AI Generated Summary
Purpose of the Bill
The bill aims to modify the current policies regarding wetland replacement ratios in Minnesota. It seeks to update how wetlands, especially those affected by activities such as mining or public transportation projects, are managed and replaced.
Main Provisions
- Wetland Replacement Requirement: Wetlands that are drained or filled need to be replaced with actions that provide equal public value. Replacement plans must be approved under specified sections.
- Mining Projects: Includes provisions for surplus wetland credits in connection with mining projects that can offset future impacts, considering certain watersheds as single entities for replacement purposes.
- Replacement Ratios: The bill specifies different replacement ratios depending on land type:
- Two acres of wetland must be replaced for each acre drained on non-agricultural land.
- One acre of replacement is required per drained acre on agricultural land.
- Restoration Priority: Establishes a priority order for wetland restoration, emphasizing avoidance, minimization, restoration, and compensatory actions.
- Local Government Authority: Local governments can make determinations without extensive analysis for minor impacts and enforce deed restrictions to prevent nonagricultural conversion of restored wetlands.
- Eligibility for Replacement Credits: Specifies activities and conditions under which replacement credits can be granted, such as restoring native vegetation and establishing buffer areas.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- The bill updates the statutory framework by which wetland replacement ratios are determined and allows local authorities more flexibility in certain cases.
- It introduces new provisions for mining reclamation plans and credits related to mining and public works projects.
- Expands on the criteria and processes by which local government units can adjust classification and replacement standards based on specific regional needs.
Relevant Terms
restoration, wetland replacement, mining reclamation, public value, wetland credits, replacement ratio, local government authority, agricultural land, buffer areas, stormwater management
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 05, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading, referred to | Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Modification of wetland replacement requirements, focusing on replacement plans and principles for wetland impact mitigation.",
"modified": [
"Wetland replacement requirements and principles are reordered and rephrased for clarity.",
"Replacement ratios and conditions adjusted for agricultural and non-agricultural lands."
]
},
"citation": "103G.222",
"subdivision": "subdivision 1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Establishes eligibility criteria for replacement credits relating to wetlands.",
"modified": [
"Clarifications added regarding eligibility for replacement credits and exceptions to general rules."
]
},
"citation": "103G.2242",
"subdivision": "subdivision 12"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Content guidelines and classification criteria for comprehensive wetland protection and management plans.",
"modified": [
"Varying application rules for wetland impact sequencings and replacements adjusted based on wetland classification."
]
},
"citation": "103G.2243",
"subdivision": "subdivision 2"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Involves permits to mine and assignment for wetland impact mitigation.",
"modified": [
"References process for assignment of permits related to mining operations and wetland impact adjustments."
]
},
"citation": "93.481",
"subdivision": "subdivision 5"
}
]Progress through the legislative process
In Committee