Minnesota Senate Republicans on Tuesday passed Senate File 2314, a comprehensive environment and natural resources funding bill. The bill includes legislation championed by State Senator John Jasinski (R-Faribault) that would help clean up Roberds Lake after last September’s devastating storms, which cast trees, branches, roofing materials, siding, dock parts and more into and around the lake. Sen. Jasinski’s bill authorizes $100,000 to help clean up debris, which would help offset local fundraising efforts.

“At the beginning of session I made a commitment to get the lake cleaned up as soon as possible,” said Sen. Jasinski. “The debris poses real dangers to folks who like to swim, fish, and water ski in the lake. I am 100% committed to making sure clean up resources are available so the lake is ready for the 2019 tourism season.”

The Roberds Lake Association is also working with officials in Rice County, and the Department of Natural Resources, and the Cannon River Watershed Partnership, to secure local funding and volunteer resources to help with the cleanup.