Governor Tim Walz commends Minnesota’s Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP) as a key driver in preserving the state’s essential water bodies and ensuring a sustainable future. Highlighting the program’s significance, Governor Walz emphasized the commitment of farmers to stewarding natural resources.
“Our Ag Water Quality Certification Program ensures our lakes, rivers, and drinking water are protected for future generations,” Governor Walz emphasized. “Farmers understand this responsibility. They are stewards of our natural resources, making meaningful changes to their operations to safeguard our land and water.”
In a momentous achievement in 2023, Minnesota farmers and landowners enrolled over one million acres in the MAWQCP. Governor Walz made the proclamation at Eric Heins’ Altura farm, representing one of the 1,400 farmers certified since the program’s inception in 2014.
Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen expressed enthusiasm at reaching the million-acre mark, recognizing farmers and landowners for their dedication to the Ag Water Quality Certification Program. Petersen highlighted the program’s unique advantages, enabling farmers to showcase conservation efforts, access funding, and ensure compliance with regulations.
Among the diverse array of conservation practices adopted by certified producers, several techniques have emerged as prevalent strategies. Cover crops, nutrient management, grassed waterways, irrigation water management, prescribed grazing, and water and sediment control basins stand out as primary methods. These practices bolster environmental sustainability, mitigate soil erosion, optimize water usage, and foster healthier agricultural ecosystems.
The commitment to implementing these practices underscores certified producers’ proactive stance in safeguarding Minnesota’s natural resources for future generations. The cumulative impact of these efforts is notable:
- Prevention of 47,000 tons of sediment from entering Minnesota rivers annually
- Conservation of 141,000 tons of soil and 59,000 pounds of phosphorus on farms
- Reduction of nitrogen loss by up to 49%
- Mitigation of over 50,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year
These statistics illustrate the tangible benefits of the Water Quality Certified farms, showcasing their substantial contributions toward protecting Minnesota’s waters. The proactive approach and dedication of farmers underscore the ongoing commitment to preserving natural resources and fostering a robust agricultural landscape for generations to come.
Central Minnesota Irrigators 