I wanted to send along a few updates…
 
Drought Relief Application Window Now Open
The Drought Relief Application Window is now open. From now until July 6, Minnesota livestock farmers and crop producers can apply for up to $7,500 per farm for drought expense reimbursement. Do not wait—there is more than $8.1 million available for this program. Apply by July 6, 2022, for up to $7,500 reimbursement!
 
More information, including the application, is available on the MDA’s Drought Relief Page. Farm operators can email drought@state.mn.us or call the Grants Line at 651-201-6500 with any questions.
 
Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB)
The IRRR Board FY23 Grant Guidelines and Business Assistance Applications are now available. FY23 Grant Guidelines

Minnesota’s Draft Wolf Plan Update… Ready for Public Review
The Plan guides Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in strengthening wolf conservation and minimizing human-wolf conflicts. The DNR welcomes comments through 4:30 PM, Monday, August 8, on a draft of Minnesota’s updated wolf management plan that incorporates the diverse views of Minnesotans and will guide the state’s approach to wolf conservation once finalized. Draft Wolf Management Plan

Aquatic Invasive Species… Stop the Spread
Prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS):

• Clean my boat and gear to remove plants and prohibited invasive species.
• Drain all water and leave plugs out during transport.
• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
• Never Release bait, plants, or aquarium pets into Minnesota waters.
• Dry docks, lifts, and rafts for 21 days before moving from one water body to another.
• Decontaminate my equipment – find free stations at mndnr.gov/decon.
• Spray my equipment with high-pressure water or rinse it with very hot water
  (120 degrees for at least two minutes or 140 degrees for at least 10 seconds).
• Dry my boat and gear for five days before using in another water body.

Wake and Boater Responsibility
Last weekend I attended the 9th Annual Bar Harbor In-Water Boat Show in Gull Lake hosted by the Water Sports Industry Association. The event highlighted the importance of wake safety, boater etiquette, and watercraft education. Wakeboarding has been increasing in popularity, and with that increase has come a demand for safety education about the sport. Wakeboarding and wake boats specifically create much larger wakes that can be destructive and disruptive without proper education.

Local leaders were invited to experience a surf boat—which I had never done before, and we even got to watch surfers surfing the wakes behind the boat! The National Marine Manufacturers Association took the opportunity to discuss wake responsibility so that all those who want to enjoy this water sport are doing so safely. Here are a few tips to wake responsibly:  keep music at a reasonable level; refrain from making repetitive passes and move around the lake instead; take advantage of the water education offered when purchasing a surf boat. The event highlighted local boats and served as a reminder to recreate safely and be good stewards of the lakes and waterways in our communities!

Earlier this Session, I introduced legislation that established a Boater Safety Course and testing program to promote the safe operation of watercraft. In recent years, the number of boaters on our lakes and rivers has increased dramatically, which has led to a steady increase in boating accidents and boating-related fatalities throughout the last decade. My bill would make the boating industry safer and more enjoyable. I believe that many of these accidents could be prevented with a simple boater education class, like those we require for snowmobiles and ATVs. It’s important we give those new to our waters the education necessary to keep themselves and others safe. Although the bill didn’t become law, I hope we’ve started the discussion to help get it done soon.

2022 Stars & Stripes Days Pequot Lakes!
Sunday, July 3, 5:00 PM – Monday, July 4, 3:00 PM… Celebrate our nation’s independence on July 3rd & 4th in Pequot Lakes… you’ll find fun activities for the whole family at Stars & Stripes Days, Minnesota’s BEST small town Independence Day celebration! 
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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!
Carrie Ruud