AI Generated Summary
Purpose of the Bill
The bill aims to modify existing Minnesota laws related to wetland replacement ratios and wetland management. The legislation seeks to ensure that any draining or filling of wetlands is compensated by restoration activities that maintain or improve public wetland values.
Main Provisions
- Wetland Replacement: Development or projects that impact wetlands must follow a sequence of impact mitigation, including avoidance, minimization, and compensation for any wetland disturbance.
- Replacement Ratios: Establishes specific ratios for replacing drained or filled wetlands. Generally, non-agricultural lands require two acres of wetland to be replaced for every acre impacted, while agricultural lands and specific areas allow a one-to-one replacement.
- Criteria for Replacement Plans: Specifies that replacement must respect environmental standards and cannot use stormwater ponds unless they function as wetlands.
- Public Transportation Projects: Provides guidelines for when wetland replacement is not required for certain transportation projects, subject to conditions regarding reporting and mitigation strategies.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- Updates the parameters for creating wetland replacement plans, including specific ratios and conditions under which replacement credits are assigned.
- Introduces different guidelines for wetland impacts related to public transportation projects, including exemptions based on project type and scale.
- Ensures that any conversion from one wetland type to another without degradation cannot be used for replacement credits, thereby strengthening wetland protection.
Relevant Terms
wetland replacement, drainage, wetland protection, public value, mitigation, wetland credits, agricultural land, non-agricultural land, transportation project, environmental standards, restoration, public transportation.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 04, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading, referred to | Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy |
| May 04, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading, referred to | Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Allows use of surplus wetland credits from past mining projects to offset future impacts."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This section discusses the assignment of permits to mine as related to wetland replacement and mining reclamation plans.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "93.481",
"subdivision": "subdivision 5"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This section is referenced in determining public values for wetland replacement and management.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "103B.3355",
"subdivision": ""
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Introduces flexibility for local government units in determining onsite sequencing without a written alternatives analysis."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Amends the requirements for draining or filling wetlands, specifically regarding replacement ratios and sequencing standards.",
"modified": [
"Adjusts wetland replacement ratios and conditions for cultivated fields and public transportation projects."
]
},
"citation": "103G.222",
"subdivision": "subdivision 1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Refers to conditions where wetlands may be drained or filled.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "103G.2241",
"subdivision": "subdivision 1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Details of appeals process for public transportation project decisions related to wetlands.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "103G.2242",
"subdivision": "subdivision 9"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Specific conditions where replacement credits can be given for previously restored or enhanced wetlands and certain conservation projects."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Relates to eligibility and conditions for replacement credits for wetland restoration or enhancement.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "103G.2242",
"subdivision": "subdivision 12"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Allows variation in application of sequencing and replacement standards based on wetland classification in the plan."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Amends plan contents for comprehensive wetland protection and management.",
"modified": [
"Ensures no net loss of public values within the plan area while varying standards."
]
},
"citation": "103G.2243",
"subdivision": "subdivision 2"
}
]