This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to enhance water management for irrigation purposes. It allows the transfer of unused water-use permit gallons between permit holders who withdraw from the same aquifer or surface water, provided both parties comply with permit conditions. The bill also stipulates that the commissioner must not impose additional conditions or reduce the terms of the permit during the transfer process. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for irrigators to utilize excess water during local drought conditions, defined as extreme or exceptional drought, if they did not fully use their allocated gallons in the previous year and if the water use is deemed sustainable.

Additionally, the bill permits permit holders planning to plant late summer or fall cover crops to apply for increased water use beyond their permitted amount, allowing for an additional 27,154 gallons per acre. This increase is contingent upon the commissioner’s assessment of sustainability based on existing standards. Notably, any permit holder subject to enforcement actions is ineligible for this increased water use. Overall, the bill aims to provide more flexibility and support for irrigators in managing water resources effectively during challenging conditions.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 103G.271