MN DNR 4 The Outdoors Report and Survey

What do Minnesotans value in terms of outdoor recreation and conservation of the state's resources?  This question began a 4 year effort to have that question answered.  Through conversations and public engagement, a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources group tasked with answering this questions created a report called 4 The Outdoors Report.

In 2021, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources began a transformational

One of the major results of the report identifies the fiscal challenges to achieving the desired conservation and outdoor recreation goals.  It also identifies concrete steps we can be taken on the path towards financial stability and sustainability.

The plan breaks the steps for financial sustainability to four areas:

     1. Optimize the use of current funding
     2. Explore the use and application of fees
     3. Increase opportunities for direct support
     4. Secure stable and predictable base and operational funding

The goal of the MN DNR is to implement the plan of 4 steps in 4 years. In 2023, the focuse was on optimizing the use of current funding.  The current focus is on exploring the use and application of fees as well as securing a stable and predictable base and operational funding.

How to get involved

For 2025, the DNR is working with partners, stakeholders, and interested Minnesotans to further develop and implement solutions that support the vision for Minnesota’s conservation and outdoor recreation for future generations. Here’s how you can participate in this latest effort:

• Take the questionnaire (https://engage.dnr.state.mn.us/reinvesting-in-minnesotas-outdoors/surveys/4-the-outdoors-fees-questionnaire) to share your values and preferences for the use and application of fees. The input we receive from Minnesotans will help guide the development of fee structures that improve user experience without creating barriers to access.  
• Read the 4 The Outdoors Report.
• Talk to your friends, family, DNR, and elected officials about what you love in Minnesota’s natural places and why stable funding for these resources is important to you!
  
  

* Survey is open for a limited time