The state of Minnesota reached a settlement with 3M in 2018 after alleging that the company’s releases of PFAS chemicals had damaged drinking water and natural resources in the Twin Cities east metropolitan area. After legal and other expenses were paid, about $720 million will be invested in drinking water and natural resource projects. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are co-trustees of these funds.
Priority 1, about $700 million, is dedicated to drinking water projects in the Twin Cities east metropolitan area.
Priority 2, up to $20 million, is for projects that restore and enhance aquatic resources, wildlife, habitat, fishing, and outdoor recreational opportunities in the project area. The project area includes portions of Washington, Ramsey and Dakota counties and downstream areas of the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers affected by PFAS released by 3M.
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Eligible projects
Eligible projects must help to achieve one or more of the Priority 2 settlement goals:
- Goal 1 – Restore, protect, and enhance aquatic and terrestrial resources, wildlife, and habitats.
- Goal 2 – Increase understanding of fish tissue contamination, improve communication about PFAS-based fish consumption advisories, and identify and enhance alternative, non-contaminated fishing areas.
- Goal 3 – Improve and enhance outdoor recreational opportunities.
50% or more of the proposed project activities must take place within the Priority 2 Project Area (see expandable map above) or download a Google Earth .kmz file here.
Application timeline
Projects are being reviewed through a two-phase process, as described in the Request for Proposals (RFP).
Below is the anticipated timeline.
- Request for Proposals opens
- Letters of Intent due
- Invitations sent to submit full applications
- Full applications due
- Notice of project selection
February 5, 2025
April 4, 2025
July 2025
October 8 2025
Spring 2026