Protect the Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund

In 1988, Minnesota voters approved a constitutional amendment dedicating lottery proceeds to protecting, conserving, preserving and enhancing "the state's air, water, land, fish, wildlife, and other natural resources." 

Since then, the fund (officially known as the Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund or ENRTF) has supported over a thousand research and restoration projects in natural areas and communities throughout the state, including successful FMR habitat projects at Spring Lake Park ReserveHampton Woods and many other FMR restoration sites.

FMR has long supported this funding source alongside many environmental, natural resource and outdoor recreation groups. And Minnesota voters have renewed the amendment each time it's been on the ballot.

From advocating for the amendment's renewal at the ballot box to ensuring that legislators spend the trust fund in ways that honor the will of Minnesota's voters, FMR will continue to protect the fund for decades to come.

Protect the Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund
Protecting the Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund

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Protecting and extending one of Minnesota's bedrock environmental funding sources is a top priority for FMR. Read more
A blue and golden sky as the sun sets over the Mississippi River in Minneiska, Minnesota.
FMR becoming a powerhouse for pollinator protection

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Two new FMR initiatives are big wins for pollinator protection and research. With good questions and better data to answer them, we can find out what more we can do to make the best possible habitat for pollinators and wildlife. Read more
Rusty-patched bumble bee on liatris
How FMR's priorities for the Mississippi River fared in the 2023 session

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FMR made progress on every single one of its priorities this legislative session. Here's a roundup of everything that happened. Read more
A collage showing parts of five different photos, all from this legislative session: Two FMR staffers posing with fish postcards in the Capitol; an FMR staffer testifying at a May 1 hearing; A state senator posing with children following a hearing; legislators on a tour at the Forever Green Initiative facilities; printed papers with the FMR logo, shown with the Capitol building in the background.
A win for the great outdoors: Voters will get to rededicate lottery funds to the environment

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Lottery funds for the Great Outdoors will be back on the ballot — though without some sought-after new revenue. Read more
Loon plus text: "#MNLEG Final Update"
Our 2023 legislative priorities

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From clean-water crops to invasive carp, here's a rundown of what we hope to accomplish at the Capitol. Read more
The top of the Minnesota Capitol building in St. Paul.
Passed (with a side of controversy): Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund appropriation

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On the final weekend of the legislative session, lawmakers finalized $70.88 million in spending from the state’s Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund. It includes some great projects and a fair amount of controversy.  >>

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How FMR's priorities fared this legislative session

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Despite a historic surplus, this year's legislative session was disappointing from FMR's standpoint. Here's where our priorities stand, with a few bright spots included.  >>

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Upcoming Events

Saturday, May 31, 2025 - 2:30pm to 6:00pm
North 20 Brewing, Rosemount
Apply by June 1, 2025
F-O-K Creatives gallery near Harriet Island in St. Paul
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Southwest Park Ponding Basin, Hastings