HF2620

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to address issues related to the emerald ash borer infestation and promote community tree planting in Minnesota.

Main Provisions

1. Emerald Ash Borer Response Grants:

   • Allocates $5 million for local governments to manage the emerald ash borer threat.
   • Funding covers activities like designing wood waste facilities, temporary wood storage, transporting wood waste, and tree disposal, including shredding.

2. Community Tree Planting Grants:

   • Allocates another $5 million for community tree planting initiatives to be managed under Minnesota's existing statutes.
   • Emphasizes maintaining and enhancing urban forests by facilitating the planting of new trees.

Significant Changes

• Introduces new funding specifically for combating emerald ash borer infestations and enhancing tree planting efforts within the community.
• Provides a specified time frame for the utilization of these funds, making them available until June 30, 2028.

Relevant Terms

emerald ash borer, wood waste facilities, tree disposal, community tree planting, urban forest, Metropolitan Council, local government grants, natural resources, Minnesota Statutes section 84.705