What do climate research, outdoor classrooms, prairie restoration, and clean water initiatives have in common? They’re all being powered by Minnesota Lottery players.
Each year, 40% of Minnesota Lottery proceeds are dedicated to the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF), helping support projects that protect, conserve, and enhance Minnesota’s natural resources for future generations. Through a competitive review process led by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR), innovative ideas from across the state compete for funding that can turn research, conservation efforts, and community initiatives into reality.
For fiscal year 2027, lawmakers approved 108 projects totaling approximately $102 million. These initiatives reflect the wide-reaching impact environmental funding can have on communities throughout Minnesota.
Take a look at a few of the exciting projects funded this year by the Lottery-supported ENRTF.
Identifying Climate Resistant Fisheries
The University of Minnesota is taking action to understand how Minnesota’s lake fisheries are adapting to climate change, with a focus on identifying “bright spots” where fish populations remain healthy despite environmental shifts.
Education and Outdoor Recreation
Hands-on learning opportunities play an important role in helping young people build meaningful connections to science, art, and the environment through engaging, real-world experiences. That’s why the DNR, Watermark Art Center and Headwaters Science Center in Bemidji are partnering to provide underserved youth in northern Minnesota immersive environmental learning opportunities.
Sustainable Land Use with Robotic Technology
As technology continues to reshape agriculture, this project aims to ensure that small-scale farmers can benefit from emerging innovations. The Hmong American Farmers Association and University of Minnesota will partner to customize robotic technologies for small farms and provide training to help farmers integrate these tools into their traditional agricultural practices.
