Vote ‘yes’ on state drinking water amendment question

On November 5th, Minnesota voters will be asked a constitutional amendment question.  The question will be on page 1 of your ballot, and it reads (in part): “Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to protect drinking water sources and water quality of lakes, rivers and streams; conserve
wildlife habitat and natural areas; improve air quality; and expand access to
parks and trails…..?”
Please vote “Yes” on this ballot question.  (Leaving it blank is a NO vote).
The public purpose of this is the protection, conservation, preservation, and enhancement of the State’s air, water, land, fish, wildlife, and other natural resources.
Why vote “Yes?”  What is in it for me, for my community and for the Southeast MN region?
As you think this over, consider the values Minnesotans share about our natural resources.  And then, assess the importance of our natural resources to our economy and our quality of life.
A wily politician once said – “….follow the money.”  This money comes from the State lottery.  It was established by the voters in 1988, and since 1991, nearly $1.1 billion has been allocated to over 1,700 projects across the State.  For Southeast MN, here is a short list of projects that have been
funded by this Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF):
-Solar energy on swine farms
-Zumbro watershed recreational learning sites (signage along Zumbro River in
Mantorville)
-Ground water mapping and research on springs
-Cover crops and soil health on agricultural lands
-Restoring native mussels in rivers
-Many projects on wildlife habitat for both game and non-game species
The long-term nature of this fund is critical.  To sustain such important work, Minnesota needs time (decades plus) and money.  Your YES vote will renew this long-term funding source until 2050, and build on the progress so far.
FMI, search for Minnesota ENRTF.  Thank you for your consideration of this.
Bill Thompson
Mantorville Township