A resounding victory for conservation funding in Minnesota

Voters throughout the state showed up for Minnesota’s great outdoors this election, ensuring projects that protect air, land, water and wildlife continue to receive funding for years to come. 

More than 77% of people who went to the polls said “yes” to a ballot initiative that extends the dedication of state lottery money for the environment for another 25 years. That means, through 2050, ​​no less than 40% of the state lottery proceeds will continue to be directed to the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund — one of the main sources of conservation funding in Minnesota. 

This funding dedication, which supports important projects at FMR and throughout the state, was set to expire in 2025. 

Also encouraging, the ballot question received the support of a majority of voters in every county in the state. In total, it received 250,000 more votes than any amendment in Minnesota history. 

Of the voters who marked the ballot on this question (and didn't just leave it blank, which counts as a no vote), 83% voted yes — that’s actually 6% more than in 1998, the last time this question was on the ballot. 

This unequivocal increase in public support demonstrates Minnesotans’ commitment to the state’s great outdoors, regardless of geography or political affiliation. 

FMR was proud to join with nearly 150 organizations, businesses, associations and government entities as a supporter of Minnesotans for our Great Outdoors, which worked to educate voters about the importance of this dedicated environmental fund. 

Thank you to everyone who showed up and supported the ballot initiative this election season.

Learn more about the impact of the Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund.