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<br />Division of Ecological and Water Resources Transmitted by Email <br />Region 3 Headquarters <br />1200 Warner Road <br />Saint Paul, MN 55106 <br />September 20, 2022 <br />Rachel Juba, City Planner <br />City of Hugo <br />14669 Fitzgerald Ave N <br />Hugo MN 55038 <br /> <br />Dear Rachel Juba, <br />Thank you for the opportunity to review the Everton Avenue Neighborhood AUAR Update located <br />within the City of Hugo. The DNR respectfully submits the following comments for your consideration: <br />Page 2-3, IV Update to Environmental Review <br /> Rare Species: Please see the attached DNR Natural Heritage letter that contains requirements <br />to avoid impacts to state-listed species. Please include this letter with DNR’s comments in the <br />Record of Decision. <br /> Stormwater: As the project area continues to be developed, it will greatly increase the amount <br />of impervious surfaces as well as the amount of road salt used in the project area. Chloride <br />released into local lakes and streams does not break down, and instead accumulates in the <br />environment, potentially reaching levels that are toxic to aquatic wildlife and plants. Consider <br />promoting local business and city participation in the Smart Salting Training offered through the <br />Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. There are a variety of classes available for road <br />applicators, sidewalk applicators, and property managers. More informati on and resources can <br />be found at this website. Many winter maintenance staff who have attended the Smart Salting <br />training — both from cities and counties and from private companies — have used their <br />knowledge to reduce salt use and save money for their organizations. <br />We also encourage cities and counties to consider how they may participate in the Statewide <br />Chloride Management Plan and provide public outreach to reduce the overuse of chloride. Here <br />are some educational resources for residents as well as a sample ordinance regarding chloride <br />use. <br /> Stormwater: Blanding’s turtles, a protected state-listed threatened species, have been <br />documented within the project area. Stormwater features may be colonized by Blanding’s <br />turtles in the area, therefore we recommend incorporating measures to avoid impacting this <br />species into stormwater management. In years when the stormwater fea tures will be dredged