RELEASE: Emerging Issues Environmental Projects Funding Passed by LCCMR, Approved by Governor

Emerging Issues Environmental Projects Funding Passed by LCCMR, Approved by Governor

SAINT PAUL, Minn. – This week, Governor Walz approved funding for multiple projects through the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) Emerging Issues Account. On February 5, the LCCMR recommended funding four projects for a total of $922,823 that protect the environment and natural resources. The projects funded include:

• $248,823 to MnDOT for Reducing Turtle Mortality through Exclusionary Fencing on MnDOT Right of Way
• $385,000 to the Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Association for Stop Starry Invasion - Community Invasive Species Containment
• $185,000 to Dakota County for Fee Title and Conservation Easement Acquisitions (the “Benjamin” project)
• $104,000 to Dakota County for Fee Title and Conservation Easement Acquisitions (the “Haskell Street” project)

“The Emerging Issues Account is key to ensuring we can support smart environmental preservation proposals throughout the year,” said Rep. Rick Hansen (DFL-South St. Paul), a co-chair of the LCCMR. “Whether it’s protecting native turtles, addressing aquatic invasive species, or increasing conservation land in Dakota County, these projects will help protect our natural resources for decades to come."

The LCCMR Emerging Issues Account was set up to allow funds from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund to be allocated throughout the year on issues that come up unexpectedly but still adhere to the commission’s strategic plan. Projects seeking funding from the Emerging Issues Account must be recommended by the commission and then approved by the Governor. The funding was set to expire on June 30, 2024.

The LCCMR’s February 5th agenda can be found here, and a recording of the commission’s meeting can be found here.

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