Sen. Olson to Host Environmental Meetings

On September 24, environmental policy leaders from around the state will gather at the Northern Lights Casino Hotel and Event Center in Walker to participate in two public meetings.

At 9 a.m. , Sen. Mary Olson, DFL-Bemidji, will convene the first hearing of the newly-formed Natural Resources Reform and Realignment Task Force, which will study and provide recommendations on a possible reorganization of the state's environment and natural resource agencies and programs.

In the afternoon, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. , Minnesota Waters and the Pine River Watershed Alliance are hosting the third annual Healthy Lakes Legislative Forum, which brings together lawmakers, policy experts and regional lake and watershed associations to discuss water resource protection issues.

"Our region's economy and quality of life are closely tied to the health of our natural resources," said Sen. Olson. "These meetings are focused on how we can improve the state's environment and get the best return on our investment while protecting our natural resources."

Both events are free and open to the public.