ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — A series of Citizens Forums kicks off this week to give Minnesotans a chance to weigh in on their priorities and visions for the environment.

The first two forums are Tuesday in Rochester and Bloomington. Other forums are set for Wednesday in Duluth, Worthington on Dec. 10. St. Cloud on Dec. 12 and Moorhead on Dec. 14.

The Environmental Quality Board is convening the forums to assess Minnesota’s progress toward clean air, water and energy. The board says it wants to engage citizens in constructive dialogue, identify environmental challenges, and define a vision for Minnesota’s environmental future.

State leaders will gather in March for a one-day summit where they will discuss the feedback received at the six forums, and begin planning a blueprint for Minnesota’s environmental and economic future.

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