BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - The North Dakota Ag Coalition has joined the opposition to a proposed ballot measure that would set aside more oil taxes for water, wildlife and parks projects.
The group represents more than 40 organizations with various interests in agriculture. It joins the North Dakotans for Common Sense Conservation group in opposing the proposed Clean Water, Wildlife and Parks Fund.
Conservation advocates want 5 percent of the state's oil extraction taxes for the proposed fund. The current fund is capped at $30 million during the state's two-year budget cycle.
Supporters say more needs to be done to protect the state's air, water and land.
Opponents worry the proposed fund would spend too much money with too little flexibility and also say it could take land out of agricultural production.