Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to get $308 Million in Funding as Part of Omnibus Bill

(KNSI) — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is getting a $308 million shot in the arm thanks to the legislature including the funding in the omnibus bill’s environmental, climate and energy package.

Supporters say it brings sharper focus to many longstanding requests. One example includes investing in improving boat ramps, and Jeff Forester of Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates says it will help stop the spread of invasive aquatic species.

“Where does it get into the lakes? It gets into the lakes at the boat ramps as equipment and watercraft are moved from one lake to another. So making those investments in the boat ramps in signage and places to pull over, it really is an integrated package.”

More than $116.6 million in direct cash from a $1.3 billion capital investment plan is also appropriated for the DNR. That money will come from the state’s $17.5 billion budget surplus, not from an increase in fishing license fees, as was requested earlier in the session. It also includes millions for fish hatcheries, docks, bathroom facilities and other infrastructure necessary for lakes and rivers, increased staffing levels, and research, like a 50-year water study included in the bill.

“Given current conditions, what can we expect the quality and the quantity of water to be in Minnesota in 50 years? What’s it going to look like? I mean, that’s such a simple question, but it hasn’t been studied yet,” says Forester.

Forester credits lawmakers for addressing many longstanding issues while also looking ahead so that agencies and conservation groups aren’t blindsided by other threats down the road.

He also applauds provisions to rein in harmful P-FAS chemicals and their connection to waterways and fish.

Another item bans new deer farms to limit the spread of chronic wasting disease. Ten million dollars is allocated for wetland and grassland habitats, and the bill improves access to public hunting land the people with disabilities. Non-hunters such as bird watchers and photographers can access public hunting land for a small fee.

Some fee increases will help cover the new spending, like a hike in boat registration costs.

Republican lawmakers voiced opposition to those aspects of the plan. The DNR had asked for it, but the legislature declined an increase in state park sticker costs and admission fees.

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MNC Reporter Mike Moen contributed to this story.

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