Purpose

Create funding to expand the Fishing in the Neighborhood program across Minnesota. The bill directs money from the Game and Fish Fund to broaden opportunities for kids to fish, raise public awareness about fishing, and encourage environmental stewardship.

Main Provisions

• Appropriations: $200,000 for fiscal year 2026 and $200,000 for fiscal year 2027.
• Source of funds: from the Game and Fish Fund.
• Recipient: the Commissioner of Natural Resources.
• Purpose of funding: to expand the Fishing in the Neighborhood program to counties and cities throughout the state of Minnesota.
• Goals: increase angling opportunities for children; increase public awareness about fishing; promote environmental stewardship.

Significance / Impact

• Expands the geographic reach of the Fishing in the Neighborhood program to all counties and cities in Minnesota.
• Increases funding to support youth fishing activities.
• Enhances public education about fishing and encourages responsible environmental practices.

Administration / Implementation

• Funds designated for the Commissioner of Natural Resources to implement and manage the statewide expansion of the program.

Relevant Terms

• Fishing in the Neighborhood program
• Game and Fish Fund
• Commissioner of Natural Resources
• fiscal year 2026
• fiscal year 2027
• appropriation
• counties and cities throughout Minnesota
• angling opportunities
• children
• public awareness
• environmental stewardship
• youth fishing program
• environmental education