Minnesota committee debates crossbow license and outdoor school access for youth

The Minnesota Senate's Committee on Environment, Climate and Legacy convened on April 8, 2025, to discuss critical issues impacting the state's natural resources and outdoor activities. A significant highlight was the testimony from Nick Amano, Vice President of Minnesota Bow Hunters, advocating for a separate crossbow license. Amano emphasized the need for a compromise that would allow crossbow use during the firearm season while preserving the integrity of the archery season. He argued that this approach would provide over seven weeks of crossbow hunting opportunities without compromising the existing eight-week archery season.

Amano pointed out that hunting pressure significantly affects deer populations, particularly in southern Minnesota, where smaller public lands face increased challenges. He noted that despite the inclusion of crossbows in other states, there has been no clear evidence linking this to improved hunter recruitment or retention in Minnesota. His call for a separate crossbow license aims to protect the archery tradition while accommodating the growing interest in crossbow hunting.

In addition to the crossbow discussion, Ken Stollum from the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association expressed strong opposition to provisions in a bill that would grant the Pollution Control Agency authority over air dispersion modeling. Stollum argued that such requirements would impose unnecessary costs on small municipal utilities without providing accurate data.

Peter Smaro, Executive Director of the Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, passionately supported the "Outdoor School for All" initiative, which aims to expand outdoor educational opportunities for Minnesota youth. He highlighted the alarming statistic that only 29% of Minnesota youth currently have access to such programs, emphasizing the mental health benefits of outdoor activities and the need for a reconnection with nature.

The committee plans to continue discussions on these topics in a follow-up meeting, allowing for further testimony and amendments. The outcomes of these discussions could significantly shape Minnesota's approach to hunting regulations and outdoor education, reflecting the state's commitment to balancing resource management with community engagement and youth development.