Not so Renewable: Implications for continued peat mining in Minnesota

Abstract

Minnesota is the second largest producer of peat in the United States, second only to Florida and first in the nation for active mining operations. In a 2013 USGS survey, 8 active Minnesota peat plants were responsible for a total of 85,400 metric tons of harvested peat (USGS, 2021). While peat mining has been shown to be detrimental to forest ecosystems and native habitats, current state regulations under statute 93.481 allow contractors to apply for permits on vulnerable land (Peat Mining, 2008). Peat mining has been shown to be nearly irreversible. Harvested bogs have decreased hydrologic conditions that make it difficult for mosses to regrow. On top of that, the process of mining peat can cause chemical leeching into nearby streams, rivers, and lakes causing fish-kills and eutrophication. This policy brief outlines current peat production operations in Minnesota, the threats they create, and three key policy-based solutions to help improve the future of Minnesota’s peat and wetland environments.