Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to address water use during drought conditions and improve water management for agricultural purposes in Minnesota. It provides mechanisms for transferring unused water allocations and allows for increased water use for certain agricultural activities.

Main Provisions

• Transfer of Water Use Permits: Allows the transfer of a water use permit to a new property owner where the source of water is located, as long as the permit holder is compliant with existing conditions and requirements. The transfer should not involve additional conditions or reduced water allocation.

• Transfer of Unused Water Gallons: Permits holders of water use permits for irrigation to transfer their unused water allocations to other permit holders using the same aquifer or surface water source. This facilitates better resource sharing among farmers and irrigators, especially during water scarcity.

• Use of Excess Water During Droughts: Authorizes water use for irrigation when a region is classified under local drought conditions, provided the previous year’s water allocation wasn't fully utilized and it's sustainable.

• Increased Water Use for Cover Crops: Enables permit holders to apply for additional water use, beyond their current permits, specifically for late summer or fall cover crops. This increased usage (up to 27,154 gallons per acre) is contingent on the sustainability of the water draw.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill adds provisions to the Minnesota Statutes to facilitate the transfer of unused water resources, a practice not previously codified. This change promotes more efficient use of water resources and gives irrigators flexibility during drought periods.
• The legislation introduces specific conditions under which increased water use is permissible for cover crops, reflecting an adaptation to changing agricultural needs and climate impacts.

Relevant Terms

• Water use permit
• Drought conditions
• Irrigation
• Aquifer
• Sustainable water use
• Cover crops