Minnesota Department of Agriculture updates Groundwater Protection Map 

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has issued an update to the Groundwater Protection rule map map that will help farmers across the state comply with the new Groundwater Protection Rules. The rule restricts fall application of nitrogen fertilizer in areas vulnerable to groundwater contamination, and it outlines steps to reduce the severity of contamination in areas where nitrate is already elevated in public water supply wells. The updated map is available at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture website. 

The restriction of fall application of nitrogen fertilizer on these acres will begin September 1, 2024. Farmers are encouraged to check the new map prior to fall 2024 in order to determine if their fields are subject to these restrictions. For more information on the Groundwater Protection Rule visit www.mda.state.mn.us/nfr.