The Minnesota DNR is working with partners and other agencies to explore options to shore up base funding for conservation and outdoor recreation across the state. Some potential strategies include:
- Increase and guarantee a portion of the general fund for conservation and outdoor recreation
- Implement an excise tax on outdoor equipment dedicated to the DNR and the environment
- Link funding and policy decisions more closely to the economic benefits of conservation and outdoor recreation
Latest updates
- Outdoor Recreation Endorsement Model
In 2025, the DNR successfully presented the idea of an outdoor recreation endorsement model to the Minnesota legislature. The legislature directed the agency to draft statute establishing a license plate endorsement, allowing reduced state park vehicle entrance fees. Predicted higher sales will support state parks and other areas of DNR’s work.
The DNR’s report is due by January 15, 2026, and will outline the benefits of allowing people to voluntarily purchase a state parks’ pass when they register or review their vehicle license plate tabs. The endorsement would be reflected on the tab and allow entrance to any of Minnesota’s state parks or recreation areas for a year.
With more than five million registered vehicles in Minnesota, the opt-in endorsement would be an easy way to encourage more people to buy parks passes and at a much lower price than the current annual pass.
The concept for this model is used in several other states like Colorado, Idaho, Montana, and Michigan. The Recreation Passport that was implemented nearly 15 years ago in Michigan has been particularly successful. The $15 pass has a 36 percent participation rate and generates millions of dollars that support natural resources management and outdoor recreation.
Share your thoughts and ideas
Look for input opportunities by visiting our digital engagement portal Investing in Minnesota’s Outdoor Resources | Engage with DNR | Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. There you can learn more about the 4 The Outdoors initiative, ask questions, access any active questionnaires, and sign up for email updates.