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VLAWMO
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization (VLAWMO)
800 East County Road E
Vadnais Heights, Minnesota 55127
Q Website: www.vlawmo.org
® Email: office@vlawmo.org
t. Phone: (651) 204-6070
lib Fax: (651) 204-6173
n compliance with Minnesota Administrative Rules I Chapter 8410 I Part 8410.0150
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VLA WM 0
Vadnais Lake Area
�p Water Management Organization
SECTION 1
Page 4
WHAT IS VLAWMO?
Introduction, Background
SECTION 2
2018 Highlights
SECTION 3
CHARTING IT OUT
2018 Review, 2019 Goals
SECTION 4
Page 34
LOGISTICS
Administration, Water Standards, Finances
APPENDICES (AVAILABLE ONLINE ATVLAWMO.ORG)
A-1: Legal publication
A-2: Audit
A-3: Full Monitoring Report
SECTION 5
WHO WE ARE
The people who make VLAWMO
Table of Contents
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
WHAT IS
VLAWMO?
Introduction and
background
»
IN THIS SECTION
Letter from the
Administrator
Background
Mission Statement
» Map
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
Letter from the Administrator
Greetings!
VLAWMO turns 36 years old this year and we are busier than ever.
In 2018 we have gained new understanding of our watershed with
the completion of several large studies. We've had to say goodbye
to members of our team who we will miss. Mark Graham, long time
member and Chair of the Technical Commission retired as Vadnais
Heights city engineer. Kris Jensen, Program manager with VLAWMO
for 11 years, moved on to new and different career direction. Kris
helped VLAWMO grow, spearheaded projects and touched many here
in the watershed. We said goodbye to Terry Nyblom of the VLAWMO
Board. We miss those no longer here but wish them well in their new
endeavors.
Among many highlights this year was welcoming Dawn Tanner to
our staff as Program Development Coordinator. She brings a wealth
of experience and continues her connection to the University of
Minnesota which is already proving valuable. Watch for our series of
trail camera photos of wildlife who share our habitat.
The Whitaker Treatment Wetlands were installed in the spring and
the first sampling results are in. Preliminary results are promising!
The treatment cells are working. A full season of monitoring with
the addition of the pathogen study with the U of M will be on tap
this year. More to come. VLAWMO worked with Houston Eng. as they
completed the survey and modeling of Lambert Creek. Maintenance
activities were evaluated as part of that study. our understanding of
the watershed job as ditch authority and the work needed increased.
The 4-year bacteria source monitoring study was completed with the
final report coming out shortly. Preliminary results point to a mostly
avian source of the bacteria in Lambert creek which suffers its highest
counts during wet weather.
An Institutional Community Work Crew cleaned out several stretches
of Lambert Creek, making a big difference. The Birch Lake hot -
spot stormwater filter project kicked off in 2018 with partnership
development and survey work needed to design the filter. Our goal is
to be able to go out for bid this spring to hire a contractor to install
the filter.The Sucker channel restoration was installed in the Vadnais/
Sucker park. Native plantings and multilingual signs are on display
and worth checking out.
"The secret of change is to focus all
of your energy, not on fighting the
old, but on building the new."
-Socrates
The monitoring report and audit are part of this report. Data geeks
— enjoy. Thanks to tremendous partnerships and grants we've been
able to get a great deal done this last year. Two new grants for
2019 will let us work on the Goose Lake drainage area and partner
on a research project using spent lime for in -lake treatment. The
groundwork for those grants was laid in 2018.
This next year, we will continue to focus on our priorities. We
welcome your feedback to this report and hope to see you out and
about in the watershed in 2019.
Nick Voss continues to expand and tune the education and
outreach program. VLAWMO is sponsoring two new Master Water
Stewards who started their training this fall. We look forward to
working with them! Water stewardship was also fostered through
the Growing Green Hearts Connect the Drops program through
several of our area churches. Thank you Heidi for your vision and
energy! Workshops, community events, social media and the work
of the Watershed Action Volunteers (WAV) expand our watershed
community. Watch for VLAWMO again this year. Better yet, join us!
- Stephanie McNamara, VLAWMO Administrator
Brian Corcoran,VLAWMO (Left)
Stephane McNamara, VLAWMO (Center)
Kari Andrist, EIT, Burns & McDonnet (Right)
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SECTION 4
SECTION 5
Background
The Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization (VLAWMO) was formed
in 1983 to protect the Vadnais Lake watershed area in northern Ramsey County
and a small portion of Anoka County. Our organization was formed through a
Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) that was ratified by the 6 cities within VLAWMO
boundaries to comply with the State of Minnesota Metropolitan Surface Water
Management Act (Minnesota statute Chapters 103A - 103H). We are governed
by a 6 member Board of Directors that is represented by an elected official from
each of the communities. VLAWMO covers approximately 25 square miles and
includes portions of Vadnais Heights, White Bear Township, White Bear Lake, Gem
Lake, Lino Lakes, and all of North Oaks.
OUR APPROACH
Managing a watershed area to protect our vital water resources has become
the primary approach across the country. Since water flows across political
boundaries, partnerships among local governments, regional, state and federal
agencies are vital. Because Vadnais Lake is used as the drinking water reservoir
for approximately 400,000 customers in the St. Paul area, VLAWMO frequently
partners with the St. Paul Regional Water Service (SPRWS) on a variety of water
quality monitoring and improvement projects.
OUR CORE PRINCIPLES
To guide our efforts towards achieving our mission.VLAWMO shares responsibility
with its member communities to:
»
»
Protect surface water quality
Protect groundwater quality and recharge areas
Provide public education to promote good stewardship of water resources
Protect and manage wetlands through the Wetland Conservation Act
Collaborate with other public and private organizations
Manage stormwater and control flooding through the use of best management
practices
Require good erosion control practices, both during development and as a
part of good stewardship
Homer Morancey and Leon Garceau, ca.1904
Image courtesy of Vadnais Heights Historical Society
Mission Statement
Our mission at the Vadnais Lake Area Water
Management Organization is to protect and
enhance the water resources
within the watershed.
Activities we work on include: water quality
monitoring, education and outreach projects,
wetland protection, and water quality
enhancement projects.
5
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
"How Watersheds Work" courtesy of Michigan Sea Grant (MICHU-10-728)
0
What is a Watershed?
A watershed is all the land area that drains to a specific water
resource, such as a lake or stream. Watersheds range in size from
a few square miles to an entire continent. As rain and melting
snow run downhill, they carry sediment and other materials into
streams, lakes, and groundwater.
The land use activities within a watershed have a direct impact on
the quality of the water. 96% of the land use within VLAWMO is
urban with a small area of agricultural land in the northern end.
Watersheds provide water for drinking, irrigation, streams, and
activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating. In addition,
watersheds also provide food and shelter for wildlife.
OUR GOALS
Accomplishing our mission requires a focus on common goals. The VLAWMO
will pursue the following goals as a way of proceeding towards the mission.
Protect and improve surface water quality
» Protect and enhance wetland resources
» Protect and improve waters for wildlife habitat and recreation
»
Enhance public participation and stewardship
Make and enable informed decisions
Optimize public resources
Protect and improve groundwater quality and quantity
» Analyze and use alternative funding sources
Improve communications
Prevent flooding
WHAT IS A WMO?
A watershed management organization (WMO) is a local government agency
charged with protecting water resources within its boundaries. All land
within the metropolitan area must be within an organized watershed (State
Statutes Chapters 103B & 103D). Watershed Districts are governed by County
Commissioners while Water Management Organizations are governed on the
municipal level.
WHO PAYS FOR IT?
The Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization is funded by a
stormwater utility fee. Property owners within the watershed are charged a
fee to manage the stormwater that runs off their property. This public utility
fee is determined by land use (eg. residential, commercial etc), and is included
on Ramsey County property tax statements. The authority to charge and
collect a stormwater utility fee is governed by Minnesota State Law.
6
SECTION 1
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
Water Resources ivt the Watershed
LAKES
There are 16 lakes within VLAWMO. East Goose Lake, West Goose Lake
and Birch Lake are located in White Bear Lake. Tamarack Lake, Fish
Lake and Ox Lake are Located in White Bear Township. Gem Lake is
located in Gem Lake. Amelia Lake is Located in Lino Lakes. Pleasant
Lake, Charley Lake, Deep Lake, Black Lake,Wilkinson Lake and Gilfillan
Lake are located in North Oaks. Sucker Lake, East and West Vadnais
Lake are located in Vadnais Heights.
East Vadnais Lake is the drinking water reservoir for the City of Saint
Paul. East Vadnais Lake is supplied with water pumped from the
Mississippi River in Fridley that flows via underground aqueduct into
Lake Charley in North Oaks. The water then flows east to Pleasant
Lake, then south into Sucker Lake, and then into East Vadnais.
LAMBERT CREEK
VLAWMO has jurisdiction over Lambert Creek, 4.5 miles of creek and
wetland that runs from West Goose Lake and eventually empties into
East Vadnais Lake.
WETLANDS
There are over 500 wetlands within VLAWMO. Tamarack, Grass,
Wilkinson, Rice, Lambert, and Sobota Slough are a few of the largest
tracts of wetlands in the watershed.
GROUNDWATER
Groundwater beneath the land surface of the Watershed flows to
local lakes,the Mississippi River, and aquifers including the Prairie du
Chien aquifer.
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rAor
(fir&.t
NORTH
OAKS
VADNAIS
HEIGHTS
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WHITE BEAR
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7
2018 ANNUAL REPO'
THE YEAR IN
REVIEW:
2016 activities,
projects, and
improvements
»
»
IN THIS SECTION
What problems does
the watershed face?
Project Updates
In the Community
Education Programs
Cost Share Programs
Community Blue
City Engagement
Outreach
Volunteer Activities
Be part of the
solution!
Water Monitoring
Lambert Creek
Maintenance
What problems does the watershed face?
IMPAIRED LAKES:
Several lakes in the watershed
are on the State Impaired List
for high nutrients. These
include Wilkinson, Goose,
West Vadnais, and Gilfillan
Lakes, as well as Lambert
Creek. Lambert Creek has
the additional impairment
of high E. coli bacteria levels.
Our studies show that the E.
coli is coming from canine and
avian sources.
Improving these waterbodies requires
cooperation between cities, land
owners, businesses, and the watershed
organization. Each home, park, and
property connects to a waterbody through
stormwater runoff and is part of the puzzle.
SEDIMENTATION:
Erosion and sedimentation
is a natural process that can
be accelerated with human
activity. Bare soil, degraded
slopes, and poorly protected
drainage routes are common
sources of excess sediment.
Small amounts of sediment
accumulate in stormwater
runoff to create a big issue for
lakes and streams. Sediment
clogs wetlands, culverts, and
drainage ditches, suffocates
aquatic plants that stabilize
lake beds, and carries excess
nutrients with it.
8 Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
RISING CHLORIDE LEVELS:
Road salt has a permanent impact on fresh water,with no
economical way to remove it once it's in the water. When
it washed into lakes and wetlands, the chlorides in salt
interrupt the natural nutrient cycling that fish depend on.
While some water bodies flush salt downstream to
another watershed, some
lakes in VLAWMO are
accumulating salt.
All of VLAWMO's
Lakes are
currently below
state standards,
but VLAWMO is
monitoring this
closely to track
changes and guide
management.
DEGRADED WETLANDS
Many shorelines on lakes
and ponds contain turf
grass up to the water's
edge. This causes
problems for water
quality and degrades
nature's ability to protect
water resources.
Sometimes wetlands are altered or
filled in illegally. Even small infringements on wetland
boundaries contribute to a state-wide struggle in
preventing the gradual loss and degradation of wetlands
and groundwater recharge.
See page 17
for how to be part of the solution.
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
Project Updates
WHITAKER TREATMENT WETLANDS
Grant Funds: MN Legislative -Citizen Commission on Minnesota
Resources (LCCMR) Location: White Bear Township
Completion: Spring, 2018
Cost: $500,000
The Whitaker Treatment Wetlands are an innovative research
project in treating stormwater runoff. VLAWMO is excited to partner
with the University of Minnesota, White Bear Township, and Barr
Engineering for this project. VLAWMO is thankful to receive a grant
from LCCMR for this project.
The structure of three treatment 'wetlands' are fed water from
stormwater runoff.This runoff is the start of Lambert Creek, which
flows in to Vadnais Lake, and is impaired for E. coli bacteria and high
nutrients. The polluted stormwater is pumped through the three
wetland cells that consist of different engineered soils called sorptive
material. The water is tested and directed into groundwater and
Lambert Creek.
Water monitoring will help us understand which soil mixture is
most effective at treating stormwater runoff and removing bacteria.
Findings for this project could advance stormwater treatment
across the country.The design was done by Burns and McDonnell
Engineering. See page 20 for more on the project's findings so far.
Three wetlailo cells are filled with sorptive material .
VLAWMO
created
educational signage along the
channel. Description of the project
and how it helps fishing is provided
in English, Spanish, and Hmong.
SUCKER CHANNEL RESTORATION
Capital Improvement Project
Location: Vadnais Heights
Completion: May, 2018
Amount Awarded: $20,000
The Sucker Channel restoration
is a collaboration between
Ramsey County Parks, Ramsey
Conservation District (RCD),
VLAWMO, and the Saint Paul
Regional
Water Services (SPRWS).
This popular park and fishing
destination was experiencing heavy
erosion between Pleasant Lake and
Sucker Lake, harming water quality in Sucker
Lake and creating inefficiencies in the water
filtration process.To improve aquatic habitat
and protect this source of drinking water, the
shoreline was stabilized with rip -rap, coir
logs, and new vegetative cover.
Planting was completed in partnership
with Prairie Restorations, Inc. in Summer, 2018.
9
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
bet the Cowtwtuvuty
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Staffing a booth at local events is a fun and valuable way to connect with community members. At
events VLAWMO has the opportunity to share its work, provide brochures, give away prizes such
as rainbarrels or tote bags, and answer questions for event goers. This year, community events
served a dual purpose by also providing a place to conduct community surveys for the Education
and Outreach Plan (p. 11).
VLAWMO booths were presented at the following 2018 events:
»
VHDEC Business Appreciation Event - March
Vadnais Heights Community Business Expo -April
Saint Paul Regional. Water Service Open House - May
2018 AquaFair,White Bear Lake Schools -June
North Oaks Plant Sale - May
» WBL Marketfest: Conservation and Environment Day -July
Vadnais Heights Ice Cream Social -June
White Bear Township Celebration September
White Bear Lake Volunteer Fair - October
i
91
unity Business Ex
10
Vadnais Heights Ice Cream Social
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
Education. Progra1 MS
SCHOOL PROGRAMS
VLAWMO staff provides water -focused activities for elementary, middle,
and high schools in the watershed. If a school has a stormwater best
management practice such as a raingarden on the grounds, this often
becomes a living, outdoor classroom. Students learn how to maintain the
raingarden,observe nature,work with topographic maps, and much more.
Activity examples
and education tools
for free rental can
be found on the
VLAWMO website at
vlawmo.org/students.
Left: Students at
Lakeaires Elementary
gather with Drippy
the VLAWMO mascot
after hearing a story
about local wildlife
and wetlands.
Right: Students at
Vadnais Heights
Elementary explore
the schoolyard with
bottles of water to
track the direction
of stormwater
runoff and assess
ground absorption.
PUBLIC WORKSHOPS
VLAWMO offers a raingarden workshop each Spring. Participants in the
raingarden workshop learned about the watershed, stormwater runoff, how
to build and maintain a raingarden, and got a head start with tools to select
plants and get funding assistance.
The native plant workshop is the most popular workshop for the second
year in a row. This workshop dug deep into plant identification, planting
plans and strategies, and how perennial vegetation is a valuable asset for
the watershed.
Right: Raingarden
workshop
participants
learn about the
watershed, how
raingardens work,
and calculated
runoff on their own
properties.
11
Left: Shoreline Restoration on Birch Lake
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization Shoreline Restoration on a stormpond in Vadnais Heights
Cost Share Prrog ra vvms
VLAWMO's Cost Share Program provides assistance to public and private
landowners for implementing stormwater improvement projects.
Qualifying projects support one or more of the following:
» Prevention of flooding or mitigation of drought
»
Water quality improvement or increase in watershed storage capacity
Preservation, protection, and restoration of native plant and wildlife
communities, especially along lakes, streams, and wetlands
Protection and preservation of groundwater quality and quantity
Funds vary by year and are granted on a first come first serve basis. Once
the annual amount is depleted, applicants are advised to re -apply the
following year.
There are 3 cost share programs:
»
Rainbarrel
Landscape Level 1
Landscape Level 2
Cost Share Grants by Year: Landscape & Rainbarrel
35
23
3
22
14
2010 2011 2021 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
LANDSCAPE COST SHARE PROGRAMS
Landscape Level 1: Reimburses property owners 75% of the costs associated
with implementing approved water quality improvement projects. The
maximum reimbursement is $2,000 for this program. Typical projects
include raingardens, shoreline restoration, native habitat restoration, or
pervious paver installation.
Landscape Level 2: Projects with a Larger total cost (minimum total cost of
$5,000) and will reimburse 75% of the costs, up to $20,000. The program
was updated in 2015 to allow funding to be more available for applicants.
VLAWMO uses Minimal Impact Design Standards (MIDS) to measure the
impact of landscape improvement projects. The impact of 2018's projects
are estimated to improve water quality by:
• Reducing phosphorus by .307 lbs per year.
• Reducing suspended solids by 56 lbs per year.
• Infiltrating 123,172 gallons of water into groundwater annually.
12
A 2018 raingarden install in Vadnais Heights
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
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SECTION 5
LANDSCAPE LEVEL 1 SUMMARY
For Landscape level one, 17 grants were awarded funding for
a total of $15,481. Funding for the year was not completely
utilized.
Of the 17 level one grants, 3 were native plant restorations
totaling 10,775 ft2. 2 were raingardens totaling 5,282 ft2.
1 was a shoreline restoration totaling 4,500 ft2.
2 were pervious pavement or infiltration driveways totaling
15,950 ft2.
2017 project square footage:
45,596 ft2
2018 project square footage:
56,507 ft2
LANDSCAPE LEVEL 2 SUMMARY
1 landscape level two grant was awarded for a total of
$7,700. The project was a native plant restoration in Vadnais
Heights, covering 20,000 sq ft.
RAINBARREL COST SHARE PROGRAM
The Rainbarrel Program reimburses residents 50% of the cost towards the purchase
of up to 2 rainbarrels.Applicants are limited to $125 maximum reimbursement per
rainbarrel.
RAINBARREL SUMMARY
In 2018 VLAWMO awarded grants for 9 rainbarrels,for a total of $610.23.
Atotal of 92 rainbarrel grants have been awarded since the program began in 2007.
Each time the barrels are filled, up to 4,850 gallons of rain water is available for
reuse. If each rainbarrel gets filled 10 times throughout the year from various storm
events, up to 46,000 gallons of water is available for reuse. 5 additional rainbarrels
were awarded in 2018 as prizes for public events.
13
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
Community Blue
DESCRIPTION
Community Blue is an education focused grant program for community groups
within VLAWMO. It funds educational events and resources as they relate to
water resources,and provides support in making existing stormwater,wetland,
or watershed improvements into educational took with public exposure.
PROJECTS IN THE WORKS
Connect the Drops
Growing Green Hearts, an organization specializing in watershed education
in public school and religious settings, has networked between several local
congregations for this project. Following a multi -congregation kick-off
event, Growing Green Hearts will lead youth and community members in
watershed education sessions and service projects. Service project examples
include outreach and education for smart salting, building raingardens and
native plantings, cleaning and adopting stormdrains, and more. Partners
include Frassatti academy, Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, and Peace
United Methodist.
Clean Stormdrians
Residents in the John Mitchell Neighborhood of Vadnais Heights are taking
action to dean out their stormdrains and promote watershed best practices
such as water -friendly yard care. Project is led by Ceci and Ed Shaplan, who
serve as Master Water Stewards for VLAWMO.
Picture Posts at Birch Lake
Working with the Birch Lake Improvement District (BLID),two picture posts
are to be placed near Birch Lake. One will be on the shoreline, the other in
the Rotary Park Wetland just to the north of Birch Lake. Both posts will be a
way to monitor changes in the water quality, shoreline condition,vegetation,
and other unforeseen surprises that may be missed without attention.
City Engagement
SMART SALTING LEVEL 2
A Smart Salting level workshop was hosted in April, 2018 in partnership
with Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District and Fortin Consulting.
The level 2 workshop focused on the Winter Maintenance Assessment Tool
(WMAt).This tool allows public works and maintenance staff to track progress
in salt use and improvements, Learn strategies from the tool interface itself,
create charts for presentations,assess costs, outline future goals,and engage
in conversation with staff across MN for discussion and shared learning.
TURF MAINTENANCE WORKSHOP
VLAWMO hosted Fortin Consulting to hold a turf maintenance workshop
in September, 2018. The workshop covered best practices for fertilizer
application, mowing, watering, and more. 19 participants attended,
representing county, city, and school district staff.
14
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
Outreach
ADOPT -A -DRAIN
The adopt -a -drain program is a convenient and practical way to make a
positive impact on a nearby water body. Residents, community groups, or
businesses commit to checking their stormdrain 3 times/month, with a rate
of cleaning that is up
RAINBARREL WINNERS
The tradition continues at VLAWMO's Spring and Summer events. Fair goers
at MarketFest, Taste of Vadnais, the North Oaks Community Fair, and Vadnais
Heights Farmer's Market had the opportunity to enter to win a free rainbarrel
upon signing up to our seasonal email list. 6 rainbarrels were given away,
allowing VLAWMO's audience to grow while capturing and re -using stormwater
runoff at the same time. We guarantee our email lists are spam free.
PICTURE POSTS
In October, 2018 VLAWMO launched a picture post project in North
Oaks. One post is located at the inlet of Deep and Pleasant Lake, the
other at Charley and Pleasant Lake.
These posts allows volunteers to
easily and consistently and regularly
photograph the Pleasant Lake
shoreline and the nearby wetland
surrounding the Deep Lake channel.
Photos are uploaded to the Picture
Post website and will be a valuable
tool for home owners, North Oaks,
the Saint Paul Regional Water
Service, and VLAWMO to better
understand the subtle trends and
changes that occur on the shoreline
and in the water. Examples include
tracking ice -out, algae blooms,
erosion, shoreline trampling,
vegetation changes, and more.
MEDIA
Our collection of videos and media is a tool
for residents and cities to glimpse the work of
the watershed. Our YouTube channel contains
education videos, recorded presentations, event
summaries, and more!
Videos produced in 2018 include:
• Raingarden Refresher Course
• Whitaker Treatment Wetlands: How does
it work?
• Who Lives in the Watershed: Remote
Cameras at Tamarack Nature Center
You
Tube
Visit our blog found
at VLAWMO.org
Follow our social media
with the handle:
"@VLAWMO"
in
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2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
Volunteer Activities
Volunteers bring VLAWMO's work into the community.Volunteers help with water
sampling, booth staffing, community outreach, advising VLAWMO on public
interests and priorities, and leading by example.
CITIZEN LAKE MONITORING PROGRAM (CLMP)
VLAWMO would like to thank the following volunteers for their role in the Citizen
Lake Monitoring Program, collecting water samples bi-weekly from May through
September. The volunteers for 2017 were: Jim Grisim (Birch Lake), Justine Rowe
(East Vadnais Lake) and Shannon Stewart (Tamarack Lake).
WATERSHED ACTION VOLUNTEERS (WAV)
VLAWMO is grateful for the volunteers who have supported the Watershed Action
Volunteers in 2018:AFSA High School,St. Mary's of the Lake youth group, Rika and
Rita Pennington, Bob Larsen, Suzanne Ryan, Diane Gorder, Connie Winterhalter,
and Gina Schmidt.
2018 volunteer activities included:
Staffing booths at community events
Stormdrain stenciling and cleaning while promoting adopt -a -drain
»
Raingarden maintenance
» Assisting with education efforts
WATERSHED ACTION VOLUNTEERS
AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES (AIS)
Partnering with Ramsey Soil and Water Conservation Division (RSWCD),
VLAWMO is gathering volunteers to serve as citizen AIS detectors.While
the RSWCD provides training and records of aquatic invasives across
the county, VLAWMO helps plug volunteers into the effort. Together
we're able
MASTER WATER STEWARDS
VLAWMO joined the Master Water Stewards program in 2018. This
program is coordinated through the nonprofit Freshwater, who trains
and prepares volunteers to be citizen champions in projects and
outreach.After promoting the program and searching for two champion
volunteers, VLAWMO is excited to host two Master Water Stewards
in 2019 , with close collaboration with stewards from neighboring
watersheds.
16
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
Be a part of the solution!
How to Help improve the watershed from Home: Continued From page s
SECTION 2
WINTER:
Practice Smart Salting:
Shovel and scrape early on.
Spread salt with 2-3" between crystals.
Don't over salt: 1/2 - 2/3 of a
coffee mug holds enough salt
for one parking space.
Practice spot -treatment, apply
salt, sand, or grit in cold temps
and as a salt alternative.
Sweep up extra salt, sand, and
grit when pavement is dry.
SPRING & SUMMER:
Adopt a stormdrain to promote
local water quality.
Water with care:
Water lawn in the morning and
evening to reduce evaporation.
Use sprinklers that
keep water low to the ground.
Direct sprinklers away from pavement.
Mow with care:
Mow grass at 3" to hold moisture and reduce runoff.
Keep grass clippings out of the street.
Leave grass clippings on lawn for free fertilizer, or fertilize sparingly.
FALL:
Core aerate the lawn to increase root depth, durability, and water
absorption.
Continue adopt-a-drian efforts, cleaning out leaves and debris from
stormdrains and the curb.
Mulch leaves with a
mower for free fertilizer.
If you must use weed
killer, do so now
to make a bigger impact
and use less compared
to Spring/Summer.
ALL YEAR LONG:
Prevent illegal dumping in stormdrains:"only rain down the drain".
Plan a native planting or raingarden on your
property. Plan with VLAWMO to make planting
and installation easy and effective.
Restore shorelines with deep-rooted native
vegetation.
Hire contractors certified in winter
maintenance or turf maintenance
best practices.
Respect wetland boundaries. Each wetland
plays a role in the watershed no matter how
small.
Photos: Clean Water MN
17
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
Water Monitoring
INTRODUCTION
VLAWMO's regular water quality monitoring program includes nutrient sampling
on 6 Lambert Creek sites, and nutrient sampling on 12 of the Vadnais Lake
Area Watershed lakes. Nutrients and pollutants sampled for data include: total
phosphorus, chlorophyll -A, soluble -reactive phosphorus, iron, total nitrogen, nitrate,
total suspended solids, and chloride. VLAWMO's specialty monitoring programs, such
as E coli and winter chloride sampling, will continue. See the 2016 Annual Report
Summary for a map of monitoring locations.
Part of VLAWMO's water monitoring includes rainfall measurements because rainfall
and the timing of rainfall are factors that influence water quality.Typically, more
precipitation implies more water runoff, which carries more contaminants from the
land surface into water bodies.
Lakes are summarized with a grading system called the Trophic State Index
(TSI).This system was developed in the 1970's to calculate average phosphorus,
chlorophyll -A, and Secchi disk readings, and generate a summarizing number. Letter
grades are developed from the Metropolitan Council matrix for annual. averages.
VLAWMO Monitoring Locations
2018 Monitoring
creek sampling
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Monitoring results are used to guide local water policies and
management, and to help prioritize and locate future water
quality projects such as raingardens, underground retention
basins, and shoreline restorations. The full 2018 monitoring
report is available at: vlawmo.org/resources
VLAWMO staff monitoring Lambert Creek
18
WATER MONITORING HIGHLIGHTS
Gem Lake: Gem Lake's chemistry has improved, coinciding with a 2014 Highway 61 swale reconstruction. The improved swale may be capturing
nutrients and sediment that drained into the lake from a large parking lot. After 10 years on the State Impaired List and continued monitoring, the Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) officially de -listed Gem Lake in 2018. This success story demonstrates that lake improvements are possible!
Gilfillan Lake: One of VLAWMO's lakes on the State Impaired List, Gilfillan data show a nutrient increase over 5 years. An augmentation system was
installed in 2012 to raise the water level, and also provided dilution that improved the water quality. Gilfillan and its subwatershed is now maintaining its water
level on its own, as no augmentation has occurred since the installation.
Goose Lake (East & West): Goose Lake has had high nutrient levels since VLAWMO began monitoring in 1997 (East) and 2006 (West). A 2015
bullhead removal (pictured right) made minor impacts to lake health, serving to reduce internal loading, which is one of several factors contributing to the
lake's impairment. A 2017 fish survey indicated that the bullhead population is under control. Wood Lake/Oak Knoll Pond is a neighborhood pond that
feeds into Goose Lake, is the focus of a spent lime treatment study in 2019. Follow the study and connect to public engagement meetings at vlawmo.org.
Wilkinson Lake: Wilkinson's phosphorus levels are above State standards but its Chlorophyll A level is below. Studies have detected high
nutrient levels draining into Wilkinson from both North and South inlets. Because Wilkinson functions more like a wetland than a lake, it continually
cycles nutrients through the water column. Its water quality may be especially sensitive to inputs from the surrounding watershed (sediment,
agricultural runoff, grass clippings, etc). After 3 seasons of additional source monitoring, VLAWMO will use this data in a project identification and
feasibility study. Visit vlawmo.org/waterbodies/lake-wilkinson for the full report. Reducing upland nutrient and sediment loads in the future are
likely to promote the health of Wilkinson and
downstream Deep Lake.
Tamarack Lake: A floating island wetland was installed at Tamarack
in 2015 to reduce lake nutrient levels. Lake data indicates that the island was
undersized, which helps inform future experimental treatments. Tamarack is
currently on the State Impaired List.
Chloride Levels: VLAWMO has been sampling chloride for 9 years with no
significant changes detected. Birch Lake and East Goose have the highest
chloride content and appear to be showing upward trends over the last
few years. This is likely due to their close proximity to major roads. All of
the lakes are below the current State standard of 230 mg/L, with Black
Lake having the lowest chloride level.
Find the complete 2018 Monitoring Report
and a summary at VLAWMO.org/resources/reports
C10
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19
MONITORING SUMMARY: CONTINUED
WHITAKER TREATMENT WETLANDS
The Whitaker Treatment Wetlands is a research project investigating new ways to
treat stormwater runoff. Completed in 2018, data will be collected until 2020 to
analyze how various materials treat contaminants such as phosphorus, nitrogen,
and E. coli bacteria.
Samples are gathered before (pre) and after (post) storm events and at various
points within the 3 treatment cells. Each cell consists of layers of gravel, sand,
and a unique mix of specialized sorptive media (concrete, peat, clay, tire crumb).
Sampling is staggered over a period of days as water moves through the system. At
right, E. coli levels are lower after water travels through the cells. The lowest level
is seen in cell 3. These results may indicate that the composition in cell 3 is the
most beneficial for removing E. coil bacteria. Research will continue until 2020 to
replicate and investigate these results, making recommendations for future water
treatment projects.
10,000
1,000
E
0 100'
z
10
0
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ui
0
Whitaker Treatment Wetlands E. coli
Samples Surrounding a Storm Event:
9/4/2018
Li I I II
Pre Gravel Sand Sorptive Post
Media
Material
■ Cell 1
■ Cell 2
■Cell 3
VLAWMO staff monitoring
LAKE GRADES West Goose Lake.
VLAWMO uses the Trophic Status Indicator to summarize lake health. The trophic
status of a lake pertains to its nutrient levels, which helps assess lake health. TSI
is calculated from monitoring data and converted into a lake grade for familiarity.
VLAWMO Lake Grades:
Lake
2017
2018 TSI Status
Amelia
B+
B+
Eutrophic
Birch
B+
A-
Mesotrophic
Black
A-
B+
Mesotrophic
Charlie
C+
C
Eutrophic
Deep
C
C-
Eutrophic
Gem
B
B
Mesotrophic
Gilfillan
C
C
Eutrophic
E. Goose
D
D-
Eutrophic - Hypereutrophic
Eutrophic - Hypereutrophic
W. Goose
D
D-
Tamarack
D-
D-
Eutrophic - Hypereutrophic
West Vadnais
D-
D-
Eutrophic - Hypereutrophic
Wilkinson
C
C
Eutrophic
20
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
LAMBERT CREEK STUDIES
VLAWMO worked with Houston Engineering in 2018 to create a comprehensive
survey of Lambert Creek.
The survey used historical documentation with hydrology & hydraulic
modeling (H & H) to assess the main creek in addition to its branch
ditches. Additionally, it sought to identify areas that may require repair or
maintenance to return the system to its as originally constructed condition.
If the original condition isn't possible,the model will aid in assessing which
improved conditions are feasible. This concept of the current alignment
of Ditch 14 and its branch ditches, based on past improvements, projects,
and development is termed as As Constructed and Subsequently Improved
Condition (ACSIC). The survey and model now serve as valuable tools for
planning and decision making for Lambert Creek. Assets include:
• A survey and documentation of elevations for baseline reference.
• A guide for effectively re-establishing the ditch system.
• Documentation of 2,10, and 100 year flood elevations.
• An XP SWMM model that enables analysis of improvements, providing
guidance for cost-effective actions.
• Repair options that benefit future planning and decision making for
reasonable function of the Ditch.
LAMBERT CREEK MAINTENANCE
In Spring of 2019 VLAWMO worked with the Institutional community Work
Crew (ICWC) to remove tree and woody debris from a two mile stretch of
Lambert Creek. Maintenance was needed to improve flow and efficiency of
the creek.
ICWC clearing debris in Lambert Creek
VLAWMO staff documented creek levels at the Kohler road flume after
a 3.75" rain event. Creek levels at the flume demonstrated a functioning
drainage system, returning to average 3 days after the high water levels.
The gauge at the flume indicates a 1' drop within the specified time frame.
21
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Are-1 Water Management Organization
CHARTING
IT OU
Review of 2018
Goals, 2019
Projections
IN THIS SECTION
2018 Work Plan
Review
2019 Work Plan
VLAWMO CORE ACTIVITIES
Regulatory
Administration
VLAWMO
Core
Activities
Capital
Projects &
Programs
Lducatlon
& Outreach
2019 WORK PLAN PROJECTION
VLAWMO will put the 2017-2026 comprehensive water plan
into action. The water plan structure (above) informs issues
that will be addressed, goals that VLAWMO will set, and the
strategies employed to reach those goals. See the 2017-2026
comprehensive water plan on our website under About >
Why Water Matters for a more in-depth look at these plan
components.
The tables for the 2018 review and 2019 work plan are color
coded according to the VLAWMO core activities diagram
(above). Each core activity also has a number, conveyed in the
2017-2026 comprehensive water plan.
WATER PLAN STRUCTURE
Watershed Plan
VLAWMO Mission
Statement
Priority Issues
Measurable
Goals
Strategies
ACRONYMS:
WLA: Waste Load Allocation
DNR: Department of Natural Resources
MS4: Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System
NEMO: Northland
SWPPP: Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics
BMP's: Best Management Practices
CIP's: Capital Improvement Project
LGU: Local Governing Unit
LCCMR: Legislative Citizen Commission
Resources
AIS: Aquatic Invasive Species
TMDL: Total Maximum Daily Load
TEP: Technical Evaluation Panel
BOD: Board of Directors
BMP: Best Management Practice
treatment)
RFP: Request for Proposal
TEC: Technical Commission
on
Minnesota
(pertaining
to stormwater
22
SECTION 1
SECTION 3
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
• CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
Project Name
Sucker Lake Channel
Restoration
Whitaker Treatment
Wetlands
Goose & Wilkinson
Lakes Project
Development
Birch Lake:
4th and Otter Road
Project Development
Review of 2.018 Work Plan
Description
Goal:
Going into 2018
Goal:
2018 Result
This project is a joint effort in partnership with Ramsey County
Parks, Ramsey Conservation District, and the St. Paul Regional
Water Service. When completed it will restore approximately 700
linear feet of shoreline that has eroded. Includes fishing access
locations to support the current use of the site.
A stormwater treatment project partnering with the U of MN
with funding through LCCMR grant funding. Stormwater from
Whitaker Pond is routed to wetland treatment cells then infiltrated
into shallow groundwater. The study will determine which of
three sorption materials is most effective at filtering pollutants,
contaminants, and bacteria.
VLAWMO worked with consultants in 2018 to assess all data
and information collected on these water bodies, engage with
stakeholders (see page 14), and determine the next best steps
for nutrient reduction. Out of the potential projects that were
discovered, work is now directed to selecting a project and its
methods. Options include spent Lime or alum treatment.
VLAWMO will work with a consultant to assess the options for
BMPs at the 4th and Otter Lake Rd site. Conceptual designs of best
possible projects will be completed and VLAWMO will work with
its partners for a 2018 installation.
Complete final
planting and install
educational signs.
Finalize installation
and monitoring plan.
Begin monitoring year
one of two.
Continue assessment
for BMP's, research
grant opportunities
and apply.
Define BMP options.
Capture stormwater
from residential area
and reduce incoming
nutrients. Install
successful project.
Planting complete, educational
signs installed.
Project installed and year one
of monitoring complete.
Goose subwatershed
assessment supported by
Watershed Based Funding
grant. Further monitoring
completed in Wilkinson
subwatershed.
Project design complete.
Operations and maintenance
agreement in progress with
partners.
23
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
H
H
V
W
ce
0
V
6 GRANT PROGRAMS
Project Name
Landscape Level 1
Landscape Level 2
Description
Establish relationships and provide grants to property owners
within the watershed to install water quality enhancement projects.
Landscape Level 2 Cost Share Program is aimed at assisting
landowners with implementing larger BMP projects within
the watershed. Preference for projects that have high visibility,
educational value and/or local citizen support.
it PUBLIC EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
Project Name
Watershed
Action
Volunteers
(WAV)
Workshops
Description
WAV is a group of volunteer residents that assist with idea development
and implementation of outreach opportunities and projects.
A new stormdrain stenciling program will allow volunteer groups such
as scouts and youth groups to protect our water through stenciling
service projects. A new "Adopt -a -Drain" program educates residents
and businesses the importance of adopting a stormdrain. WAV also
strives to encourage awareness and interaction with local water
resources using phenology and basic environmental monitoring.
Hold raingarden workshops for residents covering watershed
processes, raingarden function, and installation how-to. Introduce
VLAWMO's cost -share program to participants.
In addition to a raingarden workshop, add a native plant workshop
based on a survey of past workshop attendees.
Review of 2O1-8 Work Plan
Goal:
Going into 2018
Goal:
2018 Result
Install at least 10 projects
Achieve .25 lbs of phosphorus/year
removed from local waters.
Install at least 1 project.
Achieve .25 lbs of phosphorus/year
removed from local waters.
Volunteer participation to grow 10%
WAV email list to reach 100 readers
8 projects installed.
.307 lbs of annual
phosphorus removed
from local waters.
1 20k ft2 native
planting extending
into 2019.
Phosphorus
reduction N/A.
Host at least 3 stenciling service projects,
adopt 12 stormdrains, install 1 picture post.
Establish a volunteer program with 2 dedicated
volunteers with specific role descriptions.
Achieve at least 25 raingarden/native plant
workshop participants.
At least 3 residents who attend a raingarden
or native plant workshop will pursue a cost -
share grant.
Goals:
2018 Result
100 readers achieved
2 stenciling service
projects complete.
26 drains adopted,
3 pictures posts
installed.
1 dedicated volunteer
2 Master Water
Stewards
45 workshop
participants.
1 resident from
workshop pursued a
grant.
24
SECTION 1
SECTION 3
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
it PUBLIC EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
Project Name
Community
Events
Commun-
ications
K-12
Citizen
Science
Staff a VLAWMO booth at various community events. Develop information
and engagement components for community events. A rainbarrel giveaway
contest is used to attract event goers,and number of entries signify how many
people stopped by the VLAWMO booth.
Prizes such as tote bags, boating kits, and craft soda will be provided for free
to guests who engage the booth.
Create and update material and publications for social media, website,
seasonal Enews, and local publications. Make all sections of the website
active. Create and maintain communications to promote public awareness for
responsible use of our water resources.
Develop youth involvement opportunities and programs that improve/
benefit VLAWMO's goals and activities: Macroinvertabrates field days, STEM
lessons. Reach multiple age demographics through school involvement.
Assist schools in establishing and maintaining stormwater best management
practices (BMP's).
Picture posts will be a new initiative for VLAWMO to explore phenology (ice -
out, algae blooms) and AIS monitoring, with support from volunteers.
Citizens assist lake monitoring each year through the Citizen Lake Monitoring
Program (CLMP).
Review of 2018 Work Plan
Goals:
Going into 2018
Attend at least 5 community events annually.
Receive 50 entries total in rainbarrel
giveaways.
Hold a press conference/public opening for
Whitaker Treatment Wetlands
Appear in at least 6 news articles in local
papers.
Appear in at least 3 City/Township
newsletters with opportunities and
education.
Reach 200 visits on website.
Reach 10% of the school age population
in 2018 through education and BMP
maintenance.
At least 5 adults will contact VLAWMO about
cost -share grants as a result of hearing about
their student's school activities.
Picture posts will be a new initiative for
VLAWMO to explore phenology (ice -out, algae
blooms) and AIS monitoring, with support
from volunteers.
Citizens assist lake monitoring each year
through the Citizen Lake Monitoring Program
(CLMP).
9 events attended.
70 rainbarrel entries
received.
Press conference for
Whitaker complete.
13 City/township
newsletters.
2 City Newsletters.
7,566 website visits.
3% of school age
population reached.
0 adults contacted
VLAWMO.
3 Picture Posts
installed.
3 lakes collected
by volunteers for
monitoring season.
25
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
W
tn
co
4 MONITORING PROGRAM
Project Name
E. coli Sourcing
Lambert Creek
monitoring program
Lake Level Program
Lake Surveys
Stormwater Monitoring
Description
Chloride Measurements
Lake
Monitoring Program
Dry and wet weather monitoring of the Goose, Oakmede, County
Road F, and Whitaker sites (wet weather= during rainfall event).
Four-year summary is currently in the works, presentation to be
completed in 2018.
Monitor basic phosphorus, nitrogen, Chlorophyll A, chloride, and
sediment levels at 6 sites along with pH, conductivity and DO at
the 3 flumes. Maintain automated flow meter and precipitation
gauge at Whitaker.
Review of 2018 Work Plate.
Goals:
Going into 2018
Complete final report of four-
year project, present report to
stakeholders.
Document and evaluate the
general health of the creek.
Goals:
2018 Result
Final report under
review, present to
stakeholders in 2019.
Monitoring complete,
no change in creek
health.
Gilfillan, Birch, Gem & Goose Lake gauges are calibrated in the Monitor lake levels on 4 targeted
spring and read up to 11 times during the summer. lakes in the watershed to track Complete.
short & Long term trends.
VLAWMO will work with Ramsey Conservation District to perform
bathymetry and vegetation surveys on Wilkinson and Charley Lakes
and with Blue Water Science to perform fish surveys on East &
West Goose Lakes and Wilkinson Lake. These surveys assist in
determining future management of the lakes.
Automated and manual sampling, including flow measurements on
targeted streams into Birch Lake.
Sample lakes and Lambert Creek for chloride levels. Partner with
Birch Lake Improvement District (BLID) for summer monitoring of
Birch Lake
Monitor chemistry of 12 of VLAWMO's takes through nutrient and
sediment sampling, along with pH, conductivity, and dissolved
oxygen (DO) measurements. Continue integration of automated
sampling.
Complete all identified surveys.
Document watershed nutrient
loading into Birch Lake to assist
selection of implementation
strategies.
Check monthly measurement
Keep water quality record of
watershed's lakes.
Utilize water quality data for future
projects and CIPs.
All identified lake
surveys complete.
2nd season of
stormwater monitoring
completed at Birch Lake.
Complete.
Complete.
26
SECTION 1
SECTION 3
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
It ADMINISTRATION & REGULATION
Project Name
Description
Review of 2018 Work Plan
Goals:
Going into 2018
Budget & Stormwater Storm sewer rates are based on the adopted budget and certified Provide necessary financing for
Utility
Wetland Conservation
Act (WCA)
to the counties for collection. watershed.
Complete boundary and type & other determinations in
consultation with the TEP. Respond to WCA questions.
XL SUSTAINABLE LAKE MANAGEMENT PLAN (SLMP)
Project Name
Description
Deel Lake SLMP
Charley Lake SLMP
A report covering the sub -watershed of Charley Lake on its health
and trends, with lake management plans to sustain its health.
A report covering the sub -watershed of Charley Lake on its health
and trends, with lake management plans to sustain its health.
Administer WCA Rules with VLAWMO
as LGU.
Goals:
Going into 2018
Collect background data, share
with lake stakeholders to develop
a prioritized list of management
strategies.
Collect background data, share
with lake stakeholders to develop
a prioritized list of management
strategies.
Goals:
2018 Results
Storm sewer rates
certified by counties,
providing for
watershed funding.
Complete.
Goals:
2018 Results
Complete
Complete
27
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
• CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
Project Name
Goose Lake
Improvement
Whitaker Treatment
Wetlands
Oak Knoll Pond Spent
Lime Study
Description
Birch Lake:
4th & Otter Lake Road
Project Development
Work with contracted engineer using Watershed -based Funding
to identify 3 BMP's with 60% design completion, choosing one
project for 100% design and installation in 2019. Vegetation and
ecosystems management. Reapply for 2020 CWF grant for alum
treatment.
2.0i- 9 Work Plan
Goals
Alum Grant
Channel restoration
Stakeholder presentation
ID and install BMP project
A stormwater treatment project partnering with the U of MN with
funding through LCCMR grant funding. Stormwater from Whitaker
Pond will be routed to underground wetland treatment cells and
then infiltrated into shallow groundwater. Treatment cells contain
different sorption material - the study will determine which
material is most effective at filtering pollutants. VLAWMO will
monitor for nutrients and bacteria, while the U of MN will monitor
for pathogens.
Complete 2nd season of
monitoring.
Partner with the U of M to
monitor pathogens.
Partner with Barr Engineering for spent Lime treatment and
monitoring on Oak Knoll Pond (tributary to Goose Lake). VLAWMO
staff will assist in monitoring efforts, supported by homeowner and
City coordination.
Complete spent Lime treatment
and seasonal storm monitoring.
Timeline
VLAWMO will work with a consultant to assess the options for
BMPs at the 4th and Otter Lake Rd site. Conceptual designs of best
possible projects will be completed and VLAWMO will work with its
partners to finalize design and secure funding for 2019 installation.
Installation of project.
Complete partner agreements.
Grants and restoration
ongoing.
Stakeholder
presentation Jan, 2019.
June 2020.
Spent lime May -June
Monitoring June -Oct
Installation Nov 2019,
Grant completion 2020.
28
SECTION 1
SECTION 3
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
• GRANT PROGRAMS
rsi
Project Name
Landscape Level 1
Landscape Level 2
Community Blue
Description
Establish relationships and provide grants to property owners
within the watershed to install water quality enhancement projects.
Landscape Level 2 Cost Share Program is aimed at assisting
landowners with implementing larger BMP projects within
the watershed. Preference for projects that have high visibility,
educational value and/or local citizen support.
A communication and outreach grant program to provide money
for projects big and small that otherwise might not qualify for
other grant awards. Projects must provide education and outreach
benefits that directly relate to water quality.
2.01c1 Work Pfavt
Goals
Install at least 10 projects
Achieve .25 lbs of phosphorus/year
removed from local waters.
Install at least 1 project.
Achieve .25 lbs of phosphorus/year
removed from local waters.
Complete 3 active grants initiated
in 2018. Secure all results and grant
measurables through collection of
final reports.
Time line
November, 2019
November, 2019
Ongoing, based on
grant timelines
Wildlife gathering on East Vadnais Lake
29
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
1-
i>-
V
W
0
V
it PUBLIC EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
Project Name
Watershed
Action
Volunteers
(WAV)
Workshops
Community
Events
Commun-
ications
The WAV consists of Master Water Stewards (Freshwater partnership),
Citizen Advisory Commission (CAC), and VLAWMO-specific volunteers
who have their own volunteer job description.
Workshops educate residents on watershed processes, raingarden and
native plant function, and installation. They also introduce VLAWMO's
cost -share program to participants and encourage them to apply.
Staff a VLAWMO booth at various community events. Develop
information and engagement components for community events. A
rainbarrel giveaway contest is used to attract event goers, and number
of entries signify how many people stopped by the VLAWMO booth.
Prizes such as tote bags, boating kits, and craft soda will be provided
for free to guests who engage the booth.
Create and update material and publications for social media,website,
seasonal Enews, and local publications. Make all sections of the
website active. Create and maintain communications to promote
public awareness for responsible use of our water resources.
zoi- 9 Work Plan
Plan, mentor,and complete job descriptions with two
VLAWMO-specific volunteers.
Guide and complete two Master Water Steward
capstone projects.
Hold three CAC meetings throughout the year, each
achieving tangible insight for VLAWMO.
Hold a raingarden workshop, native plant workshop,
and general sustainable landscaping workshop.
At least 3 residents who attend a raingarden or
native plant workshop will pursue a cost -share
grant.
Attend at least 6 community events annually.
Accrue at Least 1 new volunteer.
Grow general email list by 150 people, volunteer
email list by 15 people.
Appear in at least 6 news articles in local papers.
Appear in at least 3 City/Township newsletters with
events and education opportunities.
Maintain weekly social media postings all year.
Maintain monthly blog and news postings on the
VLAWMO website.
Create at least 4 neighborhood spotlight articles.
Feb -Aug
Ongoing
Feb -Nov
Workshops:
April -May
Cost -share:
ongoing
Feb -
September
Ongoing
30
SECTION 1
SECTION 3
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
6 MONITORING PROGRAM
Project Name
E. coli Sourcing
Lambert Creek
monitoring program
Lake Level Program
Stormwater Monitoring
zoi-9 Work Plan
Dry and wet weather monitoring of the Goose, Oakmede, County
Road F, and Whitaker sites (wet weather= during rainfall event). Complete final report of four-
year project, present report to
Four-year summary is currently in the works, presentation to be stakeholders.
completed in 2018.
Monitor basic phosphorus, nitrogen, Chlorophyll A, chloride, and
sediment levels at 6 sites along with pH, conductivity and DO at
the 3 flumes. Maintain automated flow meter and precipitation
gauge at Whitaker.
Gilfillan, Birch, Gem & Goose Lake gauges are calibrated in the
spring and read up to 11 times during the summer.
Automated and manual sampling, including flow measurements on
targeted streams into Birch Lake and Wilkinson Lake.
Document and evaluate the
general health of the creek.
Time Line
Dec, 2019.
Ongoing.
Monitor lake levels on 4 targeted
lakes in the watershed to track Ongoing,
short & Long term trends.
Document watershed nutrient
loading into Birch and Wilkinson to
assist selection of implementation
strategies.
Ongoing.
31
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
• MONITORING PROGRAM
Project Name
Lake
Monitoring Program
Chloride Measurements
Description
Monitor chemistry of 12 of VLAWMO's lakes through nutrient and
sediment sampling, along with pH, conductivity, and dissolved
oxygen (DO) measurements. Continue integration of automated
sampling.
Sample Lakes and Lambert Creek. Partner with Birch Lake
Improvement District (BLID) for summer monitoring of Birch Lake.
� it ADMINISTRATION & REGULATION
>-
F-
F-
V
W
0
Project Name
2o19 Work Plan
Keep water quality record of
watershed's lakes.
Utilize water quality data for future March - September
projects and CIPs.
Check monthly measurement.
Description
Goals
Budget & Stormwater Storm sewer rates are based on the adopted budget and certified Provide necessary financing for
Utility
Plan Amendment
Wetland Conservation
Act (WCA)
to the counties for collection. watershed.
Complete plan amendment and
approval by VLAWMO Board.
Jan - September
Time line
April - October
April -June
Complete boundary and type & other determinations in Administer WCA RuLes with VLAWMO Ongoing
consultation with the TEP. Respond to WCA questions. as LGU.
32
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
SECTION 3
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
it SUSTAINABLE LAKE MANAGEMENT PLAN (SLMP) - 2019 WORK PLAN
Project Name
Pleasant Lake SLMP
A report covering the sub -watershed of Deep Lake on its health
and trends, with lake management plans to sustain its health.
z0j- 9 Work Plan
Collect background data,
share with lake stakeholders
to develop a prioritized list of
management strategies.
Time line
Jan, 2019
Pickerel Weed in Gem Lake
33
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
LOGISTICS:
Financial
statement and
budget
»
IN THIS SECTION
Finance and Budget
WCA Summary
Water Standards
Local Plan Adoption
Biennial Solicitations
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
Wetland Conservation Act (WCA)
VLAWMO administers the Wetland Conservation Act with review.
There were 33 landowner contacts in which wetland related technical
assistance was provided during 2018. There were 5 potential. WCA
violation sites investigated, all 5 were resolved.
WCA SUMMARY
Type of Application
Approved
Denied
Withdrawn
Boundary and Type
No -Loss
Exemption
Sequencing
Replacement Plan
9
2
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
Local Plan Adoption
Adoption of Local Plans: Gem Lake, Lino Lakes, North Oaks, White
Bear Lake,White Bear Township,Vadnais Heights are all complete and
have been adopted.
Member Community
Gem Lake
Last Local. Water Plan Update Year
2018
Lino Lakes
2018
North Oaks
2009
Vadnais Heights
2018
White Bear Lake
2007
White Bear Township
2010
Partnersbi ps
One of VLAWMO's greatest successes is working
together with partners to use resources wisely and
maximize effectiveness. Workshops, meetings, and
webinars allow VLAWMO to be on the cutting edge of
the water resources in the Northeast Metro.
Metro Watershed Partners provides monthly
meetings to keep updated with other watersheds,
receive feedback and strategy assistance, as well
as hear from guest speakers to enhance education
and outreach efforts.
Ramsey County GIS User Group focuses on sharing,
developing,and promoting GIS data and technology.
As a member agency, VLAWMO contributes and
receives data, and has a voting hand in the content
the Group funds and develops. Regular RCGISUG
membership fees go to producing aerial images of
Ramsey County and other GIS data.
Ramsey Conservation District holds informative
forums on topics of general concern (AIS, State
of the Waters, groundwater). They also provide
technical assistance for lake studies and BMP
design. Lastly,they provide financial partnership in
grant funding of projects.
Many other organizations and groups (p. 35)
help carry out VLAWMO's mission through events,
outreach strategies, and project planning.
r3iennial Solicitation for
Proposals
Proposals for professional auditing services and legal
services will be solicited for in 2020.
34
SECTION 4
2018 Pa rtvte rs
Metro Watershed Partners
Ramsey County GIS User Group
Ramsey Conservation District
Vadnais Heights Economic Development Corp.
Birch Lake Improvement District
North Oaks Home Owners Association
Tamarack Nature Center
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
MN Erosion Control Association
Conservation Minnesota
H2O for Life
SCC Local Cable TV
White Bear Lake School District
White Bear Preserve Town homes
Cities in VLAWMO
Special Thanks
Each year our fabulous partners provide leadership, guidance, resources, and support for our goals.
2018 saw the completion of some efforts, as well as the closing of some eras. VLAWMO would like to
thank:
»
»
Mark Graham: Mark provided over 11 years of service to VLAWMO on the Technical Commission
(p
ictured above).
Della Young: Della provided guidance and support in the conception of the Whitaker Treatment
Wetlands, which is now completely constructed and operating.
Ramsey Soil and Water Conservation Division:
RSWCD provided expertise in plant identification,
project planning, and bathymetry data.
Jeff Melcoch: Jeff recorded multiple presentations
for VLAWMO, complete with editing.
Rika Pennington and Connie Winterhalter: As
residents and members of the Watershed Action
Volunteers (WAV), Rika and Connie have been
leaders in stormdrain clean-up and adopt -a -drain
efforts in 2018.
Gina Schmidt and Suzanne Ryan: Gina and
Suzanne assisted with our raingarden maintenance
presentation.
Volunteer stormdrain clean-up events.
Andrea at RSWCD recording shoreline
vegetation at Deep Lake.
35
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organ;
Finance and Budget
The 2018 budget was established by the
Board of Directors in June with designated
project and program funds carried over
in December 2017. The Finance and
Policy Committee with members from
the Technical Commission and the Board
reviewed and made recommendations
on the 2018 budget to the Board in
June 2017. The Board added additional
funds to address two priorities: 1) The
understanding and maintenance of
Lambert Creek required historical reviews,
surveying and modeling of the system as
well as consultation with the VLAWMO
attorney. 2) A focus on Goose Lake and
its subwatershed. Funds to complete
feasibility studies, targeted sampling, and
grant applications were needed.
Approved budget
for 2018:
$1,087,940
Actual income from
2018:
$1, 3 21,949
Money spent in
2018:
$780,275 J
Fund balance or
transfers from
reserves:
$316,540
Storm Sewer
Utility (SSU):
$755,211
Interest:
$5,979
Grants:
E / $244,019
Service Fees:
$200
Annual Budget with Fuvtd Balance
$1,301,235
$715,674 $772,151 $789,700
$568,279 $563,600 $607,620
i
1
$876,080
$1,087,940
INCOME
The mainstay of support for VLAWMO work comes from its
Storm Sewer Utility (SSU) fees. These fees are based on an
estimate of impervious surface for each parcel of land that
is in line with its land use classification. $ 752,436.12 in
SSU was certified to Ramsey and Anoka Counties for 11,502
parcels. The average single family homeowner paid $
$42.36 per year to support all of the projects and programs
conducted by the watershed. That's about $3.53 per month.
The 15.5% increase in storm sewer utility fees allowed
VLAWMO's budget to sustainably support the programs and
projects of the Water Plan. Ongoing projects resulted in a
significant amount of funding being carried over from 2017
to 2018 and again into 2019.
36
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
SECTION 1
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
Engineering
Review &
Research:
$85,931
Landscape
Cost -share
Program: ,
$92,387
Capital
Improvement
Projects:
$320,862
11%
17%
2018
Expenditures
Total: $780,275
41%
10%
Operations &
Administration:
$134,614
Monitoring:
$75,356
Education &
Outreach:
$ 71,128
EXPENSES
Total cash expenses for 2018 were less than budgeted at $780,277. Funding
for Sucker channel restoration and work on Lambert Creek and Goose
Lake will be carried over into 2019. The Whitaker treatment cells project
was installed in 2018 with the help of grant funding from the Legislative
Citizens Commission for Minnesota Resources. Studies on Goose,Wilkinson
and Deep Lakes were also completed setting the stage for the next phase of
projects. Further financial detail is available in the annual audit attached as
an Appendix to this Report.
GRANTS AND PARTNERSHIPS
Grant funds received in 2018 totaled $244,536. The LCCMR supported the
Whitaker Treatment wetlands installation ($166,516). Clean Water Legacy
funding supported the Birch Lake hot -spot remediation project targeting
nutrient loading to one of the cleanest lakes in the watershed ($48,500)
and completing a robust feasibility study on the Goose Lake subwatershed
($29,520). Much of the Legacy funds have been carried over as the projects
continue into 2019. Wetland Conservation Act reimbursement funds totaled
$ 1380.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
Installation of the Whitaker Treatment Wetlands was completed in 2018 and
monitoring began (see page 20). The focus of the project is to research new
ways to filter bacteria,excess nutrients,and pathogens out of stormwater runoff.
A linked study on pathogens will be done by the University of Minnesota.
Design of the 4th and Otter hot spot remediation project for Birch Lake was
nearing completion with the close of 2018. The partners include White
Bear Lake, Ramsey County, the Birch Lake Improvement District and VLAWMO
along with Barr Engineering. Together all are working hard to complete the
preparations for a 2019 installation. The sand -iron filter should be influential
in addressing neighborhood runoff that has been loading nutrients into Birch
Lake.
Goose Lake work received a substantial boost from the Watershed Based
Funding (WBF). These funds from the State's pilot grant will be harnessed to
complete modeling and a feasibility study of the Goose Lake subwatershed,
along with installation of a best management practice in 2019. VLAWMO will
continue to pursue grant funding for an in -lake treatment of Goose Lake.
A full survey of Lambert Creek formed the basis of hydraulic and hydrologic
modeling of the creek system and its branch ditches. VLAWMO partnered with
Vadnais Heights to complete the study and prioritize maintenance needs.
VLAWMO staff at the Whitaker Treatment Wetlands
37
2018 ANNUAL REPORT
Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization
WHO WE ARE:
The people who
make VLAWMO
»
IN THIS SECTION
Staff
Consultants
Partnerships
Board of Directors
Technical
Commission (TEC)
The VLAWMO office is
Located at:
800 E County Road E
Vadnais Heights, MN
55127
Who we are:
VLAWMO Employs five full-time staff for everyday operations. Consultants are required for a variety of purposes including
auditing, bookkeeping, engineering, and technical. assistance. The VLAWMO Board of Directors consists of one elected official
from each of the six cities within the watershed. Each board member is appointed for a three year term. The VLAWMO
Technical Commission consists of one citizen representative from each of the six cities. The Technical Commission meets to
review and consider watershed business as well as make recommendations to the Board for wider scope decisions.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS (BOD)
Primary Directors
Dan Jones, Chair
1956 Lakeaires Blvd
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
651.283.6097
Jim Lindner,Treasurer
4200 Otter Lake Rd
Gem Lake, MN 55110
651.492.5083
Marty Long
10 Larch Lane
North Oaks, MN 55127
651.407.8507
Ed Prudhon
470 Otter Lake Rd
White Bear Twp, MN 55110
651.426.2311
Terry Nyblom
715 Hiawatha Ave
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
Rob Rafferty
1573 Merganser Ct
Lino Lakes, MN 55038
651.982.2492
Alternate Directors
Bill Walsh
White Bear Lake
Rick Bosak
Gem Lake
Gregg Nelson
North Oaks
Bob Kermes
White Bear Township
Craig Johnson
Vadnais Heights
Dave Roeser
Lino Lakes
TECHNICAL COMMISSION (TEC)
Commissioners can be reached
by contacting VLAWMO
Primary
Mark Graham, Chair
Vadnais Heights
Gloria Tessier
Gem Lake
Jim Grisim
White Bear Lake
Bob Larson, Treasurer
North Oaks
Paul Duxbury
White Bear Township
Marty Asleson
Lino Lakes
Alternate
Kevin Watson
Vadnais Heights
Gretchen Artig-Swomley
Gem Lake
Connie Taillon
White Bear Lake
Diane Gorder
North Oaks
Tom Riedesel
White Bear Township
No alternate available
Lino Lakes
38
SECTION 1
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
STAFF
Stephanie McNamara
Administrator
stephanie.o.mcnamara@vlawmo.org
651.204.6073
Dawn Tanner, PhD
Program Development Coordinator
dawn.tanner@vlawmo.org
651.204.6074
Brian Corcoran
Water Resources Manager
brian.corcoran@vlawmo.org
651.204.6075
Nick Voss
Education and Outreach Coordinator
nick.voss@vlawmo.org
651.204.6070
Tyler Thompson
GIS Watershed Technician
tyler.thompson@vlawmo.org
651.204.6071
CONSULTANTS
Abdo, Eick & Meyers LLP.
5201 Eden Ave. Ste. 250
Eden Prairie, MN 55436
952.835.9090
Burns & McDonnell
8201 Norman Center Dr
Bloomington, MN 55437
952.656.6003
Ehlers & Associates
3060 Centre Point Dr
Roseville, MN 55113
651.697.8500
HDR Engineering, Inc.
701 Xenia Ave. S. Ste. 600
Minneapolis, MN 55416
763.591.5400
Houston Engineering Inc.
6901 E Fish Lake Rd
Maple Grove, MN 55369
763.493.4522
Kennedy & Graven, Chartered
200 South Sixth St Ste. 470
Minneapolis, MN 55402
612.337.9215
Ramsey Conservation District
1425 Paul Kirkwood Dr
Arden Hills, MN 55112
651.266.7270
St Paul Regional Water Service
1900 Rice St
St Paul, MN 55113
651.266.6350
Barr Engineering
4300 Market Pointe
Minneapolis, MN 55435
952.832.2600
39