The bill establishes a new grant program under Minnesota Statutes, section 17.995, aimed at promoting nutrient management practices among farmers in Minnesota. The program will be administered by the commissioner of agriculture, who is tasked with awarding grants to eligible agricultural retailers. To qualify for these grants, retailers must be licensed and either certified or making progress toward certification under the 4R nutrient stewardship certification program. The bill outlines specific approved nutrient management practices that retailers can implement, which include soil testing, use of enhanced-efficiency fertilizers, and various management plans to optimize nutrient application.

Additionally, the bill appropriates funds for the program, specifying amounts for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support the grant awards. It also includes provisions for data privacy, ensuring that field-specific and grower-identifiable data remains nonpublic throughout the grant-making process. The commissioner is allowed to use a portion of the appropriated funds for administrative purposes. Overall, the bill aims to enhance agricultural sustainability and efficiency through targeted financial support and best practices in nutrient management.