This technical document provides an overview of the process and considerations conducted by Soil and Water Conservation Districts when assisting landowners in implementing the Alternative Practices provision in the Minnesota Buffer Law. Additionally, this document details a set of common alternative practices that may be a useful start for landowners interested in water quality protection options comparable to a buffer and to SWCDs in offering alternative practices implementation support and validation.
Maintenance after Seeding: The following maintenance is recommended after seeding prairie: if planted in spring, apply glyphosate within 5-7 days after seeding or apply glyphosate after green-up and wait 7 days before seeding. Year 1 mow or chop aggressively after growth gets 15-18 inches tall using a stalk chopper or rotary mower. This is to control the annual weeds, if you prevent them from going to seed for a few years they will likely disappear.