M.L. 2026 Projects

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

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$468,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency to: (1) develop and improve Minnesota-specific model land-use ordinances for sustainable and resilient development that help protect, conserve, preserve, and enhance the environment and natural resources; and (2) work with local communities to adopt and apply the model ordinances to their needs and priorities.

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

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

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

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

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$300,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to: (1) assess opportunities and develop technology for solar dehydration and curing of produce that reduces climatic impact of food loss and waste; and (2) develop and distribute findings to farmers, farming organizations, community partners, and other supply chain and market players in Minnesota.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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$501,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to: (1) train volunteers and beekeepers to become pollinator ambassadors that lead educational events and increase native pollinator conservation awareness and the adoption of pollinator conservation practices; and (2) train volunteers to collect data on bumblebee nests and develop recommendations for conserving bumblebee nesting habitat.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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$674,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to: (1) determine if certain cisco populations are better suited for Minnesota lakes experiencing higher temperatures and lower oxygen levels due to climate change; and (2) create a habitat suitability map for different cisco populations under different climate scenarios to guide management decisions.

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$478,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe to: (1) survey aquatic vegetation and cultural uses of Leech Lake resources to understand changes over time and to guide future management; and (2) conduct public engagement, update aquatic vegetation inventories, and use genetics to distinguish between native and invasive plant species.

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

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

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

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$2,200,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the College of Veterinary Medicine to: (1) study the environmental persistence and transportation of chronic wasting disease (CWD) prions and the risk factors for CWD outbreaks in deer populations; and (2) advance antemortem testing for early detection of CWD in Minnesota, support Tribal and state surveillance efforts, and provide education about the public's role in CWD management.

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

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

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

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

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$539,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Lake of the Woods County to: (1) collect data, run models, and assess design alternatives to stabilize the shoreline, restore habitat, and improve water quality at Pine and Curry Island Scientific and Natural Area; and (2) summarize the data, evaluations, and final recommendations into a public report.

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

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

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

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$1,054,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources to: (1) coordinate delivery of the moose habitat implementation plan that was created to overcome challenges to large-scale moose habitat management across diverse land ownerships among multiple partners; and (2) provide education, communication, and outreach to address specific implementation challenges and to establish and execute a monitoring plan to evaluate implementation success.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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$392,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the commissioner of natural resources for an agreement with Carver County to: (1) restore critical habitat at Lake Minnewashta Regional Park consistent with the park natural resources management plan; and (2) collect data to evaluate restoration success and guide adaptive management.

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

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$358,000 the second year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Natural Resources Research Institute in Duluth to: (1) evaluate water infiltration, pollutant removal, and plant growth in mine land soils amended with wood waste and biochar; and (2) estimate the ecosystem and climate benefits of using wood waste and biochar soil mixes for mine land reclamation in Minnesota and disseminate project results to stakeholders.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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