This week is National Agriculture Week, when we recognize the important work of America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers. Thank you!
Legislation Funds Shooting Sports Facilities
Senator Carrie Ruud presented legislation SF4098 in the Environment Policy Committee that seeks to increase funding for the Shooting Range Improvement Grants program.
The Department of Natural Resources currently offers Shooting Range Grants, as a way to increase outdoor shooting range capacity for youth shooters and the general public by providing matching grant funds to recreational shooting clubs open for public use. Eligible projects must develop, expand, improve, or upgrade existing shooting ranges, with new range development being prioritized in rural areas of the state.
“These grants have already served to expand range accessibility for youth shooting sports and programs, and we want to see them continue—our state currently has the highest amount of youth clay target shooting, in part because many ranges across the state have already used these funds to increase accessibility. By continuing these grants, we are supporting the fastest-growing youth sport in Minnesota.”
Renew Minnesota’s Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund
Senator Carrie Ruud has authored legislation SF4131 that renews Minnesota’s Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF). Enacted in 1988 with the support of 77% of Minnesota Voters, this ENRTF became a constitutionally dedicated fund that is funded by a combination of Minnesota State Lottery proceeds and investment income.
The ENRTF is currently set to expire in 2024. This legislation allows for its reauthorization to be placed on the ballot again in 2024. This bill will increase lottery proceeds dedicated towards the fund from 40% to 50% and will capture unclaimed prize money as historically intended.
“It’s important that we ensure this funding source remains constitutionally dedicated towards environmental projects. Minnesotans have been proud of our traditions when it comes to protecting our natural resources. We must renew the Trust Fund so we can continue the protection of drinking water sources, water quality, wildlife habitats, parks, and trails.”
The legislation passed the Environment Policy and Legacy Committee, and now heads to the Environment Finance Committee.
Additional News…
Four Walleye Limit
Please watch and see why the four-walleye limit is so important… this video was created by some great fishery folks in Minnesota. Watch Here: Four Walleye Video
Department of Natural Resources—Seeking Conservation Officer Applicants
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is holding a career fair Tuesday, March 29, from 4-7pm for anyone interested in learning more about the career of a conservation officer. Learn more here: Conservation Officer Program
Chronic Wasting Disease Update
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is updating its chronic wasting disease response plan after the discovery of CWD in Grand Rapids .
Thank you for taking the time to read my legislative update. If you’re looking to hear more from the Capitol, please like me on Facebook.
As always please feel free to contact my office with any questions you might have. My office can be reached by phone at (651) 296-4913 or at sen.carrie.ruud@senate.mn.
Talk to you soon!