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Washington County Public Health & Environment 14949 62nd Street North Stillwater, MN 55082-0006

WASHINGTON COUNTY GROUNDWATER PLAN

2007 WORK PLAN

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS………………………………………………………………………………………………………….....2

WASHINGTON COUNTY GROUNDWATER ADVISORY COMMITTEE……………………………………………..............3

WASHINGTON COUNTY TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE……………………………………………………............4

2007 WORK PLAN KEY TO ACRONYMS………………………………………………………………………………………..5

INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….6

SECTION I – 2006 Accomplishments……………………………………………………………………………………………...7

SECTION II – 2007 Schedule of Activities………………………………………………………………………………………..12

Chapter 2.0 Non-Agricultural Land Use Goals………………………………………………………………….………12

Chapter 3.0 Agriculture, Turf, and Animal Waste Management Goals……………………………………………..…19

Chapter 4.0 Individual Sewage Treatment System Goals……………………………………………………………...23

Chapter 5.0 Wellhead-Aquifer Protection and Well Management Goals……………………………………………...25

Chapter 6.0 Groundwater Supply Goals………………………………………………………………………………....28

Chapter 7.0 Groundwater Surface Water Interaction Goals…………………………………………………………....35

Chapter 8.0 Hazardous Materials Management and Transportation Goals…………………………………………..39

SECTION III – 2007 Anticipated Funding Sources…...………………………………………………………………………..…41

Watershed Management Organizations 2007 Budget Summary……………………………………………………...42

ATTACHMENTS

APPENDIX A– 2006 Work Plan

WASHINGTON COUNTY GROUNDWATER PLAN – 2007 WORK PLAN 2

WASHINGTON COUNTY GROUNDWATER ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Washington County would like to acknowledge and recognize the members of the 2006 Groundwater Advisory Committee (this page) and Technical Advisory Committee (following page) for their dedication and efforts to develop the 2007 Work Plan.

Committee Member Affiliation

Eugene Anderson Citizen at Large

Robert Bieraugel Construction Industry

Richard Caldecott Watershed District

Edward Gordon Watershed District

John Jansen (Vice Chair) Water Management Organization

Randall Lafoy Municipal Government

Jack Lavold Watershed District

Craig Leiser (Chair) Watershed District

Kevin Nickelson Township Government

Marianne O’Malley Citizen at Large

Keith Rapp Hydrogeology Industry

Don Scheel Watershed District

Gene Smallidge Agriculture Industry

Raymond Stevens Citizen at Large

Richard Thron Well Drilling Industry

Dennis Hegberg (Commissioner Liaison) Commissioner District 1


WASHINGTON COUNTY TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

TAC Member Affiliation Cliff Aichinger Watershed District Scott Alexander University of Minnesota Jim Almendinger St. Croix Watershed Research Station John Bower Watershed District Camilla Correll Watershed District/Hydrology Industry Victoria Dupre Watershed District/Metropolitan Council Chris Elvrum Metropolitan Council Mindy Erickson Minnesota Pollution Control Agency John Freitag Washington County Public Health & Environment Pete Ganzel Washington County Public Health & Environment Travis Germundson Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Amanda Goebel Washington County Public Health & Environment Stu Grubb Hydrogeology Industry John Hanson Watershed District/Hydrogeology Industry Karen Kill Washington Conservation District Chris LeClair Washington County Public Health & Environment Melissa Lewis Washington Conservation District Bruce Montgomery Minnesota Department of Agriculture Matt Moore Watershed District Dennis O’Donnell Washington County Land Management Jennifer Olson Watershed District/Hydrology Industry Chuck Regan Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Jay Riggs Washington Conservation District Steve Robertson Minnesota Department of Health Patrick Sarafolean Minnesota Department of Health Kurt Schroeder Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Ann Terwedo Washington County Land Management Bob Tipping Minnesota Geological Survey Travis Thiel Washington Conservation District Jeff Travis Washington County Public Health & Environment Cindy Weckwerth Washington County Public Health & Environment Brian Williams Minnesota Department of Agriculture


2007 WORK PLAN KEY TO ACRONYMS

BMP Best Management Practice BWSR Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources DNR Minnesota Department of Natural Resources GIS Geographic Information System GWAC Groundwater Advisory Committee ISTS Individual Sewage Treatment System LCMR Legislative Commission on Minnesota Resources LCCMR Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources LGU Local Government Unit MC Metropolitan Council MDA Minnesota Department of Agriculture MDH Minnesota Department of Health MGS Minnesota Geological Survey MLCCS Minnesota Land Cover Classification System MNEXT University of Minnesota Extension Service MPCA Minnesota Pollution Control Agency NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service PFC Perflourochemical SONAR Statement Of Need And Reasonableness SWCA Special Well Construction Area SWCD Soil and Water Conservation District TAC Technical Advisory Committee TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load TCE Trichloroethylene USGS United States Geological Survey VOC Volatile Organic Carbon WC Washington County Water Consortium WCD Washington Conservation District WCLM Washington County Land Management WCPHE Washington County Public Health & Environment


INTRODUCTION

The 2003 – 2013 Washington County Groundwater Plan provides a County-wide framework for the protection and conservation of groundwater resources. The Groundwater Plan complements existing water plans and establishes a structure for the writing of the next generation of water management plans in the County by establishing goals and policies to protect groundwater. Section II of the Groundwater Plan outlines the Groundwater Plan Implementation Expectations. The annual work plan is to include a summary of the previous year’s activities and accomplishments, the implementation tasks to be completed within that year, a detailed schedule of activities, and a detailed budget.

Users of the 2007 Work Plan will range from city and county officials, watershed organizations, and state agencies. Washington County Department of Public Health & Environment provides overall leadership and coordination of the 2007 Work Plan. It will take a coordinated effort at all levels of government to continue to make the Groundwater Plan and 2007 Work Plan a success.

The 2007 Work Plan is intended to be a working document that will be updated yearly. The 2007 Work Plan was presented to the Washington County Groundwater Advisory Committee, Washington County Technical Advisory Committee, and Washington County Water Consortium. Team leaders and members provided updates on the status of methods/projects cited in the 2006 Work Plan. The document went through a review process and the final draft was approved by the Groundwater Advisory Committee on December 13, 2006.

The purpose of the Groundwater Advisory Committee is to advise the County on the development, content, and implementation of the Washington County Groundwater Plan. This is a requirement of Minnesota Statute 103B.255. The Washington County Board of Commissioners appoints members to the Groundwater Advisory Committee. The Commissioners include Gary Kriesel (Chair), Dennis Hegberg (Vice Chair), Greg Orth, Myra Peterson, and Bill Pulkrabek.

2007 WORK PLAN CONTACT INFORMATION:

Amanda Goebel John Freitag Senior Environmental Specialist Senior Environmental Specialist Washington County Department Washington County Department of Public Health & Environment of Public Health & Environment 14949 62nd Street North 14949 62nd Street North PO Box 6 PO Box 6 Stillwater, MN 55082-0006 Stillwater, MN 55082-0006 651-430-6744 651-430-6707 [email protected] [email protected] (*Cover photo of Valley Branch Trout Stream taken by Julie Westerlund.)


mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Section I 2006 Accomplishments Accomplishments in 2006 are listed in detail in the Section II 2007 Schedule of Activities. The Schedule includes the progress of specific implementation actions and activities. Washington County Public Health & Environment (WCPHE) and project partners have been involved with a number of studies to evaluate groundwater resources.

In 2004, the Integrating Groundwater Protection into Watershed Rules report was developed through the water consortium. Model language was developed to address groundwater supply, groundwater pollution prevention, groundwater dependent natural resources, and volume control and groundwater recharge protection. In 2006, Brown’s Creek WD and Carnelian Marine WD developed a Statement of Need and Reasonableness (SONAR) and completed a technical review for adoption of the volume control and groundwater dependant natural resource protection standards. In 2005, the Intercommunity Groundwater Protection, Sustaining Growth and Natural Resources in the Woodbury/Afton Area study (funded through an LCMR Grant and grant partners) developed a groundwater and surface water model. The model evaluated the potential impacts increased pumping in Woodbury has on the aquifer system and on Valley Branch trout stream. In 2006, the City of Woodbury utilized the model to help analyze a 90 day aquifer pump test for two new wells; the data collected can be used to update the model. In 2005, the Integrating Groundwater and Surface Water Management in Southern Washington County project (funded through a BWSR Challenge Grant and grant partners) categorized groundwater and surface water resources. The Washington Conservation District monitored surface and groundwater levels. The LCMR Grant model was used to evaluate infiltration zones, groundwater dependent natural resources, and aquifer dynamics for all of southern Washington County. In 2006, WDs used this information in updating watershed management plans and developing rules. In 2006, the Cities of Hugo, Lakeland, Newport, Oakdale, Oak Park Heights, and Woodbury (wells 1-10) completed Part I and II of the Wellhead Protection Program. In 2006, DNR conducted an analysis of groundwater flows and aquifer recharge and provided information to the legislature concerning groundwater supply sustainability.

This information will used to help determine whether the appropriation of groundwater in Minnesota is sustainable. In 2006, partners including: Brown’s Creek WD, City of Stillwater, Middle St. Croix WMO, South Washington WD, Valley Branch WD, Washington County, and WCD hired and funded a shared water resource educator who is providing water resource education at both a local and county-wide scale. (Initial funding has been dedicated for 3 years). In 2006, MDA informed affected parties of changes in structure and laws as well as any potential or proposed changes. In 2005, the Legislature approved a 15 cent per ton fee for fertilizer. The fee increase allowed MDA to hire three new employees for state wide groundwater issues. The Fertilizer and Nutrient Task Force are working towards providing funds for additional research on groundwater and surface water issues. In 2006, WCPHE identified hazardous waste generators that are on ISTS. The Hazardous Waste and ISTS programs will continue to coordinate to ensure compliance. In 2006, WDs and WMOs participated in staffing the Washington County Watershed District Fair Booth in August. The exhibit included information on groundwater-surface water interactions. Approximately 30 abandoned wells were sealed in 2006 through a cost share assistance program with WCPHE.

Brown’s Creek WD 2006 accomplishments: • Started BMP cost-share program. Projects included over 1,000 feet of

shoreline restoration, three rain gardens, and provided design and construction assistance for a pervious driveway.

• Distributed brochures educating residents on the Minnesota law requiring phosphorous-free fertilizers.

• Presented ground water model at the Children’s Water Festival in September. Educated over 300 fifth grade students from the metro area on the importance of groundwater and the inter-relation of surface and groundwater quality and quantity.

• Reviewed the City of Stillwater’s Wellhead Protection Plan in October.

Lower St. Croix Water Management Organization • Continue comprehensive surface and groundwater monitoring program. • Began Karst Feature Inventory and Management Plan.

Middle St. Croix WMO 2006 accomplishments: • Second Generation Watershed Management Plan was approved and

adopted in May. This plan includes Performance Standards for wetlands,

WASHINGTON COUNTY GROUNDWATER PLAN – 2007 WORK PLAN

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stormwater management, rate, and volume control. Worked with the LGUs on implementing these performance standards.

• Shared watershed data, particularly the wetland inventory and assessment data and MLCCS data that was developed for the Second Generation Plan. Will continue to share this data for comprehensive planning purposes as requested.

• Supported, in principle, the BCWD SONAR for Groundwater Rules, but was unable to provide financial support for the SONAR.

Ramsey-Washington Metro WD 2006 accomplishments: • Considered ground water impacts in the development of our new volume

reduction rules. • Adopted the guidance material developed by the Minnesota Department of

Health for siting infiltration devices. This protocol looks at well head protection and contamination areas and requires more detailed analysis in the cases or advises not to implement at that location.

Valley Branch WD 2006 accomplishments: • Staffing and financial contribution to the ECO Experience exhibit at the

Minnesota State Fair. • Distributed a flyer to Valley Creek sub-watershed property owners on

practices to protect Valley Creek, a groundwater-dependent trout stream. • In implementing current WD rules, Valley Branch WD uses the tools

developed through the groundwater/surface water interactions studies to evaluate the effect of developments on Valley Creek and to assist in determining appropriate minimum floor elevations for proposed homes.

In 2006 the following topics were addressed at the Washington County Water Consortium meetings. January - Assessing the Spread of Zebra Mussels in the St. Croix River Using Density Measurements and Native Mussels

Byron Karns, National Park Service Curly Leaf Pondweed and Eurasian Watermilfoil

Chip Welling, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources February - Impacts of Shallow Lake Ecology on Lake Nutrient TMDLs in Minnesota

Joe Bischoff, Wenck Associates Water wars or water communities? Our Water Century awaits your decision.

Dr. Jim Perry, University of Minnesota March - Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) – Key Elements for an Active CAC

Mark Doneux, Administrator, Capital Region Watershed District


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An Evaluation of Stormwater BMP’s for Urban Development Mark Doneux, Administrator, Capital Region Watershed District

April - Washington County Open Space Ballot Referendum

Jane Harper, Washington County Administration Source Water Protection and Stormwater Infiltration

Art Persons, Minnesota Department of Health Contaminants Above Drinking Water Standards in the Dakota County Ambient Groundwater Quality Study

Jill Trescott, Dakota County May - The Minnesota Stormwater Manual: An Overview

Jay Michels, Emmons & Olivier Resources Erosion Control and Stormwater Management with Compost

Chuck Joswiak, Windscapes, Inc. June - Watershed Boundary ‘Clean Up’

Jane Harper, Washington County Administration and Amanda Goebel, Washington County Public Health & Environment

Minnesota’s Alternative Shoreland Management Standards – new tools to fit emerging needs and how they were developed

Peder Otterson, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources August - Presentation and Tour of New Ramsey Washington Metro WD Building Features

Cliff Aichinger, Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District Gervais Mill Pond Project Tour Cliff Aichinger, Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District September - Water Resource Educator Update

Angie Hong, Washington Conservation District Land Protection Funding Referendum

Jane Harper, Washington County Administration Presentation and Tour of St. Croix Watershed Research Station

Dr. Jim Almendinger, St. Croix Watershed Research Station November - Internet GIS for Watershed Planning

Paul Wickman, Geospatial Services Coordinator/Developer, Emmons & Olivier Resources, Inc.

Washington County Groundwater Plan Draft 2006 Work Plan John Freitag, Washington County Department of Public Health & Environment


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Discussion on potential MPCA and LCCMR Grants December - Groundwater Rules SONAR Review/Discussion

Camilla Correll, Emmons & Olivier Resources and Karen Kill, Brown’s Creek Watershed District

Integrating Radar Rainfall Data, GIS, and XPSWMM to Model Storm Events in South Washington Watershed District

Suresh Hettiarachchi and Jeff Christopherson, HDR Engineering


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Section II 2007 Schedule of Activities

This section includes a progress update of the policies and methods from the 2006 Work Plan. Many of the goals in the 2006 work plan are carried over into 2007. It also includes a detailed breakdown of the 2007 Implementation Actions including team leaders and members, as well as specific activities to implement the Groundwater Plan Policies. Activities that were met in 2005 have been removed from the 2007 work plan and have been added to the Accomplishments section. Activities with an asterisk are applied in more than one objective. The activities listed are not intended to be an all inclusive list of projects in Washington County. There may be other projects and studies in Washington County that may not be listed in the Schedule of Activities. CHAPTER 2.0 NON-AGRICULTURAL LAND USE GOALS:

Policy 1 Washington County supports basing planning, zoning and land use decisions on sound scientific data and understanding.

Implementation Action 1: Research Land Use Impacts on Groundwater Quality and Quantity

Lead: WCPHE Team: MNEXT, DNR, MC, WD/WMO, LGUs, MPCA, MDH, WCD

Objective 1

Assess groundwater resources and the potential impacts from different land uses on water quality and quantity.

New Activities

1) WCPHE and project partners applied for a LCCMR grant to establish resource management plans for designated trout streams. The purpose is to define critical recharge areas for groundwater dependent natural resources in Northern Washington County and develop rules and standards for protection. This activity is dependent on grant funding.

2) Rice Creek WD will gather existing information from the

various county plans and district data with the goal of developing a groundwater management plan.*


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3) Lower St. Croix WMO will complete a Karst Feature Inventory and Management Plan for the watershed. This Plan will include an inventory of existing karst features, maps of karst sensitive areas where things like regional 1 infiltration practices will not be encouraged, and some educational materials for the LGUs. There will also be management standards for incorporation into the watershed's rules for these very sensitive areas.

4) Lower St. Croix WMO will adopt watershed rules in 2007.

The rules will include a section on ISTS (not allowing new ISTS in the 100 year floodplain) and groundwater management (as it relates to karst).

5) Lower St. Croix WMO will work with LGUs to incorporate the

Watershed Plan goals and standards into local comprehensive plans. The LSCWMO Plan includes a significant groundwater component.

Ongoing Activities 1) The MC will be involved with USGS to study rain gardens to

assess quality of infiltration. 2) WCPHE will work with the MPCA to expand groundwater

monitoring well installation and water quality testing in areas that are being developed throughout the state. Wells with elevated nitrate concentrations or VOC detections are incorporated into a long term trend monitoring network that focuses on areas experiencing changing land use.

3) Brown’s Creek WD and South Washington WD will conduct

infiltration monitoring at storm water management systems.

4) WCD, Ramsey Washington Metro WD, and Dakota County SWCD will be involved in a WERF (Water Environment Research Foundation) study to assess effectiveness of bioretention facilities in infiltrating stormwater under cold climate conditions.

5) MC will facilitate a regional water supply advisory committee

that will develop a regional water supply master plan for local systems and future regional investments which emphasizes conservation, cooperation, security, and long-term sustainability.*


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6) WCPHE and WCD will utilize the groundwater studies to determine locations where further groundwater monitoring would be valuable.

Objective 2

Develop guidelines dependant on building density, percentage of impervious surfaces, stormwater management and groundwater consumption based on hydrogeologic characteristics. New Activities

1) Stormwater U training workshop will provide planners, developers, engineers, and builders with the technical expertise to design quality infiltration systems, such as raingardens, porous pavement, and bioretention swales. Attendees will learn how to assess a site and choose an appropriate infiltration technique to protect surface and groundwater quality.*

Ongoing Activities 1) WD/WMOs interested in adopting groundwater protection rules

conducted a technical review of the rules and developed a Statement of Need and Reasonableness (SONAR). A final draft will be out for circulation in 2007.*

2) WD/WMOs will begin developing guidelines for building density, impervious surfaces, stormwater management, and groundwater consumption. WD/WMOs will begin contacting LGUs in their boundaries and conduct informational meetings.

Policy 2 Washington County supports sharing technical information with local governments for developing land use plans and zoning ordinances, and in making land use decisions protective of groundwater.

Implementation Action 1: Land Use-Technical Consultation for Land Use Decisions

Lead: WCPHE Team: LGUs, WCLM, WD/WMO, MC, WC

Objective 1

Provide cities and townships with types of land uses that may not be suitable in un-sewered areas.

Ongoing Activities 1) WCPHE will attend LGU meetings and offer technical support

to incorporate groundwater protection and planning into the LGU comprehensive plans.*


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2) By December 31, 2008, all LGUs are required by the MC to

update their local comprehensive plans. In 2007, WCPHE will suggest that LGUs incorporate groundwater protection into the local planning process.*

3) By December 31, 2008, WCPHE, WCLM, and WD/WMOs will

provide comments to LGUs on local comprehensive plans, as required by the MC.*

Objective 2

Provide cities and townships with specific groundwater-related standards to look for in reviewing and making decisions for conditional use permits.

New Activities 1) WCPHE will work with WCLM to review existing language in the

Mining Ordinance (Washington County Development Code Chapter 7) related to criteria for materials acceptable in the reclamation of retired aggregate mines. This language can be used by LGUs when reviewing conditional use permits.*

2) WCPHE and project partners applied for a LCCMR grant to

establish resource management plans for designated trout streams. The purpose is to define critical recharge areas for groundwater dependent natural resources in Northern Washington County and develop rules and standards for protection. This activity is dependent on grant funding.*

Ongoing Activities 1) WD/WMOs interested in adopting groundwater protection rules


2) WD/WMOs will attend meetings of the LGUs that they share

common land area to inform the LGUs of important watershed data which can assist LGUs in land use decision planning.*




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Policy 3 Washington County promotes local planning, land use and controls that protect groundwater quality and sustainability.

Implementation Action 1: Land Use-Groundwater Supply Sustainability

Lead: WCPHE Team: WD/WMO, LGUs, DNR, MC

Objective 1

Recommend the Metropolitan Council consider the long-term sustainability of groundwater resources with respect to both water supply and importance in sustaining natural resources as a primary consideration in granting the extension of the MUSA.

Ongoing Activities 1) MC will conduct a metro-wide technical study on the long-term

sustainability of groundwater resources.* 2) MC will facilitate a regional water supply advisory committee

that will develop a regional water supply master plan for local systems and future regional investments which emphasizes conservation, cooperation, security, and long-term sustainability.*

Implementation Action 2: Land Use-Integrating Groundwater Protection into Comprehensive Plans, Zoning Ordinances, and Decisions

Lead: LGUs Team: WCLM, WD/WMO, WCPHE

Objective 1

Establish groundwater protection as a goal when making land use decisions and as part of the comprehensive planning process. Incorporate Groundwater Plan recommendations into LGU comprehensive plans. Ongoing Activities 1) WD/WMOs interested in adopting groundwater protection rules


2) WCPHE will attend LGU meetings and offer technical support



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3) By December 31, 2008, all LGUs are required by the MC to update their local comprehensive plans. In 2007, WCPHE will suggest that LGUs incorporate groundwater protection into the local planning process.*



5) DNR regional offices will provide presentations and general

information upon request to LGUs on the Quick Guide to Using Natural Resource Information CD and booklet. The guide identifies key steps in natural resource based planning at the local level.

Objective 2

Assure coordination with other LGUs for groundwater sensitive areas, wellhead protection areas, water use contingency and allocation plans, and other groundwater issues where the plans may affect other jurisdictions. Ongoing Activities 1) LGUs will notify adjoining LGUs and WD/WMOs when in the

process of developing a wellhead protection plan for its drinking water supply wells.

2) WC will provide an educational platform for LGUs to interact

and share information. 3) WD/WMOs will attend meetings of the LGUs that they share

common land area with to inform the LGUs of important watershed data which can assist LGUs in land use decision planning.*

Completed Activities 1) In 2006, the WC will work to hire and fund a shared water

resource educator that will provide water resource education at both a local and county-wide scale.* (Initial funding has been dedicated for 3 years).

Implementation Action 3: Land Use-Enforcing and Amending Groundwater Provisions in County and Local Mining Ordinances

Lead: WCLM Team: LGUs, WCPHE, MPCA


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Objective 1 Enforce groundwater-related provisions in County and local mining ordinances.

New Activities 1) WCPHE will work with WCLM to review existing language in the

Mining Ordinance (Washington County Development Code Chapter 7) related to criteria for materials acceptable in the reclamation of retired aggregate mines. This language can be used by LGU’s when reviewing conditional use permits.*



Ongoing Activities 1) WCLM will require, as a condition of approval for permits, that

contamination be reported, removed, and treated according to existing law. Permits are up for review every five years.

2) WCLM will require a plan for on-site servicing of equipment and

waste disposal that protects groundwater from contamination as a condition for issuance of renewed or new permits for asphalt plants. Permits are up for review every five years.

3) WCLM will require groundwater protection plans for asphalt

production facilities including such measures as impermeable liners and proper waste disposal measures as necessary

4) WCLM will require a bond from the operator of mining

operations and/or asphalt plants to assure clean-up of any pollution or pollutant sources as necessary. WCLM currently requires a bond of reclamation for mining sites.

5) WCLM will continue to require annual reports and earmark

mining license fees for regulatory activities. As necessary, WCLM will request additional information regarding protection of groundwater

6) WCLM will amend the Washington County Mining Ordinance to

require further groundwater protection measures.


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Implementation Action 4: Land Use-Incorporating Wellhead Protection Plans

Lead: LGU Team: WCPHE, WCLM, MDH

Objective 1

Adopt wellhead protection plan; create overlay districts and standards and incorporate into zoning ordinances and other related land use regulations.

New Activities 1) In 2007, Cimarron Park will complete Part II of the Wellhead

Protection Program with MDH. Ongoing Activities 1) LGUs will continue to work with MDH and other agencies to

collect and interpret data for wellhead protection plans 2) MDH will continue to involve community public water

systems in wellhead protection planning efforts. MDH sets priorities for addressing wellhead protection such that the largest and most vulnerable systems are phased in to the wellhead program first. Fifty-two Washington County public water supply systems are pending on the MDH Phase-In List. MDH is focusing on systems that are adding new wells as a trigger to begin the wellhead protection process.*

Completed Activities 1) Saint Paul Park and Woodbury (wells 11-15) completed Part I

of the Wellhead Protection Program and have submitted Part II to MDH.

CHAPTER 3.0 AGRICULTURE, TURF, AND ANIMAL WASTE MANAGEMENT GOALS:

Policy 1 Washington County supports using sound scientific methods to assess agriculture and turf management impacts to groundwater resources and to develop education and best management practices programs.

Implementation Action 1: Research Groundwater Impacts from Agriculture, Turf Management and Animal Wastes

Lead: WCPHE Team: LGUs, WD/WMO, MDA, WCD, MPCA, MNEXT, WCLM


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Objective 1 Conduct ongoing groundwater resource assessments to identify groundwater resources that have been impacted by or may be highly sensitive to fertilizer, pesticide, manure and animal wastes.

New Activities 1) WCPHE and project partners applied for a LCCMR grant to


Objective 2

Provide model zoning language and mitigation strategies in areas shown to have the highest impacts or susceptibility to fertilizers, pesticides or animal wastes.

Ongoing Activities 1) WD/WMOs will begin the development of zoning and mitigation

strategies in areas sensitive to groundwater aquifer contamination. WD/WMOs will begin contacting LGUs in their boundaries being integrated into plans and conduct informational meetings.

Policy 2 Washington County promotes implementing educational and best management practices programs for storage, handling, and use of pesticides, fertilizers, and animal wastes.

Implementation Action 1: Education of Public and Local Government

Lead: MDA, MNEXT Team: WCD, NRCS, WCPHE

Objective 1

Expand educational programs to educate the public and LGUs. New Activities 1) WCD will hold two workshops titled “Living on a Few Acres”.

These workshops will discuss animal waste storage and water supply protection.

2) MDA will cooperate with Minnesota Irrigators Association to

conduct a free irrigation water nitrate testing program. Invitations will be sent to irrigators in Washington, Dakota, and Goodhue counties.


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http://www.extension.umn.edu

3) MDA will attempt to partner with farmers in Washington County

that would follow the Nutrient Management Initiative protocol. Nutrient Management Initiative is a new program available for farmers enabling them to evaluate their current nitrogen or phosphorus management to NRCS requirements. More information can be found at: www.mda.state.mn.us/nmi.

4) MDA and U of M will update nitrogen BMPs. Updated BMPs

will include five regional publications. 5) MDA will hold a regional meeting with Washington Dakota, and

Goodhue county farmers to review outcomes from nitrogen application research sites in Dakota County.

6) The Blue Thumb program will help residents plant native

gardens, raingardens, and shoreline stabilization projects. Planting projects will protect both surface and groundwater quality and the use of native plants will encourage water conservation.*

Ongoing Activities 1) MDA and MNEXT will provide education on the impacts of

fertilizer and pesticide use on groundwater quality. MDA and MNEXT will facilitate and teach educational offerings for commercial and non-commercially licensed pesticide applicators at regional metro meetings. Licensed applicators are required to attend training and the focus is on pesticide safety and environmental protection.

2) MNEXT will provide education on the proper use of chemical

products, including the effects of different soil conditions on application rates and different irrigating regimes. MNEXT provides information over the phone (1-800-232-9077) or on the internet (www.extension.umn.edu) as a source for gardening, agriculture, and environmental education.

3) WCD will continue to work closely with land owners concerning

animal waste, feedlots, and fertilizer practices. WCD offers fact sheets on managing fertilizers and pesticides and impacts on soils.

4) Carnelian Marine WD and Brown’s Creek WD will administer a

best management practices program on shore land areas that requires pretreatment of surface water before infiltration.


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http://www.mda.state.mn.us/water/protection

5) WCPHE in cooperation with MDA will sponsor Nitrate Clinics where citizens bring in drinking water samples for testing.

6) MDA has launched a drinking water protection web-page

(www.mda.state.mn.us/water/protection). The web-page lists conservation programs available throughout the state that focus on groundwater protection and includes a mapping feature that identifies wellhead protection areas.



Policy 3 Washington County supports legislation and administrative rules that protect groundwater quality from degradation by agriculture, turf management or animal waste management practices.

Implementation Action 1: Exert Political Influence on Agriculture Related Legislation or Rules

Lead: MDA Team: LGUs, WD/WMO, WCD

Objective 1

Provide comments on current legislative issues and administrative rules.

Ongoing Activities

1) In the seven county Twin Cities metro area, lawn fertilizer use is restricted to 0% phosphate content, unless it is for a new lawn, or a soil or tissue test shows a phosphorous need. In those cases, lawn fertilizers with higher phosphate content can be used (Minnesota Statutes 18C.60). A report of effectiveness of the phosphorous law is due by MPCA to the legislature by January 15, 2007. MDA has just completed a survey process and currently in the process of completing the report.

2) MDA will be responsible for the development, promotion and

evaluation of voluntary Best Management Practices for pesticide use. More information about this method may be found at: http://www.mda.state.mn.us/appd/ace/pestmgmt.htm.


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Completed Activities 1) In 2006, MDA informed affected parties of changes in structure

and laws as well as any potential or proposed changes. In 2005, the Legislature approved a 15 cent per ton fee for fertilizer. The fee increase allowed MDA to hire three new employees for state wide groundwater issues. The Fertilizer and Nutrient Task Force is working towards providing funds for additional research on groundwater and surface water issues.

CHAPTER 4.0 INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE TREATMENT SYSTEMS GOALS: Policy 1 Washington County supports a coordinated, multifaceted approach to regulating individual sewage treatment systems, including research, education, and regulation. Implementation Action 1: Integrate County Programs

Lead: WCPHE Team: LGU

Objective 1

Assure coordination and integration of ISTS program activities with Hazardous Waste and Groundwater program activities to reduce groundwater contamination related to on-site waste water treatment systems.

Ongoing Activities 1) WCPHE, under the County ISTS Ordinance and local ISTS

ordinances, will continue to regulate the location, design, installation, use, and maintenance of ISTS.

2) WCPHE ISTS program will coordinate with cities that are not

permitted by Washington County. 3) WCD will continue to administer a loan program for failing septic

systems. MDA funds this State revolving fund program. The loan is jointly administered by WCD and a cooperating local bank or financial institution.

4) The Washington County ISTS Ordinance, Development Code

Chapter Four, will be revised and adopted to reflect applicable changes in Minnesota Rules Chapter 7080, which is anticipated to be revised and adopted by December 31, 2007.


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Completed Activities 1) By December 31, 2005, WCPHE will identify hazardous waste

generators that are potentially on ISTS. The Hazardous Waste and ISTS programs will coordinate to ensure compliance.

Implementation Action 2: Research Commercial-Industrial Waste Impacts

Lead: WCPHE Team: LGU, MPCA, MDH

Objective 1

Research the wastes generated by commercial and industrial establishments on ISTS and evaluate the potential impact to human health and the environment. Evaluate whether ISTS are properly designed for commercial wastewater.

Ongoing Activities

1) WCPHE will develop a plan and requirements for testing waste strength for Food/Beverage/Lodging establishments that are on ISTS.

Implementation Action 3: Develop Groundwater Contamination Risk Assessment Method


Objective 1

Develop a method to assign ISTS risk levels based on criteria such as age of system, geologic conditions, density, treatment method, and system design.

Ongoing Activities 1) WCPHE will meet with stakeholders to identify key risk factors

associated with potential contamination from ISTS.

2) WCPHE will continue to monitor and provide input for changes to Minnesota Rules Chapter 7080.

Policy 2 Washington County promotes conformance with MN Statue 115.55, MN Rule 7080, and the Washington County ISTS Ordinance in the construction, operation, inspection, and maintenance of ISTS.


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Implementation Action 1: Require ISTS Inspection, Upgrades, or Replacements


Objective 1

Revise County ordinances to require property owners to have a certificate of inspection, to upgrade or replace nonconforming systems, and identify and properly close abandoned ISTS before property transfer. Require upgrade of improperly installed or nonconforming ISTS.

Ongoing Activities 1) WCPHE will participate in the rule making process and track

changes in the legislature affecting the revision of Minnesota Rules chapter 7080.

2) WCPHE will adopt the revised version of Minnesota Rules

Chapter 7080, which should have a provision for compliance inspections at the time of sale of a property. If that provision is not in Chapter 7080, the county will incorporate that requirement in Washington County’s ISTS Ordinance.

CHAPTER 5.0 WELLHEAD-AQUIFER PROTECTION AND WELL MANAGEMENT GOALS:

Policy 1 Washington County supports the delineation and posting of wellhead protection areas and supports inter-governmental and inter-community coordination to implement planning and zoning in wellhead protection zones.

Implementation Action 1: Agency Implementation and Coordination of Wellhead Protection Programs

Lead: MDH Team: MPCA, WCPHE, LGUs, WD/WMO

Objective 1

Washington County will partner with the Minnesota Department of Health and LGUs to implement Wellhead Protection Programs in Washington County.

Ongoing Activities 1) WCPHE will continue to assist LGUs with Wellhead Protection

Plans.


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2) MDH will continue to involve community public water systems in wellhead protection planning efforts. MDH sets priorities for addressing wellhead protection such that the largest and most vulnerable systems are phased in to the wellhead program first. Fifty-two Washington County public water supply systems are pending on the MDH Phase In List. MDH is focusing on systems that are adding new wells as a trigger to begin the wellhead protection process.*

Objective 2 Washington County will assist LGUs in obtaining all available applicable groundwater information.

Ongoing Activities 1) WCD will create an integrated county wide water resource

database which will be made available to local government units and other agencies.

Implementation Action 2: Community Education, Posting of Wellhead

Protection Areas, and Inter-Community Coordination Lead: WC

Team: WCPHE, WD/WMO, LGUs, MDH

Objective 1 Assist public water suppliers in the implementation of wellhead protection programs by placarding local wellhead protection area boundaries for public education and awareness.

Ongoing Activities 1) LGUs will continue to inventory locations of wells, individual

sewage treatment systems, and underground storage tanks within wellhead protection areas.

2) The WC will facilitate the coordination of LGUs to notify

residents with wells, individual sewage treatment systems, and underground storage tanks if they are in a wellhead protection area.

3) WD/WMOs will attend meetings of the LGUs that they share

common land area to inform the LGUs of important watershed data which can assist LGUs in land use decision planning.

Objective 2

Facilitate wellhead protection steering committees when the wellhead protection area crosses political jurisdictions upon request by the public water suppliers.


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Ongoing Activities 1) WC and Washington County will assist LGUs, as requested,

with any issues that may arise in the wellhead protection process.

Policy 2 Washington County supports the enforcement and implementation of the Well and Boring Code (MN Rules Chapter 4725) by the Minnesota Department of Health to prevent contamination of groundwater.

Implementation Action 1: Abandoned Well Reporting Requirements and Comments to Well Code Legislation

Lead: MDH Team: LGUs, WCPHE

Objective 1

Recommend that the Well and Boring Code requires reporting of all abandoned wells to the MDH. Review and provide comments to pending Well & Boring Code legislation.

New Activities 1) MDH will complete the Well and Boring Rules, Well Code,

Chapter 4725 revision. A copy of the notice will be mailed to all licensed and registered well and boring contractors, and to all persons on the "Well Management News" newsletter mailing list. It is anticipated that the revised rules will go into effect in 2007.

Ongoing Activities 1) WCPHE, WD/WMOs, and LGUs can report abandoned wells to

MDH. MDH will contact the property owners to ensure that abandoned wells are properly sealed. Press releases will be used to inform citizens about the dangers of abandoned wells.

Implementation Action 2: Well Sealing Financial Incentives and Cost Sharing

Lead: WCPHE Team: LGUs, WCLM, WD/WMO, MDH, WCD

Objective 1

Provide financial incentive for identifying and sealing abandoned wells. Develop and adopt sliding-fee scale for well sealing cost-share programs.


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Ongoing Activities 1) WCPHE will provide cost share assistance for sealing

abandoned wells and will identify high priority areas.

2) WCPHE will make information available to interested parties on well sealing loans. Examples include: -Agricultural Best Management Practices Loan Program offers loans for well sealing. MDA administers this program. The loan is jointly administered by WCD and a cooperating local bank or financial institution. -Rural Housing Home Improvement Loan and Grant Program offers loans and grants for well sealing. The Rural Development office of the U.S. Department of Agriculture administers this program. -The Fix-Up Fund program offers loans for well sealing. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency administers this program along with community lenders and housing agencies.

CHAPTER 6.0 GROUNDWATER SUPPLY GOALS:

Policy 1 Washington County will promote research and water supply planning to provide for sustainable water supplies and, to the extent possible, minimize the loss of flow to surface water features and groundwater dependent natural resources.

Implementation Action 1: Water Supply Assessment-Research Water Supply Sustainability and Affects on Natural Resources

Lead: WCPHE Team: LGU, WD/WMO, MC, WCD

Objective 1

Evaluate current and projected water use to determine the impacts to groundwater levels, flow directions, long-term water supplies, and groundwater dependent natural resources. Groundwater dependent natural resources include, but are not limited to, fens and other wetland seepage communities, trout streams, lakes, and wetlands.




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2) In 2007, Rice Creek WD will gather existing information from the various county plans and district data with the goal of developing a groundwater management plan.*

Ongoing Activities 1) MC will facilitate a regional water supply advisory committee

that will develop a regional water supply master plan for local systems and future regional investments which emphasizes conservation, cooperation, security and long-term sustainability.

Objective 2

These evaluations will be used for developing water management policies and rules, water supply plans, and to provide DNR with support in processing groundwater appropriation permits. Ongoing Activities 1) WD/WMOs will begin developing guidelines for groundwater

dependent natural resources. WD/WMOs will begin contacting LGUs in their boundaries and conduct informational meetings.

Policy 2 Washington County supports local and State plans, policies, and permitting programs that sustain groundwater supplies and related natural resources.

Implementation Action 1: Groundwater Appropriations-Permitting Commentary

Lead: DNR Team: LGU, WD/WMO, WCD, WCLM, MDH, MC, WCPHE

Objective 1

Provide an opportunity to local government or special governmental units to comment on groundwater appropriation permit applications in applying MN Rules 6115.0600 to 6115.0810 and MN Statutes 103G.271 to restrict large volume pumping of aquifers in regions where overuse of groundwater will negatively impact natural resources or interfere with current well use.

New Activities 1) Valley Branch WD and Brown’s Creek WD will adopt rules and

regulations that include policies regarding groundwater appropriations.*

Ongoing Activities

1) DNR (Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103G.291) will continue to require public water suppliers serving more than 1,000 people to have a water conservation plan. Public water suppliers must


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update the plan every ten years. DNR and MDH require demand reduction measures to be implemented before approvals can be granted for increased water volumes or new municipal wells for public water supplies. The demand reduction measures must include a public education program and an evaluation of rate structures and its impact on conservation. Notification letters were mailed out to Public Water Suppliers notifying them of the date the second generation plans are due. Plan due dates are staggered from 2006 to 2008.

2) DNR (Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103G.271) may not issue

new water use permits for uses that will appropriate water from the Mt. Simon-Hinckley aquifer in a metropolitan county, unless the appropriation is for potable water use, there are no feasible or practical alternatives to this source, and a water conservation plan is incorporated with the permit.

3) DNR may require public water suppliers to adopt and enforce

water use restrictions when the Governor declares a critical water deficiency. The restrictions must limit sprinkling lawns, washing vehicles, irrigating golf courses and parks, and other nonessential uses and have appropriate penalties for failure to comply with restrictions.

Implementation Action 2: Groundwater Appropriations-Rules Protecting Natural Resources

Lead: WD/WMO Team: LGU, WCPHE, DNR

Objective 1

Develop and adopt rules or policies on the quantity of water used in areas where existing wells and/or groundwater dependent natural resources could be negatively impacted by overuse of groundwater. Negative impacts include reduced flow to surface water bodies, lowering of lake or wetland levels, or interference with other wells.

New Activities

1) Valley Branch WD and Brown’s Creek WD will adopt rules and regulations that include policies regarding groundwater appropriations.*


establish resource management plans for designated trout streams. The purpose is to define critical recharge areas for groundwater dependent natural resources in Northern


30

Washington County and develop rules and standards for protection. This activity is dependent on grant funding.*

Ongoing Activities 1) Under Minnesota Statute 103D.201 Subd.2 (14), WDs have the

authority to provide protection of groundwater resources and regulate use and appropriations. Upon generation of future WD plans they will consider language or take steps to incorporate Minnesota Statute 103D.335 Subd. 10 in the watershed plan as defined in Minnesota Statute 103D.341 Subd. 1. watersheds can limit water appropriations below DNR appropriation levels.

Policy 3Washington County will promote educational efforts focused on the conservation of water resources.

Implementation Action 1: Groundwater Conservation Plans-Assessing Effectiveness-Assisting Communities

Lead: MC Team: WCPHE, DNR, WD/WMO, WCD

Objective 1

Develop methods to determine the effectiveness of municipal water conservation plans. Assist communities in the development of water conservation plans and ordinances.

Ongoing Activities 1) MC will remain responsible for planning for the regional water

supply for the seven-county metropolitan region (Minnesota Statute 473.156). The MC has developed short-term and long-term plans for existing and expected water use and supply in the metropolitan area. The MC actively partners with local units of government and state agencies to address water supply problems.

2) MC will facilitate a regional water supply advisory committee

that will develop a regional water supply master plan for local systems and future regional investments which emphasizes conservation, cooperation, security and long-term sustainability.

Implementation Action 2: Groundwater Conservation-Recycling and Reducing Consumption

Lead: MC Team: WCPHE, DNR, WD/WMO, LGU


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Objective 1 Provide information and assistance to local governments, businesses and industry to reduce water use and to increase recycling of process and cooling water used in manufacturing facilities.

Ongoing Activities 1) MC will continue to require each community in the Metropolitan

Area that operates a municipal water system to have a water conservation program (Minnesota Statute 473.175). Water conservation programs used by the suppliers include water conservation pricing, metering, public education, and leak detection and repair. MC works with cities to implement conservation programs that work with industries/residents.

2) By December 31, 2010, DNR will no longer allow appropriations

for once-through air conditioning in excess of 5,000,000 gallons per year and lake level maintenance of surface water levels in excess of 10,000,000 gallons per year under Minnesota Statute 103G.271 Subd. 5a and 5b.

Implementation Action 3: Groundwater Conservation-Community Water Use Reduction Education

Lead: WCPHE Team: MNEXT, DNR, MC, WD/WMO, LGU

Objective 1

Inform and educate local government officials on community conservation techniques (such as changing water rate structures, establishing sprinkling ordinances, establishing Water Conservation Boards, conducting joint energy/water audits, creating showerhead or toilet replacement programs, or conducting water leak detection projects).

New Activities 1) The Blue Thumb program will help residents to plant native


2) The East Metro Water Resource Education Program (EMW)

will develop and coordinate a community-based social marketing campaign aimed at increasing awareness of water resource issues, promoting a conservation ethic among


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residents of Washington County, and catalyzing behavior change.*

Ongoing Activities 1) MC will make information available to LGUs through

newsletters and supports the use of water from storm water ponds for sprinkling

2) DNR will educate water appropriation permit holders on the

water, wastewater, and energy saving benefits from conservation measures. Examples that LGUs may incorporate include metering, water audits, leak detection and repair, and retrofitting. All new irrigation systems must have rain detection devices.

Policy 4 Washington County supports the coordination of efforts for early detection of contaminants, assessment of groundwater contamination trends, and promotes the responsible use or conservation of groundwater being pumped for remediation or containment purposes. Implementation Action 1: Use of Non-Potable Groundwater

Lead: WCPHE Team: WD/WMO, MPCA, MDH

Objective 1 Explore the potential for the use of contaminated water for non-potable needs in conjunction with groundwater clean-up.

Ongoing Activities 1) MDH will encourage community wells with TCE treatment for

new cluster developments in the Baytown Special Well Construction Area.

Implementation Action 2: Groundwater Contamination Education

Lead: WCPHE Team: MNEXT, WCD, MPCA, MDH, WD/WMO

Objective 1 Educate County residents and the business community on the impacts of groundwater contamination to potable water supplies and economics.


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Ongoing Activities 1) MDH, MPCA, and WCPHE will host public meetings, as

necessary, to address issues in the Baytown SWCA and Washington County Landfill (Lake Jane) SWCA.

2) WCPHE, WCD, and Watershed Districts will host surface water

and groundwater resources informational booths at the Washington County Fair.

3) MDH, MPCA, and WCPHE will continue to host public meetings, as necessary, to address PFC issues when new information becomes available.



Implementation Action 3: Groundwater Supply Assessment-Impacts of Contamination on Water Supply

Lead: WCPHE Team: WCD, MPCA, MDH

Objective 1

Conduct a County-wide assessment on the impacts of groundwater contamination on water supply. Determine the locations of contaminants, the volumetric loss of potable water and the associated costs for treatment and clean-up. New Activities 1) WCPHE will work with MPCA, MDH, and LGU’s within SWCA’s

to maintain updated information and pursue clean-up activities. Washington County currently has four SWCA’s within its boundaries: Washington County Landfill (also known as Lake Jane Landfill) SWCA, Baytown/West Lakeland SWCA, Lakeland/Lakeland Shores SWCA, and St. Paul Park/Newport SWCA. For current information go to the counties website at: http://www.co.washington.mn.us/info_for_residents/environment/groundwater/ or call 651-430-6655

Ongoing Activities 1) WCPHE will use information based on historical data, estimated

number of wells impacted, cost of treatment, and cost of drilling to deeper aquifers for special well construction areas throughout Washington County, as necessary.


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CHAPTER 7.0 GROUNDWATER SURFACE WATER INTERACTION GOALS:

Policy 1 Washington County supports research, assessment and policies that aid in the integration of surface water and groundwater management.

Implementation Action 1: Research Groundwater and Surface Water Functions.

Lead: WCPHE Team: WCD, WD/WMO, DNR, MC

Objective 1 Conduct research to inventory and develop a priority ranking system for the groundwater recharge or discharge function of lakes, wetland and land areas. New Activities 1) WCPHE and project partners applied for a LCCMR grant to


2) Rice Creek WD will gather existing information from the

various county plans and district data with the goal of developing a groundwater management plan.*

Objective 2

Make identification and ranking of groundwater recharge areas a priority element of WD/WMO local wetland and natural resource inventories.



2) Rice Creek WD will gather existing information from the various county plans and district data with the goal of developing a groundwater management plan.*


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Ongoing Activities 1) WD/WMOs will begin incorporating information from the

Integrating Groundwater and Surface Water Management – Northern and Southern Washington County studies in wetland and natural resource inventories.*

Policy 2 Washington County supports inter-governmental coordination and cooperation in support of existing and/or in developing new groundwater, surface water and wetland rules, policies and programs. Implementation Action 1: Groundwater Recharge Area Management

Lead: LGUs Team: WCLM, WD/WMO, MC, WCPHE, DNR, WC

Objective 1

Develop land use regulations to protect groundwater resources based on completed studies and rankings of groundwater recharge areas. New Activities 1) WCPHE and project partners applied for a LCCMR grant to


Ongoing Activities 1) WCPHE will attend LGU meetings and offer technical support






Implementation Action 2: Groundwater-Surface Water Interaction Education

Lead: WD/WMO Team: WCPHE, WCD, WCLM, LGUs, DNR, MC, WC


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Objective 1 Provide education to citizens and public officials on the inter-relation of surface and groundwater quality and quantity; the value of and need to protect groundwater recharge areas and wetlands; and implementation of Best Management Practices and low-impact development and redevelopment strategies to protect groundwater resources. New Activities 1) WCPHE and project partners applied for a LCCMR grant to


2) The Blue Thumb program will help residents to plant native


3) The East Metro Water Resource Education Program (EMW)

will develop and coordinate a community-based social marketing campaign aimed at increasing awareness of water resource issues, promoting a conservation ethic among residents of Washington County, and catalyzing behavior change.*

4) Stormwater U training workshop will provide planners,

developers, engineers, and builders with the technical expertise to design quality infiltration systems, such as raingardens, porous pavement and bioretention swales.*

Ongoing Activities 1) WD/WMOs will begin to develop groundwater protection

policies into rules based on groundwater and surface water studies throughout Washington County.*

2) WD/WMOs will attend meetings of the LGUs that they share common land area to inform the LGUs of important watershed data which can assist LGUs in land use decision planning.*


resource educator that will provide water resource education at


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both a local and county-wide scale.* (Initial funding has been dedicated for 3 years).

Policy 3 Washington County supports the development and adoption of Best Management Practices and rules to control rates and volumes of runoff to reduce non-point source pollution and maintain groundwater recharge.

Implementation Action 1: Develop Runoff Quality and Volume Control Rules

Lead: WD/WMO Team: WCLM, LGUs Objective 1

For all new developments and re-developments, adopt rules controlling stormwater runoff volume and establish performance standards based on issues identified in water resource plans, inventories or studies, and on available scientific literature.

New Activities 1) Brown’s Creek WD will revise its rules and review potential

changes to the current volume control standard. These changes would include standard change from 1.5 yr rain event to 2 yr rain event, comparison of proposed post-development runoff to pre-settlement conditions vs. pre-development, promotion of soil amendments to alleviate construction site soil compaction, and no impervious allowance.

2) Valley Branch WD, Brown’s Creek WD, and Ramsey-

Washington Metro WD will adopt rules and regulations that include stormwater runoff volume control standards and policies regarding appropriations.

3) Stormwater U training workshop will provide planners,

developers, engineers, and builders with the technical expertise to design quality infiltration systems, such as raingardens, porous pavement and bioretention swales.*

Ongoing Activities 1) WD/WMOs will begin developing guidelines concerning

storm water runoff volume. WD/WMOs will begin contacting LGUs in their boundaries and conduct informational meetings.*


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CHAPTER 8.0 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MANAGEMENT AND TRANSPORTATION GOALS: Policy 1 Washington County supports current State and County rules and permitting programs that regulate hazardous materials storage, transportation, disposal, and clean-up.

Implementation Action: None required. State and County agencies should continue enforcing rules and operating programs.

Policy 2 Washington County supports the current emergency response structure to address hazardous materials spills and pipeline ruptures.

Implementation Action: None required. State and County agencies should continue enforcing rules and operating programs.

Policy 3 Washington County supports working with communities to develop groundwater protection policies related to the sighting and permitting of new commercial and industrial development.

Implementation Action 1: Provide Consultation and Technical Assistance to LGUs

Lead: WCPHE Team: MDH

Objective 1

Assist LGUs with groundwater monitoring plan or groundwater protection plan requirements. Provide “model” plans to LGUs. Assist LGUs in plan review and approval process. Where available, use wellhead protection plans to assist with the review process.

Ongoing Activities 1) WCPHE will work with LGUs, MDH, and other agencies to

collect and interpret data for groundwater monitoring plans and groundwater protection plans, as requested.*

2) WCPHE will attend LGU meetings and offer technical support to incorporate groundwater protection and planning into the LGU comprehensive plans.*


update their local comprehensive plans. In 2007, WCPHE will


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suggest that LGUs incorporate groundwater protection into the local planning process.*



Implementation Action 2: Groundwater Planning and Monitoring as Part of Building Permit or Conditional Use Permit Process

Lead: LGUs Team: MDH, WCPHE, MPCA, WCLM

Objective 1

Require a groundwater monitoring plan or groundwater protection plan as part of a permit application for businesses that store, use, or transport hazardous materials and for properties formerly used as a waste disposal site or waste transfer facility. Where available, use wellhead protection plans to assist with this process.

Ongoing Activites

WCPHE will meet with LGUs to develop model language and procedures for this type of planning.

Policy 4 Washington County will advocate for and supports cooperative efforts to develop alternatives to using and storing salt for de-icing operations that are protective of public safety and the environment.

Implementation Action: No high priority Implementation Actions were assigned to address this policy. Non-high priority Implementation Actions are located in the Groundwater Plan (Appendix D).


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Section III 2007 Anticipated Funding Sources This section includes a breakdown of the 2007 projects and funding sources. Included are funding from grants and groundwater plan team leaders and members (which includes both state and local agencies). The budget includes funding strategies until 2008 and potential grant programs. Also included is the 2007 Budget Summary for Watershed Districts and Water Management Organizations.

PROJECT AND FUNDING SOURCES 2006 2007 2008

Groundwater Protection Rules Washington County PHE 5,000 5,000 5,000Watershed Districts 70,000 25,000 5,000Total 75,000 30,000 10,000

Shared Water Resource Educator Washington County PHE 5,000 5,000 5,000Washington Conservation District 5,000 5,000 5,000Watershed Organizations 60,000 60,000 60,000Local Government Units 20,000 20,000 20,000Total 90,000 90,000 90,000

Aquifer Protection - Abandoned Well Sealing Program Washington County PHE 20,000 20,000 20,000Washington Conservation District 2,000 2,000 2,000Total 22,000 22,000 22,000

Individual Sewage Treatment System Program Washington Conservation District 50,000 50,000 50,000Total 50,000 50,000 50,000

Baseline Monitoring Network Establishment Washington County PHE 20,000 20,000 20,000Washington Conservation District 5,000 5,000 5,000Total 25,000 25,000 25,000


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