Protection of coldwater fisheries is our core mission and this means protection of the water, watersheds and aquifers upon which trout, steelhead and salmon depend for survival. Public policy decisions, especially those ultimately made at the Capitol can have huge consequences for the health and long term viability of Minnesota’s coldwater fisheries. Ensuring clean, cold water is central to fisheries protection. Educating decision makers and advocating for sound management of natural systems is thus a vital part of what Trout Unlimited members do.
2024 ADVOCACY UPDATES
In 2024 we are closely following a number of priority issues. The recent legislative report, Preventing Fish Kills in Minnesota’s Driftless Region, as well as the workplan Addressing Nitrate in Southeast Minnesota both released by state agencies have presented an opportunity to work with partners to challenge and push for more ambitious action from all branches of government, including our state agencies.
In January 2024, MNTU staff identified the following issues based on MNTU member input, mission alignment, and opportunities to make significant impacts, as well as support partner-led campaigns.
PRIORITY ISSUES
- Preventing Fish Kills is at the center of our advocacy work and is addressed in part by the issues included below.
- Feedlot impacts and nitrate contamination must be curbed through effective manure management including timing of use, and storage practices.
- Agricultural runoff to streams and aquifers, including pesticides, especially neonicotinoids, and fungicides, have dire impacts on the entire food chain including insects and trout.
- Public Access to trout streams must be preserved and expanded.
Read more about what happened during the 2024 Legislative session in our final round up post.
It’s always a good time to connect with your elected officials to share why you support the protection of coldwater fisheries and prevent fish kills!
General Letter Writing Tips
- Find out who represents you at https://www.gis.lcc.mn.gov/iMaps/districts/
- If you need a head start, use this template to develop your letter
- If you receive a response, follow up with a thank you!
- Let us know how it goes at action@mntu.org
Write an opinion piece and submit it to your local paper.
Contact us if you’re interested. We can help you develop your story and get it submitted.
Contact: action@mntu.org
We also support important partner-led issues including preventing sulfide mining impacts and ensuring proper management of Aquatic Management Areas that protects and sustains aquatic resources.
Sign up now to receive our regular action alerts so you can get involved in protecting coldwater fisheries!
Read more about some of the resource threats that Minnesota Trout Unlimited has worked on over the years: