Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to support and strengthen the maple syrup industry in Minnesota by changing the leasing process for state lands used for tapping maple syrup. It also requires a report on how to further develop the industry.

Main Provisions

• Lease Terms: The bill mandates that any lease or permit for maple syrup tapping on state lands must last at least ten years unless a shorter term is requested. The cost of obtaining the lease or permit should not exceed the reasonable costs the commissioner incurs. Lessees will not be required to remove equipment, such as taps and tubing, during the lease term.

• Renewal of Existing Leases: By October 1, 2025, the commissioner of natural resources must offer a new lease to individuals who held leases for maple syrup tapping on state-owned lands in the prior two years. The new lease will carry the same terms as the previous one and will not require the removal of equipment. These leases may be renewed every ten years unless breached or declined by the lessee.

• Industry Report: The commissioner of natural resources is tasked with working alongside industry members and stakeholders to create a report that outlines strategies to bolster the maple syrup industry. This report, due by February 1, 2026, should analyze industry interaction with natural resources, suggest policy changes, explore the creation of supportive bodies like task forces, review best practices, and identify obstacles with remedies to strengthen the industry.

Significant Changes

• The bill makes the leasing process for maple syrup tapping more stable and affordable for lessees by ensuring long-term leases and preventing frequent equipment removal.
• It initiates a comprehensive assessment to improve and support the maple syrup industry at the state level.

Relevant Terms

natural resources, commissioner, maple syrup, lease renewal, state land, equipment removal, industry development, report, stakeholders, best practices, statutory changes.