MN HF4134

Amends Minnesota Statutes section 273.13, subdivision 23 to expand the definition of "agricultural purposes" for property tax classification purposes.

Allows land not exceeding the greater of three acres or ten percent of total land area to qualify for agricultural classification when used to provide environmental benefits such as buffer strips, old growth forest restoration or retention, or retention ponds to prevent soil erosion.

Requires taxpayers to apply to the assessor by February 1 of the assessment year and submit program requirements, specific agreements with local agencies, and a map of the conservation area to qualify under this provision.

Applies to properties enrolled in local conservation programs administered by towns, cities, counties, watershed districts, water management organizations, or soil and water conservation districts that provide incentive payments of at least $50 per acre.

Effective for assessment year 2018 and thereafter.