Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton has recently signed a bill (HF 3353) which encourages planting native grasses and forbs (wildflowers) in and around new solar photovoltaic (PV) facilities. Solar projects now not only will provide clean energy, but will also support pollinators like bees, butterflies and other insects, and also a variety of song birds and grassland birds like the Eastern Meadowlarks and Grasshopper Sparrows, which are listed as declining in Minnesota.
Besides the obvious benefits of providing much needed habitat, there will also be the added agricultural benefits of reduced stormwater runoff, added organic matter and increased pollination. What better win-win situation could there be?
Want to know the details about the program, and especially the rebates? Learn more. If you’re a Minnesotan, here’s where to go to apply.
To read about Minnesota’s Value of Solar Policy.
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