The work under this RFP has been completed. Please see the final legislative report, Advancing 4R Nutrient Stewardship in Minnesota, posted in the Minnesota Legislative Reference Library.
The MDA requested proposals for a 4R study to explore different models of incentive-based programs with agricultural retailers. The 4R concept incorporates the Right fertilizer source at the Right rate, at the Right time, and in the Right place.
The successful vendor:
- identified existing programs (and program models),
- explored the advantages and disadvantages of each program, and
- made recommendations for strategies for cost-share with agricultural retailers.
Programs reviewed could range from traditional per acre payments, technical assistance and training, 4R certification, to a conservation agronomist position located at an agricultural retail facility. Other state 4R programs were also to be considered.
The MDA sought a concise and well written literature review of 4R programs with agricultural retailers and approaches to cost-share models that the MDA can review and discuss with engaged stakeholders. This review provided a foundation for a report to the legislature that was submitted by the MDA in March 2026. A link to this report is located under Forms + Resources.
Timeline
| Task | Deadline |
| RFP Opened | October 14, 2025 |
| Questions were due | October 27, 2025 |
| Applications were due | November 5, 2025 |
| All work completed by | February 16, 2026 |
The MDA is not aware of a literature review that explores different models of incentive-based programs with agricultural retailers.
The literature review should prioritize programs in Minnesota and the upper Midwest and could also include programs from other regions. The main focus of the review should be Minnesota and adjoining states/regions with similar cropping systems.
There is no specific guidance on the number of programs to be examined under the literature review. The literature review should prioritize programs in Minnesota and the upper Midwest and could also include programs from other regions, especially where lessons learned are applicable to crop retailers in Minnesota.
The feasibility of coordinating with the MAWQCP and other efforts related to the state's Nutrient Reduction Strategy should be considered when developing new strategies for implementation. There may be more than one strategy developed to meet the needs of different types of retailers.
Yes, the MDA has a representative on the Minnesota Nutrient Stewardship Council. The membership list is included on 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification- Minnesota.
There is no minimum or limit on the number of pages, however the MDA would prefer a well written and concise document that includes a summary of information reviewed, analysis, and recommendations. As general guidance the document could be about 30- 40 pages and could include appendixes or other reference materials. Graphics, tables, and other ways to summarize information are encouraged.
Yes, that is acceptable.
There is no limit on the number of programs to be examined under the literature review. To our knowledge there are a modest number of incentive-based programs with agricultural retailers. An estimate would be 15-25 programs, although part of the RFP is to research and inventory programs.
The literature review should prioritize programs in Minnesota and the upper Midwest and could also include programs from other regions. Most of the time should focus on Minnesota and adjoining states.
The MDA is open to the approach of each applicant. The successful vendor will make recommendations for strategies for cost-share with agricultural retailers by building on programs that are reviewed. The MDA would prefer a comprehensive review of fewer programs with an emphasis on those that are most successful or have important components. MDA does not prefer a broad scan of all programs with few details.
Attachments A-C are now posted on the MDA project webpage under Forms + Resources (4R RFP Attachments). They are all required to complete this proposal.
For the Sample Transaction Documents- this refers to sample invoices, along with any other documentation the vendor would typically submit throughout the contract lifecycle. It should be submitted along with the proposal.
See page 6, section 4- Proposal Content.
Please submit the following information:
- Workplan
- Methodology
- Qualifications and Experience
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Cost Details (Attachment C)
- Sample Transaction documents
Also, note on page 7, it states that Attachment A-C must be submitted.
