By Scout Nelson
Minnesota has released the 2025 Nutrient Reduction Strategy, showing progress in improving water quality and reducing nutrient pollution across the state. According to the report, years of programs and projects have helped lower nitrogen and phosphorus levels in the Mississippi River, supporting healthier water systems and ecosystems.
“Water flowing out of Minnesota through the Mississippi River now carries a shrinking load of 32% less phosphorus and 6% less nitrogen to the Gulf, reflecting years of hard work,” said Glenn Skuta, watershed division director at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
Monitoring data from rivers and streams across Minnesota shows that phosphorus levels are declining in many locations, while nitrogen levels have decreased in some areas but remain unchanged or higher in others. Excess nutrients can lead to algae growth, lower oxygen levels, and risks to aquatic life and drinking water.
The updated strategy builds on the original 2014 plan and uses the latest science and research. It calls for expanding proven practices and strengthening programs to reach Minnesota’s 2040 water quality goals. Key focus areas include improving soil health programs, increasing best management practices, and supporting watershed-based training and planning.
Another major goal is expanding living cover across the landscape by encouraging the use of cover crops, perennial crops, grazing lands, and alternative cropping systems. The strategy also recommends improving wastewater treatment systems and using practices such as wetlands, bioreactors, buffers, and water storage to reduce nutrient runoff before it reaches waterways.
To improve accountability, the state plans to launch a statewide online dashboard and expand data tools such as the Best Management Practice Effects Estimator Tools, also known as BEET Tracker and BEET Planner. These tools will help track progress and support better decision-making.
More than 100 experts from state, federal, and local agencies, along with university researchers, contribute to developing the updated strategy. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency coordinates the plan and will continue sharing updates, research findings, and training opportunities through its website and mailing list.
The 2025 strategy aims to guide long-term action that protects lakes, rivers, and groundwater while supporting sustainable land and water management practices across Minnesota. The 2025 Minnesota Nutrient Reduction Strategy is available on the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency website.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zms
Categories: Minnesota, General, Sustainable Agriculture