Bill > HF2620

This bill provides two separate appropriations to address emerald ash borer (EAB) impacts and community tree restoration in Minnesota. The first provision allocates $5 million in fiscal year 2026 from the general fund to the Metropolitan Council for grants to local governments to respond to the emerald ash borer infestation. These grants can be used for various activities including pre-design and design of wood waste facilities, temporary wood storage, wood waste transportation, tree shredding, and other tree disposal efforts. The second provision appropriates an additional $5 million in the same fiscal year to the commissioner of natural resources for community tree-planting grants, which will be administered under an existing state statute (section 84.705). Both appropriations are one-time funding allocations that will be available until June 30, 2028. The emerald ash borer is an invasive beetle that destroys ash trees, and this bill aims to help local communities manage the ecological and economic impacts of this pest by supporting wood waste management and tree replacement efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2620&ssn=0&y=2025