MN HF4290

Counties may create an "agricultural priority land list" designating parcels as unsuitable for large electric power generating plants, with qualifying land having either a crop productivity index (CPI) rating above 75 on more than 50% of the parcel, or prime farmland classification with irrigation or drainage improvements.

Private landowners must receive certified mail notification 90 days before their parcels are included on the list and may opt out by contacting the county at least 30 days before submission to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission.

The Public Utilities Commission cannot issue site permits for large electric power generating plants on parcels included on a county's priority land list, unless the county board of commissioners passes a resolution consenting to the permit.

Counties must submit revised lists to the Commission every five years after initial submission, including legal descriptions, CPI ratings or estimated yields, and total acreage for each parcel.

Effective date is January 1, 2027.