Overview of Process

The LCCMR makes funding recommendations to the Minnesota Legislature for special environment and natural resources projects, primarily from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund. These recommendations are the product of a competitive, multi-step proposal and selection process.

The process begins when the LCCMR issues a Request for Proposal (RFP) for selected funding priorities based on its 6-year strategic plan and ongoing information gathering activities, including expert-led issue seminars and visits to natural resource sites around the state. The RFP is open to everyone with innovative ideas for environment and natural resources projects that could provide multiple ecological and other public benefits. Proposals can be submitted according to the procedures outlined in each RFP.

The LCCMR reviews, evaluates, and ranks all proposals submitted. A selection of the highest ranked proposals are invited to present before the LCCMR. Finally, based on the total dollars available, a subset of the proposals are chosen to recommend to the legislature.

The funding recommendations go before the Minnesota House and Senate in the form of a bill, and upon passage the bill goes to the Governor to be signed into law. Funding becomes available to projects beginning July 1 of the next fiscal year.

The LCCMR has oversight over projects funded. Projects must have a work plan approved, provide ongoing project updates, and deliver a final report upon project completion.

Process Information by Year

Select a year to review information on the proposal and funding cycle for that funding year, including information on all proposals received during that cycle: