I understand the importance of protecting our land, lakes, and rivers. In my small business, Blue Green Solutions, I work with landowners and communities to protect land and water for people to enjoy as parks and natural areas for hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

My vision is to ensure that we have ready access to the outdoors and a healthy environment to provide a quality of life in Minnesota that is worthy of our children and future generations.

I will be a leader in supporting the following policies to fulfill this vision:

• Using the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment funds effectively across Minnesota and to support local projects.
• Supporting clean energy, energy efficiency, and new businesses that protect the environment.
• Protecting the water in our lakes, streams, and groundwater, including controlling invasive species and monitoring groundwater contamination from the Highway 96 Superfund Site.

Use the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment Funds for Local Projects

I strongly supported passage of the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment in 2008 to provide long-term funding for conservation, environmental protection, and the arts. My opponent refused to take a public position on the Legacy Amendment.

I will work with our local officials and community organizations to seek funding for local projects that are strong candidates for Legacy Amendment funding. In 2009, I testified in support of Legacy Amendment funding to improve the safety for biking and walking on the Highway 96 Regional Trail at Highway 96 overpass over I-35E. Another potential project for Legacy Amendment funding is to improve the safety for biking and walking on the north side of White Bear Lake along Highway 96.

Clean Energy, Energy Efficiency, and Green Businesses

We must respond to the challenge of high energy prices and by developing new sources of clean energy and implementing efficiency standards to reduce energy consumption. These policies will create business opportunities for entrepreneurs in wind and solar power and other cutting-edge technologies.

Clean Lakes, Rivers, and Groundwater

Less than 20 percent of the lakes and streams in Minnesota have been tested for water quality. Of those lakes and streams that have been tested, 40 percent fail to meet minimum water quality standards. We must test our lakes and streams and reduce the effects of pollution and invasive species, such as Eurasian water milfoil.

I will closely monitor the groundwater pollution resulting from the Highway 96 Dump Superfund Site near Highway 96 and Centerville Road. Unfortunately, my opponent has voted to weaken groundwater protection.

Read more about why your neighbors are upset with my opponent's vote to weaken groundwater protection...

Read Chris's essay, Earth Day at 40...

Read Chris' testimony before the House of Representatives to make the Highway 96 bridge over 35E safer for biking and walking.