 Governor Mark Dayton has unveiled a revised measure to reduce elevated nitrate levels in water supplies and ensure more Minnesotans have safe drinking water. Dayton and Agriculture Commissioner Dave Fredrickson announced the proposal Tuesday after holding 17 public meetings attended by over 1,500 farmers, landowners and other Minnesotans and receiving over 800 written comments on the initial draft. He would create a system of voluntary and mandatory mitigation practices in areas with high nitrate levels and public water supplies. With adoption of the groundwater protection rule we'll see far reaching positive impacts in our state's water quality while also recognizing the needs of the agricultural community. Nitrates occur naturally but also come from fertilizers seeping into ground and surface waters. Excessive levels can be toxic. More opportunities for public comment begin in May with more hearings slated for this summer. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.