Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton is backing legislation to increase the buffer zones along waterways on agricultural operations. The Governor is concerned about run off from farms and ranches into the state’s waters. The Minnesota Farm Bureau, Farmers Union and Corn Growers all oppose the legislation. State Farm Bureau President, Kevin Paap says his group supports all existing buffer zones and thinks they should be strictly enforced; however, a one size fits all policy like this bill proposes won’t work.
Paap says environmental concerns need to be addressed with everyone working together and through voluntary programs rather than through heavy regulations
The Governor’s bill, while receiving support in the state Senate, is expected to face heavier sledding in the House. Paap doesn’t see this legislation as partisan but more a property rights issue.
