A fight over Legacy Amendment spending broke out in the open today in a key House committee.
House Environment and Natural Resources Committee Republicans overrode the recommendation of Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council and moved conservation money requested by White Earth Nation to Department of Natural Resources wetlands enhancement.
White Earth Nation has applied for $2.2 million for 2,000 acres of forest, riparian corridors and meadows to protect the Wild Rice River. The public, regardless of tribal affiliation, could use the land for hunting and other recreation.
The land is currently for sale and in private hands, and White Earth Nation fears development.
Rep. Steve Green, R-Fosston, offered the amendment to move the money. He said the amendment was not intended as an attack on White Earth Nation, of which he said he is a member. Rather, he said, the continued acquisition of lands by the public in places like Clearwater County is a financial burden for counties and schools and other public entities because it takes the land off the tax rolls.
Democrats objected, but the amendment to H.F. 181 passed on a mostly party line vote.
*Updated to reflect the money will go to DNR.
