By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is asking the public to share written comments about the state’s Groundwater Protection Rule. The goal is to review whether the current rule offers enough protection for water, land, air, and natural resources from nitrate pollution.
This request follows a court order issued on September 5, 2025, by the Ramsey County Second Judicial District Court. The court directs the department to determine if the rule provides proper protection or if stronger limits are needed in certain regions.
The Groundwater Protection Rule is adopted in 2019 to help reduce nitrate contamination in vulnerable groundwater areas. Nitrate is a form of nitrogen that can harm drinking water when it enters groundwater supplies. The rule limits the use of nitrogen fertilizer during the fall season and on frozen soils. These limits help reduce the chance of nitrate moving into water sources when plants cannot absorb nutrients.
The rule also creates a system to reduce contamination in areas where public water supplies already show high nitrate levels. This system includes added steps to manage fertilizer use and encourage better nutrient planning.
The department is asking for public input on two main topics. The first is whether the current rule gives enough protection against nitrate contamination caused by regulated farming and land management practices. The second is whether more limits should apply in sensitive areas, including Southeast Minnesota’s karst geology and the Central Sands region. These areas are more likely to allow nitrate to move quickly into groundwater.
The department asks that comments include clear information and supporting evidence. General opinions that only show support or opposition will not provide enough detail to help with decision-making.
Comments must be received by Thursday, March 12. Written comments may be sent by mail or by email. Email comments should be sent to gpr.mda@state.mn.us with the subject line “Groundwater Protection Rule.”
Mail comments may be sent to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Fertilizer Management Unit, 625 Robert St. North, St. Paul, MN 55155. Additional questions may be directed by phone at 651-201-6168 or by email to larry.gunderson@state.mn.us.
Public participation helps ensure that groundwater rules protect drinking water and natural resources while supporting responsible fertilizer use across Minnesota.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Minnesota, Energy, Government & Policy