WETLANDS

Although we often think of cattails and lillypads as wetlands, Minnesota Wetlands are defined as any area saturated with water above or just below the ground surface and has plants which have adapted to wet conditions. There are over 9 million acres of wetlands in Minnesota. 

Why wetlands are protected in Minnesota?
Wetlands contribute to water quality, flood control, wild life and fish habitat, education and recreation, and commerical benefits such as farming, sod and minnow harvesting.  There is a national wetland inventory map showing the wetlands identified thus far in the state of Minnesota as prepared by the Fish and Wildlife Service.  You can view the current Minnesota DNR protected wetland maps here:
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/waters/watermgmt_section/pwi/download.html

Wetland Rules/Regulations
A Minnesota property owner needs to be aware that they can not fill, excavate, block or build on wetland without a permit.  **It is always best to check with the DNR first and go over your Minnesota real estate plans and then obtain the proper permit if necessary.

Additional note: Wetlands can be used by obtaining permission and permit of a Wetlands Replacement Program as regulated by the DNR.