Irrigating farmers across Minnesota have an important opportunity to share their perspectives on how groundwater is managed and protected.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is currently reviewing its Groundwater Protection Rule and has issued a public call for written comments. These letters will help inform how the rule is interpreted and implemented moving forward, especially in areas where irrigated agriculture plays a critical role.
Click the link to download the template letter to MDA.
Why This Matters to Irrigators
The Groundwater Protection Rule is designed to protect Minnesota’s drinking water by addressing nitrate levels in vulnerable groundwater areas. While the goal is clean, safe water for all Minnesotans, the way this rule is applied can directly impact:
- Nutrient management decisions
- Irrigation practices
- Crop planning and input costs
- Long-term farm viability in vulnerable regions
That’s why it’s important for farmers who work with irrigation every day to weigh in with real-world, practical insight.
A Simple Way to Participate
To make it easy for members to respond, the Irrigators Association of Minnesota has created a ready-to-use template letter.
The template helps you:
- Introduce your farm and operation
- Explain why groundwater protection is important to you
- Share on-the-ground experience with irrigation and nutrient management
- Offer constructive, farmer-informed feedback to MDA
You can personalize the letter with details from your own farm before submitting it.
👉 Access the template letter here:
Deadline to Submit
All letters must be submitted to MDA by:
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Even a short, thoughtful letter can make a difference. The more farmers who respond, the better MDA can understand how proposed approaches work in real farming situations.
Take Action Today
- Download the template letter
- Customize it with your farm’s story and perspective
- Submit it to MDA before March 12, 2026
Groundwater protection and productive agriculture go hand in hand. By speaking up, Minnesota irrigators can help shape smart, practical solutions that protect water quality while keeping farms strong for the next generation.
IAM 