The Environmental Quality Board (EQB) oversees the state of Minnesota’s environmental review program, which provides usable information for project proposers, government decision makers, and members of the public about a proposed project’s primary environmental effects. The EQB's environmental review duties are directed by Minnesota Statutes 116D.04. For a brief history of MEPA, see MEPA Turns 50. EQB has the authority to draft rules for the State Environmental Review Program. These rules describe:
- when review is required
- procedures for conducting the review
- criteria that must be used for making decisions on environmental review documents
EQB is responsible for monitoring the effectiveness of the program and responding appropriately to modify and improve the effectiveness.
Environmental review is conducted by a responsible governmental unit (RGU) such as a county, city or state agency. The requirements for environmental review are based on the nature, size, and location of the proposed project, and are described in Minnesota Rules 4410.
Wondering when environmental review is required in Minnesota? Please contact EQB staff with any questions related to the Environmental Review Program at 651-757-2873 or Env.Review@state.mn.us.
In this section:
Guidance for Practitioners and Proposers
Guidance for Public Participation
Environmental Review Projects Interactive Map
Environmental Review Implementation Subcommittee
Environmental Review Master Contract
Guidance
The distribution list of all responsible parties required to receive a copy of environmental review documents.
A guide to aid units of government and others involved in the Minnesota Environmental Review Program