota insect species, consolidate Bell Museum and other state insect collections, and integrate specimen records of statewide natural history collections with the Minnesota Biodiversity Atlas. new text end

new text begin (i) Lake Sturgeon Restoration at Great Lakes Aquarium new text end

new text begin $500,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Lake Superior Authority to create a new lake-sturgeon-rearing program and educational grow-out exhibit at the Great Lakes Aquarium to advance restoration of lake sturgeon to the St. Louis River. Net income generated as part of this appropriation may be reinvested in the project if a plan for reinvestment is approved in the work plan as provided under Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (j) Wolf Monitoring on the Leech Lake Reservation new text end

new text begin $295,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe to monitor and assess wolf population dynamics and update a wolf management plan to guide collaboration with other natural resource agencies for the long-term survival of wolves on the Leech Lake Reservation. new text end

new text begin (k) Erosion Investigation of Pine and Curry Island SNA new text end

new text begin $539,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Lake of the Woods County to: new text end

new text begin (1) collect data, run models, and assess design alternatives to stabilize the shoreline, restore habitat, and improve water quality at Pine and Curry Island Scientific and Natural Area; and new text end

new text begin (2) summarize the data, evaluations, and final recommendations into a public report. new text end

new text begin (l) Building a Future for Minnesota's At-Risk Butterflies new text end

new text begin $294,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Minnesota Zoological Board to develop husbandry protocols for the Pawnee Skipper, identify conservation strategies for other at-risk butterfly species, and determine thresholds for taking action to inform conservation planning. new text end

new text begin (m) Advancing Bison Recovery and Stewardship Through Statewide Partnership new text end

new text begin $658,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Minnesota Zoological Board to advance conservation of bison in Minnesota by coordinating and implementing the priorities of the multiagency Minnesota Bison Collaborative, including monitoring herd genetics and health, assessing potential reintroduction sites, and developing an educational framework and tools. new text end

new text begin (n) Identifying Climate-Resilient Fisheries to Guide Minnesota Lake Management new text end

new text begin $643,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to assess factors supporting multispecies resilience to climate change, identify bright spots where fisheries are thriving despite environmental change, and develop decision options within the Resist-Accept-Direct framework for fisheries management. new text end

new text begin (o) Supporting Implementation of Large-Scale Moose Habitat Management new text end

new text begin $1,054,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to: new text end

new text begin (1) coordinate delivery of the moose habitat implementation plan that was created to overcome challenges to large-scale moose habitat management across diverse land ownerships among multiple partners; and new text end

new text begin (2) provide education, communication, and outreach to address specific implementation challenges and to establish and execute a monitoring plan to evaluate implementation success. new text end

new text begin (p) Evaluating Forward-Facing Sonar Impacts on Minnesota Fish new text end

new text begin $676,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to evaluate the impact of forward-facing sonar on angler catch rates and fish mortality across multiple species and lake types to inform sustainable management of Minnesota freshwater fish populations. new text end

new text begin (q) Incidence of Avian Influenza in Minnesota Forest Birds new text end

new text begin $234,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Duluth, to augment wild bird surveys in northern Minnesota with sampling for present and past infections with avian influenza and coinfection with Haemosporidian parasites to identify at-risk bird species and quantify trends in avian influenza prevalence over time. new text end

new text begin (r) Regarding Native Fish: Outreach, Engagement, and Citizen Science new text end

new text begin $270,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to advance conservation of native fish in Minnesota by collecting field data on native rough fish ecology and population dynamics, engaging a citizen-scientist angler network, and providing education and outreach on the importance of native rough fish as prioritized in the Department of Natural Resources' 2023 Native Fish Report. new text end

new text begin (s) Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center - Phase 8 new text end

new text begin $4,694,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center, to fund high-priority research projects to better manage invasive plants, pathogens, and pests on Minnesota's natural and agricultural lands. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2032, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end new text begin Energy new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 773,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Minnesota Chiller Energy Efficiency and Onsite Energy Generation new text end

new text begin $298,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Minnesota Technical Assistance Program to decrease carbon emissions through technical assistance to reduce energy use in industrial and commercial chiller systems and identify onsite energy solutions that promote decarbonization and resilience. new text end

new text begin (b) Novel Piezoelectric Energy Converters for Minnesota Waters new text end

new text begin $475,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory to model and evaluate the viability of an innovative renewable energy approach using an underwater piezoelectric filament canopy to sustainably harness the untapped wave energy resources of Lake Superior and similar regions. new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end new text begin Land new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 17,964,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Lake Minnewashta Regional Park Restoration new text end

new text begin $392,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Carver County to: new text end

new text begin (1) restore critical habitat at Lake Minnewashta Regional Park consistent with the park natural resources management plan; and new text end

new text begin (2) collect data to evaluate restoration success and guide adaptive management. new text end

new text begin (b) Adopt a Flyway: Enhancing Minnesota's Migratory Bird Pitstops new text end

new text begin $840,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Audubon Upper Mississippi River to pilot an adopt-a-flyway program to incentivize habitat restoration and enhancement of Minnesota's Mississippi Flyway to support the full life cycles of native birds. Notwithstanding subdivision 12, paragraph (e), restoration efforts may be undertaken on private lands if a long-term agreement is secured to protect and maintain the restored area as approved in the work plan and money is committed to monitor that agreement. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (c) Utilizing Wood Waste and Biochar for Mine Land Reclamation new text end

new text begin $358,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Natural Resources Research Institute in Duluth to: new text end

new text begin (1) evaluate water infiltration, pollutant removal, and plant growth in mine land soils amended with wood waste and biochar; and new text end

new text begin (2) estimate the ecosystem and climate benefits of using wood waste and biochar soil mixes for mine land reclamation in Minnesota and disseminate project results to stakeholders. new text end

new text begin (d) Certified Prescribed Burn Manager Curriculum Development and Pilot new text end

new text begin $454,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to design and pilot a Minnesota certified prescribed burn manager program to increase capacity for nonagency stewardship of privately owned and fire-dependent native grasslands and forests across Minnesota. Net income generated as part of this appropriation may be reinvested in the project if a plan for reinvestment is approved in the work plan as provided under Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (e) Updating Land Cover Maps for Enhanced Natural Systems new text end

new text begin $298,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to produce high-resolution land cover maps using new LiDAR and aerial imagery to support conservation, water management, climate resilience, and planning in Minnesota's largest population centers. new text end

new text begin (f) Pollinator Central V: Habitat Improvement with Public Engagement new text end

new text begin $750,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Great River Greening to partner with municipalities to create and enhance pollinator habitat along public corridors from Mankato to Little Falls and engage communities with native pollinator education and natural resources stewardship. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (g) Evaluating Soil Health Benefits of Controlled Agricultural Drainage new text end

new text begin $249,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Minnesota State University, Mankato, to study the impact of controlled tile drainage on soil health and conduct outreach and education on the potential environmental and economic benefits of controlled tile drainage. new text end

new text begin (h) Oak Savanna Restoration for Living Landscapes new text end

new text begin $1,944,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Water and Soil Resources, in partnership with the Xerces Society, to pilot a program to provide grants and other agreements, conservation plans, seed mixes, and other technical resources to restore and enhance oak savannas and supporting tallgrass prairies and woodlands on public and protected conservation lands in Minnesota's Eastern Broadleaf Forest Province. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2031, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (i) Metropolitan Regional Parks System Land Acquisition - Phase 9 new text end

new text begin $2,414,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Metropolitan Council for grants to acquire land with high-quality natural resources or natural resources restoration potential for the metropolitan regional parks system. This appropriation must be matched by an equal amount from a combination of Metropolitan Council and local agency money. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (j) SNA Habitat Enhancement, Public Engagement, and Biodiversity Protection new text end

new text begin $3,996,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to restore and enhance habitat on scientific and natural areas (SNAs), increase public involvement and outreach, and strategically acquire lands that meet criteria for SNAs under Minnesota Statutes, section 86A.05, from willing sellers. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (k) Lake Brophy Park Trail Armoring and Trail Improvements new text end

new text begin $70,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Douglas County to design and construct enhancements to existing single-track trails at Lake Brophy Park. new text end

new text begin (l) Sustainable Land Use with Robotic Technology on Small Farms new text end

new text begin $524,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to collaborate with the Hmong American Farmers Association to design and test new robotic technologies to assist with sustainable agricultural practices on small farms. new text end

new text begin (m) Managing Minnesota's Forests for Carbon: Tradeoffs and Synergies new text end

new text begin $300,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to identify tradeoffs and synergies between managing forests for carbon credits and managing forests for other purposes, including wildlife and timber production. new text end

new text begin (n) Native Prairie Bank - Private Native Prairie Conservation and Outreach new text end

new text begin $1,758,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to provide technical stewardship assistance to prairie landowners, restore and enhance native prairie protected by easements in the native prairie bank, and acquire easements for the native prairie bank in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 84.96, including preparing initial baseline property assessments. Up to $75,000 of this appropriation may be deposited in the natural resources conservation easement stewardship account created under Minnesota Statutes, section 84.69, proportional to the number of easements acquired. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (o) Alleviating PFAS Impacts of Biosolids on Agricultural Lands new text end

new text begin $300,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to evaluate the impacts of biosolids containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on farmland microbial health and explore an alternative cost-effective biotreatment to remove PFAS from agricultural fields. new text end

new text begin (p) Southeast Minnesota Groundwater Protection and Soil Health Initiative new text end

new text begin $2,817,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Olmsted County to provide results-based incentives, technical assistance, and educational tools to increase implementation of soil health practices on agricultural fields to prevent nitrate leaching to groundwater in karst regions of southeast Minnesota. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (q) Living with Fire in Minnesota Forests new text end

new text begin $500,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with The Nature Conservancy, in partnership with Dovetail Partners, to accelerate prescribed burning by educating private landowners, coordinating management, and conducting prescribed burns on public and Tribal lands to restore Minnesota's forestlands. new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end new text begin Administration new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 340,000 new text end

new text begin $340,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources, at the direction of the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources, for expenses incurred in preparing and administering contracts, including for the agreements specified in this section. new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end new text begin Availability of appropriations new text end

new text begin Money appropriated in this section may not be spent on activities unless they are directly related to and necessary for a specific appropriation and are specified in the work plan approved by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources. Money appropriated in this section must not be spent on indirect costs or other institutional overhead charges that are not directly related to and necessary for a specific appropriation. Costs that are directly related to and necessary for an appropriation, including financial services, human resources, information services, rent, and utilities, are eligible only if the costs can be clearly justified and individually documented specific to the appropriation's purpose and would not be generated by the recipient but for receipt of the appropriation. No broad allocations for costs in either dollars or percentages are allowed. Unless otherwise provided, the amounts in this section are available for three years beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2029, when projects must be completed and final products delivered. For acquisition of real property, the appropriations in this section are available for an additional fiscal year if a binding contract for acquisition of the real property is entered into before the expiration date of the appropriation. If a project receives a federal award, the period of the appropriation is extended to equal the federal award period to a maximum trust fund appropriation length of six years. new text end

new text begin Subd. 11. new text end new text begin Data availability requirements new text end

new text begin Data collected by the projects funded under this section must conform to guidelines and standards adopted by Minnesota IT Services. Spatial data must also conform to additional guidelines and standards designed to support data coordination and distribution that have been published by the Minnesota Geospatial Information Office. Descriptions of spatial data must be prepared as specified in the state's geographic metadata guidelines, and final data must be uploaded to the Minnesota Geospatial Commons upon project completion. All data must be accessible and free to the public unless made private under the Data Practices Act, Minnesota Statutes, chapter 13. To the extent practicable, summary data and results of projects funded under this section should be readily accessible on the Internet and identified as having received funding from the environment and natural resources trust fund. new text end

new text begin Subd. 12. new text end new text begin Project requirements new text end

new text begin (a) As a condition of accepting an appropriation under this section, an agency or entity receiving an appropriation or a party to an agreement from an appropriation must comply with paragraphs (b) to (m) and Minnesota Statutes, chapter 116P, and must submit a work plan and annual or semiannual progress reports in the form determined by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources for any project funded in whole or in part with money from the appropriation. Modifications to the approved work plan and budget expenditures must be made through the amendment process established by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources. new text end

new text begin (b) A recipient of money appropriated in this section that conducts a restoration using money appropriated in this section must use native plant species according to the Board of Water and Soil Resources' native vegetation establishment and enhancement guidelines and include an appropriate diversity of native species selected to provide habitat for pollinators throughout the growing season as required under Minnesota Statutes, section 84.973. new text end

new text begin (c) For all restorations conducted with money appropriated under this section, a recipient must prepare an ecological restoration and management plan that, to the degree practicable, is consistent with the highest-quality conservation and ecological goals for the restoration site. Consideration should be given to soil, geology, topography, and other relevant factors that would provide the best chance for long-term success and durability of the restoration project. The plan must include the proposed timetable for implementing the restoration, including site preparation, establishment of diverse plant species, maintenance, and additional enhancement to establish the restoration; identify long-term maintenance and management needs of the restoration and how the maintenance, management, and enhancement will be financed; and take advantage of the best-available science and include innovative techniques to achieve the best restoration. new text end

new text begin (d) An entity receiving an appropriation in this section for restoration activities must provide an initial restoration evaluation at the completion of the appropriation and an evaluation three years after the completion of the expenditure. Restorations must be evaluated relative to the stated goals and standards in the restoration plan, current science, and, when applicable, the Board of Water and Soil Resources' native vegetation establishment and enhancement guidelines. The evaluation must determine whether the restorations are meeting planned goals, identify any problems with implementing the restorations, and, if necessary, give recommendations on improving restorations. The evaluation must be focused on improving future restorations. new text end

new text begin (e) All restoration and enhancement projects funded with money appropriated in this section must be on land permanently protected by a conservation easement or public ownership. new text end

new text begin (f) A recipient of money from an appropriation under this section must give consideration to contracting with Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa for contract restoration and enhancement services. new text end

new text begin (g) All conservation easements acquired with money appropriated under this section must: new text end

new text begin (1) be permanent; new text end

new text begin (2) specify the parties to the easement in the easement document; new text end

new text begin (3) specify all provisions of an agreement that are permanent; new text end

new text begin (4) be sent to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources in an electronic format at least 20 business days before closing; new text end

new text begin (5) include a long-term monitoring and enforcement plan and funding for monitoring and enforcing the easement agreement; and new text end

new text begin (6) include requirements in the easement document to protect the quantity and quality of groundwater and surface water through specific activities, such as keeping water on the landscape, reducing nutrient and contaminant loading, and not permitting artificial hydrological modifications. new text end

new text begin (h) For any acquisition of lands or interest in lands, a recipient of money appropriated under this section must not agree to pay more than 100 percent of the appraised value for a parcel of land using this money to complete the purchase, in part or in whole, except that up to ten percent above the appraised value may be allowed to complete the purchase, in part or in whole, using this money if permission is received in advance of the purchase from the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources. new text end

new text begin (i) For any acquisition of land or interest in land for environmental and natural resources conservation purposes, a recipient of money appropriated under this section must give priority to minimally disturbed lands that provide the greatest capacity for multiple conservation benefits to humans, fish, wildlife, and water resources. new text end

new text begin (j) For new lands acquired with money appropriated under this section, a recipient must prepare an ecological restoration and management plan in compliance with paragraph (c), including sufficient funding for implementation unless the work plan addresses why a portion of the money is not necessary to achieve a high-quality restoration. new text end

new text begin (k) To ensure public accountability for using public money, a recipient of money appropriated under this section must, within 60 days of a land acquisition, provide to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources documentation of the selection process used to identify parcels acquired and provide documentation of all related transaction costs, including but not limited to appraisals, legal fees, recording fees, commissions, other similar costs, and donations. This information must be provided for all parties involved in the transaction. The recipient must also report to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources any difference between the acquisition amount paid to the seller and the state-certified or state-reviewed appraisal, if a state-certified or state-reviewed appraisal was conducted. new text end

new text begin (l) A recipient of an appropriation from the trust fund under this section must acknowledge financial support from the environment and natural resources trust fund in project publications, signage, and other public communications and outreach related to work completed using the appropriation. Acknowledgment may occur, as appropriate, through use of the trust fund logo or inclusion of language attributing support from the trust fund. Each direct recipient of money appropriated in this section, as well as each recipient of a grant awarded pursuant to this section, must satisfy all reporting and other requirements incumbent upon constitutionally dedicated funding recipients as provided in Minnesota Statutes, section 3.303, subdivision 10, and chapter 116P. new text end

new text begin (m) A recipient of an appropriation from the trust fund under this section that is receiving funding to conduct children's services, as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 299C.61, subdivision 7, must certify to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources, as part of the required work plan, that criminal background checks for background check crimes, as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 299C.61, subdivision 2, are performed on all employees, contractors, and volunteers that have or may have access to a child to whom the recipient provides children's services using the appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 13. new text end new text begin Payment conditions and capital equipment expenditures new text end

new text begin (a) All agreements, grants, or contracts referred to in this section must be administered on a reimbursement basis unless otherwise provided in this section. Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.41, expenditures made on or after July 1, 2026, or the date the work plan is approved, whichever is later, are eligible for reimbursement unless otherwise provided in this section. Periodic payments must be made upon receiving documentation that the deliverable items articulated in the approved work plan have been achieved, including partial achievements as evidenced by approved progress reports. Reasonable amounts may be advanced to projects to accommodate cash-flow needs or match federal money. The advances must be approved as part of the work plan. No expenditures for capital equipment are allowed unless expressly authorized in the project work plan. new text end

new text begin (b) Single-source contracts as specified in the approved work plan are allowed. new text end

new text begin Subd. 14. new text end new text begin Purchasing recycled and recyclable materials new text end

new text begin A political subdivision, public or private corporation, or other entity that receives an appropriation under this section must use the appropriation in compliance with Minnesota Statutes, section 16C.0725, regarding purchasing recycled, repairable, and durable materials, and Minnesota Statutes, section 16C.073, regarding purchasing and using paper stock and printing. new text end

new text begin Subd. 15. new text end new text begin Accessibility new text end

new text begin Structural and nonstructural facilities must meet the design standards in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility guidelines. new text end

new text begin Subd. 16. new text end new text begin Carryforward; extensions new text end

new text begin (a) The availability of the appropriations for the following projects is extended to June 30, 2027: new text end

new text begin (1) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 5, section 2, subdivision 6, paragraph (e), Emerald Ash Borer and Black Ash: Maintaining Forests and Benefits; new text end

new text begin (2) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 5, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (t), Chippewa County Acquisition, Recreation, and Education; new text end

new text begin (3) Laws 2022, chapter 94, section 2, subdivision 10, paragraph (e), Conservation Reserve Program State Incentives; new text end

new text begin (4) Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (f), Statewide Forest Carbon Inventory and Change Mapping; new text end

new text begin (5) Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (p), Old Growth Forest Monitoring; new text end

new text begin (6) Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (r), Community Response Monitoring for Adaptive Management in Southeast Minnesota; new text end

new text begin (7) Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 2, subdivision 7, paragraph (c), Completing Installment of the Minnesota Ecological Monitoring Network; new text end

new text begin (8) Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 2, subdivision 8, paragraph (e), Minnesota Million: Seedlings for Reforestation and CO₂ Sequestration; new text end

new text begin (9) Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 2, subdivision 8, paragraph (q), Statewide Diversion of Furniture and Mattress Waste Pilots; and new text end

new text begin (10) Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 2, subdivision 10, paragraph (b), Emerging Issues. new text end

new text begin (b) The availability of the appropriation under Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (e), Minnesota State Trails Development, is extended to June 30, 2028. new text end

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116P.08, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Legislative recommendations.

(a) Funding may be provided only for those projects that meet the categories established in subdivision 1.

(b) The commission must recommend an annual or biennial legislative bill to make appropriations from the trust fund for the purposes provided in subdivision 1. The recommendations must be submitted to the governor for inclusion in the biennial budget and supplemental budget submitted to the legislature.

(c) The commission may recommend regional block grants for a portion of trust fund expenditures to partner with existing regional organizations that have strong citizen involvement, to address unique local needs and capacity, and to leverage all available funding sources for projects.

deleted text begin (d) The commission may recommend the establishment of an emerging issues account in its legislative bill for funding emerging issues, which come up unexpectedly, but which still adhere to the commission's strategic plan, to be approved by the governor after initiation and recommendation by the commission. deleted text end

deleted text begin (e) deleted text end new text begin (d) new text end Money in the trust fund may not be spent except under an appropriation by law.

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116P.08, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 4a. new text end

new text begin Emerging issues account. new text end

new text begin (a) The commission may recommend the establishment of an emerging issues account in its legislative bill for funding emerging issues, which come up unexpectedly but still adhere to the commission's strategic plan. new text end

new text begin (b) Money in the emerging issues account may only be spent on activities that meet all of the following requirements: new text end

new text begin (1) address an immediate threat to public health, the environment, or the state's natural resources; and new text end

new text begin (2) are conducted by a state agency or performed under a contract directed by a state agency. new text end

new text begin (c) Money in the emerging issues account may not be spent on: new text end

new text begin (1) a project that was previously reviewed and rejected by the commission during the most recently completed funding cycle or included in a bill introduced during either of the last two regular legislative sessions; or new text end

new text begin (2) a capital construction project. new text end

new text begin (d) Except as provided under section 116P.09, subdivision 6, paragraph (b), recommendations by the commission for an expenditure from the emerging issues account require an affirmative vote of at least 12 members of the commission. An expenditure from the emerging issues account must be approved by the governor after initiation and recommendation by the commission. The chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over environment and natural resources must be notified of an expenditure sent to the governor for approval. new text end

new text begin (e) A recipient of money from the emerging issues account must submit a final report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over environment and natural resources detailing the expenditure of the money and outcomes achieved. new text end

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116P.09, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Conflict of interest.

(a) A commission member, a technical advisory committee member, a peer reviewer, or an employee of the commission may not participate in or vote on a decision of the commission, advisory committee, or peer review relating to an organization in which the member, peer reviewer, or employee has either a direct or indirect personal financial interest. While serving on the commission or technical advisory committee or as a peer reviewer or while an employee of the commission, a person must avoid any potential conflict of interest.

(b) A commission member may not vote on a motion regarding the purchase of land under section 116P.18 deleted text begin or deleted text end new text begin ; new text end the final recommendations of the commission required under section 116P.05, subdivision 2, paragraph (a) deleted text begin , deleted text end new text begin ; or the expenditure of money from the emerging issues account new text end if the motion relates to an organization in which the member has a direct personal financial interest. If a commission member is prohibited from voting under this paragraph, the number of affirmative votes required under section 116P.05, subdivision 2, paragraph (a), or section 116P.18 is reduced by the number of members ineligible to vote under this paragraph.

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116X.03, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 1a. new text end

new text begin Grant awards; maximum amounts. new text end

new text begin (a) A grant awarded under this section may not exceed: new text end

new text begin (1) $2,000,000, if the grant is for trail maintenance; or new text end

new text begin (2) $750,000, if the grant is for a purpose other than trail maintenance. new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner must award grants under this section in each fiscal year for more than one purpose under subdivision 1, paragraph (b). new text end

new text begin (c) Paragraph (a), clause (1), is a limitation on the total amount of money that can be awarded in a single grant cycle under this section to a grantee for work on the same trail. new text end

new text begin (d) This subdivision expires June 30, 2028. new text end

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116X.03, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 3a. new text end

new text begin Staff training requirements. new text end

new text begin All Department of Natural Resources staff who are assigned grants management responsibilities for grants awarded under this section must complete annual training on financial reconciliation and fraud prevention in addition to the training required under section 16B.98, subdivision 6a. new text end

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116X.03, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 3b. new text end

new text begin Grants monitoring. new text end

new text begin The commissioner must conduct at least one in-person unannounced monitoring visit before final payment is made on all grants awarded under this section that are for an amount of $50,000 or more. For grant amounts under $50,000, the commissioner must select a sample from the grants awarded each year and conduct at least one unannounced monitoring visit on the selected grants before final payment is made. new text end

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116X.03, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 3c. new text end

new text begin Small grant administration requirements. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner must conduct a preaward risk assessment under section 16B.981 for a grant awarded under this section that is for an amount less than $50,000. new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner must conduct a financial reconciliation of grantees' expenditures on a sample of grants under $50,000 before final payments are made. new text end

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116X.03, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 4a. new text end

new text begin Advance payment. new text end

new text begin (a) Except as provided under paragraph (b), a grant awarded under this section must be administered on a reimbursement basis. new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner may provide an advance payment to a recipient of a grant administered under this section if: new text end

new text begin (1) the recipient has obtained a surety bond in an amount and in a form approved by the commissioner; or new text end

new text begin (2) a fiscal agent has been designated and approved by the commissioner under paragraph (c). new text end

new text begin (c) The commissioner may designate and approve a fiscal agent for purposes of this subdivision if the fiscal agent is subject to the requirements under sections 16B.97 to 16B.991. new text end

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116X.03, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 5a. new text end

new text begin Grant recipient reporting. new text end

new text begin A recipient of a grant awarded under this section must submit a quarterly written progress report on the grant to the commissioner in a form and manner approved by the commissioner until all grant funds have been expended and all of the terms in the grant contract agreement have been met. new text end

Sec. 12.

new text begin ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES TRUST FUND COMMUNITY GRANT PROGRAM APPROPRIATION. new text end

new text begin (a) $28,180,000 in fiscal year 2027 is appropriated from the environment and natural resources trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for grants under Minnesota Statutes, section 116X.03, allocated as required under Minnesota Statutes, section 116X.03, subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin (b) This is a onetime appropriation. Minnesota Statutes, chapter 116P, does not apply to this appropriation or to projects funded with this appropriation. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2030. new text end

Sec. 13.

new text begin REPEALER. new text end

new text begin Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116P.17, new text end new text begin is repealed. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Presented to the governor May 15, 2026