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EQB summarizes public input for 2025 groundwater policy report; draft for board review expected in June
Summary
EQB staff said outreach on a 2025 groundwater policy report drew public comments, webinars and interagency input. Staff plan to circulate an internal draft in June and deliver a packet-ready draft for the board in August ahead of a September 15 statutory submission to the legislature.
EQB staff reported May 21 on engagement completed for a 2025 groundwater policy report required by statute, summarizing outreach findings and the next steps in drafting the report.
Director (EQB staff) said the report’s purpose is to coordinate state groundwater protection programs, provide foundational information for decision makers, and identify strategic threats and gaps. Staff described an interagency work group that drafted report sections and an outreach campaign that included an EngagementHQ page, direct emails to water programs, a webinar and targeted tribal outreach.
Staff said the engagement period lasted about a month and produced substantial activity: staff recorded roughly nine commenters through the EngagementHQ page, four emailed responses, and about 30 people attended the webinar. The tribal point of contact sent the outline to Minnesota tribal environmental committee members and offered to meet directly to discuss tribal perspectives and any traditional ecological knowledge the tribes wished to contribute.
The engagement feedback generally supported the report’s purpose and outline, the presenter said. Many commenters asked for stronger data on groundwater quantity; others urged broader framing on water reuse and circular water concepts, and recommended attention to private wells and large water users. The interagency authors revised a few outline sections (for instance adding discussion of water use for carbon capture, which commenters noted is water-intensive) and otherwise folded detailed suggestions into drafting guidance for section authors.
Schedule and next steps Staff reported they expect an internal draft by June for interagency review and board member comment, with a draft final to be included in the EQB packet in August and a formally submitted report to the legislature by the statutory September 15 deadline. The presenter said staff would continue to consult with tribal partners, to refine data and to prioritize material the legislature and funding authorities need.
Why it matters The report compiles state program activity and monitoring information and aims to help local water authorities, funders and policy makers understand groundwater risks and coordination opportunities. EQB staff said the final product will include both program summaries and identified gaps and opportunities for state coordination and funding.
