Minnesota's Nutrient Reduction Strategy in 250 words or less

The first in our series of posts that summarizes existing conservation-related reports, programs, strategies and initiatives in 250 words or less focuses on the Minnesota Nutrient Reduction Strategy.

There are several plans, strategies and programs – both at the federal and state level – with a goal of reducing nitrogen in our water. The purpose of the Minnesota Nutrient Reduction Strategy is to provide guidance to state level programs to achieve nitrogen and phosphorus reduction in Minnesota waters, which in turn will also improve waters beyond our borders.

The strategy was developed by 10 state agencies and sets specific nutrient reduction goals and milestones at multiple scales including basins and watersheds within Minnesota. For example, the strategy hopes to achieve a 20 percent reduction in nitrogen from baseline in the Mississippi River basin at the state line by 2025.

To make this happen, the strategy calls for the increased use of best management practices (BMPs) on farms and in wastewater treatment. On-farm BMPs include using fertilizer more efficiently, cover crops, erosion control and treating tile drainage.

The strategy is not a set of proposed laws or regulations. However, as water quality issues receive increased attention from legislators and the general public, the strategy likely would be used as guidance if nutrient reduction regulations were to be developed.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is accepting comments on the strategy through Dec. 18. To comment, email nutrientreduction.pca@state.mn.us, or write to:

Wayne Anderson
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
520 Lafayette Road North
St. Paul, MN 55155