LCCMR seeks input for strategic plan

The Legislative-Citizens Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR), which makes recommendations on how the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) should be spent, is conducting listening sessions this fall as part of its strategic planning process.

Over the last several years, the ENRTF has been an important source of funding for the Outdoor Recreation and Local Trails Connections grant programs, as well as individual projects for many GMPT members. However, it hasn’t always been a reliable source of funding. When the LCCMR first began distributing funds, parks and trails grants were possible, but the commission often shifted toward other priorities. Over the last several years, due in part to our advocacy, the LCCMR has been more open to funding parks and trails grants. We want that trend to continue! To do so, we need our members to help make the case. Here’s how you can help:

• Attend one of the upcoming listening sessions. The first two sessions will be held in Morris:
  • 7-8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 11 at Oyate Hall in the Student Center at the University of Minnesota Morris
  • 7-8 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 12 a Common Cup Coffeehouse (501 S Atlantic Ave., Morris, MN)
  • Additional meetings will be added soon.
• Participate in the stakeholder survey that will be unveiled this fall.
• Help us gather information to provide formal input to the LCCMR. If you have received an LCCMR grant or an Outdoor Recreation, Local Trail Connection or Scenic & Natural Resources grant in the last five (or more) years, please let us know by contacting Elizabeth Wefel at eawefel@flaherty-hood.com. We want to point to specific projects to demonstrate how these awards benefit the environment.

We will keep you updated on the strategic planning process as it proceeds. Stay tuned!