Establish crossroads for ducks

 

The purpose of this bill is to reduce the waterfowl mortality rate caused by road collisions, improve safety on roads

where waterfowl cross frequently, and promote the preservation of Minnesota wetland ecosystems

 

The state of Minnesota hosts millions of migratory waterfowl every year that are travelling between wetlands, nest

areas, and feeding grounds. There are many roadway segments in the way of these migratory paths causing both vehicle

damage and waterfowl fatalities. The establishment of these “Duck Crossroads” will support the longtime environmental

and tourism goals of Minnesota.

 

1. Waterfowl: any migratory birds dependent on wetland ecosystems (ducks, geese, swans, etc.)

2. Wetlands: A type of land that is either covered by water or has their soils waterlogged (marshes, bogs, swamps, etc.)

3. Ecosystems: A community of organisms that interact with a specific environment

4. Migratory: A specific type of organism that travels from one region to another region, often according to the seasons

5. Host: To provide home and shelter for a large number of animals

 

 

The main source of funding will come from an increase of 5% motorized vehicle sales taxes collected by the Department of

Motor Vehicles. As well as fines collected from offenses acted upon the crossroads, shown in Section V.

 

 

It is unlawful for anyone to remove, deface, and/or damage any official “Duck Crossroads” signs. Anyone who violates

this shall be guilty of misdemeanor and be fined up to $500 for each offense. Because of this, both law enforcement

officers and conservation officers are given authority to enforce this subdivision. All of the fines collected will

deposited with the natural resources fund and/or used for maintenance of “Duck Crossroads”.

 

This bill will take effect 9 months after it's passing.