MN SF3295

Appropriates $200,000 in fiscal year 2019 from the off-road vehicle account to contract with a project administrator to plan and design state touring routes for licensed four-wheel drive vehicles and recreational trails for registered off-road vehicles.

Appropriates $200,000 in fiscal year 2019 to prepare a comprehensive statewide strategic master plan for off-road vehicle trails that identifies new trail opportunities, enhances connectivity between trail systems, and promotes economic development in greater Minnesota.

The master plan must address safe and environmentally sustainable outdoor access, social and economic benefits for users and host communities, and require commissioner cooperation with local governments and organizations.

Appropriates $200,000 in fiscal year 2019 to reimburse federal, county, and township entities for additional forest road maintenance costs caused by increased off-road vehicle use on border-to-border touring routes.

Claimants must demonstrate that maintenance costs increased at least 50 percent based on a ten-year average, and the commissioner must review all reimbursement claims with the Minnesota Four Wheel Drive Association.