SF1575

This bill, S.F. No. 1575, establishes the Biofertilizer Water Preservation Program in Minnesota to improve water quality by encouraging farmers to reduce the use of commercial nitrogen fertilizers. The key provisions of the bill include:

1. Definition Change: Adds a definition for commercial nitrogen fertilizer, specifying it as a fertilizer with at least 25% nitrogen content.

2. Program Establishment: The Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture, in consultation with the Department of Natural Resources and soil and water conservation districts, will create and administer the program. The goal is to incentivize farmers to improve nitrogen management and integrate innovative biofertilizer technologies.

3. Financial Incentives for Farmers:

   • Farmers who use approved biofertilizers to reduce commercial nitrogen fertilizer application can receive at least $5 per acre.
   • To qualify for payments, farmers must reduce their commercial nitrogen fertilizer use by at least 15% or 30 pounds per acre, whichever is smaller.

4. Eligibility:

   • Farmers in Minnesota must submit a crop nutrient management plan demonstrating compliance with the reduction requirements.

5. Program Review:

   • Every two years, the Commissioner of Agriculture must evaluate the program, adjust the nitrogen reduction targets if necessary, and consider adding new qualifying biofertilizer products.

6. Rulemaking: The Commissioner of Agriculture will establish rules to implement the program.

7. Funding: The bill allocates $5 million for fiscal year 2026 to start and manage the program. Any remaining funds will carry over to fiscal year 2027.

This program aims to promote sustainable farming practices while protecting water quality by reducing excess nitrogen runoff into water systems.