By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has secured $11.16 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to improve irrigation and conservation practices across the state.
The funding is part of the USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) and will support a five-year project that focuses on irrigation efficiency, groundwater protection, and sustainable nitrogen management in 25 Minnesota counties.
This investment builds on $3.5 million awarded in 2021 for similar conservation efforts. The new project will provide financial and technical support to producers who use irrigation systems, with assistance expected to begin in late 2025.
According to Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, “This partnership with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service is invaluable to MDA’s mission to preserve and protect Minnesota’s water resources. Irrigation is critical for many of our farmers, and this funding allows us to support producers with the tools and technology they need to conserve water and improve outcomes.”
Keith Kloubec, NRCS Assistant State Conservationist for Programs, added, “This project and these partners are a great example of what the Regional Conservation Partnership Program can accomplish.
The group's past success has already delivered measurable impacts, and we look forward to continuing this work to increase adoption of irrigation technologies that benefit both water quality and farm sustainability.”
The project will focus on advancing precision irrigation, improving nitrogen use, optimizing water management, and protecting groundwater quality and supply. It also aims to expand the adoption of conservation practices on existing irrigated farmland.
In addition, the initiative will build technical knowledge among staff at Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), NRCS, and industry partners. Training sessions, peer learning opportunities, field days, and demonstration events will showcase innovative irrigation technologies.
The program covers 25 counties and involves a broad coalition of partners, including local SWCDs, Central Lakes College Ag & Energy Center, AgCentric – Minnesota State, the University of Minnesota, the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, and several industry groups. Together, these partners will strengthen Minnesota’s role as a leader in sustainable agriculture and water stewardship.
Photo Credit:minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, Energy, Government & Policy