DNR budget review scrutinized

The grandest project depends on the success of its smallest component.

This was the proverbial message directed to Bob Meier, Department of Natural Resources assistant commissioner, Jan. 20 by the House Environment and Natural Resources Finance Division. Or, put another way, members might have asked, “Is the devil in the details?”

Meier, armed with charts, graphs and budget review materials, explained his agency’s performance-based strategy for developing its new biennial budget. The only problem was that division members wanted more details than were readily available.

For example, the number of people who fish, hunt, boat and visit state parks each year has declined during the past decade, according to agency measurements. Should opportunities be cut, or should parents be allowed to fish for free if they bring along their children, as a means to entice more outdoor recreation?

As the state’s population shifts and baby boomers retire, what effect might this have on outdoor recreation offerings? Twenty- to 40-year-olds aren’t showing up on Minnesota lakes or in the parks as often these days. How many people use the system of trails in Minnesota, a measuring tool that was missing from the recreation chart? As it turns out, trail use is steady or on the rise, according to staff. Perhaps that is where the 20- to 40-year-olds can be found, said division members.

Division Chairwoman Rep. Jean Wagenius (DFL-Mpls) said there are aspects of DNR-budgeted programs that need more in-depth study. She’d like to hear from constituents as well.

In addition to outdoor recreation, the DNR also grapples with protecting natural resources, such as land reclamation issues and the economic development of natural resources, such as the forest and mining industries.