1. Winter spreading prohibited. Except pursuant to a variance granted under subsection 2, a person may not spread manure on agricultural fields between December 1st of a calendar year and March 15th of the following calendar year. This prohibition includes the spreading of manure and spraying or irrigation of liquid manure.

2. Variance. Upon application to the commissioner, the commissioner may grant a variance to allow a person to spread manure during the winter due to financial hardship or other circumstances that necessitate the application. In granting a variance, the commissioner shall impose restrictions to minimize potential environmental degradation and prescribe actions to ensure future compliance.

3. Violation. A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of up to $1,000 per day for each day that spreading occurs may be adjudged.