Purpose

Designates Castoroides ohioensis, commonly known as the giant beaver, as the official state fossil of Minnesota to recognize its role in the state’s natural history.

Main Provisions

• Subdivision 1: Designates Castoroides ohioensis (giant beaver) as the official state fossil of Minnesota.
• Subdivision 2: A photograph of the giant beaver, approved by the Commissioner of Natural Resources, must be preserved and may be displayed in the Office of the Secretary of State.

Effect on Existing Law

• Adds a new official designation to Minnesota Statutes to establish the state fossil as Castoroides ohioensis, creating a new provision within Minnesota Statutes chapter for this purpose.

Implementation and Display

• The photograph of the giant beaver is to be approved by the Commissioner of Natural Resources.
• The preserved photograph may be displayed in the Office of the Secretary of State.

Summary of Significance

• This bill creates a formal recognition of the giant beaver as Minnesota’s official state fossil and establishes a process for preserving and displaying a related photograph.

Relevant Terms

Castoroides ohioensis, giant beaver, official state fossil, Minnesota, Minnesota Statutes, Commissioner of Natural Resources, Office of the Secretary of State, photograph, state government designation