On September 24, at a meeting of over 20 lake association leaders from across the state, Minnesota Lakes and Rivers (MLR) Advocates Executive Director Jeff Forester honored Senator Carrie Ruud (R-Breezy Point) with the 2022 Lake Advocate Award.

“There is no legislator more focused on lake and river issues than Senator Ruud,” said Jeff Forester. “As Chair of the Senate Environment and Natural Resources and Legacy Funding Committee, Sen. Ruud has always had an open door with us, and has taken the time to understand our issues and work towards solutions.”

Sen. Ruud began her legislative career by authoring key legislation that continued the shoreland protection program, as well as bills that extended the Paul Bunyan state trail and refined the environmental impact statement requirements for actions that impact the public waters. Since then, Ruud has authored numerous bills to clarify shoreland standards, provide facilities for conservation and research, and lower the property taxes on unimproved shorelines.

“I feel incredibly honored to be the first recipient of this beautiful and prestigious award,” said Ruud. “I am passionate about the outdoors and all the great waterways and trails our state offers. When I came to the legislature, my goal was to work with advocates to preserve all the natural resources that make our state unique. Some of my favorite memories have taken place on the lakes and rivers of Minnesota, and it is important that we do all we can to preserve accessibility to these natural wonders, so they may be enjoyed by generations to come. Though my time in the Senate has come to an end, I hope that the legacy of preservation continues long into the future.”

The 2022 Lake Advocate Award is a handmade paddle from the Sanborn Canoe Company located in Winona, Minnesota. Sen. Ruud is the first recipient of the award, which was launched to recognize people, groups, and organizations who have taken a leadership role in advancing the MLR mission to “protect Minnesota’s lake and river heritage by forging powerful links among lakes, lake advocates, and policy makers.”