Fall fertilizer restrictions go into effect Sept. 1
As of Sept. 1, the Groundwater Protection Rule restricts nitrogen fertilizer application in the fall and on frozen soils in vulnerable areas of the state. The restriction applies to areas vulnerable to groundwater contamination and also to fields located in Drinking Water Supply Management Areas (DWSMAs) with elevated nitrate levels.
Farmers with questions about fall fertilizer application restrictions can view a pre-recorded Minnesota Department of Agriculture webinar, which covers the purpose of the Groundwater Protection Rule and where the restrictions apply. You can view the vulnerable groundwater area map here.
The Groundwater Protection Rule became effective on June 24, 2019. Part one of the rule restricts fall fertilizer application as of Sept 1. Part two of the rule applies to DWSMAs with elevated nitrate concentrations and outlines voluntary and regulatory actions based on the concentration of nitrate in the well and the use of the BMPs.
For more information, visit MDA’s Groundwater Protection Rule homepage by clicking here.
The Groundwater Protection Rule, previously referred to as the Nitrogen Fertilizer Rule, is based on the Minnesota Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan, which outlines the state’s strategy for preventing contamination and responding to elevated nitrate from fertilizer in groundwater. This plan first originated in 1990. For a historical timeline and details on MCGA’s involvement throughout, click here.
