1,000 Farms In Minnesota Enrolled In the MAWQCP

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture in a new release announced that more than 715,000 acres representing more that 1,000 farms in Minnesota have been enrolled in the Ag Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP.) Governor Tim Walz set the goal of having one million acres enrolled by the end of 2022 and we are well on the way to reaching that goal!

"Water quality is important to all Minnesotans, especially those that care for the lasn, and we want to thank everyone that has stepped up to protect and restore our state's lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater through the Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification Program,' said Minnesota Agricultural Commissioner Thom Peterson. 'We can be assured these certified farmers are managing their operations to protect water quality now and into the future."

Farmers and land owners work with their local Soil and Water Conservation District to "identify and mitigate any risks their farm poses to water quality" and develop a plan to do that. During the process they will have priority access to programs and financial assistance. when a farm is certified they will be "deemed in compliance" with any new regulations and laws for 10 years.

The MAWQCP began in 2014. If you would like more information contact your local Soil and Water Conservation District.