HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/27/2009 Env Bd PacketCity of Lino Lakes
Environmental Board Meeting
October 27, 2009
6:30 p.m.
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Joint Presentation and Discussion with the Environmental Board and Park Board on
Emerald Ash Borer with Rob Gorden of Arborjet.
3. Approval of Minutes
July 29, 2009
August 26, 2009
4. Approval of Agenda
5. Open Mike
6. Action Items
A. Wollan's Park Wetland Bank Application/ Jason Husveth
7. Discussion Items
A. Community Gardens
B. Peltier Island Maintenance
C. Restoration Projects Fall 2009
8. Adjourn
Note: Our Next Environmental Board Meeting will be November 18, 2009 at 6:30
p.m.
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ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING JULY 29, 2009
CITY OF LINO LAKES
MINUTES
DATE : July 29, 2009
TIME STARTED : 6:31 P.M.
TIME ENDED : 8:00 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT : Mary Jo O'Dea, Barbara Bor, Paula
Andrzejewski, Peter Brown and Martha
DeHaven
MEMBERS ABSENT : Kim Brouillet
STAFF PRESENT : Environmental Coordinator Marty Asleson
1. CALL TO ORDER
Ms. O'Dea called the meeting to order at 6:31p.m.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
June 24, 2009
Ms. O'Dea had a few changes to the minutes. Page 3, Paragraph G: Change
workshop to workshops. Paragraph H: Change extensive to expensive. Paragraph
J: Change roll to role. Paragraph K: Add: which is sent out annually after the
work report. Add: in the metro area after the work cities.
Ms. Andrzejewski made a motion to approve the June 24, 2009 minutes with
changes. Ms. DeHaven seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Asleson added additional updates under Discussion Items.
Mr. Brown made a motion to approve agenda. Ms. Andrzejewski seconded the
motion to approve the agenda. Motion carried unanimously
4. OPEN MIKE
Open mike closed at 6:34 p.m.
5. ACTION ITEMS
A. Eagle Brook Church Parking Lot Expansion.
Mr. Asleson reviewed his staff report on the Eagle Brook Church Parking Lot
Expansion.
ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING JULY 29, 2009
He reviewed the background information on the project as well as the analysis
which included stormwater, wetlands, floodplain, National Heritage Issues,
Erosion Control, Landscape Plan and the Lighting Plan.
Mr. Asleson's recommendation to the Board is that this project moves forwarded
with changes /additions as listed in the report and the Environmental Board's
recommendations.
After review and discussion of the project, the Environmental Board recommends
this project go forward with the following changes /additional that have been
outlined below.
1. Increase and enhance screen/buffer to the south. Existing trees that were
planted as per the CUP requirements are in decline and need to be managed.
2. Require that there will be no importing or exporting of soils without City
permission
3. Add concrete wash out area to erosion control plan/SWPPP
4. Show document storage area on the SWPPP
5. Show and describe protection measures to be taken to prevent compaction to
filtrate in filtration basins.
6. Lights per the original CUP — according to Lino Lakes lighting standards
7. Identify plowing areas in winter. (where will water drain when snow melts)
and -mark drainage areas on the map
8. Work should be scheduled any time of year other than Blue Heron nesting
times.
9. Change wording under National Heritage issues on Agenda Item 5A to state
specific to this project.
10. The 10:00 rule for lighting must be upheld
11. Work should be scheduled at anytime other than the nesting times of the
herons on Peltier Island.
Mr. Brown made a motion to go forward with changes and suggestions by board
member and Ms. DeHaven seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously
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ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING JULY 29, 2009
• 6. DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. Goals
Mr. Asleson proposed adding a community run City Garden Club to the 2010
Environmental Board Goals.
There was a motion by Ms. Andrzejewski to explore the possibilities of a City
Garden Club as an Environmental Board Goal in 2010. Motion seconded by Ms.
Bor. Motion carried unanimously.
B. Tree Diseases
Mr. Asleson stated overall Oak Wilt is down this year. There have been roughly
3 or 4 infected sites compared to 20 sites last year.
He stated there will be an article on Emerald Ash Borer in the next Lino Lakes
City Newsletter.
C. Great Blue Herons of Lino Lakes
Mr. Asleson and Wayne LeBlanc went out to Peltier Island on June 29. At that
time, they spotted about 27 chicks. He stated the raccoon population is up again.
In the middle of the rookery raccoons got up and over the flashing. He stated they
will be going back out to the island to reflash the trees.
D. Blue Heron Days Parade
There was discussion on the upcoming Blue Heron Days Parade. It was decided
to arrange for trash cans to be placed along the parade route in addition to the
rolling trash cans. There will be a Lino Lakes Environmental Board sign made
with the Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle symbol on it.
E. Site Visit Discussion
There was a site visit at Centennial Middle School Eagle Scout Project at 5:30 this
evening. Mr. Asleson stated last Thursday the site was planted with native seed
and already there is blue grass coming up.
Upcoming Site Visit: Highland Meadows West third addition was a suggested
area for a site visit prior to the next Environmental Board meeting in August.
•
ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING JULY 29, 2009
F. Other
Mr. Asleson stated on August 17 the Centennial School Board would like to
recognize him for his efforts in helping create an environmental study area for the
school. It will take place at 6:55 at the Centennial School District boardroom and
he invited Environmental Board members to attend.
Ms. O'Dea inquired on feedback from previous workshops presented by the
Anoka County Conservation District. This will be addressed by Nate Zwonitzer at
an upcoming meeting.
7. ADJOURN
It was noted that the next meeting of the Environmental Board will be on August
26, 2009 at 6:30 p.m.
There being no further business, Mr. Brown moved to adjourn at 8:00 p.m. Ms.
DeHaven seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Lisa Hogstad
Community Development Secretary
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ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING AUGUST 26, 2009
DATE
TIME STARTED
TIME ENDED
MEMBERS PRESENT
MEMBERS ABSENT
STAFF PRESENT
1.
2.
CITY OF LINO LAKES
MINUTES
: August 26, 2009
. 6:32 P.M.
. 7:25 P.M.
: Mary Jo O'Dea, Barbara Bor and Paula
Andrzejewski
: Peter Brown and Martha DeHaven
: Environmental Coordinator Marty Asleson
CALL TO ORDER
Ms. O'Dea called the meeting to order at 6:30p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Additional agenda items to be added are:
Emerald Ash Borer discussion.
Land and Clean Water Conservation Summary.
Heron Update.
Ms. Andrzejewski made a motion to approve agenda. Ms. Bor seconded the
motion to approve the agenda. Motion carried unanimously
4. OPEN MIKE
Open mike closed at 6:37 p.m.
5. ACTION ITEMS
A. 7868 Lake Drive (VFW Building) Conditional Use Permit
Mr. Asleson reviewed his staff report with the Environmental Board on the
proposed occupancy by North Springs Church under a conditional use permit.
The Environmental Board previously reviewed this site in 2003. Mr. Asleson
reviewed the Board's previous recommendations as well as new
recommendations. Also reviewed were Surface Water, Landscaping and Lighting.
ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING AUGUST 26, 2009
After review and discussion on the project, the Environmental Board recommends
this project go forward with the following changes /additions that have been
outlined below.
1. Plant a shade tree on the grassy island on north side of parking lot. Clean
debris on north side parking area and irrigate or provide a means to water if
possible.
2. Provide maintenance agreement for infiltration BMP areas and include
annual cleaning of curb drop spillway areas.
3. A salt tolerant sod or seed should be specified in the plant list for seeded
or sodded areas.
4. Curb -drop areas on the NE corner and North of the site is undermined and
must be repaired.
5. No soil should be imported or exported from the site without City staff
approval
6. An erosion control plan must be submitted. A site for erosion control
plan/SWPPP access and erosion inspection logs must be shown on the site plan.
7. A concrete washout area must be shown on the map
8. If the flag pole is to remain in the plan, than additional large growing
shade trees should be added in the plan to screen residents to the east and the
south.
9. If City proposed trail is not installed along Lake Drive, add landscaping
materials that would not interfere with visibility.
10. Surface water grading should accommodate keeping the water on the site
and lowering the driveway on the north side of the Noren property.
11. Insure that there are no RCWD surface water requirements remaining.
12. Signage lighting should meet city ordinance requirements and minimize
reflection.
Ms. Bor made a motion to approve the Conditional Use Permit with
recommendations. Ms. Andrzejewski seconded the motion. Motion carried
unanimously.
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ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING AUGUST 26, 2009
• 6. DISCUSSION ITEMS
•
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A. Garden Club
Mr. Asleson stated he has located a location for the Garden Club next to the
American Legion on an open City owned lot. He stated there is water available to
that area and he will check into the cost to install spigots.
He stated at this time we are exploring the possibilities. The soil would need to be
improved as well as incorporate compost, etc.
Ms. Bor stated she would like to incorporate a post -site visit to view this lot. She
stated it would be helpful to have a screening process of who the lots are rent to.
She also recommended sending a soil sample to the U to determine what the soil
is in need of.
Ms. O'Dea stated there needs to be leaders in order to make the Garden Club
work.
B. Blue Heron Days Review
Ms. Bor suggested sending a thank you note to the Girl Scouts who participated
and carried the sign for the Environmental Board during the Blue Heron Days
Parade. Ms. Hogstad - Osterhues stated she would do this.
C. Emerald Ash Borer equipment purchase
Mr. Asleson Indicated the equipment needed to inject the trees is around $500.00
and the chemicals average around $43.00 per tree. This work would need to be
completed by a certified arborist and would require licensing.
He stated this may be a way to protect our trees. We have always been a proactive
City. He stated trees in the wild will most likely die. High value trees, island
trees, blvd. trees, etc. could be worth saving.
D. Land and Clean Water Conservation Summit
Mr. Asleson stated there are monies available for members to attend this Summit
if they so wish. The dates are September 23 and 24.
E. Heron Update
DRAFT MINUTES 3
ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING AUGUST 26, 2009
Mr. Asleson stated as far as we can tell 27 Herons have fledged. There has been
flashing that has fallen off some trees and other trees have fallen over. Half of the
hatch was lost year due to that.
Ms. Bor questioned if a formal report had been presented to the council on this.
Mr. Asleson stated not at this time but, will put the item on an upcoming agenda.
7. ADJOURN
It was noted that the next meeting of the Environmental Board will be on
September 30, 2009 at 6:30 p.m.
There being no further business, Ms. Andrzejewski moved to adjourn at 7:25 p.m.
Ms. Bor seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
Transcribed by:
Lisa Hogstad
Community Development Secretary
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• Agenda Item 2
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Environmental Board Meeting Date: October 27, 2009
Topic: Joint Environmental Board /Park Board Meeting to Discuss The Pending
Emerald Ash Borer Issue.
Background: Emerald Ash Borer was introduced into this country in the year
2003 through shipments from Asia. It was found in Detroit and efforts to stop this
pest have failed. On May 14, 2009 the insect was found in the City of St. Paul.
Ramsey County is currently under a quarantine on the movement of all Ash
wood. A 15 mile radius of neighborhood watch zone or buffer (Attachment 1),
was established to monitor for the Emerald Ash Borer. As you can see Lino
Lakes is in this buffer area. Although no insects have been found in trap -trees or
purple traps, it is a matter of time before Lino Lakes will be faced with 3 choices:
1. The City can Remove all Ash trees that die
2. The City can remove and replace those Ash trees,
3. The City can treat Ash trees to prevent them from dying.
City Staff and Community volunteers have recently inventoried all Ash trees in
City Parks, in City street boulevards, and on Peltier Island where approximately
50% of the habitat trees for nesting Great Blue Herons are Ash. Results are
presented in (Attachment 2). For the most part, the City stopped planting Ash
trees after news - releases of the pest first started coming out in 2003
Mr. Rob Gordon, Executive Director of Arborjet, Inc. is here to talk to you about
the chemical treatment of Ash trees and has a wealth of information on the
benefit/cost of all options.
Analysis: City Staff would like direction from the City concerning the 3
options mentioned above. Since it is given that we will face this pest in the near
future, preparations and operations we can initiate now can save trees and
money.
Recommendations and Comments
To be recorded at the Environmental /Park Board Meeting
Attachments
1. Map
2. Ash Tree Inventory
Page 1 of 1
14--ti a 6h me
2009 Emerald Ash Borer First Minnesota Detection
Neighborhood Watch Zone
242
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131 ..' jngt
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4
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0
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0
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0
Map Data. e. 2003 ESRI, AND, TANA E SRI Japan, UNEP-WC MC
0
A
5
10
Miles
0 Confirmed EAB
15 mile buffer
Map updated 5/21/2009
MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT
OF AGRICULTURE
httn•//www m a atp mn /im cree /111 ante /MnOpalletnarillyn ffpr ner
1 nrY)/11-w-lo
•
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Ash Tree Inventory
2009
Park Trees
Street Trees /Boulevards Peltier Island Ash Trees /Nested
Nim
Dia
Num
Dia
Num Dia yr Nest -Num
2
1
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• Agenda Item 5A
•
Environmental Board Meeting Date: October 27, 2009
Topic: Wollan's Park Wetland Bank
Background: Wetland banking is a process of tracking wetland and upland
buffer credits that are designated for replacement of future wetland losses. These
wetland credits may result from a prior replacement project with excess credits
earmarked for banking, or from a wetland creation /restoration project done solely
for the purpose of establishing wetland credits in the State Wetland Bank.
Wetland banking allows wetland acreage to be purchased from an account
holder who has an account of functioning wetland credits.
Wetland banking must conform to the requirements in the Wetland Conservation
Act (WCA). The LGU's control the banking program as they must approve
banking project plans and certify all deposits and withdrawals to ensure the
wetland impacts meet sequencing requirements. The Bureau of Water and Soil
Resources (BSWR) maintains a record of deposits and withdrawals and
oversees banking operations statewide. The sale of the credits remain with the
account holder. BWSR is the only officially recognized wetland bank in
Minnesota.
Attachment 1 is a submittal by Jason Husveth of Critical Connections Inc., to
work with the City of Lino Lakes to initiate a wetland mitigation bank project in
Woolen's Park. Wollan's park is a City owned park in Section 5 North of Main
Street.
Analysis:
The scope and cost of banking the wetlands in Wollan's Park are outlined in
Jason Husveth's submittal. The project cost of $8,915.00 can be paid with
$5,000 available in Professional Services in the 2009 Environmental budget, and
the remainder of the project cost would be paid either in the 2010 Environmental
budget or through the Surface Water Management Fund.
Recommendations and Comments
Staff recommends initiation of this project/ other comments of the Environmental
Board and Park Board.
Attachments
1. Proposal from Jason Husveth /Critical Connections, Inc.
Natural
Resource
Consulting
Landscape
Ecology
Botanical
Inventories
Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc.
14760 Oakhitt Road, Scandia, Minnesota 55073
Threatened &
Endangered
Species Surveys
Greenway &
Open Space
Planning
Natural
Community
Restoration
Wetland
Delineation &
Permitting
Wetland
Banking &
Monitoring
Minnesota
Land Cover
Classification
Geographic
Information
Systems
Global
Positioning
Systems
Database
Management &
Development
Environmental
Education
October 16, 2009
Mr. Marty Asleson
Environmental Coordinator
Lino Lakes City Hall
600 Town Center Pkwy
Lino Lakes, Minnesota 55014
Re: Woolan's Park Wetland Mitigation Bank
Proposed Scope of Work and Cost Estimate
Project Background:
The City of Lino Lakes has requested the following scope of work and cost estimate for the
preparation of a wetland mitigation banking application to restore and manage high natural resource
value wetlands within the City -owned Woolan's Park property. A primary goal of the wetland
mitigation banking project is to receive wetland banking credits for the successful restoration and
management of Woolan's Park's wetlands and adjacent uplands. The Woolan's Park wetland system
currently supports small populations of Minnesota Endangered, Threatened, and Special Concern
vascular plant species and a rare wetland plant community. Therefore, a restoration of these
wetlands and adjacent uplands will qualify for consideration of issuance of new wetland credits
under the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act's (WCA) Exceptional Natural Resources Value (ENRV)
provisions (Minnesota Rule 8420.0541 Subpart 4).
Minnesota Rule 8420.0541 Subpart 4 states "Projects that restore exceptional natural resource values
of wetlands may receive either public value or new wetland replacement credit solely or in
combination as determined by the local government unit with the concurrence of the technical
evaluation panel, The amount and type of credit allowed shall be based on a functional assessment
that documents the restoration of these values."
On behalf of the City of Lino Lakes, Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc. (CCES) will prepare a
complete wetland mitigation banking application under the ENRV provisions of the Minnesota WCA.
The application will include completed required wetland mitigation banking forms, a delineation of
existing jurisdictional wetland boundaries, a functional assessment of the wetlands using the
Minnesota Routine Assessment Method (MNRAM) version 3.3., and a 5 year restoration,
management, and monitoring plan and associated cost estimate for plan implementation. Upon
approval of the application, implementation of the restoration plan will be conducted under a
separate agreement, and will employ City of Lino Lakes staff, resources, and equipment wherever
possible.
Phone: 651.433.4410 Fax: 651.433.4528
Email: info @ccesinc.com Web: www.ccesinc.com
Woolan's Park Wetland Mitigation Banking Application, Lino Lakes, Minnesota
Proposal for Professional Ecological Services
Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc.
October 16, 2009
Scope of Work and Cost Estimate:
Task 1: Compile Existing Information
Page 2 of 5
•
CCES will compile existing data from existing remote sources and past field assessments pertinent to the
preparation of the wetland mitigation banking application.
Task 1 Cost Estimate:
Description:
Data Compilation, Analysis
CCES Staff:
Jason Husveth
Task 2. Existing Wetland Delineation / Determination
Rate /Hr: Hours: Cost:
$120 8 $960
Cost Estimate Task 1: $960
CCES will conduct a field evaluation of jurisdictional wetland boundaries within the 17.62 acre Woolan's Park
property. The delineation will be flagged in the field and flag locations will be recorded with a sub -meter
accuracy global positioning system (GPS) for inclusion in the final report and planning documents. Necessa
soils, vegetation, and hydrology data will be collected by CCES ecologists on wetland delineation data shee
and will be included in the delineation report. A final delineation report will be prepared and submitted to
the City and all members of the TEP panel. Due to the timing of the delineation (i.e. late October 2009), the
delineation will likely be considered a wetland determination until the results of the delineation can be
reviewed in the field by the TEP in Spring 2010. However, the determination of wetland boundaries will be
sufficient to adequately plan the wetland mitigation bank through the winter months of 2009/2010, and will
be essential to preparing the wetland mitigation banking application materials over the winter months.
Task 2 Cost Estimate:
Description: CCES Staff: Rate /Hr: Hours: Cost:
Wetland Delineation / Determination Jason Husveth $120 4 $480
Wetland Delineation / Determination Ken Arndt $ 95 8 $760
Report Printing $ 25 8 $200
Sub -Meter GPS $ 75 $ 75
Cost Estimate Task 3: $1495
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Woolan's Park Wetland Mitigation Banking Application, Lino Lakes, Minnesota
Proposal for Professional Ecological Services
Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc.
October 16, 2009
Task 3. MNRAM Functional Assessment of Woolan's Park Wetlands
Page 3 of 5
Based on existing information and current site conditions, CCES will complete a functional assessment of the
proposed Woolan's Park wetland restoration area and adjacent upland inclusions. In accordance with
Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act rules and procedures, the Minnesota Routine Assessment Method
( MNRAM) version 3.3 will be used as the functional assessment methodology. The results of the MNRAM
functional assessment will document the existing ecological and functional conditions of the proposed
wetland mitigation banking area and will establish the baseline (or pre- restoration) conditions of the project.
These assessment results will be included in the wetland mitigation application materials.
Task 3 Cost Estimate:
Description:
MNRAM Functional Assessment
CCES Staff:
Jason Husveth
Task 4: Develop Wetland Restoration and Monitoring Plan
Rate /Hr: Hours: Cost:
$120 10 $1200
Cost Estimate Task 3: $1200
As part of the wetland mitigation banking application CCES will develop a five year restoration, management,
and monitoring plan. Wetland restoration and management methods will be designed to be consistent with
past ENRV wetland banking applications submitted by CCES and approved by the Minnesota Board of Water
and Soil Resources. To reduce implementation costs to the City, the restoration and monitoring plan will be
designed so that implementation of the restoration can be completed, in part, by City of Lino Lakes public
works and environmental staff with City equipment and resources. The plan will be designed to allow
resources for CCES ecologists to oversee implementation of restoration and management tasks, and to
conduct annual monitoring and prepare annual monitoring reports. The restoration and management plan
will be designed based on adaptive management principals, which allows for modifications of restoration and
management prescriptions based on the ecological response of the wetland restoration area over the five
year implementation and monitoring period. CCES will prepare an associated cost estimate for implementing
the restoration, management, and monitoring plan that incorporates the City's key involvement with
implementing the plan.
Task 4 Cost Estimate:
Description: CCES Staff: Rate /Hr: Hours: Cost:
Restoration and Monitoring Plan Preparation Jason Husveth $120 20 $2400
Cost Estimate Task 4: $2400
Woolan's Park Wetland Mitigation Banking Application, Lino Lakes, Minnesota
Proposal for Professional Ecological Services
Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc.
October 16, 2009
Task 5: Prepare Wetland Mitigation Banking Application
Page 4 of 5
•
On behalf of the City of Lino Lakes, CCES ecologists will complete the wetland banking application forms
required by the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources. The completed forms will be combined with
the Wetland Restoration and Monitoring Plan to constitute a complete wetland mitigation banking
application. The banking application will need to be approved and signed by appropriate City representatives
prior to formal submission. Once approved, CCES will provide eight (8) paper copies of the complete wetland
banking application form.
Task 5 Cost Estimate:
Description: CCES Staff: Rate /Hr: Hours: Cost:
Wetland Mitigation Banking Application Jason Husveth $120 10 $1200
Printing $25 8 $ 200
Cost Estimate Task 5: $1400
Task 6: Meetings and Correspondence
•
CCES anticipates that we will need to meet with the City of Lino Lakes (Applicant) and the Technical
Evaluation Panel (TEP) on at least two occasions during the application process. We have budgeted time to
prepare for and attend two meeting with the TEP. We have also included budgeted time for phone and email
correspondence with members of the TEP and the Applicant during the wetland banking application process.
Task 6 Cost Estimate:
Description: CCES Staff: Rate /Hr: Hours: Cost:
Meetings and Meeting Preparation Jason Husveth $120 8 $960
Correspondence (email, phone) Jason Husveth $120 4 $480
Cost Estimate Task 6: $1440
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Woolan's Park Wetland Mitigation Banking Application, Lino Lakes, Minnesota
Proposal for Professional Ecological Services
Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc.
October 16, 2009
Page 5 of 5
Cost Estimate Summary:
Task 1: Compile Existing Information $ 960
Task 2. Existing Wetland Delineation / Determination $1495
Task 3. MNRAM Functional Assessment of Woolan's Park Wetlands $1200
Task 4: Develop Wetland Restoration and Monitoring Plan $2400
Task 5: Prepare Wetland Mitigation Banking Application $1400
Task 6: Meetings and Correspondence $1440
Total Estimated Cost (Not To Exceed): $8,915
Thank you for providing CCES with the opportunity to provide this proposed scope of work and cost estimate
for the Woolan's Park Wetland Mitigation Banking Application project. Please feel free to contact us if you
have any questions regarding our proposal or if you require additional information. CCES is prepared to
begin work on this project immediately following notification to proceed and receipt of a signed contract.
We understand that a portion of the work will likely be accounted for in the City's 2009 budget cycle, and the
remainder of the work will be completed as part of the 2010 budget cycle.
Respectfully submitted,
Critical Connections Ecological Services, Inc.
J on H. Husveth, MS
Principal Ecologist, President
Attachments
•
, 1.#
/44#44.,14,
.;*.
f*.7. .
: •
.fro
•
Critical Connections
Ecological Services, Inc.
14760 Oakhill Road P 651,433.4410
Scandia, Minnesota f : 651.433.4528
5 5073 E• intoOct esinc.com
Legend
Woolan's Park Boundary
17.56 Acres
Anoka County Soil Survey
Upland /Wetland Estimate
Existing Upland Area
(1.72 Acres Estimated)
Existing Wetland Area
(15.84 Acres Estimated) N
ciumilimii==mm Feet
0 50 100 200 300 400
Woolan's Park Wetland Mitigation Bank
Site Location &
Estimated Wetland / Upland Acreages
City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota
A
October 16, 200
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Figure 1
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Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act
Guidance Paper 2003 -01
October, 2003
Approved by: Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (10/22/03)
Approved by: Minnesota Interagency Wetland Group
SUBJECT: Exceptional Natural Resource Value Projects (8420.0541 Subp. 4)
1. Purpose and applicability.
a. Purpose. The purpose of this guidance paper is to provide Local
Government Units (LGUs) with guidelines for use of Minnesota Rule
8420.0541 Subpart 4 Exceptional natural resource value projects.
b. Applicability. This guidance applies to LGU's evaluation of wetland
replacement plans where an applicant proposes the use of the exceptional
natural resource value projects method of allocation of wetland credits.
2. General Considerations.
Exceptional natural resource value projects was added to 8420.0541 ACTIONS
ELIGIBLE FOR CREDIT in the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) rule that became
permanent on August 5, 2002. Minnesota Rule 8420.0541 Subpart 4 states "Projects
that restore exceptional natural resource values of wetlands may receive either
public value or new wetland replacement credit solely or in combination as
determined by the local government unit with the concurrence of the technical
evaluation panel. The amount and type of credit allowed shall be based on a
functional assessment that documents the restoration of these values."
Local government units and technical evaluation panels are strongly encouraged to
use this guidance paper when evaluating all wetland replacement plans that propose
use of the exceptional natural resource value projects method of allocating wetland
replacement credits. Because the rule does not define exceptional natural resource
value of wetlands, LGUs and Technical Evaluation Panels (TEPs) are encouraged to
use this guidance to limit the use of this part of the rule.
The WCA rules require that wetland replacement should occur as close to the
impacted wetland as possible (WCA Rule 8420.0543 Wetland Replacement Siting).
The exceptional natural resource value projects option for wetland replacement
provides another opportunity to achieve this goal and should be strongly considered
by project applicants.
3. "Exceptional" definition. The word exceptional in this subpart
means that replacement plans that use this method of allocating credits should be
restricted to projects that:
a. Restore values listed under 8420.0548 Special Considerations
including:
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i. endangered and threatened species
ii. rare natural communities,
iii. special fish and wildlife resources (especially fish passage and
spawning areas, colonial water bird nesting colonies, migratory
waterfowl concentration areas, deer wintering areas, and wildlife
travel corridors),
iv. groundwater sensitivity,
v. sensitive surface waters, and
vi. educational or research use.
b. Restore wetland function and values of wetlands adjacent to or
protecting trout waters designated by the commissioner. For the
purposes of this part, the TEP should make recommendations to the LGU
regarding adjacency and whether the proposed wetland restoration
activities would protect the trout stream or lake. The LGU and TEP should
seek technical recommendations from DNR fisheries staff.
c. Restore sites that were formerly calcareous fens. There are several
degraded wetland sites in Minnesota that have been degraded by
cultivation or other human activity that are believed to have functioned as
a calcareous fen before disturbance. These sites may be eligible for use of
the exceptional natural resource value projects if they have potential to be
AA restored to a calcareous fen. The TEP should seek advice from calcareous
fen experts from the Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Army
edi Corps of Engineers and should base eligibility and restoration potential on
an interagency evaluation of the site.
d. Restore white cedar swamps. Sites that are a degraded white cedar
swamp or have been converted from a white cedar swamp to a nonwetland
or another wetland type are eligible for this part. Restoration of the site
may include restoration of natural hydrology and /or restoration of
vegetation. The vegetation management plan must include a plan to
control damage by white tailed deer and other wildlife.
e. Restore wetlands adjacent to or protecting Outstanding Resource
Value Waters (Minnesota Rules 7050) Wetlands that are adjacent to or
serve to protect Outstanding Resource Value Waters are eligible for this
part. These waters include, in part, Lake Superior, Federal or state wild
river segments, Voyageurs National Park, DNR designated scientific and
natural areas, calcareous fens, and lake trout lakes. Restoration and
associated preservation of these wetlands can serve to provide additional
protection to sites that have been designated by the public to have
significant natural resource values.
f. Restore lloodplains and riparian wetlands of streams designated for
restoration or protection through state, regional or local plans.
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g.
Restore rare local or regional wetlands as identified in local wetland
or water management plans. Wetlands that are recognized to be rare
within areas or regions of the state may be restored and protected with the
exceptional natural resource value method of allocating wetland credits if
they are identified in a local or regional plan as a high priority for
restoration and protection and approved by the TEP.
4. "Restore" definition. The word restore in this subpart means projects
that:
a. Restore vegetation of an exceptional wetland that had been previously
degraded or converted to a different type by human activity.
Restoration of vegetation shall be limited to reestablishment and
maintenance of permanent native, noninvasive vegetation.
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014
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Restore natural hydrology of an exceptional wetland. Restoration of
hydrology can include either putting water back on a site where it had
been removed or removing water from a site where some wetland
functions had been degraded by impounding of excess water. For example,
restoration of the natural hydrology of a white cedar swamp that had been
degraded by improper installation of a culvert would be considered
restoration of the natural hydrology of an exceptional wetland.
5. Determination and allocation of New Wetland Credit
(NWC) and Public Value Credit (PVC) under
"Exceptional Natural Resource Value Projects ". For the
purposes of this subpart, NWC and PVC may be determined by the following
guidelines and examples:
a. NWC should only be allowed for actions that restore some wetland
functions by restoration of native vegetation or restoration of natural
hydrology. The following are examples of allocation of credit under this
part of the rule that are consistent with the goal of no -net loss of wetland
functions and values:
1. Up to 100% NWC based on an evaluation of the
replacement site with current version of MNRAM or by
ge" use of another BWSR approved wetland evaluation
method. For example, recommend that the percentage of
� 0 NWC correspond to the percent of functional ratings in
MNRAM that are increased by at least one level as a result
Olaf P4C) of the restoration of vegetation or hydrology. For example,
r if restoration of hydrology or ve vegetation of the replacement
1 Y gY g P
wetland increases 50% of the functional ratings by at least
one level (low to medium, medium to high, etc.),
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(SI°
recommendation is to allocate 50% NWC for the wetland
area restored with approval of the TEP.
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2. Up to 50% NWC for restoration of permanent native
noninvasive vegetation in a wetland area where wetland
vegetation had been degraded by human activity al least
ten years prior to the date of the wetland replacement plan
or banking plan application. Examples of activities that
may have degraded wetland function include, but is not
limited to cropping, grazing, haying, clearing of vegetation.
3. Up to 10% NWC for removing excess hydrology from a
wetland area where wetland functions had been degraded
by flooding due to improper placements of culverts, roads,
or other human structures provided that permanent native
noninvasive vegetation is established in the restored area.
4. Up to 100% NWC for restoring a deep -water habitat to
a wetland condition. Areas where wetlands have been
converted to deep -water habitat more than 10 years prior to
the date of the replacement plan application, may receive
up to 100% NWC for restoring the natural wetland
hydrology provided that permanent native noninvasive
vegetation is established in the restored area and all
necessary permits are obtained.
5. Exceptional wetland preservation - New wetland credit
may be granted for preservation of exceptional wetlands,
as defined here, provided that restoration of native
noninvasive vegetation or hydrology occurs on at least
25% of the project area. The amount of NWC allocated is
recommended to not exceed 12.5% of the wetland area
preserved through a permanent easement. The restored and
preserved wetland areas should have an adequate protective
buffer as determined by the TEP. NWC granted under this
part must have concurrence of the TEP, the LGU and the
designated DNR TEP member for public waters projects.
LGUs are encouraged to consult the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers for recommendations. Wetlands preserved for
NWC credit must be facing some documented threat of
development.
b. PVC may be allowed for:
1. Up to 25% PVC for preservation of wetland areas of
exceptional natural resource values protected under a
permanent easement. Wetland areas that are preserved
for public value credit must be facing some documented
threat of development.
2. Activities where PVC is allowed under 8420.0541
Actions Eligible for Credit.
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6. Functional Assessments. It is recommended that the current version of
the Minnesota Routine Assessment Methodology for Evaluating Wetland
Functions (MNRAM) be used for functional assessments for this subpart.
Functional assessments may also be completed with other BWSR approved
wetland evaluation methods.
7. Summary. This guidance is recommended for use by local government units
and technical evaluation panels in evaluating all wetland replacement plans where
use of Minnesota Rule 8420.0541 Subpart 4. Exceptional Natural Resource
Value Projects is proposed for determination and allocation of wetland
replacement credits. The rule language limits use of this method of allocation of
credits to "Projects that restore exceptional natural resource values of
wetlands...", but does not define "restore" or "exceptional ". This guidance was
developed to help clarify and limit the use of the part of the rule to ensure
compliance with the overall purpose of the Wetland Conservation Act, which is to
"achieve no net loss in the quantity, quality, and biological diversity of
Minnesota's existing wetlands..."
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