MN Laws 2011, 1st Special Session, Chapter 2, Article 3, Section 2 (beginning July 1, 2011)
MN Laws 2012, Chp. 264, Article 4, Section 3 (beginning July 1, 2012)
For Minnesota's FY 2012-13 biennium (July 1, 2011 - June 30, 2013), approximately $25.3 million was available each year (Total = $50,656,000) for funding from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund and a total of $750,000 from the Land and Water Conservation Account (LAWCON). In response to the 2011-12 Request for Proposal (RFP) due April 9, 2010, 241 proposals requesting a total of approximately $163.8 million were received. After full consideration of all proposals received through a competitive, multi-step process, on 07/14/10 the LCCMR selected 92 projects to be included in 87 appropriation recommendations to the 2011 Minnesota Legislature. The 2011 Legislature adopted 61 of the recommendations, including 52 without any changes and 9 at a decreased or increased dollar amount; dropped 26 of the recommendations; and added 8 additional appropriations for a total of 69 total appropriations. All 69 appropriations were signed into law (M.L. 2011, 1st Special Session, Chapter 2, Article 3) by the Governor on 07/20/11. The 2012 Legislature altered the 2011 appropriations to reduce the amounts appropriated to two projects in 2011 and add one new project in 2012 (M.L. 2012, Chp. 264, Art.4, Sec. 3).
LINKS TO:
NOTE: For all projects, contact us to obtain the most up-to-date work programs for current projects (project updates are required twice each year) or the final reports of completed projects.
When available, we have provided links to web sites related to the project. The sites linked to this page are not created, maintained, or endorsed by the LCCMR office or the Minnesota Legislature.
Subd. 03 Natural Resource Data and Information
Subd. 04 Land, Habitat, and Recreation
Subd. 05 Water Resources
Subd. 06 Aquatic and Terrestrial Invasive Species
Subd. 07 Renewable Energy and Air Quality
Subd. 08 Environmental Education
Subd. 09 Emerging Issues
Subd. 10 Administration and Contract Management
| Subd. 03 Natural Resource Data and Information | |
| 03a | Minnesota County Biological Survey |
| 03b | County Geologic Atlases for Sustainable Water Management |
| 03c | Completion of Statewide Digital Soil Survey |
| 03d | Updating National Wetland Inventory for Minnesota - Phase III |
| 03e | Golden Eagle Survey |
| 03f | Determining Causes of Mortality in Moose Populations - RESEARCH |
| 03g | Prairie Management for Wildlife and Bioenergy - Phase II - RESEARCH |
| 03h | Evaluation of Biomass Harvesting Impacts on Minnesota's Forests - RESEARCH |
| 03i | Change and Resilience in Boreal Forests in Northern Minnesota - RESEARCH |
| 03j | Information System for Wildlife and Aquatic Management Areas |
| 03k | Strengthening Natural Resource Management with LiDAR Training |
| 03l | Measuring Conservation Practice Outcomes |
| 03m | Conservation-Based Approach for Assessing Public Drainage Benefits |
| 03n | Mississippi River Central Minnesota Conservation Planning |
| 03o | Saint Croix Basin Conservation Planning and Protection |
| 03p | Species of Concern; Investigations |
| Subd. 04 Land, Habitat, and Recreation | |
| 04a | State Park and Recreation Area Operations and Improvements |
| 04b | State Parks and Trails Land Acquisition |
| 04c | Metropolitan Regional Park System Acquisition |
| 04d | Regional Park, Trail, and Connections Acquisition and Development Grants |
| 04e | Scientific and Natural Areas Acquisition and Restoration |
| 04f | LaSalle Lake State Recreation Area Acquisition |
| 04g | Minnesota River Valley Green Corridor Scientific and Natural Area Acquisition |
| 04h | Native Prairie Stewardship and Native Prairie Bank Acquisition |
| 04i | Metropolitan Conservation Corridors (MeCC) - Phase VI |
| 04j | Habitat Conservation Partnership (HCP) - Phase VII |
| 04k | Natural and Scenic Area Acquisition Grants |
| 04l | Acceleration of Minnesota Conservation Assistance |
| 04m | Conservation Easement Stewardship and Enforcement Program - Phase II |
| 04n | Recovery of At-Risk Native Prairie Species |
| 04o | Understanding Threats, Genetic Diversity, and Conservation Options for Wild Rice - RESEARCH |
| 04p | Southeast Minnesota Stream Restoration |
| 04q | Restoration Strategies for Ditched Peatland and Scientific and Natural Areas - RESEARCH |
| 04r | Northeast Minnesota White Cedar Plant Community Restoration |
| 04s | Land and Water Conservation Account (LAWCON) Federal Reimbursement |
| Subd. 05 Water Resources | |
| 05a | Itasca County Sensitive Lakeshore Identification |
| 05b | Trout Stream Springshed Mapping in Southeast Minnesota - Phase III |
| 05c | Mississippi River Water Quality Assessment - RESEARCH |
| 05d | Zumbro River Watershed Restoration Prioritization |
| 05e | Assessment of Minnesota River Antibiotic Concentrations - RESEARCH |
| Subd. 06 Aquatic and Terrestrial Invasive Species | |
| 06a | Improved Detection of Harmful Microbes in Ballast Water - RESEARCH |
| 06b | Emerald Ash Borer Biocontrol Research and Implementation - RESEARCH |
| 06c | Evaluation of Switchgrass as Biofuel Crop - RESEARCH |
| Subd. 07 Renewable Energy and Air Quality | |
| 07 | Supporting Community-Driven Sustainable Bioenergy Projects |
| Subd. 08 Environmental Education | |
| 08a | Youth-Led Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation in West and Southwest Minnesota |
| 08b | Minnesota Junior Master Naturalist Program |
| 08c | Experiential Environmental Education for Urban Youth |
| Subd. 09 Emerging Issues | |
| 09a | Minnesota Conservation Apprentice Academy |
| 09b | Chronic Wasting Disease and Animal Health |
| 09c | Aquatic Invasive Species |
| 09d | Reinvest in Minnesota Wetlands Reserve Acquisition and Restoration Program Partnership |
| Subd. 10 Administration and Contract Management | |
| 10a | Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) |
| 10b | Contract Administration |
| 10c | LCC Web Site |
Section. 03 Aquatic Invasive Species Cooperative Research Center; Appropriation
Funding Source:
Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (TF)
State Land and Water Conservation Account (LAWCON)
Minnesota County Biological Survey
Subd. 03a $2,250,000 TF
Carmen Converse
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5083
Email: carmen.converse@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/eco/mcbs/index.html
Appropriation Language
$1,125,000 the first year and $1,125,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for continuation of the Minnesota county biological survey to provide a foundation for conserving biological diversity by systematically collecting, interpreting, and delivering data on plant and animal distribution and ecology, native plant communities, and functional landscapes.
Project Overview
The Minnesota County Biological Survey (MCBS) is an ongoing effort begun in 1987 by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that is systematically surveying, county-by-county, the state's natural habitats. The effort identifies significant natural areas and collects and interprets data on the status, distribution, and ecology of plants, animals, and native plant communities throughout the state. Through July 2011, surveys have been completed in 81 of Minnesota's 87 counties and have added more than 19,000 new records of rare features to the DNR's information systems. MCBS data is used by all levels of government in natural resource planning and use decisions, including prioritization of protection of park lands and scientific and natural areas. This appropriation will permit continuation of the survey in Lake, St. Louis, Clearwater, and Beltrami counties and begin initial surveying in Koochiching and Lake of the Woods counties. Additionally one book will be published: a natural history guidebook of the Aspen Parkland-Red River Valley region of MN.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
County Geologic Atlases for Sustainable Water Management
Subd. 03b $1,800,000 TF
Part 1 ($1,200,000)
Dale Setterholm
U of MN - Minnesota Geological Survey
2642 University Ave W
St. Paul, MN 55114-1057
Phone: (612) 627-4780 x2
Email: sette001@umn.edu
Web: http://www.geo.umn.edu/mgs
Part 2 ($600,000)
Jan Falteisek
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5665
Email: jan.falteisek@state.mn.us
Web: http://mndnr.gov
Appropriation Language
$900,000 the first year and $900,000 the second year are from the trust fund to accelerate the production of county geologic atlases to provide information essential to sustainable management of ground water resources by defining aquifer boundaries and the connection of aquifers to the land surface and surface water resources. Of this appropriation, $600,000 each year is to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Geologic Survey and $300,000 each year is to the commissioner of natural resources. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2015, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
The Minnesota County Geologic Atlas program is an ongoing effort begun in 1982 that is being conducted jointly by the University of Minnesota's Minnesota Geological Survey and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The program collects information on the geology of Minnesota to create maps and reports depicting the characteristics and pollution sensitivity of Minnesota's ground-water resources and their interaction with surface waters. The information from County Geologic Atlases is used in planning and environmental protection efforts at all levels of government, by businesses, and by homeowners to ensure sound and sustainable planning, management, and protection of water resources used for drinking, agriculture, industry, and more. This appropriation will:
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2015
Work Plan - Part 1 [Setterholm] (PDF)
Work Plan - Part 2 [Falteisek] (PDF)
Completion of Statewide Digital Soil Survey
Subd. 03c $500,000 TF
Megan Lennon
Board of Water and Soil Resources
520 Lafayette Rd N
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 296-1285
Email: megan.lennon@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Appropriation Language
$250,000 the first year and $250,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Water and Soil Resources to accelerate the completion of county soil survey mapping and Web-based data delivery. The soil surveys must be done on a cost-share basis with local and federal funds.
Project Overview
The Minnesota Soil Survey is an ongoing effort by the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) that is systematically collecting and mapping data pertaining to soil types and other soil properties in each county of the state. To date, surveys for nearly all counties in the state have been completed. Soils data is used by governments, farmers, and other businesses for a number of purposes from protection and restoration of soil, water, wetlands, and habitats to agricultural productivity and soil management to building construction. This appropriation will complete the mapping and digitization of soil surveys for Crow Wing, Koochiching, Lake, Cook, and Saint Louis counties.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2013
Work Plan (PDF)
Updating National Wetland Inventory for Minnesota - Phase III
Subd. 03d $1,500,000 TF
Steve Kloiber
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd, Box 25
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 296-1811
Email: steve.kloiber@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/eco/wetlands/nwi_proj.html
Appropriation Language
$1,500,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to continue the update of wetland inventory maps for Minnesota. This appropriation is available until June 30,2015, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
The National Wetland Inventory, a program initiated in the 1970s, is an important tool used at all levels of government and by private industry, non-profit organizations, and private landowners for wetland regulation and management, land management and conservation planning, environmental impact assessment, and natural resource inventories. The data behind the National Wetlands Inventory for Minnesota is now considerably out-of-date and a multi-phase, multi-agency collaborative effort coordinated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is underway to update the data for the whole state. This appropriation is being used to conduct the third phase of this effort, which involves updating wetland maps for 30 counties in southern Minnesota and acquiring additional data needed to update wetland maps for an additional 22 counties in central Minnesota during a future phase of the inventory.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2015
Work Plan (PDF)
Golden Eagle Survey
Subd. 03e $60,000 TF
Scott Mehus
National Eagle Center
50 Pembroke Ave
Wabasha, MN 55981
Phone: (651) 565-4989
Email: scott@nationaleaglecenter.org
Web: http://www.nationaleaglecenter.org
Appropriation Language
$30,000 the first year and $30,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the National Eagle Center to increase the understanding of golden eagles in Minnesota through surveys and education. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Not previously thought to be regular inhabitants of Minnesota, in recent years there have been reports of golden eagle sightings in most counties of the state, while recent surveys suggest there is now a regular wintering population in the blufflands of southeast Minnesota. This appropriation is being used to better understand the numbers, distribution, migration routes, and habitat needs of golden eagles in Minnesota. This information will inform natural resource management decisions and be used to educate landowners and the general public about golden eagles in the state.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Determining Causes of Mortality in Moose Populations
Subd. 03f $600,000 TF
Erika Butler
MN DNR
5463C W Broadway
Forest Lake, MN 55025
Phone: (651) 296-2662
Email: erika.butler@state.mn.us
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$300,000 the first year and $300,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to determine specific causes of moose mortality and population decline in Minnesota and to develop specific management actions to prevent further population decline. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2015, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Moose, one of Minnesota's prized wildlife species, are dying at much higher rates in Minnesota than elsewhere in North America. Recently observed increases in mortality rates amongst some moose in northeastern Minnesota have led to concern that the population there may be starting a decline like that seen in the northwestern part of the state, where moose populations fell from over 4,000 to fewer than 100 in less than 20 years. Additionally the specific causes of increased mortality amongst individual moose, such as potential nutritional factors, remain unknown. Scientists at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are using this appropriation to investigate the actual cause of death in recovered individual moose and determine what other factors may also be contributing. Once these causes of death and contributing factors are identified, it may be possible to implement management actions to address the overall population decline and help maintain healthy populations of moose in the state.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2015
Work Plan (PDF)
Prairie Management for Wildlife and Bioenergy - Phase II
Subd. 03g $600,000 TF
Clarence Lehman
U of MN
1987 Upper Buford Cir
St Paul, MN 55108
Phone: (612) 625-5734
Email: lehman@umn.edu
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$300,000 the first year and $300,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to research and evaluate methods of managing diverse working prairies for wildlife and renewable bioenergy production. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Bioenergy, a form of renewable energy derived from biological sources such as wood or grasses, is becoming an important component of the energy production mix. As the demand for bioenergy feedstocks increases in Minnesota and elsewhere, land use changes could impact wildlife. However, with proper management strategies it is possible that bioenergy production could actually improve conditions for wildlife rather than make them worse. This appropriation is allowing scientists at the University of Minnesota to continue developing best management practices for working prairies that maximize biomass harvesting while also promoting wildlife conservation and associated habitat diversity. This project is part of a broad effort at the University aimed at figuring out how to sustain Minnesota resources while improving the rural economy and developing energy independence.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Evaluation of Biomass Harvesting Impacts on Minnesota's Forests
Subd. 03h $350,000 TF
Anthony D'Amato
U of MN
1530 Cleveland Ave N
St Paul, MN 55108
Phone: (612) 625-3733
Email: damato@umn.edu
Web: http://www.forestry.umn.edu/silviclab/index.htm
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$175,000 the first year and $175,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to assess the impacts biomass harvests for energy have on soil nutrients, native forest vegetation, invasive species spread, and long-term tree productivity within Minnesota's forests. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Minnesota's forests are currently being viewed as potential feedstocks for the production of renewable energy. A primary concern about harvesting forest biomass to generate renewable energy is the long-term impacts these harvests will have on soil nutrients and long-term ecosystem production, such as forest growth, carbon storage, and wildlife habitat. With this appropriation, scientists at the University of Minnesota's Department of Forest Resources are evaluating the ecological impacts of forest biomass harvesting in northern Minnesota. Results from this effort will be used by the energy industry and forestry professionals in both the public and private sector to guide long-term management that maximizes harvesting without negatively impacting forest productivity and ecological integrity.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Change and Resilience in Boreal Forests in Northern Minnesota
Subd. 03i $150,000 TF
Lee Frelich
U of MN
1530 Cleveland Ave N
St Paul, MN 55108
Phone: (612) 624-3671
Email: freli001@umn.edu
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$75,000 the first year and $75,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to assess the potential response of northern Minnesota's boreal forests to observed and predicted changes in climate conditions and develop related management guidelines and adaptation strategies. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Boreal forests of spruce, fir, paper birch, aspen, and jack pine cover more than two million acres of northern Minnesota, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. These forests are near the southern edge of their geographic range. With a warmer climate the health and productivity of these forests may be jeopardized by increased stresses such as heat, drought, fires, storms, and insect pests resulting in a much different forest ecosystem for northern Minnesota in the future. Scientists at the University of Minnesota's Department of Forest Resources are using this appropriation to evaluate how these forests are poised to respond to these changes and obtain the necessary data to guide forest management and planning efforts, such as determining practices that will help fend off threats from invasive species.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Information System for Wildlife and Aquatic Management Areas
Subd. 03j $500,000 TF
Steve Benson
MN DNR
1201 E Highway 2
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Phone: (218) 327-4149
Email: steve.benson@state.mn.us
Appropriation Language
$250,000 the first year and $250,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to develop an information system to facilitate improved management of wildlife and fish habitat and facilities. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages over 2,135 state Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) and Aquatic Management Areas (AMA) containing over 1.3 million acres. This appropriation is enabling the DNR to develop an information system that will better facilitate the management of the state's WMAs and AMAs by helping to identify needs; prioritize, plan, and carry out related activities; track and assess results of activities; and make the information available to resource management professionals and the public.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Strengthening Natural Resource Management with LiDAR Training
Subd. 03k $180,000 TF
Leslie Everett
U of MN
Water Resources Center, 173 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Ave
St Paul, MN 55108
Phone: (612) 625-6751
Email: evere003@umn.edu
Web: http://wrc.umn.edu
Appropriation Language
$90,000 the first year and $90,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to provide workshops and Web-based training and information on the use of LiDAR elevation data in planning for and managing natural resources.
Project Overview
The State of Minnesota is using an optical remote sensing technology called LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) to procure high resolution digital elevation data for the entire state. Precision, efficacy, and cost efficiency of numerous types of natural resource management activities can be greatly enhanced by use of this data. Potential users include natural resource professionals at all levels of government and in the private sector. However, most potential users have not yet had experience using this type of data because it's a relatively new technology. Through this appropriation the University of Minnesota's Water Resources Center is developing and implementing a training program that will enable natural resource professionals throughout the state to effectively employ this data in a variety of different applications in natural resource evaluation, management, and protection.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Measuring Conservation Practice Outcomes
Subd. 03l $340,000 TF
Megan Lennon
Board of Water and Soil Resources
520 Lafayette Rd N
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 296-1285
Email: megan.lennon@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Appropriation Language
$170,000 the first year and $170,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Water and Soil Resources to improve measurement of impacts of conservation practices through refinement of existing and development of new pollution estimators and by providing local government training.
Project Overview
Accounting for on the ground outcomes and measurable environmental benefits (e.g., pollution reduction) to the quality of soil, water, and habitat is an essential component of implementing conservation practices. Natural resource professionals use models and "estimators" to quantify these outcomes and benefits and guide future efforts. Over time, as conditions change and new information becomes available, estimators need to be revised or added to ensure outcomes and benefits are being accurately quantified. This appropriation is enabling the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources to revise and create new estimators where needed, field verify the revised and new estimators, and provide local governments and other conservation professionals with training on how to use the revised and new estimators.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2013
Work Plan (PDF)
Conservation-Based Approach for Assessing Public Drainage Benefits
Subd. 03m $150,000 TF
Al Kean
Board of Water and Soil Resources
520 Lafayette Rd N
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 297-2907
Email: al.kean@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/
Appropriation Language
$75,000 the first year and $75,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Water and Soil Resources to develop an alternative framework to assess drainage benefits on public systems to enhance water conservation. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Artificial drainage exists in more than 25% of Minnesota. Runoff contributions from drained lands into these drainage systems contribute pollutants and degrade downstream water quality. Public drainage systems are funded by assessing costs to the lands benefitting from the systems. The current framework upon which these assessments are determined is based on maximizing crop production and does not account for overall water resources impacts, so there is no incentive for landowners to implement conservation practices that reduce runoff contributions to the drainage systems. The Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources is using this appropriation to develop and test an alternative framework for funding public drainage systems that would reduce costs to landowners if they implement conservation strategies that promote infiltration and reduce runoff.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Mississippi River Central Minnesota Conservation Planning
Subd. 03n $175,000 TF
Dennis Fuchs
Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District
Marketplace Mall, 110 2nd Street S, Ste 128
Waite Park, MN 56387
Phone: (320) 251-7800 x3
Email: dennis.fuchs@mn.nacdnet.net
Appropriation Language
$87,000 the first year and $88,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District to develop and adopt river protection strategies in cooperation with local jurisdictions in the communities of the 26 miles of the Mississippi River between Benton and Stearns Counties. This appropriation must be matched by $175,000 of nonstate cash or qualifying in-kind funds.
Project Overview
From its headwaters to the Twin Cities, the Mississippi River has benefited from coordinated management plans and community efforts to protect its water quality and shoreland habitat - except for a 26-mile stretch in central Minnesota. Starting in St. Cloud and stretching north through Stearns and Benton counties, the stretch is governed by 11 different jurisdictions and the communities have no uniform land use controls to protect this shared resource despite population growth and development pressure threatening the health of the river. Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District is using this appropriation to coordinate an effort between these 11 different local governments to develop and implement specific river protection policies and work with landowners along the river to implement shoreland management practices. Ultimately the effort aims to protect the water quality of the Mississippi River, reduce habitat fragmentation, and prioritize on-the-ground efforts.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
St. Croix Basin Conservation Planning and Protection
Subd. 03o $175,000 TF
Deb Ryun
St. Croix River Association
119 N. Washington St.
St. Croix Falls, WI 54024
Phone: (715) 483-3300
Email: debryun@scramail.com
Appropriation Language
$60,000 the first year and $60,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the St. Croix River Association to develop an interagency plan to identify and prioritize critical areas for project implementation to improve watershed health. This appropriation must be matched by $120,000 of nonstate cash or qualifying in-kind funds. Up to $10,000 may be retained by the Department of Natural Resources at the request of the St. Croix River Association to provide technical and mapping assistance. This appropriation is available until June
30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Portions of the St. Croix River Basin are now on the impaired waters list and rare landscapes, plants, and animal communities are increasingly threatened by development pressures. Up until now, conservation efforts in the St. Croix Basin have often been lacking focus and coordination between jurisdictions has been inadequate. Through this appropriation, the St. Croix River Association is establishing and coordinating a partnership effort between local, state, and federal government units and non-profits to develop a joint plan that will identify and prioritize areas for conservation implementation and guide efforts over time to improve overall watershed health in the St. Croix Basin.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Species of Concern; Investigations
Subd. 03p $500,000 TF
Part A: Minnesota Common Loons and American White Pelicans ($250,000)
Carrol Henderson
MN DNR
Box 25, DNR, 500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55115
Phone: (651) 259-5104
Email: carrol.henderson@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.mndnr.gov
Part B: Minnesota Breeding Bird Atlas ($250,000)
Mark Martell
Audubon Minnesota
2357 Ventura Drive, #106
St. Paul, MN 55125
Phone: (651) 739-9332 x15
Email: mmartell@audubon.org
Web: http://mn.audubon.org
Appropriation Language
$500,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for investigating species of concern.
Part A: Minnesota Common Loons and American White Pelicans - Project Overview
Over a three month period in 2010, approximately five million barrels of oil was spilled into the Gulf of Mexico causing extensive damage to marine and wildlife habitats and resulting in significant losses in fish and wildlife populations. A number of Minnesota's migratory bird species spend parts of their lives in the areas impacted by the spill and impacts on their populations in the state could become evident over time. Impacts could result from immediate losses of birds that were present at the time of the spill or from cumulative negative effects resulting from contamination of the food chain by petroleum chemicals and the dispersants used on the oil. The two Minnesota species that are potentially most vulnerable are the common loon and the American white pelican - some of their young would have been present in the Gulf at the time of the spill and their behavior and feeding patterns put them at greater risk of exposure to chemicals from the spill persisting in the environment. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is using this appropriation to determine whether or not common loon or American white pelican populations in Minnesota have been impacted by the Gulf oil spill. Besides population declines in the two species, other impacts that could occur as a result of chemical contamination in the food chain include changes in behavior, migratory abilities, reproductive success, or longevity. If a link is documented Minnesota may be eligible for remediation funds from the Federal Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) process currently underway, and those funds could be used to help restore the populations of these two species.
Part B: Minnesota Breeding Bird Atlas - Project Overview
A state Breeding Bird Atlas is a comprehensive systematic field survey of the occurrence, distribution, diversity, and breeding status of bird species within the state. Atlases are used to set conservation priorities, develop conservation plans, and guide habitat protection and restoration efforts. Minnesota is one of only seven states in the country that has yet to complete a Breeding Bird Atlas. Audubon Minnesota will use this appropriation to complete the Minnesota Breeding Bird Atlas and create related publications, including a book and online atlas with distribution maps, breeding status, and historical species information.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan - Part A [Henderson] (PDF)
Work Plan - Part B [Martell] (PDF)
State Park and Recreation Area Operations and Improvements
Subd. 04a $3,627,000 TF
Courtland Nelson
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5591
Email: courtland.nelson@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/
Appropriation Language
$1,877,000 the first year and $1,750,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for state park and recreation area operations and improvements, including activities directly related to and necessary for this appropriation. This appropriation is not subject to Minnesota Statutes, sections 116P.05, subdivision 2, paragraph (b), and 116P.09, subdivision 4.
Project Overview
Minnesota's extensive state park and recreation area system, the second oldest in the country, is currently comprised of a total of 76 state parks and recreation areas scattered throughout the state. The state park system provides abundant recreational and educational opportunities for citizens while also preserving some of the state's most valued natural, scenic, and cultural resources. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is utilizing the appropriation to accelerate natural and cultural resource management in the parks through activities including invasive species control, habitat restoration and enhancement, and natural resource inventory and monitoring to ensure desired outcomes are being achieved.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan: Not required per exemption granted to DNR at their request in MN Laws 2011, 1st Special Session, Chp. 2, Art. 3, Sec. 2, Subd. 4(a).
State Parks and Trails Land Acquisition
Subd. 04b $3,000,000 TF
Jennifer Christie
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5633
Email: jennifer.christie@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/
Appropriation Language
$1,500,000 the first year and $1,500,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to acquire state trails and critical parcels within the statutory boundaries of state parks. State park land acquired with this appropriation must be sufficiently improved to meet at least minimum management standards, as determined by the commissioner of natural resources. A list of proposed acquisitions must be provided as part of the required work program. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Privately owned lands exist within the designated boundaries of state parks throughout Minnesota. Purchase of these lands from willing landowners for addition to the state park system makes them permanently available for public recreation and enjoyment and facilitates more efficient management. Additional benefits include preserving contiguous wildlife corridors, facilitating preservation and restoration of native plant communities and cultural resources, reducing impacts of future development, and providing riparian buffers along wetlands, creeks, and lakes. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is using this appropriation to partially fund the acquisition of approximately 120 acres, which includes:
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Metropolitan Regional Park System Acquisition
Subd. 04c $2,250,000 TF
Arne Stefferud
Metropolitan Council
390 N Robert St
St Paul, MN 55101
Phone: (651) 602-1360
Email: arne.stefferud@metc.state.mn.us
Web: http://www.metrocouncil.org/parks/index.htm
Appropriation Language
$1,125,000 the first year and $1,125,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Metropolitan Council for grants for the acquisition of lands within the approved park unit boundaries of the metropolitan regional park system. This appropriation may not be used for the purchase of residential structures. A list of proposed fee title and easement acquisitions must be provided as part of the required work program. This appropriation must be matched by at least 40 percent of nonstate money and must be committed by December 31, 2011, or the appropriation cancels. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, at which time the project must be completed and final products delivered, unless an earlier date is specified in the work program.
Project Overview
The Twin Cities area is host to a nationally renowned system of regional parks that provides numerous outdoor recreational opportunities for the public while preserving green space for wildlife habitat and other natural resource benefits. Through an existing grant program, the Metropolitan Council is using this appropriation to partner with local metropolitan communities to partially finance the acquisition of approximately 210 acres to be added to existing metropolitan regional parks. Priority will be given to lands with shoreland, lands that provide important natural resource connections, and lands containing unique natural resources.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Regional Park, Trail, and Connections Acquisition and Development Grants
Subd. 04d $2,000,000 TF
Ronald Potter
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd, Box 52
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5632
Email: ronald.potter@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/recreation/parkgrants.html
Appropriation Language
$1,000,000 the first year and $1,000,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to provide matching grants to local units of government for acquisition and development of regional parks, regional trails, and trail connections. The local match required for a grant to acquire a regional park or regional outdoor recreation area is two dollars of nonstate money for each three dollars of state money. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
A vast network of locally managed parks and trails of regional or statewide significance exist outside the seven county Metropolitan area providing outdoor recreational opportunities for the public while preserving green space for wildlife habitat and other natural resource benefits. Through an existing grant program, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is using this appropriation to partner with local communities around the state to partially finance the acquisition and/or development of approximately 550 acres for new or expanded regional parks, regional trails, or trail connections outside the seven county Metro area.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Scientific and Natural Areas Acquisition and Restoration
Subd. 04e $1,640,000 TF
Peggy Booth
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd, Box 25
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5088
Email: peggy.booth@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snas/index.html
Appropriation Language
$820,000 the first year and $820,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to acquire lands with high-quality native plant communities and rare features to be established as scientific and natural areas as provided in Minnesota Statutes, section 86A.05, subdivision 5, restore parts of scientific and natural areas, and provide technical assistance and outreach. A list of proposed acquisitions must be provided as part of the required work program. Land acquired with this appropriation must be sufficiently improved to meet at least minimum management standards, as determined by the commissioner of natural resources. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Minnesota's Scientific and Natural Areas (SNA) Program is an effort to preserve and perpetuate the state's ecological diversity and ensure that no single rare feature is lost from any region of the state. This includes landforms, fossil remains, plant and animal communities, rare and endangered species, and other unique biotic or geological features. These sites play an important role in scientific study, public education, and outdoor recreation. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is using this appropriation to conduct restoration activities on approximately 1,800 acres in existing SNAs, to acquire an additional 80 acres to be added to the SNA system, and to increase citizen and student knowledge and skills pertaining to ecological restoration and biodiversity conservation through engagement with SNAs.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
LaSalle Lake State Recreation Area Acquisition
Subd. 04f $2,000,000 $1,000,000 [Amended in ML 2012] TF
Susan Schmidt
The Trust for Public Land
2610 University Ave W, Ste 300
St Paul, MN 55114
Phone: (651) 999-5317
Email: susan.schmidt@tpl.org
Web: http://www.tpl.org/minnesota
Appropriation Language
$1,000,000 the first year and $1,000,000 the second year are is [Amended in ML 2012] from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with The Trust for Public Land to acquire approximately 190 acres to be designated as a state recreation area as provided in Minnesota Statutes, section 86A.05, subdivision 3, on LaSalle Lake adjacent to the upper Mississippi River. If this acquisition is not completed by July 15, 2012, then the appropriation is available to the Department of Natural Resources for other state park and recreation area acquisitions on the priority list. Up to $10,000 may be retained by the Department of Natural Resources at the request of The Trust for Public Land for transaction costs, associated professional services, and restoration needs.
Project Overview
LaSalle Lake, a 211 acre lake in northwestern Hubbard County, is the second deepest lake in the state at 213 feet. It is surrounded by thousands of acres of natural areas that include rare species, high-quality forest and wetlands, coldwater stream, and portions of the Upper Mississippi River. In partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Trust for Public Land is coordinating a multi-phase effort to permanently protect a total of 980 acres surrounding LaSalle Lake for the creation of LaSalle State Recreation Area, making the area available for public enjoyment for generations to come. This appropriation is being used to purchase a 190 acre portion of the total acreage that includes some of the highest quality habitat and biodiversity as identified by the Minnesota County Biological Survey.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Minnesota River Valley Green Corridor Scientific and Natural Area Acquisition
Subd. 04g $2,000,000 TF
Brad Cobb
Green Corridor Inc
103 Second St
Redwood Falls, MN 56283
Phone: (320) 493-4695
Email: 1231tlc@charter.net
Web: http://www.tatankabluffs.com
Appropriation Language
$1,000,000 the first year and $1,000,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Redwood Area Communities Foundation to acquire lands with high-quality native plant communities and rare features to be established as scientific and natural areas as provided in Minnesota Statutes, section 86A.05, subdivision 5. A list of proposed acquisitions must be provided as part of the required work program. Land acquired with this appropriation must be sufficiently improved to meet at least minimum management standards, as determined by the commissioner of natural resources. Up to $54,000 may be retained by the Department of Natural Resources at the request of the Redwood Area Communities Foundation for transaction costs, associated professional services, and restoration needs. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Minnesota's Scientific and Natural Areas (SNA) Program is an effort to preserve and perpetuate the state's ecological diversity and ensure that no single rare feature is lost from any region of the state. This includes landforms, fossil remains, plant and animal communities, rare and endangered species, and other unique biotic or geological features. These sites play an important role in scientific study, public education, and outdoor recreation. The Redwood Area Communities Foundation is using this appropriation to work in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to acquire approximately 420 acres of lands in the Minnesota River Valley containing some of the most ecologically sensitive plant communities, rare species, and other unique natural resources in the area. Acquired lands will be established as Scientific and Natural Areas.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Native Prairie Stewardship and Native Prairie Bank Acquisition
Subd. 04h $1,000,000 TF
Jason Garms
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd, Box 25
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5130
Email: jason.garms@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/eco
Appropriation Language
$500,000 the first year and $500,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to acquire native prairie bank easements, prepare baseline property assessments, restore and enhance native prairie sites, and provide technical assistance to landowners. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Prior to European settlement more than 18 million acres of prairie covered Minnesota. Today less than 1% of that native prairie remains, and about half of those remaining acres are in private landownership without any formal protection currently in place. Through this appropriation the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will work with private landowners of high quality native prairie sites to protect remaining native prairie using a variety of tools. Approximately 200 acres are expected to be permanently protected through Native Prairie Bank conservation easements. A variety of restoration and enhancement activities will be implemented on a total of about 900 acres. Additionally, education and technical assistance will be provided to interested landowners to help them improve the management and stewardship of native prairie sites they own.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Metropolitan Conservation Corridors (MeCC) - Phase VI
Subd. 04i $3,475,000 TF
Sarah Strommen
Minnesota Land Trust
2356 University Ave W, Ste 240
St Paul, MN 55114
Phone: (651) 647-9590
Email: sstrommen@mnland.org
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/metroconservationcorridors/
Appropriation Language
$1,737,000 the first year and $1,738,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for the acceleration of agency programs and cooperative agreements. Of this appropriation, $150,000 the first year and $150,000 the second year are to the commissioner of natural resources for agency programs and $3,175,000 is for the agreements as follows: $100,000 the first year and $100,000 the second year with Friends of the Mississippi River; $517,000 the first year and $518,000 the second year with Dakota County; $200,000 the first year and $200,000 the second year with Great River Greening; $220,000 the first year and $220,000 the second year with Minnesota Land Trust; $300,000 the first year and $300,000 the second year with Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Trust, Inc.; and $250,000 the first year and $250,000 the second year with The Trust for Public Land for planning, restoring, and protecting priority natural areas in the metropolitan area, as defined under Minnesota Statutes, section 473.121, subdivision 2, and portions of the surrounding counties, through contracted services, technical assistance, conservation easements, and fee title acquisition. Land acquired with this appropriation must be sufficiently improved to meet at least minimum management standards, as determined by the commissioner of natural resources. Expenditures are limited to the identified project corridor areas as defined in the work program. This appropriation may not be used for the purchase of habitable residential structures, unless expressly approved in the work program. All conservation easements must be perpetual and have a natural resource management plan. Any land acquired in fee title by the commissioner of natural resources with money from this appropriation must be designated as an outdoor recreation unit under Minnesota Statutes, section 86A.07. The commissioner may similarly designate any lands acquired in less than fee title. A list of proposed restorations and fee title and easement acquisitions must be provided as part of the required work program. An entity that acquires a conservation easement with appropriations from the trust fund must have a long-term stewardship plan for the easement and a fund established for monitoring and enforcing the agreement. Money appropriated from the trust fund for easement acquisition may be used to establish a monitoring, management, and enforcement fund as approved in the work program. An annual financial report is required for any monitoring, management, and enforcement fund established, including expenditures from the fund. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Overall Project Overview
Though many parts of the Twin Cities metropolitan area are urbanized, there are also has large areas of natural lands that continue to serve as important habitat for fish, wildlife, and plant communities. However, pressure on these remaining lands continues to intensify as population and development pressures increase. This appropriation represents the sixth phase of an ongoing effort by a partnership of state and non-profit organizations, called the Metro Conservation Corridors (MeCC) partnership, to conduct strategic and coordinated land protection, restoration, and enhancement activities that build connections between remaining natural areas and ensures their benefits are available for future generations. This phase involves seven partners and is expected to result in the permanent protection of more than 600 acres and the restoration and enhancement of more than 750 acres.
Individual Partner Project Overviews
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Overall MeCC Work Plan (PDF)
Individual Partner Work Plans:
Habitat Conservation Partnership (HCP) - Phase VII
Subd. 04j $3,475,000 TF
Joe Pavelko
Pheasants Forever Inc
7975 Acorn Circle
Victoria, MN 55386
Phone: (612) 532-3800
Email: jpavelko@pheasantsforever.org
Web: http://www.mnhabitatcorridors.org
Appropriation Language
$1,737,000 the first year and $1,738,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for the acceleration of agency programs and cooperative agreements. Of this appropriation, $125,000 the first year and $125,000 the second year are to the commissioner of natural resources for agency programs and $3,225,000 is for agreements as follows: $637,000 the first year and $638,000 the second year with Ducks Unlimited, Inc.; $38,000 the first year and $37,000 the second year with Friends of Detroit Lakes Wetland Management District; $25,000 the first year and $25,000 the second year with Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe; $225,000 the first year and $225,000 the second year with Minnesota Land Trust; $200,000 the first year and $200,000 the second year with Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Trust, Inc.; $242,000 the first year and $243,000 the second year with Pheasants Forever, Inc.; and $245,000 the first year and $245,000 the second year with The Trust for Public Land to plan, restore, and acquire fragmented landscape corridors that connect areas of quality habitat to sustain fish, wildlife, and plants. The United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, is an authorized cooperating partner in the appropriation. Expenditures are limited to the project corridor areas as defined in the work program. Land acquired with this appropriation must be sufficiently improved to meet at least minimum habitat and facility management standards, as determined by the commissioner of natural resources. This appropriation may not be used for the purchase of habitable residential structures, unless expressly approved in the work program. All conservation easements must be perpetual and have a natural resource management plan. Any land acquired in fee title by the commissioner of natural resources with money from this appropriation must be designated as an outdoor recreation unit under Minnesota Statutes, section 86A.07. The commissioner may similarly designate any lands acquired in less than fee title. A list of proposed restorations and fee title and easement acquisitions must be provided as part of the required work program. An entity who acquires a conservation easement with appropriations from the trust fund must have a long-term stewardship plan for the easement and a fund established for monitoring and enforcing the agreement. Money appropriated from the trust fund for easement acquisition may be used to establish a monitoring, management, and enforcement fund as approved in the work program. An annual financial report is required for any monitoring, management, and enforcement fund established, including expenditures from the fund. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Overall Project Overview
With continued land use changes in Minnesota, areas that once served as important areas for fish, wildlife, and plant habitat have become fragmented and disconnected resulting in adverse impacts on these ecological communities. Strategic and coordinated efforts in protection, restoration, and enhancement of lands throughout Minnesota can create land and water corridors that reconnect remaining habitat areas and reverse some of the adverse impacts. This appropriation represents the seventh phase of an ongoing effort by a partnership of state, federal, and non-profit organizations, called the Habitat Corridors Partnership (HCP), to do such strategic and coordinated land protection, restoration, and enhancement. Earlier phases of this project have resulted in the protection, restoration, or enhancement of more than 100,000 acres throughout the state. Many of these projects matched Trust Fund money with non-state funds, stretching these dollars to provide a greater benefit to the state. This phase involves eight partners and is expected to result in the permanent protection of approximately 1,100 acres and restoration or enhancement of more than 630 acres. Projects from the individual partners are listed below.
Individual Partner Project Overviews
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Overall HCP Work Plan (PDF)
Individual Partner Work Plans:
Natural and Scenic Area Acquisition Grants
Subd. 04k $1,000,000 TF
Ronald Potter
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd, Box 52
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5632
Email: ronald.potter@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/land/natural_scenic_area_grants.html
Appropriation Language
$500,000 the first year and $500,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to provide matching grants to local governments for acquisition of natural and scenic areas, as provided in Minnesota Statutes, section 85.019, subdivision 4a. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
The Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program is a competitive, matching grant program that partners the state with local communities to help them acquire and permanently protect natural and scenic resources that do not qualify for state designation but have important local or regional significance. Natural and scenic areas provide for public use, protection of species and natural communities, appreciation of scenic vistas, and scientific and educational opportunities. This appropriation will allow the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to provide up to six matching grants to cities, counties, townships, or school districts for acquisition of approximately 150 acres of new or expanded natural and scenic areas.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Acceleration of Minnesota Conservation Assistance
Subd. 04l $625,000 TF
Tabor Hoek
Board of Water and Soil Resources
520 Lafayette Rd N
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (507) 537-7260
Email: tabor.hoek@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Appropriation Language
$313,000 the first year and.$312,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Water and Soil Resources to provide grants to soil and water conservation districts to provide technical assistance to secure enrollment and retention of private lands in federal and state programs for conservation.
Project Overview
Enrollment of private lands in conservation programs can provide important natural resource and other public benefits by taking the lands out of production so that they can provide various wildlife and ecological benefits. This appropriation is enabling the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources to provide grants to local soil and water conservation districts for employment of technical staff to assist private landowners in implementing conservation programs. This effort is expected to assist with the enrollment, retention, and management of 30,000 private acres of grasslands, wetlands, and forests in federal and state conservation programs, particularly in areas expected to lose enrollments in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP).
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2013
Work Plan (PDF)
Conservation Easement Stewardship and Enforcement Program - Phase II
Subd. 04m $500,000 TF
Susan Damon
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5961
Email: susan.damon@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us
Appropriation Language
$250,000 the first year and $250,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to accelerate the implementation of the Phase I Conservation Easement Stewardship Plan being developed with an appropriation from Laws 2008, chapter 367, section 2, subdivision 5, paragraph (h).
Project Overview
The purchase of conservation easements - restrictions on land use that protect natural features while keeping land in private ownership - has proven to be an effective means to protect land at a far lower initial cost than full state ownership. However, once an easement is purchased there are ongoing stewardship, monitoring, and enforcement responsibilities necessary to ensure the terms of the agreement between the easement holder and the landowner are met. An earlier effort funded by the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund in 2008 allowed the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to develop a central inventory and management system of the conservation easements held by the DNR, along with a plan for how the DNR's conservation easements would be administered into the future. This appropriation is allowing the DNR to continue and accelerate the implementation of the previously developed plan.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Recovery of At-Risk Native Prairie Species
Subd. 04n $147,000 TF
Rich Perrine
Martin County Soil and Water Conservation District
923 N State St, Ste 110
Fairmont, MN 56031
Phone: (507) 235-6680
Email: richard.perrine@mn.nacdnet.net
Web: http://www.martinswcd.net
Appropriation Language
$73,000 the first year and $74,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Water and Soil Resources for an agreement with the Martin County Soil and Water Conservation District to collect, propagate, and plant declining, at-risk native species on protected habitat and to enhance private market sources for local ecotype native seed. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
With less than 1% of the original native prairie remaining in the state, many locally-adapted prairie species are in decline and at-risk of being lost due to continued habitat fragmentation and land conversion. This poses challenges to efforts to preserve these species because seed sources for these plants are therefore also becoming fewer. Using this appropriation the Martin County Soil and Water Conservation District aims to help reverse this trend. Through partnerships with local seed growers and nurseries they will collect, propagate, and plant these declining and at-risk, locally-adapted plant species on protected habitat as part of restoration efforts in order to encourage and increase their presence on the landscape.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Understanding Threats, Genetic Diversity, and Conservation Options for Wild Rice
Subd. 04o $195,000 TF
David Biesboer
U of MN
250 BioSci, 1445 Gortner Ave
St Paul, MN 55345
Phone: (612) 625-1799
Email: biesboer@umn.edu
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$97,000 the first year and $98,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to research the genetic diversity of wild rice population throughout Minnesota for use in related conservation and restoration efforts. This appropriation is contingent upon demonstration of review and cooperation with the Native American tribal nations in Minnesota. Equipment purchased with this appropriation must be available for future publicly funded projects at no charge except for typical operating expenses. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
The ecological, economic, and cultural and historical values embodied by wild rice is said to be unmatched by any other native plant species in Minnesota. However, naturally occurring wild rice in the state now faces a multitude of threats, such as loss of habitat from development, competition from invasive species, impacts from mining and other industrial activity, and hydrologic changes in lakes, rivers, and streams. It is recognized that to preserve wild rice in Minnesota it is critical to maintain its genetic diversity, yet knowledge of genetic diversity in wild rice is limited. Scientists at the University of Minnesota's Department of Plant Biology are using this appropriation to study the genetic diversity of wild rice in Minnesota in order to enhance options and inform best practices for wild rice protection and restoration.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Southeast Minnesota Stream Restoration
Subd. 04p $250,000 TF
Jeff Hastings
Trout Unlimited Inc
E7740 Hastings Ln
Westby, WI 54667
Phone: (608) 606-4158
Email: jhastings@tu.org
Web: http://www.tu.org/driftless
Appropriation Language
$125,000 the first year and $125,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Trout Unlimited to restore at least four miles of riparian corridor for trout and nongame species in southeast Minnesota and increase local capacities to implement stream restoration through training and technical assistance. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Early European settlement and agricultural practices from the 1850s to the 1930s led to wide scale erosion, flooding, and altering of streams and valleys in southeast Minnesota. Hundreds of miles of clean coldwater creeks and streams were inundated with fine sediment as a result. While land use practices have improved, many streams still suffer from the practices of the past. Trout Unlimited is using this appropriation to work with private citizens and federal, state, and county agencies to conduct 12 showcase stream habitat restorations on more than four miles of southeastern Minnesota streams that will serve as models and build local capacity to conduct future restorations. Restoration target areas include parts of the Cannon River in Dakota County, Hay Creek in Goodhue County, Zumbro River in Wabasha County, Mill Creek in Olmsted County, Whitewater River in Winona County, Root River in Fillmore County, and Winnebago River in Houston County.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Restoration Strategies for Ditched Peatland and Scientific and Natural Areas
Subd. 04q $200,000 TF
Michele Walker
MN DNR
2115 Birchmont Beach Rd NE
Bemidji, MN 56601
Phone: (218) 308-2664
Email: michele.walker@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snas/coniferous_peatlands.html
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$100,000 the first year and $100,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to evaluate the hydrology and habitat of the Winter Road Lake peatland watershed protection area to determine the effects of ditch abandonment and examine the potential for restoration of patterned peatlands. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Thirty-seven percent of the naturally stored carbon in Minnesota occurs in a unique ecosystem type called peatlands that covers only 10% of the state. Peatlands form where water levels are near the surface and drainage is poor, which slows decomposition of plant debris and results in an accumulation of these organic materials in a partially decomposed mass called peat. Peatland ecology is largely governed by the water flowing through them and disruption of this flow can have profound impacts on the accumulation of peat, landforms, and vegetation. One peatland located in Lake of the Woods and Roseau counties, the Winter Road Lake Peatland, experienced such disruption in the early 1900's when a failed attempt to drain the lands for agriculture left behind numerous drainage ditches. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is using this appropriation to evaluate the effects of this ditching on peatland hydrology and habitat in order to understand options for peatland restoration and possibly create potential for wetland banking credits. Findings will be used to guide restoration strategies for peatlands throughout the state.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Northeast Minnesota White Cedar Plant Community Restoration
Subd. 04r $250,000 TF
Dale Krystosek
Board of Water and Soil Resources
701 Minnesota Ave, Ste 234
Bemidji, MN 56601
Phone: (218) 755-2603
Email: dale.krystosek@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/
Appropriation Language
$125,000 for the first year and $125,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Water and Soil Resources to assess the decline of northern white cedar plant communities in northeast Minnesota, prioritize cedar sites for restoration, and provide cedar restoration training to local units of government.
Project Overview
Northern white cedar wetland plant communities provide a number of specialized habitat functions, including winter refuge for deer and other wildlife, thermal buffering for brook trout streams, and critical habitat for songbirds and other unique wildlife such as martens and fishers. However, these plant communities have been declining in Minnesota for decades mostly as a result of development impacts. The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources is using this appropriation to try to improve the quantity and quality of white cedar wetland plant communities in Minnesota. Efforts will include assessing existing white cedar communities to prioritize sites for restoration and then providing training and demonstration of restoration and re-vegetation techniques for local natural resource managers.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Land and Water Conservation Account (LAWCON) Federal Reimbursement
Subd. 04s $750,000 LAWCON
Ronald Potter
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd, Box 52
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5632
Email: ronald.potter@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/aboutdnr/lawcon/
Appropriation Language
$750,000 is from the state land and water conservation account (LAWCON) in the natural resources fund to the commissioner of natural resources for priorities established by the commissioner for eligible state projects and administrative and planning activities consistent with Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.14, and the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund Act. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LAWCON) the Federal government designates a portion of receipts from offshore oil and gas leases to be provided to state and local governments to fund conservation and outdoor recreation efforts. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is using this appropriation to support costs required to maintain eligibility for future LAWCON funding and for acquisition, development, and redevelopment of parks and recreation areas in the state.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan: Not required per change in statute in MN Laws 2011, 1st Special Session, Chp. 2, Art. 4, Sec. 23 and repeal of statute in MN Laws 2011, 1st Special Session, Chp. 2, Art. 4, Sec. 36.
Itasca County Sensitive Lakeshore Identification
Subd. 05a $160,000 TF
Jim Gustafson
Itasca County Soil and Water Conservation District
1889 E Highway 2
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Phone: (218) 326-0017
Email: jim.gustafson@itascaswcd.org
Web: http://www.itascaswcd.org
Appropriation Language
$80,000 the first year and $80,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Itasca County Soil and Water Conservation District to identify sensitive lakeshore and restorable shoreline in Itasca County. Up to $130,000 may be retained by the Department of Natural Resources at the request of Itasca County to provide technical assistance.
Project Overview
Poorly planned development along lakeshores negatively impacts lake ecosystems by degrading water quality and fish and wildlife habitat. Given the increased demand for shoreland property, protection of the most ecologically sensitive shorelands is critical. The Itasca County Soil and Water Conservation District is using this appropriation to assess shorelands on high priority lakes in the county to identify the most ecologically sensitive lakeshore as a means of guiding and prioritizing future conservation efforts.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Trout Stream Springshed Mapping in Southeast Minnesota - Phase III
Subd. 05b $500,000 TF
Part 1 ($220,000)
Jeff Green
MN DNR
2300 Silver Creek Rd NE
Rochester, MN 55906
Phone: (507) 206-2853
Email: jeff.green@state.mn.us
Part 2 ($280,000)
E. Calvin Alexander
U of MN
450 McNamara Alumni Ctr, 200 Oak St SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Phone: (612) 624-3517
Email: alexa001@umn.edu
Appropriation Language
$250,000 the first year and $250,000 the second year are from the trust fund to continue to identify and delineate water supply areas and springsheds for springs serving as cold water sources for trout streams and to assess the impacts from development and water appropriations. Of this appropriation, $140,000 each year is to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota and $110,000 each year is to the commissioner of natural resources.
Project Overview
Native trout require clean, cold water that usually originates from springs. However the groundwater springs feeding the 173 designated trout streams in southeastern Minnesota are under increasing pressure from current and expected changes in land use and increased groundwater withdrawals for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use. This joint effort by the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is working to identify and map the springs and the areas that feed them in order to understand how these springsheds might be affected by development and increased water use and determine what can be done to protect and restore their water quality.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2013
Work Plan - Part 1 [Green] (PDF)
Work Plan - Part 2 [Alexander] (PDF)
Mississippi River Water Quality Assessment
Subd. 05c $557,000 TF
Michael Sadowsky
U of MN
140 Gortner Lab, 1479 Gortner Ave
St Paul, MN 55108
Phone: (612) 626-0977
Email: sadowsky@umn.edu
Web: http://www.cbs.umn.edu/cbs-highlights/field/minnesota-mississppi-metagenome-project
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$278,000 the first year and $279,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to assess water quality in the Mississippi River using DNA sequencing approaches and chemical analyses. The assessments shall be incorporated into a Web-based educational tool for use in classrooms and public exhibits. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Minnesota contains the headwaters of the Mississippi River, one of the largest and most important waterways in the world. A vital force in all life processes, microorganisms play a major role in the river's water quality through the biological and chemical processing they provide and as indicators of how human activity is impacting water quality. However, relatively little is actually known about as much as 99% of the microorganisms present in the river. Improved understanding of these microorganisms and the effects they have on water quality will greatly enhance efforts by federal, state, and local agencies to maintain and improve the Mississippi River's water quality. Scientists at the University of Minnesota are using this appropriation to use DNA sequencing and chemical analysis technologies to capture for the first time a more complete picture of the diversity and function of microorganisms in the river and how they influence water quality. As part of this effort, hands-on student and teacher participation and public engagement through educational exhibits will help improve public understanding of the importance of the river and water quality.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Zumbro River Watershed Restoration Prioritization
Subd. 05d $150,000 TF
Lisa Eadens
Zumbro Watershed Partnership
1485 Industrial Dr NW, Rm 102
Rochester, MN 55901
Phone: (507) 226-6787
Email: admin@zumbrowatershed.org
Web: http://www.zumbrowatershed.org
Appropriation Language
$75,000 the first year and $75,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Zumbro Watershed Partnership, Inc. to identify sources of erosion and runoff in the Zumbro River Watershed in order to prioritize restoration and protection projects.
Project Overview
Within the Zumbro River Watershed of southeast Minnesota, studies suggest that small areas of the landscape contribute disproportionately to nonpoint source pollution. However, because a coordinated, watershed-wide approach to prioritizing and implementing conservation practices in the watershed does not currently exist, conservation practices are being implemented opportunistically and not necessarily where they might have the greatest impact. Through this appropriation the Zumbro Watershed Partnership is coordinating a planning and prioritization effort that will guide future implementation of restoration and protection practices in order to maximize water quality benefits and ensure the most effective use of resources.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Assessment of Minnesota River Antibiotic Concentrations
Subd. 05e $190,000 TF
Kristine Wammer
University of St Thomas
2115 Summit Ave, OSS 402
St Paul, MN 55105
Phone: (651) 962-5574
Email: khwammer@stthomas.edu
Web: http://www.stthomas.edu/chemistry/faculty/wammer.htm
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$95,000 the first year and $95,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Saint Thomas University in cooperation with Gustavus Adolphus College and the University of Minnesota to measure antibiotic concentrations and antibiotic resistance levels at sites on the Minnesota River.
Project Overview
The occurrences of contaminants including antibiotics, other pharmaceuticals, and personal care products in the environment have gained increasing attention in recent years because of their potential health and ecological impacts. However, serious gaps remain in our understanding of these contaminants and the significance of the threats they may pose. Through this appropriation scientists at the University of St. Thomas, Gustavus Adolphus College, and the University of Minnesota are cooperating to focus specifically on the threats posed by antibiotics to understand which antibiotics are of the most concern - for example, because of their potential to increase antibiotic resistance - and to delineate their urban and rural sources. Findings will help develop strategies to manage threats and minimize future impacts posed by antibiotics to human and ecological health.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Improved Detection of Harmful Microbes in Ballast Water
Subd. 06a $250,000 TF
Randall Hicks
U of MN - Duluth
1035 Kirby Dr, SSB 207
Duluth, MN 55812
Phone: (218) 726-8438
Email: rhicks@d.umn.edu
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$125,000 the first year and $125,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the University of Minnesota Duluth to identify and analyze potentially harmful bacteria transported into Lake Superior through ship ballast water discharge. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Ballast water - water carried in tanks on ships to help provide stability and aid steering - is likely the single greatest source for introduction of non-native and invasive aquatic species. Ballast water is collected in one body of water and discharged into another body of water, usually large distances apart. The recent appearance of a deadly fish virus called Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) in the Great Lakes has raised awareness that some bacteria being transported in ballast water, just like certain plant and animal species, also have the potential to be harmful invasive species. Nevertheless, little is actually currently known about what bacteria are being transported and what can be done to prevent their spread. Biologists at the University of Minnesota - Duluth are using this appropriation to identify and analyze bacteria being transported in ballast water in order to determine which are of greatest concern and to inform strategies for early detection and spread prevention.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Emerald Ash Borer Biocontrol Research and Implementation
Subd. 06b $500,000 TF
Monika Chandler
Minnesota Department of Agriculture
625 Robert St N
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 201-6537
Email: Monika.Chandler@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.mda.state.mn.us/en/plants/pestmanagement/eab/eabbiocontrol.aspx
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$250,000 the first year and $250,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of agriculture to assess a biocontrol method for suppressing emerald ash borers by testing bioagent winter survival potential, developing release and monitoring methods, and piloting implementation of emerald ash borer biocontrol. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive insect that has been decimating ash trees throughout the Great Lake states and is currently advancing into Minnesota where it threatens the nearly 1 billion ash trees that occur throughout the state - the second most in any state. Loss of these trees would devastate ecosystems throughout Minnesota and have major economic impacts for the forest products industry as well as through the costs associated with treatment, removal, and replacement of lost trees. Biological control - the use of a natural enemy of a species from its native habitat to help with control of that species - is currently the only promising long-term management strategy for EAB. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is using this appropriation to pilot and assess the effectiveness of a biocontrol method for EAB in Minnesota that involves the use of three types of tiny, stingless wasps that are parasitoids of EAB.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Evaluation of Switchgrass as Biofuel Crop
Subd. 06c $120,000 TF
Jim Eckberg
Central Lakes College
1830 Airport Rd
Staples, MN 56479
Phone: (612) 490-5050
Email: jeckberg@umn.edu
RESEARCH
Appropriation Language
$60,000 the first year and $60,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System for Central Lakes College in cooperation with the University of Minnesota to determine the invasion risk of selectively bred native grasses for biofuel production and develop strategies to minimize the invasion potential and impacts on biodiversity. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Bioenergy, a form of renewable energy derived from biological sources such as wood or grasses, is becoming an important component of the energy production mix. Native switchgrass is a species that has shown potential as a biofuel crop and efforts have been underway to selectively breed and hybridize it for maximize yield. However, these selectively bred switchgrass varieties also show some potential to be invasive and crowd out native biodiversity, resulting in significant ecological and economic impacts. Scientists at Central Lakes College and the University of Minnesota are using this appropriation to evaluate the invasion risk of selectively bred switchgrass varieties and develop strategies to minimize the invasion potential and impacts on biodiversity. Findings will help support long-term biofuel sustainability.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Supporting Community-Driven Sustainable Bioenergy Projects
Subd. 07 $150,000 TF
Kathryn Fernholz
Dovetail Partners Inc
528 Hennepin Ave, Ste 202
Minneapolis, MN 55429
Phone: (612) 333-0430
Email: katie@dovetailinc.org
Web: http://www.dovetailinc.org
Appropriation Language
$75,000 the first year and $75,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Dovetail Partners, Inc. in cooperation with the University of Minnesota to assess feasibility, impacts, and management needs of community-scale forest bioenergy systems through pilot studies in Ely and Cook County and to disseminate findings to inform related efforts in other communities.
Project Overview
Small scale community bioenergy systems hold significant promise for increasing energy security, reducing carbon emissions, and contributing to local economies. These types of systems rely on materials such as wood and grasses sourced from the surrounding area as fuel sources for local energy production. However, many questions still remain about how to effectively and sustainably implement these types of community bioenergy systems. Dovetail Partners is piloting an effort with the City of Ely and Cook County to develop the information and tools necessary for communities to assess the viability of these types of energy systems based on the resources available within their own regions.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Youth-Led Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation in West and Southwest Minnesota
Subd. 08a $246,000 TF
Shelli-Kae Foster
Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center
12718 10th Street NE
Spicer, MN 56288
Phone: (320) 491-1894
Email: shelli-kae.foster@co.kandiyohi.mn.us
Web: http://www.youthenergysummit.org/
Appropriation Language
$123,000 the first year and $123,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural
resources for an agreement with Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center to initiate youth-led
renewable energy and conservation projects in over 30 communities in west central and southwest Minnesota.
Project Overview
Adoption of renewable energy technologies and energy conservation practices can contribute in a variety of ways to the environmental and economic health of rural Minnesota communities through costs savings and emissions reductions. Engaging and coaching students as the leaders in the process of implementing such practices provides the added benefit of increasing knowledge, teaching about potential career paths, and developing leadership experience. Using this appropriation the Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center and its partners are expanding an existing program called the Youth Energy Summit (YES!) to implement additional youth-led renewable energy and energy conservation projects in over 30 communities in west central and southwestern Minnesota. These projects will be driven by collaboration between students, community members, and local businesses and organizations.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Minnesota Junior Master Naturalist Program
Subd. 08b $365,000 TF
Robert Blair
U of MN
1980 Folwell Ave., #200
Saint Paul, MN 55108
Phone: (651) 644-1591
Email: blairrb@umn.edu
Web: http://minnesotamasternaturalist.org/
Appropriation Language
$365,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to expand the junior naturalist after-school programs. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Children are spending increasingly less time outdoors and are often failing to develop an appreciation and connection with nature. This has implications for children's health as well as their knowledge about science, the environment, and the world. In the long term this also impacts the broad public awareness and understanding necessary to ensure long-term protection and stewardship of our environment and natural resources. In order to help reverse this trend the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are partnering to expand and further develop an after-school program that provides outdoor, science-based educational opportunities for fourth and fifth grade students, particularly in underserved areas, to learn about the ecology and natural history of their schoolyards, neighborhoods, nearby natural areas, and the state.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Experiential Environmental Education for Urban Youth
Subd. 08c $200,000 TF
Mary Karius
Hennepin County
417 N. 5th Street, Ste. 200
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: (320) 583-4488
Email: mary.karius@co.hennepin.mn.us
Web: http://hennepin.us/
Appropriation Language
$200,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Hennepin County in cooperation with community partners to initiate new environmental education programs targeting inner-city youth that provide hands-on, experiential outdoor learning opportunities. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.
Project Overview
Many inner-city youth receive little, if any, exposure to outdoor and environmental education. This lack of exposure has implications for children's health as well as their knowledge about science, the environment, and the world. In the long term this also impacts the broad public awareness and understanding necessary to ensure long-term protection and stewardship of our environment and natural resources. Hennepin County is using this appropriation to develop a new program called UrbanWatch that will aim to provide hands-on, experiential outdoor learning experiences to inner-city students in North Minneapolis in order to increase their knowledge and skills relating to ecology, agriculture, water resources, and biological diversity.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Minnesota Conservation Apprentice Academy
Subd. 09a $200,000 TF
Steve Woods
Board of Water and Soil Resources
520 Lafayette Rd N
St. Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 297-7748
Email: steve.woods@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Appropriation Language
$100,000 the first year and $100,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Water and Soil Resources in cooperation with Conservation Corps Minnesota to train and mentor future conservation professionals by providing apprenticeship service opportunities to soil and water conservation districts. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and the final products delivered.
Project Overview
Many of the most experienced conservation practitioners at local soil and water conservation districts throughout the state are nearing retirement, and with their departure will go much of their practical, on-the-ground knowledge, experience, and skills. Meanwhile, college students seeking to be the next generation of conservation practitioners have knowledge of emerging technologies and other innovations that can improve and contribute to current conservation efforts. Through this appropriation the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources will work with the Minnesota Conservation Corps to continue an effort that places students in apprenticeship positions with county soil and water conservation district offices throughout the state. This unique program provides an opportunity for interns to gain valuable in-the-field experience from current practitioners while sharing their knowledge with those practitioners about the newest ideas and solutions for meeting today's natural resource challenges.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Chronic Wasting Disease and Animal Health
Subd. 09b $1,200,000 TF
Lou Cornicelli
DNR
500 Lafayette Rd
St. Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5202
Email: Lou.Cornicelli@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/mammals/deer/cwd/
Appropriation Language
$600,000 the first year and $600,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to address chronic wasting disease and accelerate wildlife health programs, including activities directly related to and necessary for this appropriation.
Project Overview
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a disease found in North American deer, moose, and elk that affects the animal's brain and nervous system and is ultimately fatal to the animals that contract it. A deer harvested in southeastern Minnesota during the 2010 hunting season was found to have the disease - the first time CWD has been found in a wild deer in Minnesota. Subsequent surveillance and testing has found no other such cases of CWD. However, the single finding has prompted accelerated efforts to contain and manage its potential spread due to the serious management problems and other implications posed by CWD were it to become widespread in the state. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is using this appropriation to accelerate its CWD management and response plans and efforts.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan: Not required per per exemption granted to DNR at their request in MN Laws 2011, 1st Special Session, Chp. 2, Art. 3, Sec. 2, Subd. 9(e).
Aquatic Invasive Species
Subd. 09c $5,690,000 $4,690,000 TF [Amended in ML 2012]
Luke Skinner
DNR
500 Lafayette Rd Box 25
St. Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5140
Email: luke.skinner@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/index_aquatic.html
Appropriation Language
$2,177,000 the first year and $3,513,000 $2,513,000 [Amended in ML 2012] the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources
to accelerate aquatic invasive species programs, including the development and implementation of best management practices for public water access facilities to implement aquatic invasive species prevention strategies, including activities
directly related to and necessary for this appropriation. $50,000 is for a grant to develop and produce a documentary
identifying the challenges presented by aquatic invasive species. The documentary shall be available to the Department of
Natural Resources to distribute to watercraft license purchasers and the general public through online and other media.
Project Overview
Invasive species are species that are not native to Minnesota and cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. Minnesota's waters are threatened by a number of aquatic invasive species including zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, common carp, and an emerging threat of Asian carp. This appropriation is allowing the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to accelerate a variety of efforts throughout the state aimed at managing and helping to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan: Not required per per exemption granted to DNR at their request in MN Laws 2011, 1st Special Session, Chp. 2, Art. 3, Sec. 2, Subd. 9(e).
Reinvest in Minnesota Wetlands Reserve Acquisition and Restoration Program Partnership
Subd. 09d $1,645,000 TF
Karli Swenson
Board of Water and Soil Resources
520 Lafayette Rd N
St. Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 807-0445
Email: karli.swenson@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Appropriation Language
$1,645,000 the first year is to the Board of Water and Soil Resources to acquire permanent conservation easements and restore wetlands and associated upland habitat in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture Wetlands Reserve Program. A list of proposed land acquisitions must be provided as part of the required work program.
Project Overview
The Reinvest in Minnesota (RIM) Wetlands Reserve Program restores wetlands and grasslands through the purchase of permanent conservation easements on privately owned land. The easements limit future land use and put conservation plans in place for future management. The Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources is using this appropriation to accelerate the RIM Wetlands Reserve Program resulting in additional permanently protected wetlands and grasslands throughout the state.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR)
Subd. 10a $946,000 TF
Susan Thornton
Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources
100 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Rm 65
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 296-2406
Email: lccmr@lccmr.leg.mn
Web: http://www.lccmr.leg.mn
Appropriation Language
$473,000 the first year and $473,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the LCCMR for administration as provided in Minnesota Statutes, section 116P.09, subdivision 5.
Project Overview
Per M.S. 116P.09, up to 4% of the amount available for appropriation from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) for a biennium is available for expenses related to LCCMR administration. These expenses include the LCCMR's project selection and approval process and its ongoing oversight of projects funded by the ENRTF, including both new projects funded during the biennium and existing projects funded in previous bienniums. Historically, LCCMR has always used less than 3% of available funds for administration. This appropriation, which represents 1.86% of the amount available for the biennium, funds LCCMR administration expenses for FY 2012-13.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2013
Contract Administration
Subd. 10b $175,000 TF
Marcia Honold
MN DNR
5005 Lafayette Rd.
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5527
Email: marcia.honold@state.mn.us
Web: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us
Appropriation Language
$88,000 the first year and $87,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for expenses incurred for contract fiscal services for the agreements specified in this section. The commissioner shall provide documentation to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources on the expenditure of these funds. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014.
Project Overview
Appropriations to non-state entities must be made through a formal contract with a state entity that manages all of the funds for the project on a reimbursement basis. This appropriation to Minnesota's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) funds the expenses incurred by the DNR in contracting, contract management, and expense re-imbursement for most of the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund appropriations made to non-state entities, including both new projects funded during the biennium and existing projects funded in previous bienniums.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2014
Work Plan (PDF)
LCC Web Site
Subd. 10c $3,000 TF
Greg Hubinger
Legislative Coordinating Commission
100 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Rm 72
St Paul, MN 55155
Phone: (651) 296-2963
Email: greg.hubinger@lcc.leg.mn
Web: http://www.lcc.leg.mn
Appropriation Language
$3,000 in the first year is appropriated to the Legislative Coordinating Commission for the Web site required
in Minnesota Statutes, section 3.303, subdivision 10.
Project Overview
A website called "Minnesota's Legacy" was created by the Minnesota Legislature to help citizens monitor how dollars from the Legacy Amendment and the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund are being invested in the state. This appropriation is being used by the Legislative Coordinating Commission to assist with the administration of the website.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2013
Aquatic Invasive Species Cooperative Research Center; Appropriation
Sec. 3 $2,000,000 TF
Peter Sorensen
University of Minnesota
124 Hodson Hall, 1980 Folwell Ave.
St Paul, MN 55108
Phone: (612) 624-4997
Email: soren003@umn.edu
Web: http://www.maisrc.umn.edu
Appropriation Language
$2,000,000 is appropriated in fiscal year 2013 from the environment and natural resources trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to develop and implement an Aquatic Invasive Species Cooperative Research Center, including equipment and facility development. As a condition of receiving this appropriation, the University of Minnesota is requested to collaborate with the commissioner of natural resources in developing solutions to control aquatic invasive species. Money appropriated in this section may not be spent on activities unless they are directly related to and necessary for the purposes of this section. 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 the purposes of this section. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2018.
Project Overview
The legislature granted the University of Minnesota $2,000,000 from the LCCMR to start an Aquatic Invasive Species Cooperative Research Center to address and solve aquatic invasive species (AIS) problems in the state. The University will use this initial funding to establish the administrative structure for this center, establish and renovate its facilities, start studies of Asian carp biology designed to control this species, and develop work plans for the LCCMR to ensure continuing funding for the center. This three-year project is designed to stand alone while establishing a solid foundation for a second phase of operating funding being requested from the ENRTF for 2013-2019, and coordinating with ongoing zebra mussel work at the University which will be supported by the Clean Water Fund.
Project due to be completed: 6/30/2018
Work Plan (PDF)