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State Representative Rick Hansen
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-6828
For more information contact: Matt Swenson 651-297-8406
Column/LTE
CONSERVATION EFFORTS INCLUDED IN FLOOD RELIEF BILL
To the Editor:
This week the Legislature met in special session to approve the largest disaster relief package in Minnesota history. $157 million was provided Tuesday, September 11, to rebuild the communities of southeastern Minnesota. The victims of this disaster needed our help, and I'm glad we came together as Minnesotans to lend a helping hand.
In addition to the extensive damage done to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, last months flooding severely impacted the natural terrain and resources of southeastern Minnesota. 17 inches of rain caused massive mudslides and extensive erosion to the steep slopes and ravines throughout the region. This major weather event greatly disrupted soil and water quality as well.
To begin repair of these problems and protect the area from further damage, I worked with my legislative colleagues and the Governor's office to include several conservation provisions in the flood relief bill to restore the long-term health and vitality of the region's natural resources.
The bill passed in special session provided $6.7 million to the Department of Natural Resources for infrastructure destroyed in the flooding – including damage done at Whitewater State Park. The bill also provides $4 million to the Board of Water and Soil Resources for protecting soil and water quality and supporting fish and wildlife habitat in the flood-affected regions of southeastern Minnesota.
In coordination with federal restoration efforts, this essential state funding will provide the needed resources to begin restoration efforts now that will stabilize the slopes and stream banks of southeastern Minnesota.
Rep. Rick Hansen
Chair – Watersheds, Wetlands, and Buffers Subcommittee
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