University of Minnesota researchers and educators are leading projects that address some of Minnesota’s most pressing environmental challenges — from protecting drinking water and strengthening climate resilience to conserving wildlife habitat and advancing sustainable food systems.
This year, the Minnesota Legislature approved more than $23.3 million for 34 University of Minnesota-led projects through Minnesota’s Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR). Supporting work across University campuses and communities statewide, these investments advance the University’s land-grant mission and align with Elevate Extraordinary 2030, the University’s strategic roadmap for expanding impact through research, innovation and partnership.
Supported by proceeds from the Minnesota State Lottery, the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund supports projects that protect, conserve and enhance Minnesota’s air, water, land, fish, wildlife and other natural resources. These investments help develop solutions that benefit Minnesotans today while safeguarding the state’s natural resources for the future.
“These investments demonstrate the impact of University of Minnesota research in addressing challenges that affect communities across our state,” said Cynthia Carnes, vice president for Research and Innovation. “From safeguarding our water resources to helping communities prepare for a changing climate, these projects turn research into real-world solutions for Minnesota while preparing the next generation of leaders and innovators.”
Protecting Minnesota’s water and natural resources
Minnesota’s lakes, rivers, forests and wildlife are central to the state’s identity and economy. University researchers are developing new technologies and tools to better understand and respond to emerging environmental challenges.
Projects receiving support include efforts to:
- Advance PFAS research by developing portable detection technologies and studying how PFAS moves through the environment, including precipitation.
- Assess emerging water quality threats, including microplastic pollution in Minnesota groundwater systems.
- Create forecasting tools for harmful algal blooms and expand geologic atlases that support local water management decisions.
- Strengthen ecosystem resilience by combating invasive terrestrial plants and pests, improving forest management and carbon stewardship, and supporting moose habitat management.
- Protect Minnesota’s wildlife and natural resources by monitoring avian influenza in wild bird populations and evaluating the impacts of new fishing technologies on fisheries.
Building resilient communities and food systems
University researchers are partnering with communities across Minnesota to prepare for climate impacts and strengthen local and regional resilience.
Projects will support climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, ecosystem restoration, improved land use and conservation planning, and innovations that strengthen food preservation, food security and Minnesota’s food systems.
Preparing the next generation of environmental leaders
As Minnesota’s land-grant institution, the University is also investing in the people who will steward the state’s natural resources in the future.
Projects will build environmental leadership and workforce capacity through conservation and prescribed fire training, while expanding public engagement through pollinator education and citizen science opportunities.
Together, these projects demonstrate the breadth of the University of Minnesota’s environmental research enterprise and its commitment to serving communities across Minnesota.
View the complete list of 2026 Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund Appropriations: https://www.lccmr.mn.gov/projects/2026/2026_appropriations_by_subdivision.html
Leave a comment