Legislative workshop and Day on the Hill give members opportunity to rally for parks and trails funding

As Minnesota legislators adjust to the dramatic turnover in their ranks -including new leadership at all levels - parks and trails advocates need to be ready to hit the ground running in 2007 if we want to make environment and natural resource funding a top priority. In order to give parks and trails supporters the tools needed to make this possible, the Parks & Trails Council is organizing two important legislative events at critical times during the 2007 session.

Legislative workshop Jan. 23
The first of these events, Taking Legislative Action: Making the Case for Parks and Trails, will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 23, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Kelly Inn, 161 St. Anthony Ave., St. Paul. This informative workshop will provide an overview of the new 2007 Legislature; a summary of the biennial budget process, including a look at the governor's budget; an overview of the Parks & Trails Council's and Metropolitan Parks and Open Space Commission's legislative agendas; and an examination of Minnesota's current conservation challenges and priorities. In addition, Rep. Jean Wagenius, House Environment & Natural Resources Finance Committee chair and Sen. Ellen Anderson, Senate Environment, Energy & Natural Resources Budget Division Committee chair will provide their perspectives on key issues facing the 2007 Legislature. Other workshop topics include a presentation on parks and trails funding needs and dedicated funding opportunities and breakout sessions on how to work with legislators, using key messages to communicate and preparing for the '08 Capital Budget process.

By the end of the day, attendees will be better prepared to speak with legislators about parks and trails issues. If you want to be a force for positive change and help restore parks and trails operating budgets to realistic levels, then this is the workshop for you. Time is allotted so attendees can schedule afternoon meetings with local representatives and senators. You should schedule any meetings with your legislators in advance. To register or to request a workshop flyer with the complete agenda, please call Brett at 651-726-2457 or REGISTER ONLINE. A nominal registration fee of $10 covers the cost of lunch and materials.

Parks & Trails Day on the Hill March 5
Make plans now to attend the Parks & Trails Day on the Hill on Monday, March 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Kelly Inn, 161 St. Anthony Ave., St. Paul. The Parks & Trails Day on the Hill is being held in early March, shortly after the February budget forecast is released. March is also when serious discussions and decisions will be made on spending and budget priorities. This will be a critical time for Parks & Trails members to check in with local legislators about parks and trails issues. The session will include a legislative update and budget review with the afternoon set aside for meetings with legislators. To register to attend Parks & Trails Day on the Hill, please call Brett at 651-726-2457 or REGISTER ONLINE. A nominal registration fee of $10 covers the cost of lunch and materials.