The Buffer Procedures were adopted in 2017, to support the implementation of the Riparian Protection and Water Quality Practices Statute (Minn. Stat. § 103F.48), commonly referred to as the Buffer Law. These procedures establish a consistent framework for implementation by soil and water conservation districts, as well as counties and watershed districts that have assumed jurisdiction.
Guidance for local implementation of the buffer law by soil and water conservation districts (SWCDs), watershed districts (WDs) and counties can be found here: Buffer Program Procedures can be found here (pdf)
*Note: Following legislative amendments to the statute in 2024, BWSR has revised the procedures to ensure alignment with current law. Concurrently, BWSR has incorporated updates and refinements informed by program implementation experience. The revised procedures have been reorganized into a series of renumbered chapters and updated for clarity and improved cross-referencing.