Program
Buffer Program
The Minnesota Buffer Law was signed into law in 2015. It requires buffers of perennial vegetative on all public waterways and public drainage ditches. Studies from the MN Pollution Control Agency show that buffers help protect water quality by helping to filter out phosphorus, nitrogen and sediment before they reach the water.
Why is it important?
A new Minnesota Pollution Control Agency study found that few southwest Minnesota waters meet swimmable, fishable standards.
The buffer program web page and the information contained here is a collaboration with the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The state departments of Agriculture and the Pollution Control Agency were also instrumental in formulating this initiative, a process that involved consultation with stakeholder groups, countries and other local governments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Monitoring Plan
The Carver SWCD is required to track all parcels in the County every 3 years. You can find the full monitoring plan here.
Buffer Examples
Questions about the Buffer Law?
Contact
Ben Datres, Farm Bill Technician
(952) 466-5230