HF2703 Summary

• Requires parks and trails fund projects to include measurable outcomes identified in the 25-year parks and trails legacy plan and incorporate current science and state-of-the-art technology, except for historical restorations.

• Establishes that recipients of parks and trails fund appropriations must submit project information including measurable outcomes to the Legislative Coordinating Commission by January 15 of the applicable fiscal year.

• Creates a technical peer review committee with five members from conservation biology, ecology, natural resources fields to review all project proposals before appropriation and recommend projects to the legislature.

• Modifies metropolitan area distribution formula to allocate 50 percent of funds for natural resource restoration plans relating to wetlands, prairies, forests, and fish/wildlife habitat, 10 percent for land acquisition, and 40 percent for outcomes defined by the 25-year parks and trails legacy plan.

• Requires recipients to submit accomplishment plans and final reports accounting for expenditures and outcomes in measures of wetlands, prairies, forests, and fish/wildlife habitat restored, protected, and enhanced.