MN HF4168

Changes the sample size requirement for habitat restoration projects evaluated annually from "up to ten" to allow the commissioner discretion in selecting the sample size for parks and trails fund projects.

Maintains the technical evaluation panel structure of five core members (Board of Water and Soil Resources, Department of Natural Resources, University of Minnesota or Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, and two project-specific experts) with optional federal or local government representatives.

Requires the coordinator to evaluate restorations relative to law, current science, stated goals and standards in restoration plans, and Board of Water and Soil Resources native vegetation guidelines.

Directs the coordinator to report findings to relevant house and senate policy and finance committee chairs, addressing whether restorations meet planned goals, implementation problems, and recommendations for improvement.

Limits funding for restoration evaluations to up to one-tenth of one percent of forecasted parks and trails fund receipts annually.