Lower Mississippi River Watershed Management Organization

Lower Mississippi River Watershed Management Organization BOARD OF MANAGERS REGULAR MEETING THURSDAY, APRIL 15, 2010 9:00 A.M. WEST ST. PAUL CITY HALL AGENDA I. Call Meeting to Order II. Approval of the Agenda III. Approval of Minutes from March 25, 2010* IV. Approval of Treasurer s Report and Invoices to be Paid a) March 25, 2010 April 15, 2010 Financial Summary & Invoices (distributed at meeting) V. Grant Tracking Update Barr (distributed on 4/8) VI. VII. VIII. IX. Blue Thumb Update - Jester Lexington-Riverside Update - Barr Use of County Implementation Funds Jester (materials distributed at meeting) Finalization of Scope and Contract with WSB for Plan Development X. Plans for Plan Development Kick-off XI. Other Updates and Handouts: a) Notice of Wetland Conservation Act Decision in Inver Grove Heights XII. Adjourn * Indicates materials attached C/O DAKOTA COUNTY SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT 4100 220 TH ST. WEST SUITE 102 FARMINGTON, MN 55024

Lower Mississippi River Watershed Management Organization LMRWMO Meeting 4-15-10 Agenda Item III DRAFT MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, March 25, 2010 9:00 A.M. WEST ST. PAUL CITY HALL Managers in attendance: Richard Williams (Chair), Gary Johnson (Vice Chair), John Sachi (Secretary- Treasurer), Bob Bullard, Anne Weber, Ryan Ruzek (Mendota Heights Alternate), Matt Saam (West St. Paul Alternate) Others in attendance: Janna Kieffer, Barr Engineering; Laura Jester, Dakota County SWCD; Jack Frost, Met Council; Scott Spaeth, resident of Sunfish Lake I. Call Meeting to Order - The meeting was called to order by Chair Williams at 9:07 a.m. II. Approval of Agenda MOTION to approve the agenda as presented by Bullard, second by Johnson; passed unanimously. III. Approval of Minutes from January 21, 2010 Meeting MOTION to approve minutes from January 21, 2010 meeting by Sachi, second by Bullard; passed unanimously. IV. Approval of Treasurer s Report and Invoices to be paid a) January 21, 2010 March 25, 2010 Financial Summary and Invoices Sachi reported three vendor invoices received: Barr Engineering, Campbell Knutson for review of RFP, and the financial audit. Sachi also reported that the 2010 member dues invoices were mailed to cities. In 2011, dues may change slightly as any changes in the tax valuation among cities will be taken into consideration. MOTION to pay invoices and to submit financial information for official audit by Johnson, second by Bullard; passed unanimously.. V. Grant Tracking Update Kieffer noted that LCCMR proposals are due April 9 and that the focus of these funds is typically on projects that have a statewide significance. However, it s a large pot of grant dollars that cities should consider. C/O DAKOTA COUNTY SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT 4100 220 TH ST. WEST SUITE 102 FARMINGTON, MN 55024 PAGE 1

VI. Hornbeam Lake Issue Jester reported that the MN Department of Transportation (MNDOT) asked if the LMRWMO would like to hold an easement on the Hornbeam Lake outlet and the drainage easements along Delaware Ave. The Board studied the maps and after a short discussion decided that the LMRWMO should not hold the easement. They indicated a more likely easement holder would by the City of Sunfish Lake or Dakota County. MOTION to decline MNDOT s request to hold an easement on the Hornbeam Lake outlet and drainage easements along Delaware Ave. by Sachi, second by Bullard; passed unanimously. VII. Execute Contract with Dakota County to Accept Implementation Funds The draft contract was reviewed by the Board; two mistakes were noticed and manually corrected. MOTION to approve the Joint Powers Agreement with Dakota County for funding to accelerate implementation of watershed plan goals by Sachi, second by Johnson; passed unanimously. A discussion ensued regarding where the funds can be spent. A possible list was generated verbally. Jester will return to the Board at their next meeting with suggestions and figures for further discussion and action. VIII. Thompson Lake Update Saam distributed a paper copy of a presentation by Dakota County containing an overview of the contamination and monitoring issues on Thompson Lake in West St. Paul. He indicated that he s been working on this issue since 2005 when the city planned to install a stormwater treatment pond at the lake s inlet. The Lake has been receiving untreated stormwater from 120 acres since the 1940 s. However, a sediment bar and delta at the inlet was found to contain high levels of PAH s (a known toxin likely from coal-tar based sealcoat). Further sampling revealed that this contamination spreads at least half way across the lake. The cleanup costs tripled due to the contamination. The various stakeholders and landowners including Dakota County, West St. Paul, the Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District and St. Croix Lutheran Church have been meeting to discuss possible funding options, cleanup plans, and monitoring plans. Jester reported that Dakota County staff was interested in knowing if the LMRWMO could possibly coordinate the efforts and activities at Thompson Lake as an independent and over-arching agency. Saam mentioned that he currently was not asking anything of the LMRMWO but that the WMO could possibly submit a grant application in the future if the opportunity arises. Currently, there are no grant opportunities that cover this type of project. Representative Hansen has authored a bill requesting $0.75 million (that would cover approximately half the project costs). If State funding becomes available, it may make sense for the LMRWMO to be the project coordinators. Saam reported that a feasibility study is already complete funding is needed to get the project activities going. Overall, the Managers would like a formal request from the entities and stakeholders if they wish for involvement from the LMRWMO. C/O DAKOTA COUNTY SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT 4100 220 TH ST. WEST SUITE 102 FARMINGTON, MN 55024 PAGE 2

IX. Accept 2009 Official Audit Sachi reported that the auditor has the same concerns with the lack of internal controls. However, this issue is similar for all small watersheds and organizations. No changes will be made to the LMRWMO s financial policies and procedures. MOTION to approve the 2009 financial audit and submit to the BWSR by Sachi, second by Johnson; passed unanimously. X. Approve Annual Newsletter Some minor changes were suggested for the draft newsletter. In general the group liked the new content and format and reported that residents do pick them up from City Halls. MOTION to approve the 2010 newsletter with minor changes and submit to the BWSR by Johnson, second by Sachi; passed unanimously. XI. Approve Annual Report Some minor changes were suggested for the draft 2009 report. MOTION to approve the 2009 annual activity report with minor changes and submit to the BWSR by Johnson, second by Bullard; passed unanimously. XII. Other Updates and Handouts a. Lake Pepin TMDL Update Jester and Kieffer updated the group indicating that the public comment period was to close the next day on the proposed site specific standards for total suspended solids and submerged aquatic vegetation for the newly designated South Metro Mississippi TMDL. The former Lake Pepin TMDL has been divided into two parts: South Metro Mississippi (turbidity impairment) and the Lake Pepin nutrient impairment. Work on the latter is also continuing but lags a little behind the South Metro TMDL. b. South St. Paul levee raising project application Sachi informed the group about a project to raise the levels of some inland levees that have deteriorated over time in order to be in compliance with FEMA. No formal comments. c. Shallow Lakes Forum Informational item about the upcoming event XIII. Interviews of Barr Engineering and WSB Associates for development of the 3 rd generation Watershed Management Plan Each of these firms gave presentations on their proposal for developing the watershed plan. Managers asked questions on various aspects of the proposals. XIV. Discussion and Selection of Consulting Firm The group discussed the merits and demerits of each firm s proposal. After much discussion a vote was taken. Direct votes had 5 to hire WSB; 2 to hire Barr. Weighted votes (according to C/O DAKOTA COUNTY SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT 4100 220 TH ST. WEST SUITE 102 FARMINGTON, MN 55024 PAGE 3

JPA) had 9 to hire WSB; 4 to hire Barr. It was also noted that the WMO Administrator, Jester, preferred to hire Barr. There were some questions regarding WSB s plan to involve a technical advisory committee and citizen advisory committee as well as the costs to produce the actual plan document. These items will be discussed with WSB staff at their next meeting prior to taking action on an actual contract with the firm. Jester was directed to notify all 5 firms as to the Board s decision to hire WSB for plan development. XV. Adjourn - meeting was adjourned by Chair Williams at 12:40 p.m. Next meeting is scheduled for April 15; 9:00 a.m.; West St. Paul City Hall. C/O DAKOTA COUNTY SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT 4100 220 TH ST. WEST SUITE 102 FARMINGTON, MN 55024 PAGE 4

Summary of Grant s and Application Deadlines in Grant Tracking Database 4/12/2010 Application Deadline November 1, 2010 October 28, 2010 September 1, 2010 August 6, 2010 July 30, 2010 July 15, 2010 June, 2010 June 1, 2010 Summer 2010 Summer 2010 Late-spring 2010 Late-spring 2010 May 21, 2010 May 2, 2010 May 1, 2010 April 9, 2010 April 1, 2010 March 31, 2010 March 31, 2010 March 31, 2100 March 31, 2010 March 15, 2010 March 5, 2010 February 26, 2010 February 12, 2010 February 11, 2010 January 29. 2010 January 18, 2010 January 18, 2010 December 18, 2009 December 1, 2009 December 1, 2009 December 1, 2009 December 1, 2009 December 1, 2009 December 1, 2009 Grant * USFWS Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act (NMBCA) Grant USFWS North American Wetland Conservation Act U.S. Small Grants NFWF Keystone Initiative Grants Community Conservation Assistance North American Wetland Conservation Act U.S. Standard Grants Conservation Cost Share (CCS) Metro Greenways- Community Conservation Assistance Grants Flood Hazard Mitigation Grants MPCA Clean Water Partnership Implementation Grants MPCA Clean Water Partnership Resource Investigation/Diagnostic Study Grants MPCA Section 319 Developmental, Education, and Applied Research (DER) Grants MPCA Section 319 TMDL Implementation Grants NPS Save America's Treasures Grant Hennepin County Enviromental Response Fund Grants Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund (LCCMR grant program) NFWF Keystone Initiative Grants Regional Trail Grant Local Trail Connections Parks and Trails Legacy Grant Natural and Scenic Area Grants Outdoor Heritage Conservation Partners Grant (from Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council) North American Wetland Conservation Act U.S. Standard Grants Federal Recreation Trail Heritage Enhancement Grant NFWF Five Star Restoration Matching Grants USEPA Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Grants Pilot Projects to control Eurasian watermilfoil or Curly-leaf pondweed on a lake-wide basis Solar Energy Legacy Grant BWSR Clean Water Funds: Shoreland Improvement Grants BWSR Clean Water Funds: Runoff Reduction Grants BWSR Clean Water Funds: Feedlot Water Quality Management Grants BWSR Clean Water Funds: Conservation Drainage Advancement Grants BWSR Clean Water Funds: SSTS Enhancement Grants BWSR Clean Water Funds: Clean Water Assistance Grants * See Grant Tracking Database for further details 1

Summary of Grant s and Application Deadlines in Grant Tracking Database 4/12/2010 Application Deadline December 1, 2009 December 1, 2009 November 6, 2009 November 3, 2009 November 2, 2009 November 1, 2009 Fall 2009 October 30, 2009 October 16, 2009 October 16, 2009 October 16, 2009 October 16, 2009 September 30, 2009 September 18, 2009 September 1, 2009 August 24, 2009 July 3, 2009 May 15, 2009 May 15, 2009 May 1, 2009 April 6, 2009 Grant * BWSR Clean Water Funds: SSTS Inventory Grants BWSR Clean Water Funds: Imminent Health Threat Abatement Grants MPCA Surface Water Assessment Grant MPCA Environmental Assistance Grant State Wildlife Grant Hennepin County Environmental Response Fund Grants (ERF Grants) USEPA Brownfield Grants for Low-Income Communities MPCA Water Quality Planning Grant Hennepin County Riparian Restoration and Streambank Stabilization (RASP) USEPA Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) Grant USEPA Brownfields Cleanup Grant USEPA Brownfields Assessment Grants Minnehaha Creek WD Cynthia Krieg Watershed Stewardship Fund MPCA Clean Water Partnership Implementation Loans NFWF Keystone Initiative Grant Met Council Livable Communities Account Grant Eurasian Watermilfoil Grant Metro Greenways-Protection Grants Metro Greenways- Restoration Grants Federal ARRA Funds for Clean Water Infrastructure Projects MPCA and MPFA Total Maximum Daily Load Grant Grant programs with no specific application deadline date or currently unfunded* Wetland Tax Exemption Water Recreation Cooperative Acquisition & Development SWCD State Cost Share Shoreland Habitat Restoration Grant Roadsides for Wildlife Reinvest in Minnesota Critical Habitat Match Native Prairie Tax Exemption Native Prairie Bank MPCA Targeted Brownfield Assessment Grant USFWS Landowner Incentive (LIP) Fishing Pier Grant Dam Safety Grants MPCA Clean Water Legacy (CWL) TMDL Development Funds Boat Access Washington County Conservation District Water Quality Cost-Share USEPA Targeted Watersheds Grants Dakota County SWCD Conservation Initiative Funding Forest Stewardship Remediation Fund (Landfills) USEPA Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) program Community Forest Bonding Native Shoreland Buffer Incentives BWSR Native Buffer Cost Share Environmental and Conservation Partnerships Grant BWSR Cooperative Weed Management Area Grants * See Grant Tracking Database for further details 2

Grant Tracking Database- Updated April 9, 2010 1 Grant Water Quality Sponsoring Agency/ Organization General Info Eligibility Level of Assistance Application Submittal Deadline Link to Website Contact Information Water Quality Management Planning Grant (ARRA funding) MPCA/USEPA Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative NRCS (USDA) Proposals being accepted in the following four priority areas: 1. Developing cooperative interstate efforts to coordinate monitoring, assessment and standard setting approaches to border/interstate waters. 2. Aligning local water planning and comprehensive planning efforts with the Clean Water Legacy Act watershed approach. 3. Enhancing Minnesota s ability to measure and communicate the results of TMDL development and watershed planning efforts; and 4. Promoting civic engagement in watershed planning and TMDLs producers in selected watersheds in the Mississippi River Basin voluntarily implement conservation practices that avoid, control, and trap nutrient runoff; improve wildlife habitat; and maintain agricultural productivity. These improvements will be accomplished through a conservation systems approach to manage and optimize nitrogen and phosphorous within fields to minimize runoff and reduce downstream nutrient loading. NRCS will provide producers assistance with a system of practices that will control soil erosion, improve soil quality, and provide wildlife habitat while managing runoff and drainage water for improved water quality Regional Development Commissions, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Watershed Districts, WMOs, Counties and Interstate Planning Organizations Indian tribes, state and local units of government, farmer cooperatives, producer associations, institutions of higher education and other non-governmental organizations within the elegible watersheds. In Minnesota, these include: the Middle Minnesota, Root and Sauk Rivers. $291,160 is available for award. Maximum award will not exceed $145,580. No matching funds required. Applications are due on October 30, 2009 http://www.pca.state.mn.us/recovery/index.html $80 million available each year for projects in 41 eligible watersheds in the 12 state http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/mrbi/ initiative area. Proposals are due by May 1, 2010. mrbi.html contact contracts@pca.state.mn.us for more information. BWSR Clean Water Funds: Runoff Reduction Grants BWSR Funds are to be used for structural & vegetative practices to reduce stormwater runoff and retain water on the land to reduce the movement of sediment, nutrients, and pollutants. Practices should accomplish restoration, protection, or enhancement of water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams and/or protect groundwater and drinking water. Projects must be identified in a Grants available to watershed districts and watershed TMDL implementation plan or be a priority in a local water management plan. management organizations FY 2010 award amount of $2.46 million. Minimum grant award of $30,000. 25% local match required (cash or in-kind) Application period opened October 15, 2009. Applications due December 1, 2009. http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/grants/index. html Contact your BWSR Board Conservationist http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/aboutbwsr/w orkareas/bc_areas.pdf BWSR Clean Water Funds: Clean Water Assistance Grants BWSR Clean Water Funds: Shoreland Improvement Grants BWSR Clean Water Funds: Feedlot Water Quality Management Grants BWSR Clean Water Funds: Conservation Drainage Advancement Grants BWSR Clean Water Funds: Imminent Health Threat Abatement Grants BWSR BWSR BWSR BWSR BWSR Funds are to be used to keep water on the land, and to protect, enhance, and restore water quality in lakes, rivers and streams and to protect groundwater FY 2010 award amount of $2.65 Contact your BWSR Board and drinking water. Projects must be identified in a TMDL implementation Grants available to watershed districts, watershed management million. Minimum grant award of Application period opened October Conservationist plan or be a priority in a local water management plan, groundwater plan, well organizations, counties, and soil and water conservation $30,000. 25% local match 15, 2009. Applications due http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/grants/index. http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/aboutbwsr/w head protection plan or surface water intake plan. districts. required (cash or in-kind) December 1, 2009. html orkareas/bc_areas.pdf Funds are to be used to implement streambank, stream channel, and shoreline protection and restoration projects for water quality. Projects must be Grants available to watershed districts, watershed management identified in a TMDL implementation plan or be a priority in a local water organizations, counties, cities, soil and water conservation management plan. districts, and joint powers boards of these organizations Funds may be used to fix existing feedlot pollution problems from feedlot operations less than 300 animal units in size and located in a riparian area or impaired watershed. Funds for pilot projects to retrofit existing drainage systems with water quality improvement practices, evaluate outcomes and provide outreach to landowners, public drainage authorities, drainage engineers, contractors, and others. Funds to be used to address imminent health threats and failing SSTS systems for low income homeowners. Grants available to watershed districts, watershed management organizations, counties, cities, SWCDs, and joint powers boards of these organizations Grants available to watershed districts, watershed management organizations, counties, cities, SWCDs, and joint powers boards of these organizations Cities and Counties FY 2010 award amount of $1.4 million. Minimum grant award of $30,000. 25% local match required (cash or in-kind) FY 2010 award amount of $2.5 million. Minimum grant award of $30,000. 25% local match required (cash or in-kind) FY 2010 award amount of $200,000. Minimum grant award of $30,000. 25% local match required (cash or in-kind) Application period opened October 15, 2009. Applications due December 1, 2009. Application period opened October 15, 2009. Applications due December 1, 2009. Application period opened October 15, 2009. Applications due December 1, 2009. http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/grants/index. html http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/grants/index. html http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/grants/index. html Contact your BWSR Board Conservationist http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/aboutbwsr/w orkareas/bc_areas.pdf Contact your BWSR Board Conservationist http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/aboutbwsr/w orkareas/bc_areas.pdf Contact your BWSR Board Conservationist http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/aboutbwsr/w orkareas/bc_areas.pdf FY 2010 award amount of $800,000. Minimum grant award Application period opened October Contact your BWSR Board Conservationist of $30,000. No local match 15, 2009. Applications due http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/grants/index. http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/aboutbwsr/w required December 1, 2009. html orkareas/bc_areas.pdf BWSR Clean Water Funds: SSTS Enhancement Grants BWSR Funds to be used to implement SSTS programs, including inventories, enforcement, databases and systems to insure SSTS maintenance reporting programs. Counties FY 2010 award amount of $860,000. Minimum grant award of $30,000. No local match required Application period opened October 15, 2009. Applications due December 1, 2009. http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/grants/index. html Contact your BWSR Board Conservationist http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/aboutbwsr/w orkareas/bc_areas.pdf BWSR Clean Water Funds: SSTS Inventory Grants BWSR Funds to be used to complete direct inspections to determine the # of SSTS systems that are failing or posing an imminent health threat in riparian lands. Counties FY 2010 award amount of $350,000. Minimum grant award of $30,000. 50% local match required (cash or in-kind) Application period opened October 15, 2009. Applications due December 1, 2009. http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/grants/index. html Contact your BWSR Board Conservationist http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/aboutbwsr/w orkareas/bc_areas.pdf Rows highlighted in yellow indicate an application deadline within the next 4 months. 1

Grant Tracking Database- Updated April 9, 2010 2 Grant Sponsoring Agency/ Organization General Info Eligibility Level of Assistance Application Submittal Deadline Link to Website Contact Information Riparian Restoration and Streambank Stabilization (RASP) Hennepin County to fund projects that will reduce erosion and stabilize stream banks throughout Hennepin County. Priority will be given to projects that: -Incorporate the use of the Minnesota Conservation Corps or the Tree Trust -Are identified as priority by the local water management organization. -Address the erosion and bank stabilization of streams listed as impaired or are tributary to impaired waters. -Provide significant leverage of grant funds from other sources. Local governments within Hennepin County, including cities, watershed districts, and joint-powers watershed organizations and park districts, are eligible for funding. $500,000 available for grant program. Applications are due on October 16, 2009. www.hennepin.us/streambankgrants Hennepin County Environmental Services DESMail@co.hennepin.mn.us 612-348-3777 Applications attention to Joel Settles Federal ARRA Funds MPCA (Federal for Clean Water Infrastructure Projects funds) MN expects to receive approximately $72 million for clean water infrastructure projects and $35 million for drinking water infrastructure projects from the recently enacted American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. The Minnesota Public Facilities Authority (PFA) will award ARRA funds to eligible projects by following the general eligibility requirements and funding process for the Clean Water Revolving Fund (CWRF) and Drinking Water Revolving Fund (DWRF). The funds will be administered by the PFA in coordination with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) for clean water projects and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) for drinking water projects. See website. See website. Submittal of Stormwater Plan to MPCA by April 6, 2009. Application submittal deadline for 2010 Project Priority List (PPL) is May 1, 2009. http://www.deed.state.mn.us/community/a ssistance/pfa.htm Bill Dunn MPCA Wastewater and Stormwater Financial Assistance s (651) 282-2663 bill.dunn@pca.state.mn.us Clean Water Partnership (CWP) Resource Investigation/Diagnosti MPCA (State c Study Grants funds) CWP Implementation Grants MPCA (State funds) Proposals being accepted for resource investigation/diagnostic study projects that monitor, assess and develop a diagnostic study on the status of a water body, and also develop an implementation plan to address the needs of the water body. Note that priority will be given to projects that prevent impairments and degradation to MN waters. Those waterbodies with a listed impairment but no completed and approved TMDL study will follow in priority. Proposals being accepted for projects that implement activities, such as best management practices, that are identified by a comprehensive assessment and planning process in the watershed or around the water body of concern. Such assessment must consist of an MPCA-approved CWP Phase I or equivalent diagnostic study and implementation plan. Note that priority will be given to projects that prevent impairments and degradation to MN waters. Those waterbodies with a listed impairment but no completed and approved TMDL study will follow in priority. Local government units if they have the following: A. The authority to coordinate and enter into contracts with local, state, and federal agencies and private organizations for the purpose of carrying out a project B. The authority to generate cash revenues and in kind contributions for the local share of the project C. The authority to adopt and enforce official controls D. An approved local water plan that addresses the water of concern Grant recipient must provide a 50% matching contribution (cash or in-kind services). $250,000 maximum grant funding request. Additional funding will be available in 2010. Next funding round to open in summer. http://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/cwp- 319.html#rfp Pete Fastner (CWP) Regional Environmental Management Minnesota Pollution Control Agency St. Paul, Minnesota 55155-4194 (651) 282-6245 peter.fastner@pca.state.mn.us Local government units if they have the following: CWP Implementation Loans Section 319 Developmental, Education, and Applied Research (DER) Grants MPCA MPCA (Federal funds) Proposals being accepted for low interest loans for projects that implement activities, such as best management practices, that are identified by a comprehensive assessment and planning process in the watershed or around the water body of concern. Such assessment must consist of an MPCAapproved CWP Phase I or equivalent diagnostic study and implementation plan. Developmental, education or applied research projects with statewide or regional applicability that demonstrate new or innovative technology, new best management practices, or develop educational programs related to reducing nonpoint source pollution. A research project must answer a question related to the goal of reducing nonoint source pollution. A. The authority to pledge its full faith and credit to ensure repayment of a project implementation loan B. The authority to generate cash revenues for the repayment of a loan C. The authority to enter into a loan agreement with the agency OR, the LGU must submit a resolution from at least one other local unit of government that meets the above criteria stating that Low-interest loan program (no they will participate in the project as a loan sponsor. funding limit) Any individual or entity may request funds. Project must not be under enforcement action, part of a permitted wastewater treatment plant, or address feedlot or stormwater permit requirements. Applications are due on September 18, 2009 No minimum or maximum award levels established. Projects must Additional funding will be be funded with at least 45% local available in 2010. RFP to be cash or in-kind match. issued in late April. http://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/cwp- 319.html#rfp http://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/cwp- 319.html#rfp Pete Fastner (CWP) Regional Environmental Management Minnesota Pollution Control Agency St. Paul, Minnesota 55155-4194 (651) 282-6245 peter.fastner@pca.state.mn.us CWP- 319.grant.program@pca.state.mn.us Or, Sara Johnson (319) (651) 296-8278 sara.johnson@pca.state.mn.us CWP- 319.grant.program@pca.state.mn.us Section 319 TMDL MPCA (Federal Implementation Grants funds) Clean Water Legacy (CWL) TMDL Development Funds MPCA, BWSR, MDA, (Federal, State, Local & Private funds) Grant funding available for implementation projects that address TMDL restoration activities. Eligible proposers must have an TMDL implementation plan approved by the MPCA by July 15, 2009. TMDL studies only: collection and assessment of water quality data, development of pollutant reduction strategies. Any individual or entity may request funds. Project must not be under enforcement action, part of a permitted wastewater treatment plant, or address feedlot or stormwater permit requirements. Local units of government. Watershed/waterbody must be on the 303(d) list of impaired waters. Funds are distributed through a non-competitive process by MPCA, based on TMDL scheduling factors. No minimum or maximum award levels established. Projects must Additional funding will be be funded with at least 45% local available in 2010. RFP to be cash or in-kind match. issued in late April. No matching funds are required. Contact MPCA http://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/cwp- 319.html#rfp http://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/cwp- 319.html#rfp Or, Sara Johnson (319) (651) 296-8278 sara.johnson@pca.state.mn.us Juline Holleran Regional Environmental Management Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (651) 296-7701 juline.holleran@pca.state.mn.us Rows highlighted in yellow indicate an application deadline within the next 4 months. 2

Grant Tracking Database- Updated April 9, 2010 3 Grant Surface Water Assessment Grant Sponsoring Agency/ Organization General Info Eligibility Level of Assistance MPCA (State funds) to provide local organizations and citizen volunteers with funds to complete the monitoring needed to meet MPCA assessment requirements on Minnesota lakes and streams. Note that the program includes special consideration for 'targeted' watersheds and waterbodies (see website for list) Eligible applicants include Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Watershed Districts, Watershed Management Organizations, local units of government (i.e., counties, cities, townships, and Lake Improvement Districts), regional governmental groups (i.e. Joint Powers Boards), Minnesota colleges and universities, nonprofit organizations, and American Indian Tribal governments in Minnesota. No matching funds are required Application Submittal Deadline Link to Website Contact Information Ron Schwartz 520 Lafayette Rd N Application period to open in St. Paul, MN 55155 September 21, 2009. Applications http://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/swagran (651) 297-2915 or (800) 657-3864 due by November 6, 2009. t.html ronald.schwartz@state.mn.us The application deadline for FY2009 TMDL grant funds was July 31, 2008. To get on the MPCA's 2010 Project Priority List (required to be eligible for grant funding) the deadline for submittal Minnesota Public Funding to assist municipalities with the cost of publicly-owned wastewater or A project may receive a TMDL Facilities Authority stormwater projects needed to meet wasteload reductions under an approved grant for up to 50% of the Randy Thorson Total Maximum Daily (PFA) & MPCA TMDL study. Note: projects must be on the MPCA's Project Priority List eligible project costs. $3,000,000 of facility plans or stormwater http://www.deed.state.mn.us/community/a Load (TMDL) Grant (State funds) (PPL). Local governmental units maximum application limit. project plans is April 6, 2009 ssistance/pfa.htm (651) 296-7150 Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Grants Eurasian Watermilfoil Grant o help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, especially zebra mussels and spiny waterfleas, into Minnesota waters. Grants are targeted to help local entities implement locally focused prevention efforts including watercraft inspections and public awareness projects that utilize both standardized or customized designs and messages. for the control of Eurasian watermilfoil on a partial-lake basis to reduce interference with recreation and risk of spread. Funds are available for 1) control during spring or early summer of dense and matted milfoil that interferes with recreational activities by a number of people who use a lake or, 2) control of dense and matted milfoil growing next to a public water access to reduce risk of spread from the lake. Lake associations, coalitions of lake associations (COLAs), local citizen groups, local units of government (e.g. conservation districts, lake improvement districts, watershed districts, and counties) Funds are available to organizations such as lake associations, lake improvement districts, etc. To be eligible for this program, a lake must have at least one public water access. $10,000 maximum proposal limit Lakes < 51 littoral acres- up to $2,000 Lakes w/ 51-100 littoral acresup to $4,000 Lakes w/ 101-2,500 littoral acres- up to $4,000 plus $6 for each add l littoral acre over 100 Lakes w/ > 2,500 littoral acresup to $1,200 plus $5 for each add l littoral acre over 100 Applications are due by January 18, 2010 There are multiple application deadlines: May 29, 2009, June 19, 2009, or July 3, 2009. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/aquatic _invasive/aq_inv_prevention.html http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/habitat/ eurasian.html Bill Dunn MPCA Wastewater and Stormwater Financial Assistance s (651) 282-2663 bill.dunn@pca.state.mn.us Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (651) 296-7150 Jay Rendall Invasive Species Prevention Coordinator 651-259-5131 jay.rendall@dnr.state.mn.us Brittany Hummel Invasive Species Specialist 651-259-5828 brittany.hummel@dnr.state.mn.us Or Wendy Crowell, Grants Coordinator DNR Ecological Resources Phone: (651) 259-5085 wendy.crowell@dnr.state.mn.us Pilot Projects to control Eurasian watermilfoil or Curlyleaf pondweed on a lake-wide basis to support pilot projects to control curlyleaf pondweed and/or eurasian watermilfoil on a lake-wide or bay-wide basis. The purpose of these projects is to provide ecological benefits and relief from the nuisances caused by the plants. Organizations such as lake associations, conservation districts, watershed districts, and municipalities. To be eligible, a lake must have at least one public water access. No matching funds required. Applications are due by January 18, 2010. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/habitat/l akewide.html Wendy Crowell, DNR Ecological Resources 500 Lafayette Road, Box 25 St. Paul, MN 55155 (651) 259-5085 E-mail: wendy.crowell@dnr.state.mn.us Native Buffer Cost Share BWSR to establish and maintain diverse native vegetation buffers using seeds of local ecotype regions. Eligible conservation buffer areas to be determined by SWCD. Eligible project areas are limited to list of counties in M.S. 84.02, Sec. 17, Subd. 4 Cost-share program- contact BWSR Representative for details New funding available for 2010. Factsheet updated 10/7/09. Contact BWSR or SWCD. http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/grantscostsh are/native-buffer.html Board of Water and Soil Resources Dan Shaw, (651) 296-0644 Dan.Shaw@state.mn.us State Cost Share Minnesota Soil & Water Conservation Districts assists landowners financially with the installation of soil and water conservation practices. Contact SWCD. Cost share ranges from 50% to 75% based on water quality impacts. Contact local SWCD. http://www.maswcd.org/swcds_on_the _Web/swcds_on_the_web.htm Contact local SWCD. Washington County Conservation District Water Quality Cost- Share Washington County Soil & Water Conservation District WCD provides small grants to land owners wishing to improve surface water quality in Washington County. Eligible practices include rainwater gardens, infiltration systems, and other innovative approaches to treat stormwater runoff at the source. Landowners in Washington County. 50% match grants of up to $5,000 are available. Contact SWCD. http://www.mnwcd.org/financial_assistanc e.php Contact SWCD. Conservation Cost Share (CCS) Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District is designed to support non-agricultural water quality projects that preserve or restore natural resources by providing technical and cost share assistance. Dakota County property owners, neighborhood groups, and small organizations Up to $4,000 available to fund each project, up to 65% of total cost. Applications are due between http://www.dakotacountyswcd.org/ccs.htm March 1 and July 15 of each year. l Jim Davidson, Urban Conservationist (651) 480-7779 jim.davidson@co.dakota.mn.us Conservation Initiative Funding Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District The Dakota SWCD offers funding and/or technical assistance for projects that demonstrate innovative stormwater management, low impact development and/or conservation design principles. Dakota County land owners, developers, and local units of government $20,000 maximimum cost share to reimburse applicant for up to 50% estimated project cost Cost share applications will be reviewed on a first come, first served basis. Conact SWCD http://www.dakotacountyswcd.org/cif.html Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District 4100 220th Street West, Suite 102 Farmington, MN 55024 (651) 480-7777 Rows highlighted in yellow indicate an application deadline within the next 4 months. 3

Grant Tracking Database- Updated April 9, 2010 4 Grant Sponsoring Agency/ Organization General Info Eligibility Level of Assistance Application Submittal Deadline Link to Website Contact Information Cynthia Krieg Watershed Stewardship Fund Minnehaha Creek Watershed District Grants are available every year for projects within the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District that: -result in greater public awareness of ways to improve water quality (Education Grants). These projects may include a water quality improvement project. Non-profit organizations, businesses, cities, townships, and -use new and innovative techniques for stormwater management, water school districts within the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District quality improvement, or habitat enhancement (Innovation Grants). may apply. Previously awarded projects have ranged from $1,000 to $30,000. Pre-proposals due Sept. 30, 2009. Proposals due Oct. 21, 2009. http://www.minnehahacreek.org/ckrieg_ap p.php Julie Westerlund Education & Communications Manager 952-471-0590 ext. 209 jwesterlund@minnehahacreek.org Water Quantity Dam Safety Grants Intent is to improve the safety and condition of publicly owned dams and water level control structures. Eligible projects include dam reconstruction, repair, and removal. Cities, counties, townships, watershed districts Reimbursement of costs, up to 50% for repairs, up to 100% for removals. Grants have ranged from $25,000 to $1,000,000 Contact local DNR Waters office for application information. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/water/d am_safety.html Jason Boyle, State Dam Safety Engineer DNR Division of Waters (651) 259-5715 E-mail: jason.boyle@dnr.state.mn.us Flood Hazard Mitigation Grants to provide technical and financial assistance to local governmental units for conducting flood damage reduction studies and for planning and implementing flood damage reduction measures. Cities, counties, townships, watershed districts, watershed management organizations and lake improvement districts. A maximum of 50% of total eligible project costs up to $150,000. Grant requests for more than $150,000 must be approved by the Legislature. Submittal of application by June 1 of each year is recommended. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/water/fl ood_hazard.html Pat Lynch, Flood Damage Reduction Manager DNR Division of Waters (651) 259-5691 E-Mail: pat.lynch@dnr.state.mn.us Natural Resources/Habitat Protection Community Conservation Assistance Cities, counties, townships, and special purpose districts Grants are available to assist local governments with obtaining baseline land (watershed districts, watershed management organizations, and cover data and the integration of land cover and natural resources information soil and water conservation districts) within the 12 county greater into local development and conservation plans, policies, and practices. The program is especially interested in innovative projects that seek to resolve challenges associated with the conservation of remaining natural habitats in metro region are eligible. Multi jurisdictional applicants are welcome if one applicant is identified as the principal grantee for the entire proposed project. Project must be wholly or paritally be A 25% local or in-kind rapidly changing communities. located within Metropolitan conservation corridors. contribution is required. Additional funding will be available in 2010. An announcement is likely in June for the 2010 program, with an anticipated deadline of August 6, 2010 To discuss project eligibility contact: Sharon Pfeifer Community Assistance Manager tel. (651) 259 5790 e mail sharon.pfeifer@state.mn.us For information on the application process contact: Marybeth Block Community Assistance Specialist tel. anticipated deadline of August 6, http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/nrplanning/cca (651) 259 5835 5835 e mail /index.html marybeth.block@state.mn.us State Wildlife Grant To further the implementation Minnesota's State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) Tomorrow's Habitat for the Wild and Rare, available on the Minnesota DNR website at: http://mndnr.gov/cwcs, which focuses on wildlife species in greatest conservation need (SGCNs). The term "wildlife" means species of wild, free-ranging fauna, including terrestrial, aquatic, and invertebrate species. Individuals, organizations, state and local entities, colleges and universities. Awards will range from $10,000 - $50,000. 1:1 match required. Applications due by November 2, 2009 http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/wildlife/ cwcs.html Wendy Crowell, Ecological Resources Grants Coordinator (651) 259-5085 wendy.crowell@state.mn.us Jane Norris, State Wildlife Action Plan Coordinator (651) 259-5228 jane.norris@state.mn.us Outdoor Heritage Conservation Partners Grant (from Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council) Grant program for enhancement, restoration, or protection of forests, wetlands, prairies, and habitat for fish, game, or wildlife in Minnesota. Restoration and Enhancement projects will consist of activities that restore or enhance habitat for fish, game, or wildlife on lands permanently protected by conservation easement or public ownership. Protection projects maintain the ability of habitat and related natural systems to sustain fish, game or wildlife through acquisition of fee title or conservation easements. Land acquired in fee must be open to public hunting and fishing during open seasons. Funding for this grant program is from the Outdoor Heritage Fund created by the Minnesota legislature to receive 33 percent of the sales tax revenues resulting from the constitutional amendment passed by the voters in the November 2008 election. Local, regional, state, and national non-profit organizations are eligible, including government. Grants can range from $5,000 to $400,000. Up to 90% of total eligible costs are funded. A 10% non-state cash or in-kind match is required from all grantees. Applications are due by Nov. 3, 2009 to be considered for the first Leslie Tannahill round of funding. 2nd round (if funds remain) applications are due by March 15, 2010. No funds remain after first round of funding - no second round of http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/habitat/l funding in FY 2010. essard-sams.html Leslie Tannahill Conservation Grant Manager Box 20, 500 Lafayette Road St. Paul, MN 55155-4020 651-259-5242 (St. Paul phone) 507-206-2861 (Rochester phone) LSCPLGrants.DNR@state.mn.us Rows highlighted in yellow indicate an application deadline within the next 4 months. 4

Grant Tracking Database- Updated April 9, 2010 5 Grant Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund (LCCMR grant program) Forest Stewardship Heritage Enhancement Grants Sponsoring Agency/ Organization General Info Eligibility Level of Assistance Legislative- Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) Roadsides for Wildlife Projects are sought that provide multiple ecological and other public benefits and are consistent with the LCCMR Six-Year Strategic Plan and the Statewide Conservation and Preservation Plan. Proposals are requested in the following seven areas: 1) Water Resources (Groundwater Sustainability, Estrogenic and Open to all. The spirit and intent of the LCCMR is to provide Pharmaceutical Contaminants in Surface and Ground Waters, and Aquatic access to everyone who has innovative ideas for environment Habitat), 2) Renewable Energy Related to Climate Change, 3) Habitat and natural resources projects with a distinct public benefit that Restoration, Enhancement, and Acquisition, 4) Invasive Species, 5) Natural reflects the Commission's adopted Request for Proposals, Six- Resource Conservation Planning and Implementation, 6) Environmental Year Strategic Plan, and the Statewide Conservation and Education, and 7) Creative Ideas Preservation Plan. to provide technical advice and long range planning to interested land owners. Forest stewardship plans are the outcome of the program- plans are designed to meet landowner goals while maintaining the sustainability of the land. to encourage local outdoor clubs to complete wildlife habitat projects on State Wildlife Management Areas or other lands under control of the Section of Wildlife. Private forest landowners including corporations whose stock are not publicly traded and own between 20-1,000 acres of land. At least 10 acres of the land must have or will have trees. State- or nation-wide wildlife habitat conservation organizations that have two or more local or regional chapters, or local, nonprofit outdoor recreation oriented clubs that are unaffiliated with station or national organizations and that list wildlife habitat conservation as a primary focus of their organization's by-laws. Level of assistance is variable. An estimated total of $52 million is available. No matching funds required, although 'leverage' is one of the criteria used for scoring proposals. Applications due by April 9, 2010. Forest stewardship plans are free from most approved plan preparers (DNR reimburses non- First come, first served. Contact DNR providers) the DNR No matching funds required to encourage local road authorities and landowners to use Integrated Roadside Resource Management Techniques so that ecological value (water, Applicants reimbursed for up to soil, wildlife, native plants) are considered. Eligible projects include 75% of eligible local ecotype revegetation of roadsides with native grass and forb seed, demonstration plots native prairie seed costs, with a on biological weed control, and native seed planting and harvesting maximum cost-share ratio of equipment. Public road authorities, conservation groups, private landowners. $300 per acre. Application Submittal Deadline Link to Website Contact Information Applications due February 12, 2010. Contact Roadsides for Wildlife http://www.lccmr.leg.mn/requestforpropo sals/2011-2012/2011-2012_rfp.pdf http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/forestm gmt/stewardship.html http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/habitat/ heritage.html http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/habitat/r oadsides.html LCCMR Staff (651) 296-2406 Email: lccmr@lccmr.leg.mn Private Forest Coordinator DNR Forestry 500 Lafayette Road, Box 44 St. Paul, MN 55155 (651) 259-5261 Leslie Tannahill Grants Specialist, Division of Wildlife Box 20, 500 Lafayette Road St. Paul, MN 55155-4007 (651) 259-5242 leslie.tannahill@dnr.state.mn.us Roadsides for Wildlife Pete Schaefer, DNR Division of Wildlife 261 Highway 15 South New Ulm, MN 56073-8915 (507) 225-3572 Prairie Species At Risk Peter Buesseler, SNA Prairie Biologist Scientific and Natural Areas (218) 739-7497 peter.buesseler@dnr.state.mn.us Landowner Incentive (LIP) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)- Implemented through. assists eligible, private landowners, who wish to voluntarily manage their land to benefit listed species, with the development of habitat management plans and financial assistance for habitat enhancement and restoration. Private land owners (organizations working w/private landowners can apply on behalf of the landowner) with land within a LIP focus area. No matching funds required. Submit completed LIP eligibility form to the LIP program manager. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/lip/index.html SE Forest Species At Risk Ann Pierce, Regional Plant Ecologist Natural Heritage and Nongame Research (507) 280-5076 ann.pierce@dnr.state.mn.us North American Wetland Conservation U.S. Fish and Act U.S. Small Grants Wildlife Service (USFWS) that supports public-private partnerships carrying out projects in Canada, US, and Mexico. Projects must involve long-term protection, restoration, and/or enhancement of wetlands and associated uplands habitats See website. 50% matching funds required. Maximum grant awards of $75,000. Applications due by October 28, 2010 http://www.fws.gov/birdhabitat/grants/na WCA/index.shtm Small Grants Coordinators: Ken Kriese (703) 358-1888 ken_kriese@fws.gov Rodecia Mcknight (703) 358-2266. rodecia_mcknight@fws.gov North American Wetland Conservation Act U.S. Standard Grants USFWS that supports public-private partnerships carrying out projects in Canada, US, and Mexico. Projects must involve long-term protection, restoration, and/or enhancement of wetlands and associated uplands habitats See website. 50% matching funds required. Grant awards between $75,000 and $1,000,000. Applications due by March 5 and July 30, 2010 http://www.fws.gov/birdhabitat/grants/na WCA/index.shtm David Buie, Fish and Wildlife Service (301) 497-5870 David_buie@fws.gov Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act (NMBCA) Grant USFWS that supports public-private partnerships carrying out projects in the United States, Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean that promote the long-term conservation of Neotropical migratory birds and their habitats. The goals of the Act include perpetuating healthy populations of these birds, providing financial resources for bird conservation initiatives, and fostering international cooperation for such initiatives. See website. 3:1 funding match is required. Applications due by November 1, 2010 http://www.fws.gov/birdhabitat/grants/nm BCA/index.shtm NMBCA Coordinators: Doug Ryan or Andrea Grosse 703-358-1784 neotropical@fws.gov. Rows highlighted in yellow indicate an application deadline within the next 4 months. 5