WETLAND CONSERVATION ACT (WCA)

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Wetland Conservation

Text Box: In 1991, reacting to public concern about Minnesota’s disappearing wetlands, the Minnesota Legislature approved and signed the Wetland Conservation Act.  To retain the benefits of wetlands and reach the legislation’s goal of no-net-loss of wetlands, the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) requires anyone proposing to drain or fill a wetland first to try to avoid disturbing the wetland; second, to try minimize any impact on the wetland; and, finally, to replace any lost wetland acres, functions, and values.  Certain wetland activities are exempt from the act, allowing projects with minimal impact or projects located on land where certain pre-established land uses are present to proceed without regulations. Wetlands are governed by both Federal and State programs and laws.  The Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act is administered locally by the Yellow Medicine SWCD.    In addition to the Federal Farm Service Agency AD-1026 form, you will need to fill out a form at the SWCD office located in the USDA Ag Service Center in Clarkfield  before you proceed with your excavation, filling or drainage projects.  This form will help us determine if you will be in compliance with the State Wetland Conservation Act.  After we review your request, you may be required to fill out a basic application. Wetland protection is not just an agricultural issue, it is a land use issue.  So whether your project is on a farm or in town, make sure you have the permits you need by contacting one or more of the following for their comments and/or approval to be sure your project won’t impact a wetland: Yellow Medicine SWCD                                     320-669-4442 Farm Service Agency                                           320-669-4492 Natural Resources Conservation Service               320-669-4442 Yellow Medicine Watershed District                     507-872-6720 Lac qui Parle Yellow Bank Watershed District     320-598-3132 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources        507-359-6053 United States Army Corps of Engineers               651-290-5375  Please contact the SWCD at 320-669-4442 Extension 3 for more information on the Wetland Conservation Act.