Prairie Lakes Audubon Chapter will hold its annual meeting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 13, at Calvary Lutheran Church, 605 Douglas St. Alexandria. Agenda items include the election of officers, a review of the past year’s projects and a look forward for potential activities for another year. All members are encouraged to attend this meeting to help make decisions for the coming year. A quorum is needed.

Following the meeting, a discussion will be held on the November ballot initiative related to the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) that needs to be renewed for another 25 years. Since 1991 these funds have provided over $1 billion for projects that protect and restore Minnesota’s water, land and habitats. Forty percent of state lottery money funds the ENRTF. With climate change and other environmental issues, these funds are needed to continue existing projects and new projects. Attendees will be encouraged to vote Yes to continue this constitutionally dedicated funding for another 25 years. If passed, the ballot measure will also create a community grants program that will be more accessible to smaller groups, such as Minnesota’s Audubon chapters, small NGO’s and ensure BIPOC-led organizations have greater access to funds to address local environmental issues.

A bird trivia game will be played for a little fun to close out this meeting. Prizes will be awarded to the winning team.

Come join us to support our chapter’s activities and learn more about the ENRTF ballot initiative. There is no cost to attend this program. All are welcome.

Prairie Lakes Audubon Chapter is the local Chapter of National Audubon Society for Anyone interested in birds and nature. We have regular informal meetings and birding field trips.