2017.04.17 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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April 11, 2017 Page 4 The Project proposer has largely designed the project with surmountable curb and gutter, and will use Minnesota Department of Transportation Curb and Gutter Design No. 5524, or similar, where surmountable curb and gutter is specified. Approximately 98% of the wetlands on the site are being completely avoided, with impacts minimized to areas needed primarily for road crossings. Larger and higher quality wetlands that would most likely be used by Blanding's turtles have been avoided. Contractors, and homeowners, working or living within the project area will be provided the DNR's Blanding's turtle flyer so they are aware what the species looks like, and what to do should an animal be encountered. The Project will also be required to adhere to a stringent Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), and actively monitored during construction. Construction zones will be cordoned off with silt fence and monitored for turtles by SWPPP and construction staff. Open trenches will be inspected prior to backfilling, and the DNR will be immediately notified of any turtle sitings. Turtles will be moved by hand, out of harm's way, if they are in imminent danger. Turtles not in imminent danger will be left undisturbed. In addition, the project proposer will evaluate use of wildlife - friendly erosion control products to prevent animals from being entangled during construction. With respect to the potential for eagles in the vicinity of the Project, an Eagle Nest Assessment Summary was provided as Appendix C in the EAW prepared for the Project. This summary noted that while bald eagles were observed in the vicinity of the Project, no eagle nests were observed within the boundary of the Project at the time of the survey. In their comments on the EAW, the MN DNR recommended that the Project be surveyed for eagle nests prior to any tree cutting activities. In response the DNR comments, the Project proposer clarified that tree clearing will likely occur with grading in two separate phases. As recommended, the Project proposer will review the previous nest survey prior to each tree removal event to ensure eagles have not moved into the project area since the previous survey. Should an eagle's nest be discovered on the Project area, the Project proposer will notify the DNR as soon as reasonably feasible.