MN HF2032

Appropriates $5,000,000 in fiscal year 2018 and $5,000,000 in fiscal year 2019 from the general fund to the commissioner of agriculture for shade tree grants.

Grants of up to $1,000,000 available to cities, counties, towns, and park and recreation boards in cities of the first class for developing response plans and treating, removing, and replacing publicly owned shade trees.

Prioritizes grant funding for planning, removal, and replacement of trees in emerald ash borer quarantined counties.

Funds may support establishing more diverse community forests better able to withstand disease and forest pests.

All appropriated funds must be encumbered by June 30, 2019.