The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) celebrates significant achievements in 2024, marking a year of progress in outdoor recreation, habitat preservation, and addressing environmental challenges.
Key Accomplishments:
- Get Out MORE Initiative: This transformative $150 million program, launched in 2023, modernizes outdoor recreation experiences. Projects include upgraded trails, campgrounds, and park facilities to ensure access for Minnesotans of all abilities. Investments focus on improving infrastructure at state parks and natural areas statewide.
- Habitat Preservation: The DNR worked hard to protect Minnesota’s wildlife habitats, restoring and preserving over 50,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and grasslands this year. These efforts are crucial for native species and for maintaining the state’s natural beauty.
- Climate Resilience Efforts: To combat climate change, the DNR used state-managed lands to offset carbon emissions and reduce environmental impacts. Sustainable forest management and restoration projects were key to this progress.
- Natural Disaster Response: 2024 saw its share of record flooding and extended wildfire seasons, but the DNR stepped up to support impacted communities and protect natural areas.
- Community Engagement: Education and outreach programs brought more Minnesotans outdoors, encouraging participation in activities like fishing, hiking, and conservation efforts.
DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen is excited about the momentum:
“The investments we’ve made through the Get Out MORE initiative and our other programs are creating a world-class recreation system for all outdoor enthusiasts while preserving the beauty that makes Minnesota special.”
You can find the full list of the DNR’s 2024 accomplishments on their website.
How it affects DL listeners: For families in the Lakes Area, this means better outdoor recreation access – from upgraded trails and campgrounds to improved lake access for fishing and boating. Habitat preservation ensures a healthier environment for wildlife and residents alike, while climate resilience projects help protect the region from extreme weather events. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or someone who just loves the natural beauty of Minnesota, these improvements make a real difference right here at home.