Minnesota Zoo seeks $3.75 million in Legacy funding

Already one of the largest zoos in the country with 5,300 animals and nearly 1.3 million visitors each year, the Minnesota Zoo is working to expand the programs it offers and seeking $3.75 million from the state to help with these efforts.

The House Legacy Funding Finance Committee heard testimony from zoo officials Monday on a bill that would appropriate that money from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund to enhance several projects. They include conservation efforts that seek to restore bison to the state’s prairies and breed endangered butterflies. 

Rep. Anna Wills

Sponsored by Rep. Anna Wills (R-Rosemount), HF1662 would also allow the zoo to establish new seasonal exhibits, help the popular Zoomobile visit more parts of the state, and continue implementation of its Zoo Access Program, which provides free admission for economically disadvantaged families.

“It’s a very comprehensive request,” Wills said.

The committee laid over HF1662 for inclusion in a possible omnibus bill. The companion, SF1412, is sponsored by Sen. Greg Clausen (DFL-Apple Valley) and awaits action by the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Policy and Legacy Finance Committee.

The Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund is one of four accounts created after voters approved a constitutional amendment in 2008 to increase the state’s sales tax for 25 years to raise money for the state’s natural and cultural resources. Revenue dedicated to the fund must be used for arts, arts education and access, and to preserve the state’s history and cultural heritage.