Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced a goal of enrolling one million acres in the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program by the end of 2022. This is a voluntary agricultural program that protects the state’s water resources. Since the inception in 2014, 977 farms totaling over 685,000 acres have been certified across the state. So, Minnesota Ag Commissioner Thom Peterson says this is an attainable goal.
Peterson says Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality certified farms have added nearly 2,000 new conservation practices, including over 110,000 acres of new cover crops. Those efforts have kept over 38,000 tons of sediment out of Minnesota rivers while saving nearly 108,000 tons of soil and 48,000 pounds of phosphorous on farms each year.
Certified farms have also seen increased yields and a 26% increase in average net income.
The conservation practices have also reduced nitrogen loss up to 49% and cut greenhouse gas emissions by more than 39,000 tons per year. Those interested in becoming water quality certified can contact their local Soil and Water Conservation District or visit MyLandMyLegacy.com.
