(Jackson, MN)--Two agricultural retailers in southwest Minnesota are recipients of a share of more than $1.6 million in state grants designed to expand the use of nitrogen-saving fertilizer technologies on farms across Minnesota.

Crystal Valley Cooperative, which has a facility in Jackson, and Nutrien Ag Solutions, which maintains a facility in Lakefield, are among the five ag retailers selected by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to receive more than $1.6 million through its Nitrogen Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizer Discount program. The investment is designed to support farmers in improving nutrient use efficiency, protecting water resources and advancing climate-smart agricultural practices statewide.

This funding is part of Climate-Smart Food Systems initiative, a $200 million statewide effort designed to empower growers, processors, nonprofits and communities to build a food system that reduces waste and climate pollution while nourishing Minnesotans.