06-25-08 Additions - Laserfiche WebLink

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Aichinger reported that the Watershed looks at major improvements and outlined the details of the Gervais Mill Project wherein they made major treatment improvements as part of a park development in cooperation with the City. Aichinger noted that the Watershed collected data from Savage Lake last week and plans to collect data on a monthly basis to monitor the water quality of this wetland in the future. At this point, the water quality levels are normal for a water body of this type. Aichinger discussed what pollution is noting that it is harmful to humans and wildlife. Pollution is different from nutrients which do not harm humans and wildlife. Aichinger reported that Savage Lake is not polluted, and the Watershed will monitor the levels of nutrients in the wetland. The Public Works Superintendent reviewed the changes that the City made in its salt /sanding procedures eliminating the use of sand. He noted that further improvements are proposed in that salt will be mixed with a brine solution which will result in less salt having to be applied to streets. The Superintendent also indicated that the City is studying the possibility of purchasing a street sweeper to provide for more frequent street sweeping to collect as much materials off the streets during the year preventing these materials from entering the storm sewer system. Aichinger then discussed the issue of water lily control on West Savage. He noted that water lilies are a protected species, and the DNR has presented a plan that would allow more control measures on West Savage than is normally allowed. Property owners would have to present the DNR with an application for chemical treatment of the water lilies along with a plan from a licensed applicator. The result would be some open water for paddling lanes and dock access. Residents would bear the financial responsibility of the water lily treatment costs. Treatment is usually done in August and the application process is about 60 days. Therefore, it is likely too lake to accomplish for this year. Aichinger reported that there is evidence of fish in the East Savage Lake Basin, but no signs in the West Basin. Aichinger then reviewed shoreline recommendations that shoreline owners could practice to help Savage Lake. These include not mowing turf to the shoreline, no more than 30% of frontage in beach or maintained access, and restoration of shoreline and near the shore lake bed with native vegetation. He noted that there are 50% cost -share grants and technical assistance available through the Watershed. Another issue of concern that Aichinger reviewed related to two known incidents of illicit discharge at Kellogg Middle School. These involved the dumping of field marking paint. The paint was latex and not harmful to plants or animals. The school has been notified by phone and letter to terminate this practice or they will be fined. Aichinger outlined the next steps. These include: • Watershed's continued monitoring of Savage Lake water quality; • Water lily control — to be organized by property owners; 94