Minnesota Session Laws - 2024, Regular Session

CHAPTER 83--H.F.No. 3377

An act

relating to natural resources; appropriating money from environment and natural resources trust fund; modifying previous appropriations;

amending Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 4, article 2, section 2, subdivision 9; Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 9; Laws 2022, chapter 94, section 2, subdivisions 9, as amended, 10; Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 2, subdivision 9.

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 and are available for the fiscal years indicated for each purpose. The figures "2024" and "2025" used in this act mean that the appropriations listed under them are available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, or June 30, 2025, respectively. "The first year" is fiscal year 2024. "The second year" is fiscal year 2025. "The biennium" is fiscal years 2024 and 2025. Any unencumbered balance remaining in the first year does not cancel and is available for the second year or until the end of the appropriation. These are onetime appropriations. 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 2024 new text end		new text begin 2025 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 79,644,000 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 Foundational Natural Resource Data and Information new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 14,993,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Native Plant Community Data in the City of Duluth new text end

new text begin $198,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Minnesota Land Trust to develop field-verified native plant community data and maps for the city of Duluth and the St. Louis River estuary to support conservation and restoration activities. new text end

new text begin (b) Reconstructing Historical Wild Rice to Understand Its Future new text end

new text begin $200,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Science Museum of Minnesota for the St. Croix Watershed Research Station to characterize environmental drivers contributing to the decline of wild rice using lake sediment cores to reconstruct historical wild rice abundance in relation to lake and watershed stressors. new text end

new text begin (c) Characterizing Tree Cavities and Use by Minnesota's Wildlife new text end

new text begin $349,000 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 assess the effects of forest management on Minnesota's primary cavity engineer, the pileated woodpecker, and on the wildlife that rely on the cavities that pileated woodpeckers create. This appropriation is also to develop management guidelines. new text end

new text begin (d) Fate of Minnesota's Lakes in the Next Century new text end

new text begin $453,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to use new modeling techniques to quantify how water quality of Minnesota's lakes will change in the next century under future land use and climate change scenarios and to create an online web tool to display the results. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10.This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (e) Turtle Island Skywatchers - Minnesota Research and Data Visualization new text end

new text begin $200,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Native Skywatchers Inc. to engage youth in environmental stewardship by collecting images and acoustic data from turtles and other culturally significant animals and their habitats, evaluating the differences in these soundscapes across landscapes, and sharing the results through scientific storytelling and online platforms. new text end

new text begin (f) Monitoring Minnesota's Insects: Connecting Habitat to Insect Prey new text end

new text begin $199,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to investigate the ecological roles of and energy transfer by certain Minnesota insects throughout their life cycles and to train future insect researchers on field techniques. new text end

new text begin (g) Determining Ambient Background PFAS Concentrations in Minnesota Soils new text end

new text begin $621,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency to determine ambient background per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) levels in urban and nonurban soils to help Minnesota develop management strategies for PFAS-contaminated soils. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (h) Investigating Life History Characteristics of Minnesota Elk new text end

new text begin $933,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to assess Minnesota elk herd health and genetic diversity, movements, survival, and causes of mortality and to develop a noninvasive, safer, and more accurate method to estimate population size. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (i) Foundational Data for Moth and Butterfly Conservation new text end

new text begin $195,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to perform field surveys and consolidate existing data to create the first comprehensive list of Minnesota moths and butterflies. This appropriation is also to conduct outreach to inform land managers and to facilitate public appreciation of these species. new text end

new text begin (j) DNR County Groundwater Atlas new text end

new text begin $3,200,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to continue producing county groundwater atlases to inform management of surface water and groundwater resources for drinking and other purposes. This appropriation is for Part B, to characterize the potential water yields of aquifers and aquifers' sensitivity to contamination. new text end

new text begin (k) Voyageurs Wolf Project - Phase III new text end

new text begin $996,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to continue to study summertime wolf predation on deer, moose, and other species in the greater Voyageurs ecosystem to inform wildlife management and to share natural history of this species with the public. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (l) Distribution and Population Status of Weasels in Minnesota new text end

new text begin $400,000 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 determine the distribution, relative abundance, and spatial occupancy patterns of small weasel species in Minnesota to fill key knowledge gaps in weasel distribution and status in Minnesota. new text end

new text begin (m) Improving Aquatic Plant Knowledge for Healthy Waters new text end

new text begin $198,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to collect foundational data on Minnesota's native aquatic plant biodiversity through new and enhanced lake surveys and to disseminate results to state resource managers, scientists, and the public. new text end

new text begin (n) New Small Mammal Monitoring Methods for Minnesota new text end

new text begin $199,000 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 develop camera trapping methods as a new tool to collect foundational data and fill key knowledge gaps in the status of small mammal species in Minnesota. new text end

new text begin (o) Status of Bats and Roost Trees after White-Nose Syndrome new text end

new text begin $195,000 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 study changes in maternity roost trees and bat populations in the forested areas of Minnesota and to evaluate the effects of years of white-nose syndrome on Minnesota bats. new text end

new text begin (p) Sublethal Effects of Pesticides on the Invertebrate Community new text end

new text begin $387,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to provide data on pesticide contamination in soil and the insect community across the state and the effect of insecticide exposure on insect reproduction. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2029, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (q) Modernizing Minnesota's Plant Community Classification and Field Guides new text end

new text begin $1,800,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to collect additional vegetation and environmental data and update the state's 20-year-old native plant community classification guides to incorporate new data, streamline user application and access to products, and include analysis of climate and vegetation trends. 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. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (r) Assessing Prairie Health to Inform Pollinator Conservation new text end

new text begin $297,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Minnesota Zoological Society to assess habitat quality and pesticide occurrence in Minnesota prairies to help inform management actions, endangered species recovery plans, and pollinator reintroduction efforts for endangered and threatened butterflies and other wildlife. new text end

new text begin (s) Understanding Native Fishes in the Bowfishing Era new text end

new text begin $588,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Duluth, to collect foundational biological information on a selection of native Minnesota fish to aid in sustainable management, improve recreational opportunities, and educate the public about these shared aquatic resources. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (t) Preserving Minnesota Wildflower Information new text end

new text begin $199,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Bell Museum of Natural History, to preserve and enhance Minnesota Wildflowers Information, an online tool for plant identification, by integrating the content and functionality of the website with the Minnesota Biodiversity Atlas for public use as required by Laws 2017, chapter 96, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (e). new text end

new text begin (u) White-Tailed Deer Movement and Disease in Suburban Areas new text end

new text begin $699,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to better understand white-tailed deer movement, habitat use, and disease dynamics at the suburban-agricultural interface to inform more efficient deer management and disease control. new text end

new text begin (v) Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and Minnesota Raptors new text end

new text begin $187,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Raptor Center 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 (w) Geologic Atlases for Water Resource Management new text end

new text begin $1,236,000 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 (x) Remote Sensing for Pollinator Habitat 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 Monarch Joint Venture to use remote sensing technology to evaluate pollinator habitat on energy and transportation corridors across Minnesota and to host field-day training workshops. new text end

new text begin (y) Harnessing Cover Crops and Roots for Sustainable Cropping 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 determine carbon sequestration, nitrogen credit potential, water use, and performance of cover crops in corn-soybean and corn-soybean-wheat rotations in southern Minnesota. new text end

new text begin (z) Effects of Conservation Grazing on Solar Sites Managed for Pollinator Habitat new text end

new text begin $88,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Minnesota Native Landscapes, in partnership with Temple University, to analyze the effects of sheep grazing and mowing on the vegetation and soils of solar sites managed for pollinator habitat and to improve understanding of the environmental outcomes from the colocation of solar panels; grazing; and native, pollinator-friendly vegetation. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2029, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (aa) Genetic Detection of Endangered Mussels in the Mississippi new text end

new text begin $241,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the United States Geological Survey, Ohio Water Microbiology Lab, to create, optimize, and use eDNA assays to detect the presence of endangered or threatened mussel species around Buffalo Slough near the Prairie Island Indian Community. new text end

new text begin (bb) Integrated Population Modeling for Trumpeter Swans new text end

new text begin $180,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to compile and use all available data to model historical population abundance and estimate future population dynamics of Minnesota trumpeter swans. new text end

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

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 6,924,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Hyperspectral Characterization of Toxic Harmful Algal Blooms new text end

new text begin $399,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, to investigate the use of hyperspectral microscopic imaging to detect harmful algal bloom (HAB) species and toxicity levels in Minnesota lakes that will support the development of HAB early-warning remote sensing tools. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10, and is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (b) Characterization of Chemicals in Structural Fire Wastewater new text end

new text begin $369,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to identify, analyze, and model the fate of chemicals present in wastewater from extinguished structural fires to better understand potential toxicity to humans and aquatic life. new text end

new text begin (c) Climate Change and Management Effects on Methane Cycling in Lakes new text end

new text begin $540,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to collect monitoring data and create a model to measure the effects of increased temperature and precipitation on lake and wetland water quality, habitat, and greenhouse gas emissions and evaluate lake management options under changing climate conditions. new text end

new text begin (d) Enhancing Wastewater Treatment through Genetic Sequencing new text end

new text begin $553,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to generate genome sequences for and assess the ability of bacteria growing in wastewater treatment bioreactors to improve phosphorus and nitrogen removal from wastewater in Minnesota and to produce novel pharmaceutical compounds. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (e) Improving Water Efficiency Programming with Measurable Outcomes new text end

new text begin $200,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Woodbury to accelerate the implementation of new and innovative water efficiency programs to conserve water and serve as a model for other communities. new text end

new text begin (f) Fluorine Beyond PFAS: Pesticide and Pharmaceutical Degradation new text end

new text begin $400,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to identify fluorinated pesticides and pharmaceuticals that degrade into potentially persistent or toxic byproducts and to analyze the microbes, processes, and conditions involved to inform bioremediation and development of more sustainable chemistries. new text end

new text begin (g) Novel Nutrient Recovery Process from Wastewater Treatment Plants new text end

new text begin $486,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to continue to develop an integrated process to promote nutrient removal and recovery and renewable energy production at rural municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (h) Visitor Perceptions of Water Quality to Aid Lake Management new text end

new text begin $379,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Humphrey School of Public Affairs, to conduct an analysis of lake visitor perceptions, management actions, and water quality to inform lake management. new text end

new text begin (i) Wildfire Impacts on Mercury Cycling in Wilderness Lakes new text end

new text begin $297,000 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 evaluate the long-term effects of wildfires on lake water quality, mercury mobilization, and mercury bioaccumulation in fish and to develop predictive tools that inform management and help protect the health of fisheries and manoomin in wilderness lakes. new text end

new text begin (j) Flood and Drought Modeling for Minnesota new text end

new text begin $499,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to compile new and existing data and develop a tool to provide cities and watershed districts with quantitative estimates of the effects of land use and climate change on floods and droughts. new text end

new text begin (k) Breaking the PFAS Cycle with a Full-Scale Demonstration new text end

new text begin $1,481,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Barr Engineering Company, in partnership with the city of St. Cloud and the Minnesota Technical Assistance Program (MnTAP) at the University of Minnesota, to conduct a full-scale pilot to evaluate supercritical water oxidation of biosolids and drinking water treatment residuals to destroy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and recover energy in the water treatment process. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (l) Are Stream Restoration Efforts Effective? An Evidence-Based Assessment new text end

new text begin $200,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Saint Mary's University of Minnesota to assess stream habitat improvement projects to improve trout populations and stream health in Minnesota's Driftless Area. new text end

new text begin (m) Uncovering the Past to Protect Minnesota's Walleye Fisheries new text end

new text begin $1,121,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Science Museum of Minnesota for the St. Croix Watershed Research Station to reconstruct historical lake conditions to identify factors linked to successful walleye fisheries and guide management in the face of warming temperatures, invasive species, and nutrient loading. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end new text begin Environmental Education new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 11,262,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Jay C. Hormel Nature Center Supplemental Teaching Staff new text end

new text begin $410,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Austin to continue providing environmental education opportunities at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center for learners from outside the city of Austin. new text end

new text begin (b) Connecting Communities to Voyageurs Classroom and Minnesota's National Park new text end

new text begin $994,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Voyageurs Conservancy to connect Minnesotans to the state's only national park through standards-aligned K-12 education, career-building fellowships, and enhanced programming that engages diverse audiences in the park's conservation. new text end

new text begin (c) Supporting Minnesota Teachers to Implement Culturally Sustaining Environmental Education new text end

new text begin $295,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to provide workshops across Minnesota to train middle school and high school teachers in how to meet new state science standards by integrating western science and Indigenous perspectives in sustainability and water conservation education. new text end

new text begin (d) Phenology Investigations in Minnesota Schools new text end

new text begin $392,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to provide professional development workshops in greater Minnesota for teachers to use phenology curriculum and community science resources in environmental education. new text end

new text begin (e) Get the Lead Out: Lead-Free Fishing Tackle Education new text end

new text begin $254,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency to protect common loons and wildlife through education and outreach about the dangers of lead fishing tackle and promoting lead-free tackle alternatives. new text end

new text begin (f) Water Science and Policy Fellowships for Minnesota new text end

new text begin $407,000 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 fellowship program to train Minnesota's workforce in water resource science and policy. new text end

new text begin (g) Mentoring Next Generation of Conservation Professionals - Phase 2 new text end

new text begin $793,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Trust, Inc. to provide paid internships and apprenticeships for diverse young people to learn about careers in the conservation field from United States Fish and Wildlife Service professionals while working at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Wetland Management District. new text end

new text begin (h) Restoring Land, Reviving Heritage: Indigenous Conservation - Phase 2 new text end

new text begin $688,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Belwin Conservancy, in partnership with Anishinabe Academy and other urban Indigenous-based schools and youth programs, to continue to conduct native-led environmental education programming that incorporates ecology and Indigenous land traditions. This appropriation is also to restore and enhance habitat on permanently protected Belwin Conservancy lands using modern scientific standards and traditional ecological knowledge. new text end

new text begin (i) Unlocking Minnesota Wilderness for Youth new text end

new text begin $705,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with YMCA of the North to engage underserved youth in hands-on environmental education by expanding Unlock It!, a self-guided, interactive, and nature-based scavenger hunt, to open spaces and campuses across the state. new text end

new text begin (j) Outdoor Pathways to Environmental Education, Recreation, and Careers new text end

new text begin $1,500,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Wilderness Inquiry to promote equity in access to outdoor activities, places, and careers by providing Minnesotans with a continuum of outdoor experiences from the backyard to the backcountry, implementing environmental education curriculum for youth, and delivering professional development workshops for educators. new text end

new text begin (k) Increasing Access to Environmental Education Youth Camps new text end

new text begin $163,000 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 provide hands-on environmental education learning opportunities to underserved children through scholarships and transportation to Osprey Wilds' day-use and residential summer camps. new text end

new text begin (l) Launching Environmental Education at Shepard Farm new text end

new text begin $639,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Dodge Nature Center to build partnerships with South Washington County Schools and provide standards-aligned, outdoor experiences and hands-on learning at Shepard Farm for Minnesota K-6 youth to increase their environmental skills and knowledge. new text end

new text begin (m) YES! Students Step Up to Reduce Carbon Footprint 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 Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center to empower Minnesota youth to reduce their carbon footprints through education from local experts and completion of student-driven and community-based team projects. new text end

new text begin (n) The Boundary Waters Is Our Backyard 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 Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness to connect students from northeastern Minnesota to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness through grade-wide day trips and overnight wilderness experiences. new text end

new text begin (o) Season Watch: Cultivating Young Naturalists with Phenology Education 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 Northern Community Radio, Inc. to continue to build the next generation of Minnesota conservationists by delivering engaging environmental programming to northern Minnesota through radio and podcasts, hosting phenology training and interactive nature events for K-12 students, and expanding KAXE coverage of environmental topics to a digital audience. new text end

new text begin (p) Rural Minnesota Mobile Lab: Environment-Focused Earth Science Education new text end

new text begin $459,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Crookston, to create a mobile lab and deliver innovative standards-based environmental education to students and educators at underserved, underrepresented schools and at community events in northwest Minnesota. new text end

new text begin (q) Increasing Accessibility of Environmental Education at Deep Portage new text end

new text begin $228,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Deep Portage Learning Center to enhance the accessibility of environmental education and outdoor recreation at Deep Portage Learning Center through projects that provide opportunities and support independence for physically disabled students visiting the campus. new text end

new text begin (r) College-School Collaboration to Promote Environmental Career Paths new text end

new text begin $174,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities for Minnesota State University, Mankato, to build partnerships among natural resource professionals, colleges, and schools in southern Minnesota to 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 (s) Water Quality and Robots: Experientially Educating Minnesotan Youth new text end

new text begin $353,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to provide opportunities for middle school youth to develop skills for measuring water quality using robotic water-quality sensing kits and communicating results through group study and hands-on projects. new text end

new text begin (t) Expanding Youth and Family Fishing Opportunities new text end

new text begin $1,162,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to expand fishing opportunities in urban areas, teach more youth and families how to fish, and inventory and inform the public about safe and legal shore-fishing sites throughout Minnesota. new text end

new text begin (u) Youth Conservation Empowerment Project new text end

new text begin $70,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, Extension Center for Youth Development, to partner with Winona and Rochester alternative learning centers to connect, engage, and empower youth from underserved, culturally diverse, and low-income communities in year-long activities focused on nature, outdoors skills, and environmental service-learning. new text end

new text begin (v) North Minneapolis Nature Connection: Storytelling and Leadership Pathways new text end

new text begin $697,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with The Loppet Foundation to promote urban nature connections for North Minneapolis residents through storytelling, nature and environmental justice programs, and environmental leadership pathways for high schoolers and young adults. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end new text begin Aquatic and Terrestrial Invasive Species new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 8,304,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center - Phase 7 new text end

new text begin $7,000,000 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, for high-priority research projects to better manage invasive plants, pathogens, and pests on Minnesota's natural and agricultural lands. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10, and is available until June 30, 2030, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (b) Mitigating the Spread of Invasive Jumping Worms new text end

new text begin $470,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to develop integrated pest management strategies to mitigate the threat that invasive jumping worms pose to soil organic matter and seedlings in Minnesota forests. new text end

new text begin (c) Implementing Innovative Techniques to Manage Low-Density Invasive Carp new text end

new text begin $634,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to implement new and innovative methods and to enhance ongoing efforts to detect, monitor, and remove invasive carp and to evaluate watershed boundaries for potential breaches to avoid invasive carp establishment in Minnesota. new text end

new text begin (d) Early Detection of Invasive Viruses in Native Pollinators new text end

new text begin $200,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to create a baseline inventory of the quantity and diversity of viruses in, and determine the threat of these viruses to, Minnesota native bees. new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end new text begin Air Quality, Climate Change, and Renewable Energy new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 4,833,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Minimizing Minnesota's Landfill Problem by Expanding Waste Diversion new text end

new text begin $2,318,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Better Futures Minnesota to establish a statewide network for sourcing reclaimed building materials; create a tool for cities, counties, and businesses to report environmental impacts of waste diversion; and divert waste from landfills through collections, deconstructing buildings, and converting waste into finished goods. Net income generated by Better Futures Minnesota as part of this appropriation may be reinvested in the project if a plan for reinvestment is approved in the work plan. new text end

new text begin (b) Building Resilient Urban Forests for Climate Change new text end

new text begin $752,000 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 and school districts to create gravel-bed nurseries, conduct tree assessments and mapping, and plant climate-resilient tree species on public lands in St. Cloud, Mankato, and the Twin Cities region. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (c) Improving Agricultural Ecosystems through Autonomous Weed Control new text end

new text begin $978,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the West Central Research and Outreach Center at Morris to develop green hydrogen- and solar-powered autonomous mowers to remove weeds in row crop fields and improve agricultural ecosystems through reduction of herbicide and fossil fuel use. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (d) Advanced Biofilter for N2O Removal new text end

new text begin $325,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to develop innovative and low-cost biofilters to decrease the concentration of nitrous oxide (N₂O) from various point sources. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (e) Managing Future Floods and Droughts in Minnesota new text end

new text begin $460,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to leverage new statewide climate data to assess future change in the duration, frequency, and magnitude of heavy precipitation and drought events and engage communities to prepare for these extremes. new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end new text begin Methods to Protect or Restore Land, Water, and Habitat new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 10,910,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Long-Term Preservation of Minnesota's Ball Cactus Population new text end

new text begin $100,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum to protect Minnesota's only population of ball cactus by supporting population expansion and establishment, monitoring transferred plants, and training long-term volunteer monitors. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2029, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (b) Morrison County Historical Society Streambank Stabilization and Restoration new text end

new text begin $519,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Morrison Soil and Water Conservation District to stabilize and restore land along the Mississippi River owned by the Morrison County Historical Society within the statutory boundaries of Charles A. Lindbergh State Park to improve water quality and improve aquatic and terrestrial habit. For purposes of this appropriation, subdivision 13, paragraph (e), does not apply. The commissioner of natural resources may make reasonable amounts of this appropriation available on an advance basis to accommodate the Morrison Soil and Water Conservation District's cash-flow needs if a plan for the advances is approved as part of the work plan. new text end

new text begin (c) Can Increased Tree Diversity Increase Community Diversity? new text end

new text begin $415,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to evaluate impacts of increasing tree diversity on wildlife, plant and fungal communities, and carbon storage within aspen forests in northern Minnesota to develop best management practices for mixed woodland systems. new text end

new text begin (d) Restoration of Riverside Park new text end

new text begin $141,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Long Prairie to improve water retention, increase native habitat, and enhance footpaths for recreation at Riverside Park in Todd County, Minnesota. The project must create a net increase in habitat, and this appropriation may not be used to meet the conditions of any permits received for the project. new text end

new text begin (e) Pollinator Central IV: Habitat Improvement with Public Engagement new text end

new text begin $698,000 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, educational organizations, and volunteers to create and enhance pollinator habitat along public corridors from Lakeville to St. Cloud and to engage youth and the public through education and monitoring the impact of habitat improvements. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (f) Conservation Grazing for Birds, Beef, and Better Soil new text end

new text begin $342,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the National Audubon Society, Minnesota office, to assess Audubon Conservation Ranching as a strategic approach to improve grassland biodiversity, soils, and ecosystem resilience. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (g) Minnesota Microbes for Enhanced Biodegradation of Microplastics 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 investigate the potential of natural and indigenous microbes to biodegrade conventional plastics in contaminated soils and waters across the state. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (h) Completing the Mississippi River Greenway: Dakota County new text end

new text begin $657,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Dakota County to restore and enhance habitat on public lands, establish linear native plantings, and install electric-vehicle charging stations within and along the 27-mile Mississippi River Greenway in Dakota County. 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. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10, and is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (i) Enabling Nature to Destroy Environmental PFAS Contaminants new text end

new text begin $378,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to identify enzymes and microbes that can break down soil-based per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) into nontoxic elements. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (j) Bioacoustics for Species Monitoring and Conservation - Phase 2 new text end

new text begin $568,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to assess avian diversity at the statewide scale by developing a citizen science bioacoustics monitoring program with an initial focus on private lands. new text end

new text begin (k) Preventing PFAS and Microplastics Contaminants Across Minnesota new text end

new text begin $656,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to help stop the flow of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and microplastics contaminants into Minnesota's environment by developing strategies and technologies to manage solid waste streams on site. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (l) Shingle Creek Aquatic and Shoreline Habitat Enhancement new text end

new text begin $1,100,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board to plan and restore a section of Shingle Creek in north Minneapolis with native aquatic and shoreline vegetation, channel and bank modification, and natural stream features. This appropriation is also to monitor plant and animal health following construction to ensure that the ecological functioning of the creek corridor is restored. 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 (m) LiDAR Technology to Help Prevent Wildlife Fatalities from Wind Turbines new text end

new text begin $525,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to create a low-cost and advanced LiDAR system to detect bats and birds approaching wind turbines that may be used in concert with deterrence or impact avoidance methods to prevent collisions. This appropriation is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text end

new text begin (n) Road Salt Pollution of Surface Waters from Groundwater new text end

new text begin $622,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to inform source-reduction efforts by developing a model to identify hot spots where road-salt-contaminated groundwater leads to chloride pollution of surface waters. new text end

new text begin (o) Growing the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd new text end

new text begin $1,775,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to reintroduce bison to Camden State Park as part of a statewide effort to preserve the American Plains bison genome. Reintroduction includes the design, construction, and installation of fencing, a handling facility, signage, exhibits, and other site improvements. 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 (p) Priority Lakes: Meeting Protection Goals and Multiplying Benefits new text end

new text begin $1,890,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Hubbard County Soil and Water Conservation District, in cooperation with Minnesota Land Trust, to protect habitat, forest health, and water quality in the best fishing lakes by creating lake implementation action plans, conducting community-based habitat restorations and improvements, and protecting forest lands with conservation easements and Sustainable Forest Incentive Act (SFIA) enrollments within prioritized areas of the upper Mississippi River basin in Hubbard County. Of this amount, up to $168,000 is for deposit in a monitoring fund to be used by Minnesota Land Trust as approved in the work plan and subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.20. new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end new text begin Land Acquisition, Habitat, and Recreation new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 20,322,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail new text end

new text begin $426,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail to plan, design a route for, secure access for, develop community support for, and begin construction of a backpacking- focused trail across southeast Minnesota's Driftless Area. Construction of trails with this appropriation must occur on public or permanently protected lands or lands secured through long-term agreements as defined in the approved work plan. A trail plan must be complete before money is used for trail construction. Before this appropriation is spent, a fiscal agent for Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail must be approved in the work plan. new text end

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

new text begin $4,791,000 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 (c) Acquisition of State Park Inholdings new text end

new text begin $1,886,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota to complete efficient, time-sensitive acquisitions of high-priority state park inholdings from willing sellers, deconstruct buildings and reuse building materials, and convey properties to the state to protect and enhance Minnesota's environment and public recreation opportunities. This appropriation may not be used to purchase habitable residential structures. new text end

new text begin (d) Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) Biodiversity Protection new text end

new text begin $957,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to strategically acquire from willing sellers high-quality lands that meet criteria for scientific and natural areas under Minnesota Statutes, section 86A.05. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (e) Metropolitan Regional Parks System Land Acquisition - Phase 8 new text end

new text begin $3,000,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Metropolitan Council to acquire land within the approved boundaries of the metropolitan regional park 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, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (f) Zumbro River Regional Water Trail new text end

new text begin $170,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Oronoco to complete a master plan for the Zumbro River Regional Water Trail that considers existing amenities, connections from towns to natural features, and improved user experience. This appropriation may also be used to create a joint powers board among the four counties and multiple jurisdictions connected to the Zumbro River to guide the master plan development. new text end

new text begin (g) Spring Lake Park Reserve Restoration and River Access new text end

new text begin $2,925,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Dakota County to create a nonmotorized boat launch; complete a cultural resource management plan; construct hiking trails; and restore prairie, woodland, and savanna along the Mississippi River in Spring Lake Park Reserve. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

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

new text begin $5,036,000 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. The high-priority trail bridges to be rehabilitated or replaced under this appropriation include but are not limited to those on the Arrowhead, Great River Ridge, C.J. Ramstad-Northshore, Harmony-Preston Valley, Shooting Star, and Minnesota Valley State Trails and the Pengilly-Alborn Railroad Trail. High-priority trail segments to develop and enhance include but are not limited to the Brown's Creek, Gitchi Gami, Minnesota Valley, Root River, and Cuyuna Lakes State Trails. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2028, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered. new text end

new text begin (i) Birch Lake Marina Design new text end

new text begin $197,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Babbitt to design a new marina at the Birch Lake Recreation Area in Babbitt, Minnesota. new text end

new text begin (j) Dent and Vergas Spur Trails new text end

new text begin $934,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Otter Tail County to construct a trail along County State-Aid Highway 35 to connect the cities of Dent and Vergas to the Heart of the Lakes Regional Trail and Maplewood State Park to provide recreation and nonmotorized transportation opportunities. new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end new text begin Administration, Emerging Issues, and Contract Agreement Reimbursement new text end

new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin 2,096,000 new text end

new text begin (a) LCCMR Budget Supplement new text end

new text begin $750,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources for administration in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.09, subdivision 5. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2025. Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.11, paragraph (b), Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.281, applies to this appropriation. new text end

new text begin (b) Emerging Issues 2024 new text end

new text begin $1,071,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources for an emerging issues account authorized in Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.08, subdivision 4, paragraph (d). new text end

new text begin (c) 2024 Contract Agreement Reimbursement new text end

new text begin $275,000 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. 11. 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, 2024, and ending June 30, 2027, 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. 12. 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 must be submitted to the Minnesota Geospatial Information Office. 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. 13. 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 funds 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 funds 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 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, a recipient of money appropriated under this section must give priority to high-quality natural resources or conservation lands that provide natural buffers to 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 funds, 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. 14. 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, 2024, 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. 15. 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. 16. new text end new text begin Energy conservation and sustainable building guidelines new text end

new text begin A recipient to whom an appropriation is made under this section for a capital improvement project must ensure that the project complies with the applicable energy conservation and sustainable building guidelines and standards contained in law, including Minnesota Statutes, sections 16B.325, 216C.19, and 216C.20, and rules adopted under those sections. The recipient may use the energy planning, advocacy, and State Energy Office units of the Department of Commerce to obtain information and technical assistance on energy conservation and alternative-energy development relating to planning and constructing the capital improvement project. new text end

new text begin Subd. 17. 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. 18. 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, 2025: new text end

new text begin (1) Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 4, article 2, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (e), National Loon Center. The legislature does not plan to grant additional extensions for this appropriation; new text end

new text begin (2) Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 4, article 2, section 2, subdivision 10, paragraph (d), Grants Management System. Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.11, paragraph (b), Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.281, applies to this appropriation; new text end

new text begin (3) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 5, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (i), Bobcat and Fisher Habitat Use and Interactions; new text end

new text begin (4) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 5, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (j), Healthy Prairies III: Restoring Minnesota's Prairie Plant Diversity; new text end

new text begin (5) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 5, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (n), Tools for Supporting Healthy Ecosystems and Pollinators; new text end

new text begin (6) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 5, section 2, subdivision 4, paragraph (b), Technology for Energy-Generating On-site Industrial Wastewater Treatment, as amended by Laws 2022, chapter 94, section 2, subdivision 20, paragraph (c); new text end

new text begin (7) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 5, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (r), Ranier Safe Harbor and Transient Dock on Rainy Lake; new text end

new text begin (8) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 5, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (s), Crane Lake Voyageurs National Park Campground and Visitor Center; new text end

new text begin (9) 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 (10) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 5, section 2, subdivision 10, Emerging Issues Account; Wastewater Renewable Energy Demonstration Grants; new text end

new text begin (11) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (b), Protecting Minnesota's Beneficial Macroalgae: All Stoneworts Aren't Starry; new text end

new text begin (12) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (c), County Groundwater Atlas; new text end

new text begin (13) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (e), Minnesota Biological Survey; new text end

new text begin (14) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 3, paragraph (g), Geologic Atlases for Water Resource Management; new text end

new text begin (15) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 4, paragraph (d), Microgeographic Impact of Antibiotics Released from Identified Hotspots; new text end

new text begin (16) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 8, paragraph (a), Camp Ripley Sentinel Landscape Forest Restoration and Enhancements; new text end

new text begin (17) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (e), Metropolitan Regional Parks System Land Acquisition - Phase VII; new text end

new text begin (18) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (h), Native Prairie Stewardship and Prairie Bank Easement Acquisition; new text end

new text begin (19) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (j), SNA Acquisition, Restoration, Citizen-Science, and Outreach; new text end

new text begin (20) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (n), Crane Lake Voyageurs National Park Visitor Center - Continuation; new text end

new text begin (21) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (t), Highbanks Ravine Bat Hibernaculum Project; and new text end

new text begin (22) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (u), State Parks and State Trails Inholdings. new text end

new text begin (b) The availability of the appropriation for Laws 2022, chapter 94, section 2, subdivision 10, paragraph (k), Developing Markets for Continuous Living Cover Crops, is extended to June 30, 2026. new text end

new text begin (c) 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 9, paragraph (l), Upper St. Anthony Falls Enhancements. The legislature does not plan to grant additional extensions for this appropriation; and new text end

new text begin (2) Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 7, paragraph (b), Storing Renewable Energy in Flow Battery for Grid Use. The legislature does not plan to grant additional extensions for this appropriation. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 18 is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 3.

Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 4, article 2, section 2, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. Land Acquisition, Habitat, and Recreation

-0-

26,351,000

-0-

(a) Minnesota Scientific and Natural Areas

$3,500,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for the scientific and natural areas (SNA) program to restore and enhance wildlife habitat on SNAs, increase public involvement and outreach, and strategically acquire high-quality lands that meet criteria for SNAs under Minnesota Statutes, section 86A.05, from willing sellers. A list of proposed acquisitions and restorations is required in the work plan.

(b) Grants for Local Parks, Trails, and Natural Areas

$3,000,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to solicit, rank, and fund competitive matching grants for local parks, trail connections, and natural and scenic areas under Minnesota Statutes, section 85.019. The appropriation is for local nature-based recreation, connections to regional and state natural areas, and recreation facilities and not for athletic facilities such as sport fields, courts, and playgrounds.

(c) Minnesota State Parks and State Trails In-Holdings

$2,000,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to acquire high-priority in-holdings from willing sellers within the legislatively authorized boundaries of state parks and trails to protect Minnesota's natural heritage, enhance outdoor recreational opportunities, and improve the efficiency of public land management. Priorities include but are not limited to Minneopa, St. Croix, Frontenac, and Crow Wing State Parks. A list of proposed acquisitions is required in the work plan.

(d) Minnesota State Trails Development

$5,000,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to expand high-priority recreational opportunities on Minnesota's state trails by developing new trail segments and rehabilitating, improving, and enhancing existing state trails. High-priority trail bridges to rehabilitate or replace include, but are not limited to, those on the Arrowhead, Central Lakes, Harmony-Preston Valley, Matthew Lourey, and North Shore State Trails. High-priority trail segments to develop and enhance include, but are not limited to, the Paul Bunyan, Gateway, Heartland, Gitchi Gami, and Minnesota Valley State Trails. A proposed list of trail projects on legislatively authorized state trails is required in the work plan. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2021, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(e) National Loon Center

$4,000,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the National Loon Center Foundation, in partnership with a fiscal agent to be approved by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources, to construct an approximately 15,000-square-foot National Loon Center in Cross Lake dedicated to loon survival, loon habitat protection and research, and recreation. Of this amount, up to $1,449,000 is for planning, design, and construction of approximately six outdoor demonstration learning kiosks, interpretive trails, boardwalks and boat docks, a fishing dock, and native landscaping along approximately 3,100 feet of shoreline. Any remaining funds are for planning, engineering, and constructing the building and indoor exhibits. new text begin The building may only be constructed on land restricted for use as a National Loon Center for at least 25 years following construction completion. Additionally, the trust fund procedures for title, environmental, archeological, and survey due diligence must be used for the acquisition of land on which the building will be constructed. new text end A land lease commitment of at least 25 years and fiscal sponsorship must be secured before any trust fund money is spent. This project requires a match of at least $6,000,000. At least $2,000,000 of this match must come from nonstate sources. If naming rights will be conveyed, the National Loon Center Foundation must include a plan for this in the work plan. All matching funds must be legally committed before any trust fund money may be spent on planning activities for or construction of the building and indoor exhibits. Net income generated from admissions, naming rights, and memberships to the National Loon Center as a result of trust fund contributions may be reinvested in the center's long-term loon conservation efforts as described in the work plan approved by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources according to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10. new text begin Notwithstanding any other effective date stated in law, Minnesota Statutes, sections 116P.15, subdivision 3; 116P.16; and 116P.21, subdivision 1, apply to this appropriation. new text end

(f) Accessible Fishing Piers

$320,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to provide accessible fishing piers in locations that have a high potential to serve new angling communities, underserved populations, and anglers with physical disabilities. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2021, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(g) Mesabi Trail Extensions

$3,000,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the St. Louis and Lake Counties Regional Railroad Authority for environmental assessment, permitting, right-of-way easements or other acquisition as needed, and engineering for and construction of four trail segments beginning and ending at the following approximate locations: Darwin Meyers Wildlife Management Area to County Road 21, Embarrass to Kugler, County Road 128 to the Eagles Nest Town Hall, and Wolf Creek to the Highway 169 underpass.

(h) Birch Lake Recreation Area Campground

$350,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Babbitt to expand Birch Lake Recreation Area by adding a new campground for recreational vehicles and tent campers. This project requires a match of at least $2,800,000 that must be secured before trust fund money is spent. At least $800,000 of this match must come from the city of Babbitt. Net income generated from admissions to the campground created as a result of trust fund contributions may be reinvested into the campground's long-term operations as described in the work plan approved by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources according to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10.

(i) Britton Peak to Lutsen Mountain Bike Trail

$350,000 the first year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Superior Cycling Association to create a sustainably designed single-track mountain bike trail connecting trail clusters and trailheads between Britton Peak in Tofte and Lutsen Mountains as part of northeast Minnesota's effort to become a national recreation destination. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2021, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(j) Preserving Avon Hills with Reverse-Bidding Easements

$1,600,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Saint John's University in cooperation with Minnesota Land Trust to restore and enhance protected lands, provide public outreach, and prepare management plans for and use a reverse-bid ranking system to secure permanent conservation easements on high-quality natural habitat in the Avon Hills area of Stearns County. Of this amount, up to $168,000 is for use by Minnesota Land Trust in a monitoring fund as approved in the work plan and subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.20. An annual financial report is required for any monitoring, management, and enforcement fund, including expenditures from the fund. A proposed list of acquisitions and restorations must be provided in the work plan. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2024, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(k) Bailey Lake Trail and Fishing Pier

$550,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Virginia to reconstruct the existing Bailey Lake Trail and construct a new fishing pier on Bailey Lake that is accessible from the trail.

(l) Vergas Long Lake Trail

$290,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Vergas to construct a bicycle and pedestrian bridge, trail, and floating boardwalk along Long Lake including shoreline restoration and stabilization with native plants. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2021, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(m) Glacial Edge Trail and Downtown Pedestrian Bridge

$600,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Fergus Falls to acquire easements for and construct a trail along the Otter Tail River in downtown Fergus Falls and a bicycle and pedestrian bridge crossing the river. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2021, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(n) Crane Lake to Vermilion Falls Trail

$400,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with St. Louis County in cooperation with Voyageur Country ATV Club to designate and improve a wooded trail from Crane Lake to Vermilion Falls to accommodate all-terrain vehicle and snowmobile users. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2021, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(o) Restoring Five Sections of Superior Hiking Trail

$191,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Superior Hiking Trail Association to restore and repair the most damaged parts of five sections of the Superior Hiking Trail and restore an abandoned route to a natural footpath for hikers.

(p) Rainy Lake Recreational Access and Boat Wash Station

$200,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Ranier to enhance and increase public access to Rainy Lake by constructing an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant recreational parking lot, an ADA-compliant public restroom, and an aquatic invasive species boat wash station.

(q) Historic Bruce Mine Park and Mesabi Trailhead

$1,000,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for a grant to the St. Louis and Lake Counties Regional Railroad Authority to engineer, design, renovate, and construct the Historic Bruce Mine Park and Mesabi Trailhead and access in the city of Chisholm. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2023, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective retroactively from July 1, 2019. new text end

Sec. 4.

Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 2, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. Land Acquisition, Habitat, and Recreation

32,062,000

-0-

(a) Perham to Pelican Rapids Regional Trail (McDonald Segment)

$2,245,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Otter Tail County to construct the McDonald Segment of the Perham to Pelican Rapids Regional Trail to connect the cities of Perham and Pelican Rapids to Maplewood State Park.

(b) Mesabi Trail CSAH 88 to Ely

$1,650,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the St. Louis and Lake Counties Regional Railroad Authority to acquire, engineer, and construct a segment of the Mesabi Trail beginning at the intersection of County State-Aid Highway 88 toward Ely.

(c) Southwest Minnesota Single-Track Trail

$190,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Jackson County to create a single-track mountain bike trail and expand an associated parking lot in Belmont County Park to address a lack of opportunity for this kind of outdoor recreation in southwest Minnesota.

(d) Local Parks, Trails, and Natural Areas Grant Programs

$2,250,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to solicit and rank applications for and fund competitive matching grants for local parks, trail connections, and natural and scenic areas under Minnesota Statutes, section 85.019. Priority must be given to funding projects in the metropolitan area or in other areas of southern Minnesota. For purposes of this paragraph, southern Minnesota is defined as the area of the state south of and including St. Cloud. 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, and playgrounds.

(e) Metropolitan Regional Parks System Land Acquisition - Phase VII

$2,250,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the Metropolitan Council for grants to acquire land within the approved park boundaries of the metropolitan regional park system. This appropriation must be matched by an equal amount from a combination of Metropolitan Council and local agency funds.

(f) Sauk Rapids Lions Park Riverfront Improvements

$463,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Sauk Rapids to design and construct a second phase of upgrades to Lions and Southside Parks including trails, lighting, riverbank restoration, and a canoe and kayak launch to enhance access to the Mississippi River.

(g) City of Brainerd - Mississippi Landing Trailhead

$2,850,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Brainerd to design and construct Mississippi Landing Trailhead Park to help connect residents and visitors to the Mississippi River through recreation, education, and restoration.

(h) Native Prairie Stewardship and Prairie Bank Easement Acquisition

$1,341,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to provide technical stewardship assistance to private 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 $60,000 of this appropriation may be deposited in the natural resources conservation easement stewardship account created in Minnesota Statutes, section 84.69, proportional to the number of easement acres acquired.

(i) Moose Lake - Trunk Highway 73 Trail

$330,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Moose Lake to design and construct a nonmotorized recreational trail in an off-street pedestrian corridor along Highway 73 to connect to several existing regional trails in the Moose Lake area.

(j) SNA Acquisition, Restoration, Citizen-Science, and Outreach

$3,336,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for the scientific and natural areas (SNA) program to restore, improve, and enhance wildlife habitat on SNAs; increase public involvement and outreach; and strategically acquire lands that meet criteria for SNAs under Minnesota Statutes, section 86A.05, from willing sellers.

(k) Precision Acquisition for Restoration, Groundwater Recharge, and Habitat

$467,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Shell Rock River Watershed District to acquire and restore to wetland a key parcel of land to reduce downstream flooding while providing water storage, groundwater recharge, nutrient reduction, and pollinator and wildlife habitat.

(l) Lake Brophy Single-Track Trail Expansion

$100,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Douglas County in partnership with the Big Ole Bike Club to design and build new expert single-track segments and an asphalt pump track for the existing trail system at Lake Brophy Park to improve outdoor recreation experiences in west-central Minnesota.

(m) Veterans on the Lake

$553,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Lake County for Veterans on the Lake to conduct accessibility upgrades to Veterans on the Lake's existing trails, roadway, and buildings to improve access to the wilderness and outdoor recreation for disabled American veterans.

(n) Crane Lake Voyageurs National Park Visitor Center - Continuation

$2,700,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Crane Lake to design and construct an approximate 4,500 to 7,000 square-foot visitor center building to serve as an access point to Voyageurs National Park. A fiscal agent or fiscal management plan must be approved in the work plan before any trust fund money is spent. A copy of a resolution or other documentation of the city's commitment to fund operations of the visitor center must be included in the work plan submitted to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources. new text begin 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. new text end

(o) Brookston Campground, Boat Launch, and Outdoor Recreational Facility Planning

$425,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Brookston to design a campground, boat launch, and outdoor recreation area on the banks of the St. Louis River in northeastern Minnesota. A fiscal agent must be approved in the work plan before any trust fund dollars are spent.

(p) Moose and Seven Beaver Multiuse Trails Upgrade

$900,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Hoyt Lakes, in partnership with the Ranger Snowmobile and ATV Club, to design and construct upgrades and extensions to the Moose and Seven Beaver multiuse trails to enhance access for recreation use and connect to regional trails.

(q) Above the Falls Regional Park Acquisition

$950,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board to develop a restoration plan and acquire approximately 3.25 acres of industrial land for public access and habitat connectivity along the Mississippi River as part of Above the Falls Regional Park.

(r) Silver Lake Trail Improvement Project

$1,071,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Virginia to reconstruct and renovate the walking trail around Silver Lake to allow safe multimodal transportation between schools, parks, community recreation facilities, and other community activity centers in downtown Virginia.

(s) Minnesota State Trails Development

$4,266,000 the first 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. Priority must be given to funding projects in the metropolitan area or in other areas of southern Minnesota. For purposes of this paragraph, southern Minnesota is defined as the area of the state south of and including St. Cloud.

(t) Highbanks Ravine Bat Hibernaculum Project

$825,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of St. Cloud to reroute and upgrade an existing stormwater system in the Highbanks Ravine area to improve an existing bat hibernaculum, reduce erosion, and create additional green space for wildlife habitat.

(u) State Parks and State Trails Inholdings

$2,560,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to acquire high-priority inholdings from willing sellers within the legislatively authorized boundaries of state parks, recreation areas, and trails to protect Minnesota's natural heritage, enhance outdoor recreation, and improve the efficiency of public land management.

(v) Accessible Fishing Piers and Shore Fishing Areas

$340,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to provide accessible fishing piers and develop shore fishing sites to serve new angling communities, underserved populations, and anglers with disabilities.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective retroactively from July 1, 2021. new text end

Sec. 5.

Laws 2022, chapter 94, section 2, subdivision 9, as amended by Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 15, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. Habitat and Recreation

-0-

26,179,000

(a) Mesabi Trail: Wahlsten Road (CR 26) toward Tower

$1,307,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the St. Louis and Lake Counties Regional Railroad Authority to acquire easements, engineer, and construct a segment of the Mesabi Trail beginning at the intersection of Wahlsten Road (CR 26) and Benson Road in Embarrass and extending toward Tower.

(b) Environmental Learning Classroom with Trails

$82,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Mountain Iron-Buhl Public Schools to build an outdoor classroom pavilion, accessible trails, and a footbridge within the Mountain Iron-Buhl School Forest to conduct environmental education that cultivates a lasting conservation ethic.

(c) Local Parks, Trails, and Natural Areas Grant Programs

$3,560,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to solicit, rank, 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, and playgrounds.

(d) St. Louis River Re-Connect

$500,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Duluth to expand recreational access along the St. Louis River and estuary by implementing the St. Louis River National Water Trail outreach plan, designing and constructing upgrades and extensions to the Waabizheshikana Trail, and installing interpretive features that describe the cultural and ecological significance of the area.

(e) Native Prairie Stewardship and Prairie Bank Easement Acquisition

$1,353,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to provide technical stewardship assistance to private 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 $60,000 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.

(f) Minnesota State Parks and State Trails Maintenance and Development

$1,600,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for maintenance and development at state parks, recreation areas, and trails to protect Minnesota's natural heritage, enhance outdoor recreation, and improve the efficiency of public land management.

(g) Minnesota State Trails Development

$7,387,000 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.

(h) SNA Habitat Restoration and Public Engagement

$5,000,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for the scientific and natural areas (SNA) program to restore and enhance exceptional habitat on SNAs and increase public involvement and outreach.

(i) The Missing Link: Gull Lake Trail, Fairview Township

$1,394,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Fairview Township to complete the Gull Lake Trail by engineering and constructing the trail's final segment through Fairview Township in the Brainerd Lakes area.

(j) Silver Bay Multimodal Trailhead Project

$1,000,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Silver Bay to develop a multimodal trailhead center to provide safe access to the Superior, Gitchi-Gami, and C.J. Ramstad/North Shore trails; Black Beach Park; and other recreational destinations. new text begin 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. new text end

(k) Brookston Campground, Boat Launch, and Outdoor Recreational Facility

$453,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Brookston to build a campground, boat launch, and outdoor recreation area on the banks of the St. Louis River in northeastern Minnesota. Before any trust fund dollars are spent, the city must demonstrate that all funds to complete the project are secured and a fiscal agent must be approved in the work plan.

(l) Silver Lake Trail Connection

$727,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Virginia to design, engineer, and construct a multiuse trail that will connect Silver Lake Trail to a new Miners Entertainment and Convention Center and provide lighting on Bailey Lake Trail.

(m) Floodwood Campground Improvement Project

$816,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Floodwood to upgrade the Floodwood Campground and connecting trails to provide high-quality nature and recreation experience for people of all ages. new text begin 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. new text end

(n) Ranier Safe Harbor/Transient Dock - Phase 2

$1,000,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Ranier to construct a safe harbor and transient dock to accommodate watercraft of many sizes to improve public access for boat recreation on Rainy Lake. Before trust fund dollars are spent, a fiscal agent must be approved in the work plan. Before any trust fund dollars are spent, the city must demonstrate that all funds to complete the project are secured. Any revenue generated from selling products or assets developed or acquired with this appropriation must be repaid to the trust fund unless a plan is approved for reinvestment of income in the project as provided under Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective retroactively from July 1, 2022. new text end

Sec. 6.

Laws 2022, chapter 94, section 2, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10. Other Projects

-0-

6,973,000

(a) Aggregate Resource Mapping

$500,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for continued mapping of the aggregate resource potential in the state of Minnesota and to make the information available in print and electronic format to local units of government for use in planning and zoning.

(b) Leaded Gasoline Contamination Analysis

$200,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of administration for a grant to the city of Paynesville to procure an analysis of the extent of leaded gasoline contamination in or near the cities of Paynesville, Foley, Alexandria, and Blaine, and of the threat posed by the contamination to each city's drinking water supply. The vendor selected to perform the analysis must use the same methodology to conduct the analysis for each city and must produce findings that are comparable between cities. The cities must work cooperatively to select a vendor. By January 15, 2024, the city administrator of the city of Paynesville must report the results of the analysis to the chairs and ranking minority members of the house of representatives and senate committees and divisions with jurisdiction over environment and natural resources.

(c) Living Snow Fence Program

$200,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of transportation for contracts to build and improve living snow fences consisting of trees, shrubs, native grasses, and wildflowers. Money appropriated in this paragraph may only be used to acquire and plant trees native to Minnesota. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2026.

(d) Forest Data Inventory

$500,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an enhanced forest inventory on county and private lands.

(e) Conservation Reserve Program State Incentives

$750,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Water and Soil Resources to provide onetime state incentive payments to enrollees in the federal Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) during the continuous enrollment period and to enroll land in conservation easements consistent with Minnesota Statutes, section 103F.515. The board may establish payment rates based on land valuation and on environmental benefit criteria, including but not limited to surface water or groundwater pollution reduction, drinking water protection, soil health, pollinator and wildlife habitat, and other conservation enhancements. The board may use state funds to implement the program and to provide technical assistance to landowners or their agents to fulfill enrollment and contract provisions. The board must consult with the commissioners of agriculture, health, natural resources, and the Pollution Control Agency and the United States Department of Agriculture in establishing program criteria. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2026.

(f) Groundwater Storage and Recovery Database

$400,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to complete a centralized aquifer property database to provide needed data for site characterization.

(g) Rural and Farmstead Ring Levees

$360,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for grants to assist in constructing rural and farmstead ring levees for flood protection in the Red River watershed. A grant may not exceed 50 percent of the cost of the project.

(h) Replacing Failing Septic Systems to Protect Groundwater

$2,000,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency to counties for grants to low-income landowners to address septic systems that pose an imminent threat to public health or safety or fail to protect groundwater. The issuance of a loan under Minnesota Statutes, section 17.117, for the purpose of replacing a failed septic system, shall not preclude a rural landowner from obtaining a grant under this paragraph or vice versa. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2025.

(i) Forever Green

$763,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of agriculture for grants to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to fund the Forever Green Agriculture Initiative and protect the state's natural resources while increasing the efficiency, profitability, and productivity of Minnesota farmers by incorporating perennial and winter-annual crops into existing agricultural practices.

(j) Pig's Eye Landfill Task Force

$800,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency to establish a Pig's Eye Landfill Task Force to coordinate efforts to remediate and restore the Pig's Eye Landfill Superfund site and address perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination of Battle Creek, Pig's Eye Lake, and nearby groundwater. The task force must be made up of at least the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency, the commissioner of natural resources, the commissioner of health, a representative from the Metropolitan Council, a representative from the city of St. Paul, a representative from the city of South St. Paul, a representative from the city of Newport, a representative from Ramsey County, a representative from Dakota County, a representative from Washington County, and representatives from relevant federal agencies. The task force is subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 15.059, subdivision 6. The task force must submit an annual report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees and divisions with jurisdiction over the environment and natural resources on the status of the task force's work. The final report is due February 15, 2026. The task force expires June 30, 2026. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2026.

(k) Developing Markets for Continuous Living Cover Crops

$500,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of agriculture for grants to organizations in Minnesota to develop enterprises, supply chains, and markets for continuous living cover crops and cropping systems in the early stage of commercial development, including but not limited to regenerative poultry silvopasture systems, Kernza perennial grain, winter camelina, and elderberry. new text begin This appropriation is exempt from the income repayment requirements in Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.10, paragraph (c). new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective retroactively from July 1, 2022. new text end

Sec. 7.

Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 2, section 2, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. Land Acquisition, Habitat, and Recreation

31,241,000

-0-

(a) SNA Stewardship, Outreach, and Biodiversity Protection

$1,919,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to restore and enhance exceptional 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, 2027, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(b) Wannigan Regional Park Land Acquisition

$727,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Frazee to acquire land for protecting and enhancing natural resources and for future development as Wannigan Regional Park, where the Heartland State, North Country National, and Otter Tail River Water Trails will meet. Initial site development or restoration work may be conducted with this appropriation.

(c) Local Parks, Trails, and Natural Areas Grant Programs

$3,802,000 the first 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, and playgrounds.

(d) Outreach and Stewardship Through the Native Prairie Bank Program

$620,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to enhance and monitor lands enrolled in the native prairie bank and to provide outreach and technical assistance to landowners, practitioners, and the public to increase awareness and stewardship of the state's remaining native prairie. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2027, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(e) Minnesota State Trails Development

$4,952,000 the first 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.

(f) Construction of East Park

$700,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of St. Joseph to increase recreational opportunities and access at East Park along the Sauk River in St. Joseph through enhancements such as a canoe and kayak access, a floating dock, paved and mowed trails, and parking entrance improvements.

(g) Scandia Gateway Trail to William O'Brien State Park

$2,689,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Scandia to engineer and construct a segment of the Gateway State Trail between the city of Scandia and William O'Brien State Park that will be maintained by the Department of Natural Resources. The segment to be constructed includes a pedestrian tunnel and trailhead parking area. This project must be designed and constructed in accordance with Department of Natural Resources state trail standards. Engineering and construction plans must be approved by the commissioner of natural resources before construction may commence. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2027, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(h) Grand Marais Mountain Bike Trail Rehabilitation - Phase II

$200,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Superior Cycling Association to rehabilitate and modify existing mountain bike trails at Pincushion Mountain to increase the trail's environmental sustainability and provide better access to beginner and adaptive cyclers.

(i) Acquisition of State Parks and Trails Inholdings

$5,425,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to acquire high-priority inholdings from willing sellers within the legislatively authorized boundaries of state parks, recreation areas, and trails to protect Minnesota's natural heritage, enhance outdoor recreation, and improve the efficiency of public land management. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2027, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.

(j) St. Louis River Re-Connect - Phase II

$1,375,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Duluth to increase recreational opportunities and access to the Waabizheshikana hiking and water trails in West Duluth with trail and trailhead enhancements such as accessible canoe and kayak launches, picnic areas, and restrooms; restored habitat; stormwater improvements; directional signage, and trailside interpretation. This appropriation may also be used to partner with the St. Louis River Alliance to create an ambassadors program to engage the surrounding community and facilitate use of the trails.

(k) City of Biwabik Recreation

$1,306,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Biwabik to reconstruct and renovate Biwabik Recreation Area's access road, parking area, and bathroom facilities.

(l) Silver Bay Multimodal Trailhead Project

$1,970,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Silver Bay to develop a multimodal trailhead center to provide safe access to the Superior Hiking, Gitchi-Gami Bike, and C.J. Ramstad/North Shore trails; Black Beach Park; and other recreational destinations. Before any construction costs are incurred, the city must demonstrate that all funding to complete the project are secured. new text begin 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. new text end

(m) Above the Falls Regional Park Restoration Planning and Acquisition

$1,376,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board to acquire land along the Mississippi River from willing sellers for habitat restoration, trail development, and low-intensity recreational facilities in Above the Falls Regional Park. This appropriation may also be used to prepare restoration plans for lands acquired. This appropriation may not be used to purchase habitable residential structures. Before the acquisition, a phase 1 environmental assessment must be completed and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board must not accept any liability for previous contamination of lands acquired with this appropriation.

(n) Redhead Mountain Bike Park

$1,666,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the city of Chisholm as the fiscal agent for the Minnesota Discovery Center to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities by adding trails and amenities to the Redhead Mountain Bike Park in Chisholm. Amenities may include such things as pump tracks, skills courses, changing stations, shade shakes, and signage.

(o) Maplewood State Park Trail Segment of the Perham to Pelican Rapids Regional Trail

$2,514,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Otter Tail County to partner with the Department of Natural Resources to construct the Maplewood State Park segment of the Perham to Pelican Rapids Regional Trail. This project must be designed and constructed in accordance with Department of Natural Resources state trail standards. Engineering and construction plans must be approved by the commissioner of natural resources before construction may commence.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective retroactively from July 1, 2023. new text end

Presented to the governor April 12, 2024

Signed by the governor April 15, 2024, 9:52 a.m.