DNR Rejects Request For Additional Review Of Potato Farm Expansion
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has rejected a request for additional environmental review of a large potato grower's expansion plans.
Assistant DNR Commissioner Barb Naramore said Friday the agency concluded the review was unnecessary.
Fargo, North Dakota-based R.D. Offutt Co. has two irrigation permit applications pending with the DNR. Opponents including the Toxic Taters Coalition wanted the assessment to make sure the company can prove the projects in the Park Rapids area are environmentally sustainable.
The central Minnesota region of permeable soil, lakes, rivers and woods sits over a large aquifer that's vulnerable to farm chemicals and depletion by irrigation.
Offutt, a supplier to the McDonald's restaurant chain, says the company is pleased with the DNR's decision.
Amy Mondloch of Toxic Taters says her group is considering an appeal.
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