The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 103G.223, to enhance the protection and management of calcareous fens. It prohibits the filling, draining, or degradation of these ecosystems without the commissioner’s approval under a management plan. A significant addition is that the commissioner cannot deny a permit or prohibit an action based on its potential impact on a calcareous fen without first providing the applicant with a detailed report. This report must include a description of the calcareous fen, its ecological benefits, and the adverse effects anticipated from the proposed action.

Additionally, the bill mandates the commissioner of natural resources to adopt rules defining what constitutes a calcareous fen. By December 1, 2025, the commissioner is required to submit a comprehensive report to legislative committees, which will include the proposed definition of a calcareous fen, a scientific rationale for this definition, an explanation of the ecological benefits of calcareous fens compared to other wetlands, and a summary of permit denials related to these ecosystems over the past decade.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 103G.223