Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to allocate funds to support and expand river monitoring programs in Minnesota. It aims to enhance water quality and watershed monitoring through financial grants.

Main Provisions

• The bill proposes $150,000 for fiscal year 2026 and another $150,000 for fiscal year 2027 from the clean water fund.
• These funds are designated for grants to Friends of the Minnesota Valley.
• The grants are intended to enhance and expand the current river and watershed monitoring activities in schools within the Minnesota River Basin.
• In collaboration with Clean River Partners, an additional river watch program will be established in the Cannon River Basin.

Reporting Requirements

• By February 15, 2027, Friends of the Minnesota Valley must submit a report regarding how the funds were spent.
• This report is to be delivered to the commissioner and the legislative committees and divisions overseeing environment, natural resources finance and policy, and the clean water fund.

Relevant Terms

river watch program, clean water fund, Minnesota River Basin, Cannon River Basin, watershed monitoring, water quality, Friends of the Minnesota Valley, Clean River Partners, Pollution Control Agency.