Bill > HF527

This bill establishes alternative wetland mitigation options for areas where more than 80 percent of the original wetlands have been lost. The legislation allows for a reduction in the minimum wetland replacement ratio when public value is replaced through alternative mitigation strategies within the same service bank area or major watershed. These alternative strategies include restoring or protecting riparian corridors and streams, stabilizing waterway hydrology, restoring peatland hydrology, and completing environmental improvement projects outlined in approved comprehensive or watershed management plans. The Board of Water and Soil Resources, in consultation with the Commissioner of Agriculture and local government units, is required to develop rules for implementing these alternative mitigation options, including creating methods to evaluate the public value of proposed mitigation efforts. This approach provides more flexibility for developers and landowners while still aiming to preserve and enhance environmental water resources in regions with significant wetland loss.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF0527&ssn=0&y=2025