2016 Parks & Trails Advocacy Day

Parks & Trails Council’s Advocacy Day is a day to gather with fellow advocates of Minnesota’s parks and trails. We start with a light breakfast and end with lunch.

With the current construction happening at the state capitol we’ve moved to a new venue, farther from the capitol and we’re meeting before the legislative session begins. We will equip you with information to meet with your legislator, whether you choose to do it on this day or during session.

The day will be filled with educational sessions on how to be an advocate at the state capitol for parks and trails. Learn about our top legislative issues for parks and trails, meet and hear from Friends Groups across the state, and hear and ask questions to key legislators.

Times subject to change

Parks & Trails Council’s Legislative Agenda Ÿ
Andrew Oftedal

Parks & Trails Council, with the help of local partners and agencies across the state, have identified over $100 million of capital investment needs to revitalize, update, and expand our parks and trails. During this session Research & Policy Specialist Andrew Oftedal will share how P&TC forms its legislative agenda and give an overview of the important projects that are ready for legislative action in 2016.

Understanding your role in the legislative process Ÿ
Ann Lenczewski

The political process – and how you fit into it – is often complex and daunting. During this session former House representative Ann Lenczewski will share her insights on the role local citizens play in the legislative process. Her discussion will highlight the 2016 bonding bill, building relationships with elected representatives, and coordinating site visits.

Telling your story: Working with the Media Ÿ
Carolyn Marinan

Effective advocacy requires communicating to multiple constituencies. One of the best ways to reach decision makers and educate the public is through the media. During this session Hennepin County Public Affairs Director and media veteran Carolyn Marinan will share tips on how to work with media, clarify your message and tell compelling stories.

Understanding Legacy Funding for Greater Minnesota Ÿ
Renee Mattson

Most projects can’t happen without funding. During this session Renee Mattson, executive director of the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks & Trails Commission, will walk through how the Commission makes project recommendations for Legacy Amendment funding. The session will focus on the protocol and evaluation criteria used for designating regionally significant parks and trails, as well as the funding protocol used to make recommendations to the state legislature.

Legislative panel Ÿ
Moderated by Ann Lenczewski

Key legislative leaders from the Minnesota House and Senate will join us for a bipartisan legislative panel discussion. The panel will feature key representatives and senators from the environmental policy and bonding committees. Panelists will share their personal stories about parks and trails, address the upcoming bonding session, and answer questions from the audience.