O CANADA! | MINNESOTA OUR | NORTH DAKOTA HOME | AND NATIVE 11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LAND! TRUE PATRIOT LOVE IN ALL THY SONSLEGISLATORS COMMAND. OH, SAY, CAN YOU SEE, BY THEFORUM DAWN’S EARLY LIGHT, WHATJUNE SO 19-21, 2011 PROUDLY – BROOKINGS, SOUTH DAKOTA WE HAILED AT THE TWILIGHT’S LAST GLEAMING?

11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM 1 11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM JUNE 19 – 21, 2011 – BROOKINGS, SOUTH DAKOTA

On June 19 – 21, 2011, delegates Prior Forums have taken place have included water quantity to the 11th Annual Legislators’ twice in and St. Paul and quality, energy, human and Forum gathered at the Days as well as in Brookings and animal health, food safety, illicit Inn and Conference Center in Pierre, South Dakota; Fargo drugs, rural access to health Brookings, South Dakota. and Bismarck, North Dakota; care, broadband technology, Gimli, Manitoba; and Moorhead, migration and immigration, the Background Minnesota. Western Hemisphere Travel The International Legislators Initiative (WHTI), trade, and Forum is an annual opportunity The Legislators’ Forum grew tourism. for legislators from Manitoba, out of the International Flood Minnesota and North and South Mitigation Initiative (IFMI), The Legislators’ Forum provides Dakota to gather to develop which was established to address an informal venue for legislators relationships and discuss flooding issues in the Red River to share information, build issues of importance to their Basin following the 1997 flood. contacts and understandings on jurisdictions and the region. In 2002, all four jurisdictions a number of issues of mutual signed a memorandum of concern. This includes increasing Its 11th annual meeting was held understanding to establish the mutual understanding of in Brookings, South Dakota, annual Legislators’ Forum and flood mitigation issues faced June 19 – 21, 2011. This is a continue meeting annually to within each of the Red River remarkable milestone for the discuss topics of mutual interest. Basin jurisdictions and group of legislators from 4 Since that time, the Forum building relationships to foster jurisdictions, and several of the has considered a wide range cooperative agreements among delegates have attended all 10 of significant issues directly the jurisdictions on important of the previous annual meetings. impacting the region. The issues issues.

Sponsors Opening Reception • MDU Resources – Tuesday A variety of businesses and • TransCanada­ – Monday Morning Break organizations provided Breakfast • Northwestern Energy – financial and in-kind • MDU Resources – Monday Tuesday Lunch assistance and sponsorship to Morning Break support specific and general • Xcel Energy – Monday “General” Sponsors aspects of the Forum. The Luncheon • Basin Electric Steering Committee and the • Pfizer Government • Missouri River Energy Consensus Council would like Relations – Afternoon • Ottertail Power to acknowledge these groups Break • Great River Energy and individuals and express • SD Electric Utility • AT & T External Affairs their appreciation for their Company – Monday • Brookings Economic generosity: Formal Dinner Development • The Canadian Consulate • Daktronics “Event” Sponsors in Minneapolis­ – Monday • Iberdrola Renewables • Mid American Energy – Formal Dinner • NextEra Pre-meeting dinner • Barr Engineering ­– • Manitoba Conservation • Northwestern Energy – Tuesday Morning Breakfast • Brookings Convention and Visitors Bureau

2 11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM The Forums have demonstrated guides. The 60-mile roundtrip David L. Chicoine, that all of the jurisdictions share was highlighted by a panorama President, South Dakota many common concerns, and of over 300 wind turbines of State University solutions that originate in one varying ages and production Teresa McKnight, CEO of the jurisdictions to deal with capabilities, a stop for a tour and Executive Director, issues can often be shared for of a “working” 1.5 megawatt Innovation Campus, SDSU mutual benefit. The Legislators’ wind turbine, a running view [email protected] Forum has worked to build of the latest transmission lines, relationships, understanding, a drive-by of the Yankee and An opening reception, hosted share information, and develop WAPA substations, and a guided at the Innovation Campus, collaborative agreements on a tour of Basin Electric’s Deer South Dakota State University, wide variety of issues relevant to Creek station (300-megawatt provided the delegates, and affecting the participating combined cycle power plan presenters, spouses, staff and jurisdictions. currently under construction). dignitaries with an opportunity to renew old friendships and In 2011, the Forum focused on • Steering Committee begin new ones. Val Rausch two specific topics: “Innovation,” Meeting and Susan Wismer - South including research and The ILF Steering Committee, Dakota’s representatives on the development and jurisdictional made up of two legislators ILF Steering Committee and successes and expertise; from each of the four the official co-hosts of the 2011 and “energy production and jurisdictions, meets on Forum – greeted the participants transmission.” The delegates a regular basis and is and guests. , also received updates on regional responsible to plan and Lt. Governor of South Dakota, water issues. coordinate each annual and David L. Chicoine, Forum. Members of this President of South Dakota State Sunday, June 19, 2011 committee met briefly prior University, provided welcoming to the Forum to review the remarks. Pre-Meeting Activities agenda and finalize the • Tour – “Buffalo Ridge logistics and arrangements. Teresa McKnight, CEO Energy Highlights” and Executive Director of the Jim Nichols, Site Manager, • Opening Reception Innovation Campus provided Edison Capital – the delegates and guests with jnicholsitctel.com an overview of the Innovation Representative Roger Campus, its purpose, activities Solum (SD) - and future plans, followed by a [email protected] tour of the facility.

The location of the Forum Monday, June 20, 2011 provided an excellent opportunity for delegates to Opening visit and view a wide variety of Representative Susan energy-related sites and projects. Representative Val Rausch, Wismer (SD) To that end, a pre-meeting Speaker of the House (South [email protected] tour of these locations along Dakota) Representative and Speaker Buffalo Ridge was provided [email protected] of the House, Val Rausch for those delegates that were Representative Susan (SD) [email protected] interested and able to attend. Wismer (South Dakota) Jim Nichols and Roger Solum, swismerbrittonsd.com Representatives Susan Wismer two individuals with very unique Matt Michels, Lt. Governor, and Val Rausch opened the first perspectives and expertise South Dakota session with a warm welcome to (see bios) served as the tour the legislators, followed by self-

11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM 1 introductions and a review of the that are actively underway to meeting agenda and materials. apply/transfer these advances to The delegates then reviewed and industry and business. affirmed the consensus-based decision-making process and the Delegates were informed about ground rules. the activities and capabilities in each jurisdiction, and This year’s Forum focused on the potential opportunities two topics: to leverage the respective • “Innovation” – An overview of knowledge-based research and experience and strengths at the innovation environment industry successes. the regional level in order to and expertise in each collaborate on initiatives of jurisdiction, and discussion James Blatz, Associate mutual interest and benefit. about the role of legislators Dean, Research, Faculty of in encouraging the growth Engineering and Professor of Jurisdictional Highlights: of the knowledge-based Civil Engineering, – economy; and Manitoba • There is a heavy reliance • “Energy Production and [email protected] on federal funding of Transmission” – An overview Avery Jodoin, Business research at universities in of current activities and Development Manager, Canada, activities are being future plans for energy Manitoba Science, Innovation undertaken to promote generation and transmission. and Business Development, greater private sector The delegates also received Government of Manitoba investment in research. updates on regional water [email protected] • Manitoba has developed issues. Mark Luecke, Managing expertise in three major Director and CEO, South Dakota knowledge-based areas: Each session featured a Innovation Partners, LLC life sciences, information panel presentation provided [email protected] communication technologies, by individuals distinguished Kevin Kephart, Vice President and clean energy. The life by their knowledge and for Research, South Dakota sciences area includes human experience. All presentations State University health and bio-products. were followed by an opportunity [email protected] • To develop these knowledge- for the delegates to engage in Jay W. Schrankler, Executive based industries, the a question/answer/discussion Director, Office for Technology Government of Manitoba period with the respective Commercialization, University of has developed a suite of presenters. Minnesota [email protected] incentives including an Phil Boudjouk, Vice President, R&D Tax Credit, Small Resume and background Research, Creative Activities Business Venture Capital information for each delegate, and Technology Transfer, North Tax Credit and the presenter and dignitary, Commercialization Support and all of the presentation Dakota State University [email protected] for Business Program, materials shared at the Forum among others. In addition, can be found on the Consensus the Science and Technology Council’s website Overview (www.agree.org). Presenters from each International Collaboration jurisdiction provided a Fund (STIC Fund) Session I - Innovation: comprehensive outline of the encourages Manitoba firms current environment in their to collaborate with other Setting the Stage companies internationally. This session provided an respective state/province as it related to the research that is Manitoba also established overview of the innovation the Manitoba Innovation environment in each jurisdiction being done, innovative policies and programs, and the efforts Council, a group of local and the practical application of leaders from the private

2 11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM sector, academia and other the current budget situation, continued and expanded research-based organizations the expectation is that this government partnerships and who provide advice to the source of funding will slow support. government on strategies significantly and new sources • The “Jump Start Program” for maximizing local R&D of revenue will have to be – a program that provides and commercialization of developed. start-ups with community research. advisors - is another approach Minnesota – being used in Minnesota. South Dakota – • The primary role of • The Angel Tax Credit was • There is a gap in the process Minnesota’s technology initiated in Minnesota to for commercializing research transfer office is to identify provide tax credits to start- and development (R&D). research that has potential up businesses and their South Dakota Innovation commercial interest and find investors, in response to the Partners (SDIP) has been ways to bring it to market. loss of many start-ups to able to raise about $6 million • In the US, small innovation Wisconsin, where tax credit in private investments grants are available from the incentives already existed. to support their work in government, but a start-up North Dakota – providing capital and also needs to be able to raise • The High-Tech industry business development private money. is relatively new to North support for scientists who • It is difficult for university Dakota and the Great Plains are experts in their fields, faculty to start companies, region. However, universities, but additional assistance and it is difficult for first-time businesses and state and is needed to enhance their entrepreneurs in general. The national policymakers are business and operational technology transfer office at recognizing its economic skills. This includes the need the University of Minnesota and employment potentials for greater seed-stage venture tries to create mentoring (keeping young, well- capital from venture capital situations by matching start- educated people in the state’s funds and angel investors ups with people who have workforce) and providing who can fill the gap after proven experience (also called it with the attention and companies “graduate” from “business incubation”). The resources it deserves. public funding programs University of Minnesota has • Patent issues are a and bring their products to also had great success with complex, but critical part market. their “CEO-In-Residence of research, development • Business development Program.” and transfer. The barriers assistance helps inventors to • Depending on the policies and and challenges must be analyze and create market regulations of universities, identified, acknowledged and interest, and also provides faculty may be under no efforts focused on positively them with a team that can obligation to release their impacting these issues. provide technical assistance inventions to the universities. o Ideas and inventions can be to help build and grow their As a result, it is important a series of patents, or a part company. for universities to hire faculty of a package that can be sold • There has been an increasing and develop good, working in a particular field/area. It growth in research at SDSU relationships with them to is important to determine as demonstrated by the encourage collaboration and who pays for patenting, amount of money in grants partnerships. which is very expensive. Most and contracts that have • Minnesota continues to work universities don’t have patent been secured in the last on addressing the creation money in their budgets, but few years. But the greatest of the proper environment to it is important because few source of support for research foster start-ups. Universities companies are interested is the federal government, cannot create this ecosystem in buying unprotected through earmarks and of needed support and information or inventions. competitive grants. Given funding alone – they need Federal grant research

11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM 3 funding cannot be utilized to and nitrogen/ammonia fuels. Avery Jodoin, Business file for patents. • The value of relationships Development Manager, between industry Manitoba Science, Innovation Post-presentation Questions and universities was and Business Development, and Discussion demonstrated in 1996 Government of Manitoba • South Dakota has developed through a collaborative effort [email protected] expertise in crop development between Monsanto and South Michael Adelaine, Vice and the extended use of Dakota and North Dakota President, Information agricultural products, and State Universities on Round- Technology, SDSU clean energy, including Up Ready wheat. Although [email protected] biomass and solar. this effort was not completely Ryan Aasheim, Associate, Red • Concerns relating to the successful, the participants River Valley Research Corridor roadblocks that the energy learned a great deal and it [email protected] producing jurisdictions are opened the door for future Jay W. Schrankler, Executive facing with transmission opportunities with other Director, Office for Technology were discussed and it was companies. Commercialization, University of noted that: • There are no standard Minnesota [email protected] o Transmission is critical. models, laws or regulations The potential for energy regarding patent ownership Overview production in the region for universities. In North Presenters from each increases the need for Dakota, patent ownership jurisdiction identified the key improved transmission, is split – 30% to inventors, policy issues affecting research and alternative forms of 40% to where the inventors and knowledge-based industry energy generation require reside (though this number growth in their jurisdictions. the development and is negotiable), and 30% to Presenters discussed issues integration of “smart” research foundations for more including: grids. patenting. In Minnesota, the • Examples of unique policies o Research and development university owns the patent, and/or programs that have of high volume energy while in Iowa the universities been successful; storage is currently are prohibited from any • Key policy, program, and/or receiving the attention of ownership. funding issues or gaps that many groups. each jurisdiction is facing; o Off-grid work is an • How local research approach that is receiving capabilities and knowledge- more attention. For based industries are being example, when Hoover promoted; and Dam was originally • Ways to foster collaborative constructed it was far relationships at a regional away from any place that level. needed or could utilize the levels of power it would Jurisdictional Highlights: generate, but Las Vegas Presenters provided the grew up in the vicinity following suggestions on and is utilizing much of Session II - Innovation: what their local and regional the power that the dam Policy Issues and legislators could do to address generates. This is an Concerns policy and program issues, and example of local, off-grid This session consisted of a suggested initiatives that could work that leads to larger review and discussion of how assist research and knowledge- supply opportunities. legislators can help to encourage based industries. • The University of Minnesota growth in the knowledge- Manitoba: Morris is doing some exciting based economy, within their • Act as champions to generate energy work with wind, solar, jurisdictions and regionally. and support private sector

4 11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM investment Ensure that North Dakota: formalize them. Regular policies and programs are • Support higher education contacts between the various flexible – not a lot of projects institutions and their role in entities and legislators fit into a “one-size fits-all” research and development. including discussions on category. Provide adequate • Support tax credit incentives ways that policymakers can funding and support and assisting in facilitating help to improve research to build an innovation private investment in and job creation would help environment that supports providing stable, long term them to draft innovation- research, development, and funding. friendly regulations and commercialization of new • Recognize the need for a policies. Efforts to develop technologies. For example, in strategy that addresses partnerships between states Manitoba, commercialization patenting issues and costs. should be pursued to develop is supported through the • Study and initiate changes a regional approach, rather Commercialization Support in policies and regulations than depending solely on a for Business Program that relating to the ownership, state-by-state approach. assists start-ups in bringing compensation and costs. • It was noted that attraction their products to market. Minnesota: and incentives rather than • Policy makers can help • Assist universities in creating applying stronger, more skilled professionals stay an ecosystem of support for restrictive laws enhance in Manitoba by providing innovation. Provide research involvement and investment support for efforts to train, funding for universities at the in energy use and production recruit and retain highly state level. efforts. Emphasis on such skilled professionals in the • Invest in clean technology things as conservation, Province. Manitoba has development. clean technology and green created programs and science • Implement incentives such chemistry attract attention activities for K-12 students, as the Angel Tax Credit or a and investments. a tuition rebate for students research and development tax • Barriers that universities who stay in Manitoba, and credit. experience with regard initiatives that attract • Consider utilizing a portion of to partnerships and current leaders through the the tobacco settlement funds collaborations include: development of advanced (as is being done in Ohio) to o Diverse policies, laws and centers of excellence. support research, innovation regulations; South Dakota: and economic development. o Parochial attitudes or • Connectivity is vital in the • Develop and implement environments; research environment. It a science and technology o Lack of trust and security; allows researchers easy authority to coordinate and access to information efforts to help companies o Lack of coordinated (their own and others) and and entrepreneurs get the initiatives or proposals. helps to develop contacts, assistance and information • The development and relationships and capacity. they need to be successful. adoption of standardized, Addressing this issue inter-institutional agreement would not be prohibitively Post-presentation Questions (template) would help to expensive, but the lack of and Discussion lower the barriers and connectivity could be very • Future opportunities are reduce the difficulties that costly in future initiatives, dependent upon the ability universities experience when programs and developments. to create partnerships trying to collaborate. Legislators could support between states, programs, • Inclusion of funding this project and support an individuals and legislators. requirements that specifically integrated fiber connection A more concentrated effort require collaborative from Manitoba to Kansas could direct the focus research was suggested City, through South Dakota. on how to create those as a means to encourage partnerships and how to collaborative efforts along

10TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM 5 with the provision of formal www.agree.org). and expansion of energy and informal opportunities production; for the individuals from Session III - Energy • The role of Manitoba’s various locations, entities and Production hydroelectricity resources in programs to meet, share ideas The panelists provided an the regional grid; and develop relationships. overview of the current, • Wind turbine and landowner proposed and potential energy issues; Luncheon initiatives in each jurisdiction. • The prospects for nuclear energy; • Identification of key policy issues affecting energy in each of the jurisdictions and the region; and • Suggested ways that legislators can support the initiatives and positively impact the energy future.

Highlights: Tim Reed, Mayor, Brookings, Mike Eggl, Senior Vice • The coal industry is SD President, External Relations currently facing a number Barry Vickrey, Dean and and Communications, Basin of challenges, especially as Professor, School of Law, Electric Power Cooperative they relate to environmental University of South Dakota [email protected] and regulatory issues. [email protected] Doug Berven, Senior Director, Historically, the country Corporate Affairs, POET became reliant on coal as Welcome [email protected] a result of its availability Mayor Tim Reed welcomed Laura McCarten, Regional and abundant supplies the delegates and guests to Vice President, NSP-MN, Xcel (coal’s price has been much Brookings. Brookings has been Energy more stable than most active in creating and supporting [email protected] other energy sources) and an environment and activities Joanne Flynn, CGA/Division policy makers took steps to that promote growth and Manager, Power Planning/ encourage and promote the prosperity. The community has Power Supply, Manitoba Hydro use of coal, to the point of developed partnerships with [email protected] actually implementing laws business, industry, government, and regulations limiting the higher education and the Overview use of natural gas during the public. Mayor Reed wished This session featured energy 1970’s and these restrictions the delegates success in their executives and experts who were not repealed until the efforts on behalf of the citizens of shared their perspectives on 1980’s. During this time, the Brookings and the people of the the current status and future energy generation facilities region. of energy production. This were built to utilize the included: country’s supplies of coal almost exclusively (the only Presentation • The current regional energy Barry Vickrey, Dean and profiles; plant that can turn coal into synthetic natural gas is in professor, School of Law, • The options for the University of South Dakota, integration of advanced Beulah, ND). provided remarks on the subject and alternative energy • Recently, post the earthquake of “Civility” – (a full transcript of production; and tsunami in Japan, concerns regarding nuclear the presentation is available on • The plans underway or the Consensus Council website – proposed for development power, and its increased availability and affordability,

6 11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM natural gas has become a source of energy with regard minimized in new projects leading energy source for the to state Renewable Portfolio and they are designed to future. Standards. In 2010, the have minimal impact on • Current environmental Legislators’ Forum adopted a traditional hunting and policy and regulations in the recommendation recognizing fishing areas. US have become significant Manitoba’s hydroelectricity as o Electricity imported barriers to the development a renewable energy source. from Manitoba currently of all types of new generation • Manitoba’s hydro system can complements the energy plans. 45% of the proposed act as a sort of storage system mix in the region, and generation projects in the for electricity, as it has the Manitoba has the capacity past several years that have ability to create and release to increase the amount of been stalled due to regulatory power into the grid during hydro that it supplies to problems were wind projects. times of peak demand. the Midwest. • Ethanol production • Reclamation of land that has represents a significant Post-presentation Questions been used for mining and alternative to petroleum. and Discussion drilling continues to be a Ethanol currently supplies • Over the years, hydroelectric concern. All LF jurisdictions 10% of the U.S. fuel supply generation has continued to have some laws and and helps to stabilize the evolve. regulations regulating mining prices of gas. Although not o Today’s hydropower and land reclamation and every state grows corn, every is developed with producers are motivated to state produces some form careful attention to obey them. of biomass. Current U.S. environmental, social and o North Dakota’s policy limits ethanol to no economic impacts. reclamation laws were more than a 10% mix for o Large hydroelectric based on those of other automobiles, which restricts generation is not states. the further development uniformly recognized o Although South Dakota of ethanol and its role as renewable energy does not have significant in significantly reducing in the United States, coal or oil resources, it dependence on oil. however, Wisconsin has reclamation laws for • Nuclear energy currently has passed legislation granite quarries and open makes up 20% of the recognizing Manitoba’s pit mining. U.S.’s energy production. hydroelectricity as a • The ethanol industry has Although there continue to renewable energy source. been dealing with a number be environmental and safety o New Manitoba Hydro of challenges including the issues, nuclear energy offers a projects can only food vs. fuel debate, the number of unique advantages proceed with extensive possibility that the current and should be considered consultations and subsidies will be dropped or in the national energy mix. collaboration with native phased out, and the need to Nuclear plants in the region First Nations and other address a substantial amount are located near Red Wing stakeholder help to ensure of misinformation regarding and Monticello, Minnesota. that the effects of projects ethanol, its production and • 98 - 99% of the energy on local populations are costs. Manitoba Hydro produces minimized. First Nations o Providing accurate is clean, near zero-emission people are key, strategic information has been hydroelectricity. Large partners in hydro a primary strategy in hydroelectric generation development and benefit addressing what could is gaining acceptance and directly from equity be characterized as a recognition as clean and ownership, skills training misinformation campaign environmentally friendly. It for workers and long-term against the industry. has been accepted/categorized income from operations. o If ethanol production in some states as a renewable Flooding is greatly ceased, there would be a

11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM 7 41-92% rise in gas prices Overview initiative between 11 energy- because of the refining The presenters covered a variety transmission owning facilities capacity that would have of issues and items relating that serve Minnesota, North to be added to compensate to energy infrastructure and and South Dakota and for the lack of ethanol. electric transmission: Wisconsin. The initiative has o If the current subsidies • Current and developing been divided into two phases are dropped, the overall agreements, projects and and project design calls for production of ethanol will plans; double-circuit capacity and be dramatically affected. • Cost allocation and recovery other components that will o Ethanol is currently (via MISO and FERC); take advantage of future capped at 10% of a • Cap X 2020; growth in demand and gasoline blend. The • Federal Energy Regulatory supply. The second phase industry is capable of Commission (FERC) – of the project is in the producing much more, but Regulations, planning and permitting process. without the blended tax cooperation; • All transmission initiatives credit and import tariffs, • Major projects in planning and projects need to the industry will not grow. and development; incorporate the ability o Ethanol is currently being • Reliability standards; of the structure to be shipped to the Middle • MB-U.S. cooperation; and inter-connected or inter- East, where it is mixed • Policy issues affecting connectable to the Midwest with oil and sold back to transmission infrastructure and national energy grids. the U.S. (positively or negatively) in • As the processes and each of the jurisdictions and regulations are reviewed and Session IV - Energy: the region, and suggestions potentially revised, there Infrastructure and concerning ways that must be a balance between Transmission legislators can advance and the protection of consumers support transmission and and the needs/realities of the infrastructure issues. utilities.

Highlights: Post-presentation Questions • In the past, infrastructure and Discussion and transmission projects • Typical line loss is estimated have been difficult and time at 5 to 6% over several consuming due to many hundred miles. The section factors including costs, of line from ND to MN is 450 competition, regulation and miles. Panelists provided an oversight. • The proportion of the load overview of recent developments • The region has great determines how much each on electricity transmission potential for energy utility would pay and does and infrastructure in the region. production, but without an not change over time. Those adequate and cost-effective variables are fixed at the Will Kaul, Vice President, means of transmitting the beginning. Transmission, Great River energy from the producer to • Transmission represents a Energy [email protected] the consumer, production and relatively minor overall cost Ron Mazur, Manager, System development will be limited. to the consumer – about 7 to Planning/Transmission Planning • There have been significant, 10% of the total cost of the and Design, Manitoba Hydro positive developments over energy used. [email protected] the past several years with • Transmission lines can flow Gary Hanson, Chairman, the cooperation of business, power both ways so there South Dakota Public Utilities industry, government, is no need to overbuild. Commission landowners and the public. Depending on demand and [email protected] • Cap X 2020 is a joint the supply source, the flow

8 11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM can be designated to go in one Michelle Jones and Jennifer Opportunities and Challenges direction or the other. Kay presented remarks focusing Session V: Informational • “Storage” of electricity is a on the relationship between Updates – Water Issues paper concept and occurs the United States and Canada. within the grid rather than at Senator Gary Hanson (SD) any type of physical plant or and Representative Carol Pitts location. (SD) were recognized as retiring members of the Forum’s Steering Reception and Dinner Committee and presented with tokens of appreciation for their commitment and hard work on behalf of the Legislators’ Forum. The evening concluded with a bus tour of the SDSU campus and an opportunity for the guests to take a relaxing stroll and Developments through McCrory Gardens. Legislators were provided with an overview of the current situation relating to Tuesday, June 21, 2011 water and flooding issues and Representative Val Rausch, developments that have occurred Speaker of the House, South Topical Breakfast Table since the 2010 Forum. Dakota [email protected] Senator (SD) Lance Yohe, Executive Director, 605-224-4200 Red River Basin Commission Kevin Kephart, Vice President lance@redriverbasincommission. for Research, SDSU org [email protected] Dwight Williamson, Assistant Michelle Jones, American Deputy Minister, Ecological Consul/Principal Officer, U.S. Services Division, Manitoba Consulate, Winnipeg, MB c/o Water Stewardship, Government [email protected] of Manitoba Jennifer Kay, Consul and [email protected] Head, Political-Economic Relations and Public Affairs, Discussions Overview Consulate General of Canada, During breakfast the delegates Water issues and flooding have Minneapolis, MN c/o and presenters chose one been of major concern in the [email protected] of the topics addressed in region for some time, but the the general sessions. Their region has been extremely hard Delegates, presenters, sponsors, thoughts, concerns, observations hit this year. Flooding has and and guests attended a reception and suggestions relating is affecting most of the region. and dinner at the Robertson to the specific topics were The presenters provided the Reception Hall, Performing Arts identified and compiled for delegates with an extensive Center at South Dakota State use in developing the Forum’s update on water and flooding University. “Recommendations and issues in the region (Red Conclusions” later in the day. River Valley, Lake Winnipeg, Representative Val Rausch Devils Lake, etc.) and shared and Senator Larry Tidemann Discussion Topics: information about the plans hosted the event and Kevin • Innovation: Research, being developed for flood control Kephart welcomed the guests Development and Application and relief. on behalf of the University. • Renewable Energy

11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM 9 Post-presentation Questions impacts the health of Lake available regarding the and Discussion Winnipeg. Nutrient run-off benefits of large-scale • Nutrient loading is a major is a difficult and complex composting. Some work concern for the health of issue to deal because many is being done through the Lake Winnipeg in Manitoba. different activities contribute planting of cattails. Cattails Of all nutrients reaching phosphorus and nitrogen to have the ability to remove the lake from 1994 to 2007, downstream water systems. phosphorous and other 30% originated in the United However, even small, contaminants naturally. States, mostly through the individual actions make a • Although the region is Red River. Going back to difference for decreasing currently experiencing a wet the 1970s through 2001, sulfate levels. cycle, history proves that the the trend analysis shows • Over 1 million lakes in the region is prone to reoccurring a steady, year-after-year, basin area have been drained periods of drought, too. A increase of phosphorus to create a system that moves focus on flooding without coming into Manitoba water to the river more acknowledging and planning through the Red River. A quickly. The retention models for the “dry side” of the cycle recent report from the federal being proposed and developed is not a wise approach. Water government in Canada has will restrict the water until retention may help to solve indicated that the phosphorus there is capacity in the river the flood problems and be levels have since plateaued. to release it. This is intended a component of supporting • There have been a number to slow erosion and act as future water supply needs. of positive measures and a natural nutrient filter, • Controlling the flow of activities concerning nutrient resulting in a positive impact water from various dams flows. The International Joint on water quality. A good and retention projects is Commission (IJC) and the retention model utilizes the critical. While the U.S. Army Red River Basin Commission creation of cells on land that Corps of Engineers controls have recommended that can be alternately filled and releases from the lakes all jurisdictions reduce drained – even farmed. The and dams, a broader, more their nutrients by 10%. new Farm Bill is expected to comprehensive plan with The IJC forwarded this provide money for some of commensurate authority recommendation to the these activities through the needs to be developed to governors and premiers and wetlands reserve. coordinate the needs and work has been underway • Due to the current wet cycle, responses. Jurisdictional since then. More recently, some wetlands are beginning dialogues about drought are ambassadors and the federal to connect to each other. also critical to the planning government representatives This raises questions about and management processes. in North Dakota and whether or how these areas The Red River Basin Manitoba have agreed to can be drawn down in the Commission will be initiating develop a basin-wide nutrient fall. talks with Governors to begin plan. Expanded talks are • Interest in tiling is increasing addressing the differences underway with officials from in the Red River Valley. in water laws, plans, and Minnesota. If tiling is designed and coordination of efforts. • Salinity has been monitored managed properly, it can • Focusing on water issues in the Red River and Lake have some positive effects from a regional or basin-wide Winnipeg since the 1960s, upon nutrient content and perspective is important. and the trend is an increase salt level, but it can also Expanding awareness of in the total dissolved solids contribute to some water how what is done upstream flowing into the lake. quality concerns. affects those downstream and Increased sulphates and • The addition of organic a healthy respect for water nutrients in the Red River materials to soil makes it as a resource is critical to the negatively impacts drinking more absorbent; however, future of each jurisdiction in water for Manitobans and there is very little research the region.

10 11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM Legislators’ Forum be pursued (the Midwestern and recommends and supports Recommendations and Higher Education Compact the development of opportunities Conclusions meetings and/or Centralia). to bring stakeholders • The summit idea should (universities, research parks, be expanded to include technology transfer offices, Innovation: Research, researchers and entrepreneurs chambers of commerce, private Development and through chambers of enterprise) together in a spirit of Application commerce, manufacturing sharing and cooperation. These associations and private activities should include an Discussion Points: enterprise. annual summit of the research • Implementing tax credits • A standardized connectivity and development and technology and other incentives in network (the North-South transfer offices of universities, competition with the other information pipeline - research parks, and the private jurisdictions may not Manitoba to Kansas) should sector. The summit’s goal should always be advisable. Ways to be promoted and supported. be: cooperate and coordinate this - To develop trust and effort should be developed. Innovation: Research, professional, collaborative • A collaborative summit Development and relationships; should be convened involving Application - To exchange ideas and all the technology transfer information on projects; Recommendations: and research park staff - To Identify and encourage Incentives – The Legislators from the region. The goal best practices and expertise Forum recognizes and supports should not only be to within each jurisdiction; the value of tax credits and improve relationships and - To identify barriers and other incentives in stimulating communication, but it could develop approaches to an active, positive environment focus on establishing expertise address them; for research, development, and and avoiding duplication of - To develop a standardized transfer of technologies, and efforts. inter-institutional or recommends their expanded • A beginning point for inter-jurisdictional used in a manner that utilizes a summit would be a letter or memorandum a collaborative approach that comprehensive study of what of understanding that will foster cooperation, promote is already being done – an could be used to formalize economic development and index or summary of what partnerships employment growth. institutions and organizations between institutions, currently exist, their purpose organizations, and Life Science Alley – The (as it relates to research, businesses; and Legislators Forum recognize development and transfer), - To share developments, the Life Science Alley as and an indication of the progress and concerns model of collaboration and projects on which they are with Legislators from the cooperation and a vehicle that working. participating focuses on innovation and the • Another initial step in the states and provinces. connection between research collaboration effort would centers and business/industry, be the development of a The initial summit should be and recommends that all of letter or memorandum of preceded by a preliminary scan/ the represented jurisdictions understanding that could inventory of the current efforts become members and active be used as a template for and activities underway in each participants. researchers working in jurisdiction relating to research, collaborative efforts. development and technology Regional Innovation • Opportunities to join transfer. Collaboration and with existing groups and Coordination – The Legislators organizations to sponsor joint Connectivity – The Legislators Forum recognizes the need for or piggyback summits should Forum recognizes the need for

11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM 11 and benefits of a standardized reliability or cost effectiveness. the wisdom of a comprehensive, connectivity network, a North There are many examples of collaborative, coordinated, to South information pipeline, how these things can work and need-based energy policy, and recommends that the together. and recommends the adoption participating jurisdictions • The lack of commonality/ of a broad energy portfolio promote and support the uniformity of laws and that incorporates existing development, implementation regulations between different and potential energy sources and maintenance of the uniform, levels of government and and emphasizes ongoing standardized connection jurisdictions represent one of efforts to identify and support technologies that will make the most difficult challenges. the development and use of collaboration possible. • Any effective energy strategy renewable, clean sources of starts with conservation. energy. Additionally the Forum Energy: Opportunities Small changes can make recommends an active process and Challenges a collective big difference. for the identification and support Discussion Points: This could include boarder for the development and use • Energy needs and sources collaboration in reviewing of renewable, clean sources should be approached building codes to determine of energy by all participating broadly. All sources of energy if innovations in various jurisdictions, and reiterates its should be considered and jurisdictions can be adopted 2010 recognition of Manitoba included in the creation of a elsewhere – a best practices Hydro as a clean, renewable “portfolio” of solutions and approach. source of energy. options. Government policies • The efficiency and and regulations should conservation saves money and Permits and Regulations provide an opportunity for provides immediate results. – The Legislators Forum the development of new clean Recently, South Dakota recognizes the need for and energy sources. Legislatures initiated an efficiency check of benefits of an ongoing, open can assist in that effort. all state buildings. regulatory and permitting • Energy and the resources of • Consumer efficiency and review process, and recommends the Midwest are compelling conservation may be a that efforts be ongoing to issues, and the region is at difficult task and may require support the development and the epicenter of ideas and a variety of regulations and use of a process that provides solutions. A leadership role expanded oversight. for the protection of the should be embraced and a consumer and the environment region-wide energy strategy Energy: Opportunities while fostering and promoting should be developed. and Challenges uniformity, efficiency, cost • Wisconsin has recognized Recommendations: effectiveness, practicality, hydro as clean and renewable Promotion of Conservation timeliness and reliability. This energy, including hydro – The Legislators Forum process should incorporate the greater than 60 MW from recognizes conservation as full-range of perspectives and Manitoba, for the purposes of the most immediate and stakeholders, including all levels its state Renewables Portfolio cost effective way to improve of government, consumers and Standard, and more efforts efficiency and reduce energy landowners. should be made to have other demands, and recommends that jurisdictions do the same. all participating jurisdictions Leadership –The Legislators • Climate change should be adopt methods and programs Forum recognizes the strategic recognized as a real threat to promote and support importance and economic and policies and strategies conservation activities. potential of energy in the should be developed and Midwest, and recommends implemented to address it. Broad, Progressive Need- that jurisdictions in the region • Clean energy cannot be based Energy Policy – The embrace a leadership role developed at the expense of Legislators Forum recognizes and work together to develop a proactive, regional energy

12 11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM strategy that recognizes must involve all partners and profile, but doesn’t take out technological developments and stakeholders, and recommends a the moisture needed to grow incentivizes opportunities for process that focuses on building the crop. There are benefits for energy production, delivery and and maintaining a coordinated, flood control, crop production use. flexible, reliable, cost-effective, and the economy. NDSU is integrated smart grid. It must currently doing a study on tile Energy: Transmission be responsive to the current drainage. and Infrastructure and anticipated needs of • Most farmers In the Red River consumers and be fiscally and Valley are very conscientious Discussion Points: environmentally responsible. about utilizing good farming • Information has been practices. Cover crops, filter presented on reliability, cost, Efficiency and Technology strips and better wetland maintenance, and economy of – The Legislators Forum management all have a place scale. What’s the total impact recognizes the value of new in the overall environment and how can it be addressed and developing technologies, – there’s educational and from either the production or and recommends that they cooperative work to be done consumption ends? be included as an integral here. • Transmission should be a component of all planning • Devil’s Lake is quickly topic of the 2012 Forum. initiatives and be adapted and becoming a basin-wide • All new construction should adopted to improve energy problem. It is currently be green – “smart buildings.” efficiency. about 1 million-acre feet of • Planning and implementation water from overflow and policies should be based Regulation – The Legislators if that happens, it means on a “do the least harm” Forum recognizes the need for a great deal of trouble for philosophy and respect for a balanced, open, inclusive, the people downstream, existing rights of way. responsive and timely regulation (Lake Winnipeg is actually • Planning should be regional and permitting process, and downstream). A long-term – multiple partners will affect recommends that the process management plan must be multiple jurisdictions – this and related regulations be developed to take the water should be considered with reviewed and revised (as out of the lake so that storage regard to harmonizing the necessary) on an ongoing basis. capacity is maintained regulation process, also. The process should support a and the downstream issues • Simple approaches like philosophy of “the least harm” are mitigated. It is, also, a doubling the amount of and recognize existing “rights of basin-wide responsibility transmission lines on a pole way.” that requires a basin-wide should be considered. approach. The area is two • There have been numerous major rain events from a positive developments over Water Issues catastrophic overflow. the past few years regarding • There must be a basin- • The Forum should support transmission - building, wide responsibility for the a basin-wide approach to funding, collaboration and stewardship of Lake Winnipeg water issues – flooding, water partnerships, etc. The queue and a basin-wide approach. quality and water supply. We to build projects is shorter • The use of organic matter to have a responsibility to Lake than it used to be. increase the holding capacity of soils should be explored. Winnipeg, and to help resolve the Devils Lake problem. Energy: Transmission Also, the higher the organic matter in the soil, the less • The environment historically and Infrastructure nitrogen and phosphorus is functions in a cycle – dry Recommendations: needed to grow the crop. and wet. Flooding cannot Accomplishments and Future • Further discussion on tile be addressed without equal Planning – The Legislators drainage should be pursued. attention to drought. Forum recognizes that energy The tiling process takes the • Who has what responsibility transmission planning efforts excess water out of the soil and authority regarding the

11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM 13 basin? There are too many wide management that deals Closing Comments players at all levels and it is with quality, quantity and The 12th Annual International very confusing - county water demand is needed. It should Legislators’ Forum boards? The RRBC? State or include the various players, Delegates agreed that energy national regulators? There with the RRBC, the federal would be an important topic for is not as much basin-wide governments, and the local discussion at the 2012 Forum. management as needed. The stakeholders. Additionally, they identified RRBC has been around in • Incorporation of the retention a list of potential topics, some form since 1979, and option should be stressed, observations and suggestions serves as the current forum also. for next year’s Forum. The 2012 for us to address those issues, • Basin-wide responsibility Legislators’ Forum will be held but it has zero authority. and authority should be a in Grand Forks, ND on June 20- • It may be possible for the principle for all water issues 22. RRBC to get authority throughout the region. through the various The Forum was facilitated by jurisdictions, but there would Water Issues the Consensus Council, Inc. have to be an agreement into Recommendations: 1003 East Interstate Avenue - which all of the parties would Basin-wide Approach – The Suite 7 enter into. Legislators Forum recognizes, Bismarck ND 58503-0500 (701) • There is already a tri-state endorses and recommends the 224-0588 water commission under U.S. adoption and implementation www.agree.org federal law, but that has been of the principle of basin-wide inactive since the 1940s. responsibilities and authority • How possible would it be regarding water issues. Such for the United States and a basin-wide approach would Canada (federal governments) involve all stakeholders and to work together? Both federal strive for consensus solutions. partners and government at It should emphasize simple, the local level need to be “on practical and fiscally responsible board.” Perhaps the Forum solutions that address water can help in engaging those quality and quantity issues. groups and helping them begin talking to each other. The Legislators Forum • Inviting the federal recognizes that no existing entity government to the water is tasked with the responsibility issues table can complicate or authority for management and prolong things. A better of the Red River basin, and idea may be engaging people recommends that the Red River from the bottom up. Basin Commission be charged • There’s a similarity with the responsibility and between this issue and the authority to provide basin-wide transmission issue. People are planning and implementation. working on transmission at a This recommendation carries global level, why not look at with it the expectation that water issues the same way? the Commission engage local • The federal government residents, landowners and should be engaged regarding all levels of government and the ways that they are or are regulating authorities in the not helping and asked for planning and management more flexibility. processes. • A system or model of basin-

14 10TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM 2011 LEGISLATORS’ FORUM STEERING COMMITTEE AND DELEGATES

North Dakota South Dakota Minnesota Representatives Representatives Representatives Representative Tracy Boe (D) Representative Val Rausch (R) Representative Morrie Lanning (R) 5125 89th Street PO Box 176 593 State Office Building Mylo, ND 58353-9438 Big Stone City, SD 57216-0176 St Paul MN 55155 701-656-3427 605-880-5015 651-296-5515 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Representative David Monson (R) Representative Scott Munsterman Representative Chris Swedzinski P.O. Box 8 (R) (R) Osnabrock, ND 58269-0008 1133 West 8th St, South 527 State Office Building 701-496-3394 Brookings, SD 57006 St. Paul MN 55155 [email protected] 605-697-5636 651-296-5374 [email protected] [email protected] Representative Dennis Johnson (R) 7871 45th Street NE Representative Paul Dennert (D) Representative Lyle Koenen (D) Devils Lake, ND 58301 11853 391st Ave. 439 State Office Building 701-662-4998 Columbia, SD 57433 St. Paul, Minnesota 55155 [email protected] 605-396-2482 651 296-4346 [email protected] [email protected] Representative Curt Hofstad (R) 1614 Third Street SE Representative Susan Wismer (D) Representative Dan Fabian (R) Devils Lake, ND 58301 PO Box 147 431 State Office Building 701-662-1151 Britton, SD 57430 St. Paul, MN 55155 [email protected] 605-448-5189 651-296-9635 [email protected] [email protected] North Dakota Senators Senator Tom Fischer (R) South Dakota Senators Manitoba Legislators 1524 Sundance Square Senator Jim Hundstad (D) Minister Peter Bjornson (NDP) Fargo ND 58103 13755 395th Ave MLA Gimli 701-293-1700 Bath, SD 57427 Room 333 Legislative Building [email protected] 605-225-3093 450 Broadway [email protected] Winnipeg, MB R3C 0V8 Senator Larry Luick (R) 204-945-0067 17945 101st Street SE Senator Tom Hansen (R) [email protected] Fairmount, ND 58030-9522 648 13th St. SW 701-474-5959 Huron,SD 57350 MLA Rob Altemeyer (NDP) [email protected] 605-353-9546 MLA Wolseley [email protected] Room 234 Legislative Building Senator Carolyn Nelson (D) 450 Broadway 1 Second Street South #5-402 Senator Larry Tidemann (R) Winnipeg, MB R3C 0V8 Fargo, ND 58103 251 Indian Hills Rd 204-945-5985 701-235-5161 Brookings, SD 57006-3650 [email protected] [email protected] 605-692-1267 [email protected] Manitoba Legislators Senator Joan Heckaman (D) MLA Marilyn Brick (NDP) 322 Second Avenue North Senator (R) MLA Winnipeg New Rockford, ND 58356 316 S Potter Street Room 234 Legislative Building 701-947-2106 Gettysburg, SD 57442-1549 450 Broadway [email protected] 605-769-0540 Winnipeg, MB R3C 0V8 [email protected] 204-945-7349 [email protected]

11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM 15 Achievements of the Legislators’ renewable fuels and energy transmission capacity Forum (LF) 2001-2010 in the region, which was responsible, in significant part, for the work done by the Great Plains Institute (GPI), Powering the Plains (PTP) process and the The Legislators’ Forum (2001 through 2010) work of the Midwest Governors Association. has discussed, developed agreements and taken action on: • Encouraged agricultural harmonization legislation and regulation at the national levels in both countries Securing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) • and contacted the US Environmental Protection from respective legislative leaders in all four Agency (EPA) and the Canadian Pest Management jurisdictions to continue the annual meetings. Regulatory Agency (PMRA) in support of the work of the Agriculture Harmonization Working Group and Learned about differences in structure and process • broadening, expediting and prioritizing that work. in the respective states and provinces. • Supported pilot projects for pesticide labeling Learned that the delegates share many of the same • applicable across US and Canadian borders - now issues and values and wish to learn more from each applied to 3 pesticides. other about best practices for addressing them together. • Written letters of support to appropriate agencies in the US and Canadian federal governments Interacted annually with the Canadian Consul • to encourage the adoption of a regional inter- General, based in Minneapolis, and the US Consul jurisdictional action process in case of disease and Principal Officer in Winnipeg, both of whom outbreak to ensure the containment and quick have been significant supporters of the LF efforts. eradication of these outbreaks in the region. These included handling food safety and security in an Through these Consuls, information and agreements • economical and efficient manner by using inter- reached at the LF meetings have been passed on to jurisdictional expertise and scientific technology the respective federal governments in both countries. and brought responsible agency people from all four jurisdictions together between several annual LF Sponsored and helped initiate what has become • meetings to begin their work together in this area. “2Nation Tours,” involving the travel and tourism agencies of all four jurisdictions. • Supported an emergency management mutual aid agreement and emergency management experts Broad support of the Conservation Reserve • working together across borders. Enhancement Program (CREP), especially in the states because it is aimed at enhancing the • Brought the four Attorneys General and Justice Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) in the US. Minister together to provide updates on inter- jurisdictional criminal justice issues, progress on Indicated strong support for the establishment of • dealing with methamphetamine issues and to sign a 600-mile “Greenway” from the source of the Red an agreement to develop an “Amber Alert” system River and on its tributaries to its termination in Lake throughout the four jurisdictions to assure quick, Winnipeg. The efforts to develop it have expanded coordinated service in the event of child abductions. and continue today. • Delegates have supported inter-jurisdictional Supported the Prairie Public Television/Radio • sharing of best practices in “healthy living.” “River Watch” program, which was linked to the Greenway and other flood control and mitigation • Supported greater rural access to medicine to ensure efforts throughout the region and helped to secure access to appropriate health care for all citizens in multiple years of funding for that program, as well the region. as the Greenway, from the Otto Bremer Foundation. • Encouraged the public and private sectors in this Discussed mutual water quality issues and increased • region to work together to enhance broadband understanding of the many water quality problems technology and other infrastructure, especially in are shared among the jurisdictions and that it will rural areas. be essential to work together to address those issues. • Supported a regional effort to enhance rural and Advanced the discussion about and enhancement of • community development, beyond simply economic

16 11TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATORS FORUM development and including support for immigration. requirements), there needs to be sufficient time to develop a thorough, comprehensive and accurate • Contacted the Department of Homeland Security, cost-benefit analysis of all proposed solutions; other relevant agencies and states’ Congressional sufficient time to implement the regulations; and offices to request that they do all they can to ensure sufficient time to ensure that all privacy concerns are border crossings for citizens in the US and Canada adequately addressed. Finally, the regulations need remain as seamless as possible, expressing the to be affordable by states and provinces and their belief that the two countries share so much in terms citizens.” The delegates share a belief that their of history, culture, mutual relations and issues input has had a significant impact on achieving the that, “Whatever decisions are made with regard delay and reconsideration of many border-crossing to implementation (of cross-border identification identification regulations.

Legislators’ Forum Annual Highlights/Focus

During all annual meetings of the Legislators’ Forum, water issues have been a topic of conversation in the context of flooding, drought and water quality. In addition, each year has had a specific focus and at least one highlight issue. Those issues include:

MB 2001—Sponsorship of 2 Nations Tours, a program among the four jurisdictions that continues today.

MN 2002—Memorandum of Understanding among legislative leaders in the four jurisdictions to meet annually and provide substantial support for Conservation Reserve Enhancement Programs (and analogous programs in Canada) in order to address flooding, drought and water quality issues.

SD 2003—Establishment of a regional renewable fuels working group called Powering the Plains (PTP) and beginning efforts to bring emergency management officials from the four jurisdictions together to enhance cooperation and coordination across borders.

ND 2004—Beginning of significant efforts to address methamphetamine and pharmaceutical issues across borders in order to address addiction issues and alternatives to incarceration.

MB 2005—Building on the agreements to address methamphetamine issues across borders, broadened the discussion to include addressing together all inter-jurisdictional criminal justice issues.

MN 2006—Emphasized the importance of basing water related public policy issues on sound science. Supported the efforts of the four jurisdictions’ Attorneys General to address methamphetamine and criminal justice issues and their signing of an inter-jurisdictional Amber Alert MOU to enhance mobilization in the case of child abduction.

SD 2007—Provided broad support for the Regional Energy Roadmap that had been developed by the PTP participants, supported the enhancement of broadband technology, especially in rural areas of the four jurisdictions and expressed significant concerns to the US Department of Homeland Security and other relevant USand Canadian entities about the implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI).

ND 2008—Highlighted issues related to rural community development, health and infrastructure issues, including the need for further enhancement of broadband technology in the region and continued the ongoing discussions of water (LIDAR mapping), energy and cross-border identification issues.

MB 2009—While specifically focusing on Lake Winnipeg, the delegates developed agreements to address regional water quality and quantity issues, regional energy issues and cross-border security, identification and tourism.

MN 2010 – Discussions centered on water issues in the Red River basin and included recommendations and requests from the Red River Basin Commission regarding management, impoundment, retention and diversion. Energy, commerce, border security and the media were also highlighted. O CANADA! OUR HOME AND NATIVE LAND! TRUE PATRIOT LOVE IN ALL THY SONS COMMAND.

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