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A quick update on DNR irrigation permits

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The Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA) remains engaged with lawmakers and agencies about issues surrounding farming and water sources. As fewer people are elected to office with an agriculture background, it’s important that corn farmers continue to have a seat at the table as regulations are debated and laws are introduced that impact Minnesota’s farms.

Recently, farmers have expressed concerns about irrigation issues, specifically the irrigation permitting process with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Whether you’re looking to drill a new well for irrigation or move an existing well, here is a quick summary of the steps you need to take:

  • Preliminary construction approval through the DNR is required before drilling a well that will withdraw more than 10,000 gallons of water per day or 1 million gallons per year. You can apply for preliminary approval using this form.
  • Once you receive preliminary approval, you still need an irrigation waters appropriation permit. Each water source you use requires a separate permit. After preliminary approval, the well can be drilled and test pump data submitted via the waters appropriation permit form found here.

It’s also important to remember:

  • A permit with the Department of Health is also required. This is typically filed by your well driller.and is different than the permit required by DNR. It is up to the individual farmer to apply for both the preliminary approval and final permit from DNR.
  • If you move an existing well, you do not need to apply for a new permit, but you do need to update your existing permit. Don’t forget to update your permit. It will save you potential hassle in the future.
  • The above links bring you directly to the preliminary approval form and permit form. Both can be also be accessed, along with several other forms and documents, at DNR’s Permitting and Reporting System page.
  • If you have any questions about the permitting process, contact your area hydrologist.

Concerns from the farming community about the irrigation permitting process revolve around a couple of issues:

  • DNR says it will approve or deny permit applications within 45-150 days, according to Alan Peterson of the Minnesota Irrigators Association. Many farmers are experiencing wait times longer than that. It is important that applications are reviewed in a timely manner so farmers can plan accordingly.
  • Peterson also said there is uncertainty in how DNR may approve or revoke a permit. Legislation being discussed in the Minnesota Senate aims to clear up some of that confusion, and hopefully make the reasons for denying or revoking a permit more transparent.

MCGA continues to monitor recent developments concerning irrigation and will continue working on behalf of corn farmers to make sure their voices are part of all farm-related policy discussion, including irrigation.

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