MN SF3511

Projects receiving parks and trails fund money must demonstrate measurable outcomes identified in the 25-year parks and trails legacy plan and submit information to the Legislative Coordinating Commission by January 15 of the applicable fiscal year.

All parks and trails fund grants must be implemented according to section 16B.98, with priority given to competitively awarded proposals, and all money must be spent only on Minnesota-located projects.

Recipients of parks and trails fund money must display the legacy logo on their website with a link to the Legislative Coordinating Commission website and contact information.

Metropolitan Council funding distribution is restructured to allocate 50 percent for natural resource restoration plans related to wetlands, prairies, forests, and wildlife habitat, 10 percent for land acquisition, and 40 percent for outcomes defined by the 25-year parks and trails legacy plan.

A five-member technical peer review committee with expertise in conservation biology, ecology, and natural resources must review all project proposals before appropriation, evaluate accomplishment plans, and recommend projects for funding to the legislature.