08-04-25 - City Council Work Session Agenda

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permits for eagle incidental take and eagle nest take in the Federal Register (89 FR 9920). The new rule is effective as of April 12, 2024. Bald and golden eagles have the potential to occur within the study area. In the event a bald or golden eagle nest is observed within the AUAR study area, all BGEPA protections will be adhered to, including USFWS Incidental Take guidelines. If required, an Incidental Take permit will be applied for from the USFWS. Invasive Species Invasive species are a major cause of biodiversity loss and are considered biological pollutants by the DNR. Invasive species can be moved on construction equipment, landscaping equipment, and other debris. Stormwater Stormwater run-off can cause a number of environmental problems. When stormwater drains off a site, it can carry sediment and pollutants that harm lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands which in turn may harm wildlife. Tree Removal The AUAR study area contains approximately 155 acres of wooded land (see Figure 7). Forests and forested areas provide an important natural resource in Minnesota. Forest clearing and tree removal creates a variety of environmental impacts including habitat destruction, biodiversity impairment, soil erosion, and loss of carbon sinks. Although some tree removal will be necessary, the scope of removal will be limited as much as feasible to support the proposed development. All tree removal will be completed during the winter months (November 1 to March 31) to reduce potential for disease spreading, along with impacts to insects, nesting wildlife, and bat species. If winter tree clearing is not feasible, technical consultation with the USFWS may be required. Tree removal will adhere to the City's tree preservation requirements. The City of Lino Lakes regulates tree preservation and requires builders to submit a tree preservation plan prior to construction. City staff review these plans and attempt to identify and save as many significant trees as feasible.22 Other Sensitive Ecological Resources Two Regionally Significant Ecological Areas (RESAs) are located within the project limits. One RSEA is entirely located within a previously developed area in the southwest portion of the AUAR study area and therefore no adverse impacts are anticipated. The second RSEA is located in a forested area in the east -central portion of the AUAR study area. Ground disturbance in this area could impact the RSEA. If future development in the area proposes impacts near the mapped RESA in the east -central portion of the study area, a survey may be required. If impacts are proposed to the field surveyed resource, avoidance and minimization measures would be discussed with the DNR to identify next steps. No native plant communities are located within or adjacent to the study area. d. Identify measures that will be taken to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects to fish, wildlife, plant communities, and sensitive ecological resources. Federally Listed Species • Monarch Butterfly: The use of native plant species in seed mixes may be used to promote pollinator friendly habitat within the study area. • Rusty Patched Bumble Bee: The use of native plant species, including flowering plants, in seed mixes may be used to promote pollinator friendly habitat within the study area. Additional mitigation measures include the minimization of mowing during the active season, keeping some areas un-mowed, using a high cutting height (ideally 12-16 inches), and incorporating additional wildflower planting/restoration. As 22 Source: Lino Lakes, Minn., Municipal Code 1008.12 530 Lino Lakes Main Street - AUAR 62 July 2025 Page 70 of 617