Bill > SF2845

This bill appropriates state funding to support a groundwater protection and soil health initiative specifically targeting southeastern Minnesota. The bill allocates a specific amount of money from the general fund to the agricultural commissioner, which will be distributed as grants to soil and water conservation districts in eleven counties: Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, and Winona. The primary goals of these grants are to reduce crop nutrient leaching into groundwater, immobilize unused nitrogen in the rooting zone, and decrease soil erosion. Notably, the bill provides flexibility for these districts by allowing them to make subgrants for projects that align with the Olmsted County groundwater protection and soil health initiative, which includes specific programs such as cover crops, alternative crops, and haying, grazing, and pasture enhancement. By providing this targeted funding and programmatic support, the bill aims to improve environmental sustainability and agricultural practices in the southeastern region of Minnesota.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2845&ssn=0&y=2025