A copy of the Local Water Management (LWM) Plan and additional information on water management in Nicollet County can be found at:
Environmental Services Department
Nicollet County Government Center
501 South Minnesota Avenue, St. Peter, MN 56082
507-934-0250
or by visiting the Nicollet County website at www.co.nicollet.mn.us
NICOLLET COUNTY
LOCAL WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN
A 10-year Plan with a 5-Year Implementation Schedule 2008-2018
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACRONYMS ............................................................................................................................................................... 4
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ............................................................................................................................................ 5
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................................................. 6
THE PURPOSE OF THE LOCAL WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN .................................................................................. 6
REQUIREMENTS OF A LOCAL WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN ................................................................................................... 6
OVERVIEW OF THE NICOLLET COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN PROCESS................................................. 6
PLAN ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT ................................................................................................................................. 7
PAST ACCOMPLISHMENTS ............................................................................................................................................... 7
ONGOING PROGRAMS ................................................................................................................................................... 7
DESCRIPTION OF PRIORITY CONCERNS TO BE ADDRESSED BY THE LWM PLAN .................................................... 8
CONSISTENCY WITH LOCAL, STATE, AND REGIONAL PLANS ................................................................................... 9
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED AMENDMENTS TO OTHER PLANS AND OFFICIAL CONTROLS ............................. 9
PRIORITY CONCERNS .............................................................................................................................................. 10
IDENTIFICATION OF THE PRIORITY CONCERNS ..................................................................................................... 10
ASSESSMENT OF THE PRIORITY CONCERNS .......................................................................................................... 10
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES TO ADDRESS PRIORITY CONCERNS ............................................................................... 15
ONGOING ACTIVITIES ............................................................................................................................................. 18
IMPLEMENTATION TO ADDRESS PRIORITY CONCERNS ......................................................................................... 20
APPENDIX A PRIORITY CONCERNS SCOPING DOCUMENT
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 3 of 44
ACRONYMS
AU
BMP
BNEH
BWSR
CREP
CRP
CWL
CWP
DNR
DWSMA
EPA
EQIP
ESD
GAC
GIS
GPM
LGU
LWM
MDA
MDH
MGY
MINNFARM
MMP
MPCA
MS4
NCEM
NPDES/SDS
NRCS
PB
PW
RIM
SMC
SSTS
SWCD
TMDL
U of M
WCA
WHP
WRAP
WRP
Animal Units
Best Management Practices
Brown-Nicollet Environmental Health
Board of Water and Soil Resources
Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program
Conservation Reserve Program
Clean Water Legacy
MPCA Clean Water Partnership Grant
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Drinking Water Supply Management Area
Environmental Protection Agency
Environmental Quality Incentives Program
Nicollet County Environmental Services Department
Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter
Geographic Information System
Gallons per Minute
Local Governmental Unit (Nicollet County, Nicollet SWCD, or City of North Mankato)
Local Water Management
Minnesota Department of Agriculture
Minnesota Department of Health
Millions of Gallons per Year
Minnesota Feedlot Annualized Runoff Model
Manure Management Plan
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System
Nicollet County Emergency Management
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System/State Disposal System
Natural Resources Conservation Service
Nicollet County Parks Board
Nicollet County Public Works Department
Reinvest in Minnesota
Seven Mile Creek Watershed Clean Water Partnership
Subsurface Sewage Treatment System
Nicollet Soil and Water Conservation District
Total Maximum Daily Load
University of Minnesota
Wetland Conservation Act
Wellhead Protection Area
Watershed Restoration and Protection Planning
Wetlands Reserve Program
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 4 of 44
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
A special thank you is extended to the following individuals who were involved in the preparation and
development of this document.
NICOLLET COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Dr. Bruce Beatty
Marie Dranttel
David Haack
Jack Kolars
James Stenson
NICOLLET COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
Ryan Krosch
LOCAL WATER MANAGEMENT STAFF
Amy Linnerooth
Nicollet County Environmental Services
WATER PLAN TASK FORCE
Dr. Bruce Beatty
Commissioner; Nicollet County (Ex-Officio)
Garry Bennett
Eco-Water Resources, DNR
Deanna Biehn
Feedlot Officer, Nicollet County Environmental Services
Marie Dranttel
Commissioner, Nicollet County (Ex-Officio)
Mike Fischer
Planner, City of North Mankato
Al Fox
Resident, Lafayette; Member of Rush River Watershed Technical Advisory Committee
Bob Freyberg
City of North Mankato
Robby Gieseke
Nicollet SWCD Board-Alternate
Seth Greenwood
Public Works Director, Nicollet County
Blake Honetshschlager
District Technician, Nicollet SWCD
Chris Hughes
Interim Board Conservationist, BWSR (Ex-Officio)
John Kral
Board Supervisor, Nicollet SWCD; Area Agriculture Producer
Mandy Landkamer
Director, Nicollet County Environmental Services (Ex-Officio)
Christian Lilienthal
Minnesota Extension Service, Nicollet County
Scott MacLean
Watershed Unity, MPCA
Kevin Mixon
Eco-Water Resources, DNR
Kevin Ostermann
District Manager, Nicollet SWCD
Eric Peters
Resident, Nicollet County
Marty Schott
Area Business Representative and Agriculture Producer
Joe Stangel
Area Wildlife Supervisor, DNR
Lee Sundmark
Fisheries, DNR
Brady Swanson
Coordinator, Rush River Watershed Clean Water Partnership
Karen Swenson
Director, Brown-Nicollet Community Health
Karen Voz
Minnesota Health Department
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
To Mr. Thomas Fischer, BWSR (retired 2013), whose dedication and assistance has guided this process and helped
the Task Force to achieve an environmentally sound, fiscally responsible and achievable Water Plan.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 5 of 44
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
THE PURPOSE OF THE LOCAL WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN
The purpose of the Nicollet County Local Water Management (LWM) Plan is to protect water resources in the
County from point and nonpoint sources of pollution. Coordination of these protection efforts between various
local, state, and federal agencies and organizations reduces duplication and eliminates gaps in implementation
strategies aimed at a common goal of water protection.
Requirements of a Local Water Management Plan
The LWM Plan meets the requirements set forth in current state statutes (Minnesota Statute 103B.311, Subd 4) as
follows:
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Its coverage includes the entire County
It addresses problems in the context of watershed units and ground water systems
It is based upon principles of sound hydrologic management of water, effective environmental protection,
and efficient management
It is consistent with local water management plans prepared by counties and watershed management
organizations wholly or partially within a single watershed unit or ground water system
Its duration is for ten years with review and amendment to the LWM Plan as necessary in five years
Overview of the Nicollet County Comprehensive Water Management Plan Process
The Nicollet County Board of Commissioners authorized the development of the first Nicollet County
Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan in the spring of 1987. It addressed surface water,
groundwater, and related land uses and resources on a watershed basis.
Beginning that fall with an informational meeting, development and implementation of the original 1990 Local
Water Plan achieved extensive citizen and intergovernmental involvement. Numerous Nicollet County residents,
county organizations, local units of government, adjacent counties, state agencies, federal agencies, private
companies, and institutions of higher learning assisted county staff and officials. Regular communication and
cooperation with neighboring counties was essential and remained a key ingredient in the process in developing
the first Water Plan.
Currently referred to as the Nicollet County Water Management Task Force, the original Water Planning and
Implementation Task Force, has continued to be a part of the process. In 1994, 1999 and November 2005, the
Task Force provided a review of the Goals, Objectives and Actions for the second, third and fourth revisions,
respectively.
This is the fourth edition of a local water management plan for Nicollet County. The current version was approved
by the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) Board on August 29, 2008 and is in effect until August 31, 2018.
The Nicollet County Commissioners adopted the plan on September 10, 2008.
A resolution to update the Nicollet County Comprehensive Water Management Plan was passed by the Nicollet
County Commissioners on January 24, 2012. The resolution was then submitted to BWSR February 10, 2012.
Notice of intent to amend the plan was provided to neighboring Local Government Units, agencies, and other
interested parties on March 9, 2012. A Task Force was convened to review the current plan and discuss current
and future issues, concerns, and needs on May 16, 2012. A subset of the Task Force met on July 31, 2012 for
further, in-depth discussion.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 6 of 44
This Plan amendment will be in effect from August 31, 2013 through August 31, 2018. When appropriate, Nicollet
County will provide for total Plan revision process with the goal of having the next generation plan in effect
September 2018.
Plan Adoption and Amendment
Upon approval of this Plan amendment by the BWSR Board, the County Board has up to 120 days to pass an
Adoption and Implementation Resolution. After final adoption, the Plan may be amended in a similar process, by
petitioning the BWSR Board, scheduling a public hearing, and sending notice to the required parties.
Approximately two years, no later than 18 months, prior to the end of the five year management schedule, the
County Board should consider a new Resolution to update this Plan, according to the rules then in place.
Past Accomplishments
Nicollet County and other partners have worked on a significant number of the objectives contained in the 2008
LWM Plan. Many existing and ongoing programs were built or enhanced as a result of implementing the LWM
Plan. Following are a few of the accomplishments from Nicollet County Environmental Services Department (ESD),
Nicollet Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), Natural Resources Conservation District (NRCS), Rush River
Clean Water Partnership (CWP), Seven Mile Creek CWP, and Middle Minnesota CWP:























94 rock tile/alternative inlets installed, 224 acres of cover crop planted, 42.65 acres of CRP enrolled, 25.9
acres put into rotation al grazing, provided $140,447 on 17 septic low interest loans, 34 acres of filter strip
installed, 4 rain barrels distributed, 1 rain garden constructed, and 1 terrace constructed in Rush River
Watershed
2 terrace structures
6 water and sediment control basins installed
4 grade stabilization projects completed
3 grassed waterways installed
6 wells sealed
Utilized State cost-share dollars to install 15.0 acres of farmstead windbreaks
In partnership with Environmental Quality Incentives Programs (EQIP), installed multiple conservation
practices, such as nutrient management, waste impoundment closures, and manure transfer systems,
totaling $1,775,427
675.8 acres enrolled in Reinvest in Minnesota (RIM)/Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP)
92.3 acres enrolled in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)
169 acres enrolled in conservation tillage
Conducted research on conservation drainage projects
Water quality and quantity monitoring in Seven Mile Creek watershed
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s (MPCA) E. coli fingerprinting study conducted
Monitoring near stream sediment and phosphorus reduction
Annual Career Day presentations
Annual Children’s Water Festival presentations
Annual tree donation to elementary school students
Developed, updated, and maintained loan/grant application and progress information on website
Administered the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA)
Promoted the replacement of non-compliant septic systems and upgraded 238 systems since 2008
Worked with MPCA as a delegated County for the Feedlot Program and maintained feedlot data base
Worked with livestock producers to register their feedlots and completed their Manure Management
Plans
Ongoing Programs
Nicollet County continues to administer several programs that are vital to achieving the goals set forth in the LWM
Plan including those related to feedlots, floodplain and shoreland management, subsurface sewage treatment
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 7 of 44
systems, septic loan programs, water plan administration, solid waste, WCA, and zoning. These programs are
locally administered through the County ESD, SWCD, and Public Works Department (PW_. Understandably, the
continued funding of these programs has been identified as a high priority in this Plan Amendment.
The current LWM Plan and the updated Five-Year Focus Plan will serve to guide Nicollet County in water planning
through the year 2018. During this time, opportunities will exist to amend goals, objectives, and the work plan
itself. Nicollet County will continue to build on past accomplishments and encourage new programs and
opportunities for the effective management and protection of its water and land resources.
DESCRIPTION OF PRIORITY CONCERNS TO BE ADDRESSED BY THE LWM PLAN
The Priority Concerns listed below were selected by the Water Plan Task Force members, after carefully reviewing
submitted concerns and comments and refined after discussions. While the assessment of priority concerns
utilized the best available information, this LWM Plan rests on data and analyses contained in previous editions of
the LWM Plan.
Priority Concern 1
Storm Water Control
As storm water travels across the landscape and enters lakes, streams, and wetlands, it brings with it
concentrations of pollutants. These pollutants, including sediment, nutrients, and heavy metals, can degrade the
water quality of the receiving water body significantly. This priority focuses on management of storm water in
both urban and rural settings.
Priority Concern 2
Urban and Rural Resource Management
There is a need to maintain current programs that manage Nicollet County’s water resources. Nutrient
management plans and controlling feedlot runoff are important in preventing water quality issues. Many rural
residences in the County have outdated septic systems that need to be upgraded. Wetlands provide water storage
capacity and act as filters and so play an important roll across a landscape. Providing appropriate disposal options
for county residents reduces the risk of ground and surface water contamination from solid waste, including
household hazardous waste. Maintain a water management plan that directs resources to practices that will
improve water quality and quantity.
Priority Concern 3
Watershed Restoration and Protection
Stream banks, bluffs, ravines, and uplands are sources of sediment in the Minnesota River. One of the initial steps
toward improving water quality within the Minnesota River Watershed is protecting the soil from erosion.
However, when water bodies fail to meet one or more water quality standards, they are considered impaired and
are subject for inclusion on Minnesota’s Impaired Waters list. This concern emphasizes assistance with the TMDL
allocation and implementation processes. This concern also promotes best management practices and other land
use practices that reduce the amount of sediment and nutrients entering a water body.
Priority Concern 4
Groundwater
Nicollet County is 100% dependent on groundwater for its drinking water, either through individual wells,
municipal supply or rural water systems. The groundwater concern will be addressed to assure long-term quality
and quantity of groundwater supplies, with a priority for wellhead protection areas and areas not currently served
by public/community systems.
Priority Concern 5
Drainage
Water movement across the landscape has changed greatly over time through development of the public drainage
system. Unfortunately, the lack of official procedures in place to regulate the outlet of private tile lines into public
ditch systems has led to issues in both water quality and quantity. This concern will work toward a coordinated
effort to manage the drainage system and promote water quality programs.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 8 of 44
SUMMARY OF GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND PROJECTED COSTS
Below is a table of the projected costs per year for implementation of each Goal.
GOAL: Stormwater Control
Projected Cost per Year: $34,500
Objective 1. Urban Storm Water Control
Objective 2. Erosion Control and Best Management Practices
Objective 3. Protect Sensitive Land Along Streams
Objective 4. Education
GOAL: Urban and Rural Resource Management
Projected Cost per Year: $388,000
Objective 1. Establish Buffers
Objective 2. Administer SSTS Program
Objective 3. Protect Wetlands Resources
Objective 4. Manage Parks and Scenic Areas
Objective 5. Administer Feedlot Program
Objective 6. Promote Responsible Manure Management
Objective 7. Administer Solid Waste Program
Objective 8. Administer Water Management Plan
Objective 9. Education
GOAL: Watershed Restoration and Protection
Projected Cost per Year: $94,500
Objective 1. Middle Minnesota Watershed Restoration and Protection
Objective 2. Seven Mile Creek Restoration and Protection
Objective 3. Roger’s Creek Restoration and Protection
Objective 4. Lower Minnesota Watershed Restoration and Protection
Objective 5. Education
GOAL: Groundwater
Projected Cost per Year: $14,000
Objective 1. Well Water Testing
Objective 2. Encourage Wellhead (Ground and Surface Water) Protection From Contamination
Objective 3. Encourage Proper Sealing of Unused or Abandoned Wells
Objective 4. Education
GOAL: Drainage
Projected Cost per Year: $96,500
Objective 1. Improve Drainage Management
Objective 2. Education
PROJECTED COST OF IMPLEMENTATION PER YEAR: $622,000
CONSISTENCY WITH LOCAL, STATE, AND REGIONAL PLANS
Nicollet County ESD staff administer the County’s comprehensive land use planning and zoning ordinances. The
LWM Plan, County Zoning Ordinance, WCA, Solid Waste Ordinance, Shoreland Ordinance, and all aspects of the
Natural Resources Block Grant are administered out of one office. In addition, there is communication and
cooperation with all other courthouse and County offices and the Nicollet County SWCD office for planning
processes. This helps to maintain consistency between this plan and other plans and ordinances. In addition, the
County has access to other local, regional, and state plans for use in LWM Plan development.
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED AMENDMENTS TO OTHER PLANS AND OFFICIAL CONTROLS
There are no specific recommended amendments at this time. The priority concerns and action items established
in the LWM Plan should allow for cooperation between the County and other local governments in the
development and amendments of local controls and ordinances. Reference to water quality and quantity issues
developed in the LWM Plan should be considered on a voluntary basis by each organization in its planning process.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 9 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERNS
IDENTIFICATION OF THE PRIORITY CONCERNS
Priority Concerns for local water management were selected by the Nicollet County LWM Plan Task Force
members after reviewing the concerns submitted by state and local agencies and other stakeholders (See Priority
Concerns Scoping Document contained in the appendix).
Local water management concerns and comments were received or reported from:
Brown-Nicollet Environmental Health
Brown County Planning and Zoning Department
Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources
Minnesota Department of Agriculture
Minnesota Department of Health
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Nicollet County Environmental Services Department
Rush River Watershed Project
Cities: Mankato, North Mankato
Townships: Courtland
Concerns were presented at the Task Force Kickoff meeting and discussed. Staff then reviewed, refined, and
developed focused Priority Concerns for a subset of the Task Force’s consideration. The subset discussed and
revised the initial priority concerns to better reflect the needs of the County.
ASSESSMENT OF THE PRIORITY CONCERNS
Nicollet County is located in south central Minnesota and is adjacent to the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Le
Sueur, Renville and Sibley. The thirteen townships form a triangular shape with 104.6 miles of the Minnesota River
forming the southeast and southwest boundaries. A line of forested bluffs separate the river valley from land that
is relatively flat and historically used for agricultural purposes. Approximately 245,000 acres are actively farmed.
City of
Lafayette
RIDGELY
WEST
NEWTON
St.
George
N
LAFAYETTE
BERNADOTTE
NEW
SWEDEN
LAKE
PRAIRIE
Klossner
Station
TRAVERSE
BRIGHTON
GRANBY
W
City of
St. Peter
E
S
COURTLAND
City of
Courtland
OSHAWA
City
of Nicollet
NICOLLET
BELGRADE
City of
North
Mankato
There are five cities: the largest being North Mankato and the County seat, St. Peter, following closely in
population and rapidity of growth. The cities of Courtland, Lafayette and Nicollet complete the list of cities in the
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 10 of 44
Location
2000
2010
Courtland, City of
538
611
Lafayette, City of
529
504
Nicollet, City of
889
1,093
North Mankato, City of
11,800
13,394
St. Peter, City of
9,765
11,196
Belgrade Township
1,031
1,052
Bernadotte Township
346
278
Brighton Township
169
149
Courtland Township
715
630
Granby Township
259
246
Lafayette Township
724
694
Lake Prairie Township
638
672
New Sweden Township
326
297
Nicollet Township
511
527
Oshawa Township
525
502
Ridgely Township
126
115
Traverse Township
363
334
West Newton Township
517
423
Nicollet County
29,771
32,727
Source: Minnesota State Demographic Center
% Change
13.6
-4.7
22.9
13.5
14.7
2.0
-19.7
-11.8
-11.9
-5.0
-4.1
5.3
-8.9
3.1
-4.4
-8.7
-8.0
-18.2
9.9%
County. There are two unincorporated rural townsites;
Klossner is located in Lafayette Township and Saint George is
located in West Newton Township. The Minnesota State
Demographic Center estimates that there are 32,727
residents in the County as of 2010, up 9.9% from counted in
the year 2000 US Census. While some cities and townships
within the County lost residents, the overall population rose
and is predicted to continue to rise 23% to 40,280 by the
year 2040. The latest population Census is listed below.
Nicollet County has a humid continental climate that is
characterized by large seasonal temperature differences,
with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold to
severely cold winters. For summer months, the average
temperature in Nicollet County is 70.20F and the winter
months average a temperature of 16.40F. The average
rainfall is 29.67 inches, 64% of which falls in the months
from April through September.
The majority of the land in Nicollet County consists of glacial till plain characterized by nearly level or gently rolling
prairie uplands. Along the Minnesota River, there is a continuous strip of bottomland separated from the prairie
uplands by very steep slopes. The maximum difference in elevations within the County is about 300 feet. The
highest elevations are found northwest of Swan Lake. Although the uplands are relatively level, the western
portion of the County tends to be slightly higher than the eastern areas.
The County lies entirely within the Minnesota River Basin and the County Commissioners are active in watershed
organizations promoting enhancement and preservation the County’s water and other resources. Most of the
County is drained by the Minnesota River and a few small tributaries which cut deep ravines two or three miles
back from the Minnesota River. Along with Nicollet County, the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Cottonwood,
S T A TE
OF
MIN N E S O T A
Ú
Ê
Lower Minnesota River
Watershed
Middle Minnesota River
Watershed
La fa yette
Cour tland
St.
Ú
ÊPeter
N
Nicollet
Nor th
Manka to
W
E
S
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 11 of 44
LeSueur, Redwood, Renville and Sibley and a very small portion of Watonwan make up the Middle Minnesota River
Watershed. Even though the Minnesota River boarders the County on two sides, a sizable percentage of the
County Drains to the north. The upper third of the County lies within the Lower Minnesota River Watershed that
includes the counties of Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, LeSueur, McLeod, Renville, Rice, Scott, Sibley and a small
portion of Ramsey at the mouth of the Minnesota River. There is an extensive drainage system throughout the
County which carries run-off water and allows for some poorly drained soils to be used for agriculture.
The County has relatively few lakes, and most of these are quite small. One exception is Swan Lake, which has an
area of 9,346 acres and a tributary drainage area of less than 40 square miles. This ratio of watershed area to lake
area of less than two to one, which translates to a shrinking lake level during periods of low precipitation and high
evapotranspiration. The second largest lake in the County is Middle Lake, with an area of 1,990 acres.
Ground water is available in usable quantities, mainly from aquifers in the glacial drift. These aquifers are
essentially recharged by local precipitation. Depths of wells for rural residences have been measured from 8 feet
to 765 feet below the surface. The ground water quality has been examined by Brown-Nicollet Environmental
Health (BNEH) and Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). About 5% of the wells tested had nitrate
concentrations over the 10 parts per million that the federal government established for the drinking water
standard. The nitrate concentrations were dependent on the aquifer the well was drawing from, the depth and
construction of the well, and the presence of a source of contamination near the well. Generally speaking, if an
aquifer is near the ground surface (drawing from the Minnesota River or Jordan Aquifer) or is overlain with sandy
soils, it is more vulnerable to contamination, including nitrates. In addition, if a well is constructed with cement
tiles, located in a pit, or in poor repair, nitrates and/or bacteria may be present.
The DNR Division of Ecological and Water Resources has the authority to issue permits for water use, and to limit
withdrawals of surface water and groundwater in accordance with public interest. Groundwater appropriation
permit uses in Nicollet County include municipal water supplies as well as those listed below.
Permit #
1956-0141
1968-1556
1971-0313
Permittee
OMG Midwest, Inc.
City of Nicollet
Wis-Pak of Mankato, Inc.
City of New Ulm (wells in
Nicollet and Brown Counties)
Dranttel, John
Nicollet County
City of Courtland
City of St. Peter
Resource1
Use
Rate
(gpm)
1,200
290
1,300
Volume
(MGY)
81
36
190
Minnesota River
Mine Processing
QBUA, QBAA
Municipal Waterworks
CJDNCMTS, CMTS
Agricultural Processing
QBAA, QBAA, QBAA, CMTS,
Municipal Waterworks
1971-0331
6,895
1,600
QBAA, QBAA, QBAA, QBAA
1976-4232
CSTLCMTS
Major Crop Irrigation
1,100
50
1977-4244
County Ditch 76A
Tile Drainage/Pumped Sumps
3,000
10
1978-4416
QBAA, QBAA
Municipal Waterworks
270
30
CJDN, CMTSPMHN, CIGLCECR,
Municipal Waterworks
1979-4341
CJDNCSTL, CFRNCIGL, CJDN,CIGL,
5,000
600
CMTS, CMTS
1979-4348 City of Lafayette
QBAA, QBAA
Municipal Waterworks
350
33
1986-4152 Nicollet Food Products
QBUA, CSLF
Agricultural Processing
250
16
M. G. Waldbaum Co.
QBAA, CSTLCFRN, CSTLCIGL,
Livestock Watering
1988-4190
140
35
CFRNCIGL
1992-4133 North Links, LTD Partnership
CMTS
Golf Course Irrigation
500
34
1997-4069 Rolling Hills Dairy, LLP
CDRE
Livestock Watering
100
25
1997-4116 Swine Complex, Inc.
QBUA
Livestock Watering
35
10
1997-4200 OMG Midwest, Inc.
Dug Pit
Mine Processing
1,200
81
2003-4121 Northern Plains Dairy
CSLF, CSTL
Livestock Watering
150
40
2006-0449 DNR
Minnesota River
Golf Course Irrigation
200
19.5
2007-0306 New Sweden Dairy, LLC
CFIG, CFIG, CFRNCECR, CFRNCECR Livestock Watering
100
60
2013-0364 Davis, Mark
CFIG, CFIG
Landscaping/Athletic Fields
75
9.7
2013-1079 Granby Calf Ranch, LLC
CFRN
Livestock Watering
360
3
1
QBUA=Quaternary buried undifferentiated aquifer
CMTS=Mt. Simon aquifer
CJDN=Jordan Aquifer
PMHN=Hinckley Aquifer
QBAA=Quaternary buried artesian aquifer
CSTL=St. Lawrence Aquifer
CFRN=Franconia Aquifer
CFIG=Franconia-Ironton-Galesville Aquifer
CIGL=Ironton-Galesville Aquifer CSLF=St. Lawrence-Franconia Aquifer
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 12 of 44
The aquifers that County residents use for drinking water receive a portion of the recharge from surface water.
Nicollet County has several water bodies on the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) list of impaired waters. The water
bodies have been identified to have a pollutant source which can limit a stream or lake’s designated use (which
includes recreation/fishing, irrigation, swimming, or industrial use). When a pollutant inhibits the use of one or
more of these designations, the stream/lake becomes listed on the State’s impaired waters list. When listed, the
State of Minnesota is required to conduct a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) study. The TMDL addresses the
source(s) of the pollutant and determines how much of that pollutant a given water body can receive and still be
able to meet water quality standards. The TMDL process results in a pollution reduction and implementation plan
to address a water body’s impairment. The Implementation Plan sets goals and objectives for actions that must be
accomplished in order to reach the calculated reductions specified in the TMDL. Currently, the MPCA is
coordinating TMDLs within a watershed under their Watershed Restoration and Protection Planning (WRAP). The
WRAP for the Middle Minnesota Watershed was initiated in 2013 and is scheduled to begin for the Lower
Minnesota Watershed in 2014.
The 2010 impaired waters list for water bodies located in Nicollet County include stretches of the Minnesota River,
Seven Mile Creek and some of its headwaters, and Rogers Creek. The affected uses include Aquatic Recreation,
Aquatic Life, and Drinking Water. The list of the reaches with pollutants and affected use is included below.
Reach Name
Reach Description (‘from’ – ‘to’)
MPCA ID
Impaired Use
Unnamed Trib. (Sevenmile Cr.)
Judicial Ditch 1A
Little Cottonwood River
Blue Earth River
Rush River, South Branch
Sevenmile Creek
County Ditch 46A
Cottonwood River
Minnesota River
Sevenmile Creek
Minnesota River
Rogers Creek
Sevenmile Creek
Blue Earth River
Little Cottonwood River
Cottonwood River
County Ditch 46A
Minnesota River
Minnesota River
Sevenmile Creek
Minnesota River
Minnesota River
Minneopa Creek
Minnesota River
Minnesota River
Sevenmile Creek
Source: MPCA
1
Aquatic Life
2
Bioassessment
Headwaters to T109 R27W S15, North Line
CD 40A to South Branch Rush River
Headwaters to Minnesota River
Le Sueur River to Minnesota River
Unnamed ditch to Rush River
T109 R27W S4, North Line to Minnesota River
Headwaters to Sevenmile Creek
JD 30 to Minnesota River
Shanaska Creek to Rogers Creek
CD 13A to CD 46A
Cherry Creek to Le Sueur Creek
Unnamed Creek to Minnesota River
T109 R27W S4, North Line to Minnesota River
Le Sueur River to Minnesota River
Headwaters to Minnesota River
JD 30 to Minnesota River
Headwaters to Sevenmile Creek
Shanaska Cr to Rogers Cr
Swan Lake outlet to Minneopa Creek
CD 13A to CD 46A
Blue Earth River to Shanaska Creek
Minneopa Creek to Blue Earth River
T108 R28W S23, south line to Minnesota R
Cottonwood River to Little Cottonwood River
Cherry Creek to Le Sueur Creek
T109 R27W S4, north line to Minnesota River
07020007-637
07020012-509
07020007-515
07020009-501
07020012-553
07020007-562
07020007-516
07020008-501
07020007-501
07020007-564
07020012-507
07020007-547
07020007-562
07020009-501
07020007-515
07020008-501
07020007-516
07020007-501
07020007-505
07020007-564
07020007-502
07020007-504
07020007-534
07020007-503
07020012-507
07020007-562
Aquatic Rec.
Limited Use Water1
Aquatic Rec.
Aquatic Rec.
Aquatic Rec.
Aquatic Rec.
Aquatic Rec.
Aquatic Rec.
Aquatic Rec.
Aquatic Rec.
Aquatic Rec.
Aquatic Life
Drinking Water
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Aquatic Life
Impairment
Cause
E. coli
E. coli
Fecal Coliform
Fecal Coliform
Fecal Coliform
Fecal Coliform
Fecal Coliform
Fecal Coliform
Fecal Coliform
Fecal Coliform
Fecal Coliform
Fish BA2
Nitrates
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
Turbidity
The parks and scenic areas in the County are enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Preservation of these areas
indicates a commitment to preserving and enhancing the County’s natural resources. Among these natural
amenities are wildlife management areas, parks, and public access to lakes and the Minnesota River. The most
popular sites, Swan Lake, Fort Ridgely State Park, Seven Mile Creek County Park, and Minnemishinona Falls, are
described further below.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 13 of 44
Fort Ridgely State Park
Ú
Ê
Ridge ly
West
New ton
New
Sw eden
Bernadotte
La ke Pra irie
La fayette
Tra verse
Brighton
KEY
Ú
Ê
Granby
#
Courtland
Lake
Oshaw a
Seven Mile
Cities
Ê Creek Park
Ú
Nicollet
N
Roa ds
Town ship Bou nda ry
Swan Lake
Belgrade
Minnemishinona
Falls
Ú
Ê
Swan Lake As one of the largest prairie pothole marshes in the United States,
offers birding, hunting and research opportunities with public landings along its
shore. Nicollet Creek/Swan Lake Outlet has one of the best water quality
designations of the tributaries to the Minnesota River. Swan Lake is managed
through the cooperation between DNR Wildlife and Fisheries, landowners,
conservation clubs and the many visitors who enjoy this unique and beautiful area
in central Nicollet County.
Fort Ridgely State Park is the only state park in the County and is located at the
far westerly edge of the County. The fort was built in 1853 and became a State
park in 1911. There are camp sites, a 9 hold golf course, and many other
recreational opportunities that allow visitors to enjoy and learn about this once
thriving outpost.
Seven Mile Creek County Park was initially established in 1967 and
encompasses 628 acres in Belgrade and Oshawa townships. The Park is located
between North Mankato and St Peter on both sides of US 169. Some of the
attractions that draw over 150,000 people to the Park annually include: picnic
grounds with a shelter and playground equipment, a boat landing, ball
diamonds, over eight miles of multi-use trails (including many groomed for
horse riding), the Creek which is stocked with brown trout annually and the
beautiful forested areas throughout the surrounding vicinity.
Minnemishinona Falls Scenic Outlook, which was opened to the public in 2007, is west of North
Mankato along the Judson Bottom Road (County Road 41). This road is designated as a
Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway and the Minnemishinona Falls Scenic Area is one of the high
lights along the Byway. The County Park includes a parking area and fenced overlook along the
west rim of the gorge below Minnemishinona Falls. This overlook provides a view of the
Minnesota River Valley and access to the 42 foot falls.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 14 of 44
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES TO ADDRESS PRIORITY CONCERNS
The following discussion identifies goals and objectives that will guide the County in water resource management
over the next five years (2013-2018). These were developed with input from the LWM Plan Task Force, agencies,
and other stakeholders. Each item has been assigned specific implementation information, laying the foundation
for achieving goals and objectives set forth in the Plan.
PRIORITY CONCERN 1
STORM WATER CONTROL
Storm water runoff can change both water quality and quantity affecting our water resources physically,
chemically, and biologically. The rate and extent of erosion is increased from agricultural practices as well as areas
of development. In agricultural settings, simple conservation practices, such as grass waterways, terraces, and
sediment basins, can substantially reduce the impacts of soil erosion on surface waters and wetlands.
Conservation tillage, leaving adequate crop residue, provides a layer of protection from water and wind erosion
and increases organic matter in the soil. Vegetative buffers separating cropland from bodies of water act as a last
line of defense from runoff. To achieve maximum benefit, these buffers should be at least 33 feet wide and extend
at least to the edge of the flood plain.
Impervious surfaces within developed areas, such as paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops, represent a
change in runoff that can affect water quality and quantity as well. The amount of rainfall that can infiltrate into
the soil is reduced, which increases the volume of runoff from the watershed. Drainage modifications also
increase the velocity of runoff, which decreases the time required to convey it to the outlet of the watershed.
Increased volume and increased velocity of runoff results in higher peak discharges and shorter times to reach
peak discharge. This causes high flows and can lead to flooding, erosion, and other adverse effects on the habitat
of streams.
Currently, under the MPCA’s Storm Water Management Program, communities with a population of 10,000 or
greater, or a population of 5,000 or greater with the potential to discharge into an impaired water, are required to
apply for a permit to regulate discharges from a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4). The program is
designed to reduce the amount of sediment and pollution that enters surface and ground water from storm sewer
systems to the maximum extent practicable. Because the Mankato/North Mankato area has been designated as a
Metropolitan Planning Organization, Nicollet County will need to obtain coverage under the MS4 permit program.
Addressing storm water control issues will assist with this process.
GOAL – Reduce urban and rural runoff and storm water impacts to surface waters.
Objective 1
Objective 2
Objective 3
Objective 4
Urban Storm Water Control
Erosion Control and Best Management Practices
Sensitive Land Along Streams
Education
PRIORITY CONCERN 2
URBAN AND RURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Development in rural communities is a process of balancing diverse interests. The LWM Plan focuses on actions
that maintain a healthy economy while promoting environmental stewardship.
State legislation governing Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems (SSTS) is implemented at the County level.
Failing and nonconforming sewage treatment systems are considered an imminent threat to public health. These
systems can spread hepatitis, dysentery and other diseases that are borne from bacteria, viruses and parasites in
wastewater. Untreated sewage also may contain toxic chemicals from household cleaning products. This
wastewater can directly enter surface waters and spread elsewhere. Excess nutrients reaching lakes or streams
promote algae growth, making lakes unsuitable for swimming, boating, and fishing. At the present time, existing
septic systems are required to be brought into compliance at the time of property transfer. Nicollet County has
been successful in assisting landowners to upgrade their septic systems through low-interest loan programs.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 15 of 44
Since Nicollet County has lost more than 90 percent of its wetlands to drainage and development, the County as a
whole is identified as a high priority area with regard to wetland preservation. The loss of wetlands leads to
increased runoff creating the potential for water impairments. Ground water recharge and water storage are also
impacted through the loss of wetlands. For this reason, water storage needs to be considered as a resource.
Wetland restoration and water retention projects can be developed to help restore the natural hydrology.
Nicollet County is delegated to administer the MPCA Animal Feedlot Rules for feedlots not requiring a National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) or State Disposal System (SDS) permit. All feedlot types are
inspected as part of this program. A Minnesota Feedlot Annualized Runoff Model (MINNFARM) is conducted at
sites where there may be the potential to pollute Waters of the State with manure contaminated runoff. If a
pollution hazard is identified, Nicollet County offers guidance to the producer where to find technical and financial
assistance to correct the pollution hazard. Corrections can include various improvements such as upgrades to the
manure storage facilities, odor control, improved manure handling, spreading, and incorporation equipment.
Manure management programs are intended to prevent and mitigate non-point nutrient contamination of water
and soil resources from land application of manure. This is particularly important in areas with a great deal of
surface runoff, as well as surficial aquifer areas. County staff can help farm operators understand the variety of
rules and regulations.
Solid Waste enforcement of the Solid Waste Ordinance is carried out by Nicollet County. Along with the Tri-County
Solid Waste Office staff (a joint powers agreement between Nicollet, Le Sueur, and Sibley Counties), Nicollet
County staff assists with education, household hazardous waste collections, and tire, appliance, and electronics
collections. The Tri-County Solid Waste Office maintains the Solid Waste Management Plans with assistance from
Nicollet County. The Solid Waste Management Plan specifies the development of solid waste reduction, recycling,
yard waste management, and household hazardous waste management programs over the dependence on
landfills to the maximum extent feasible and prudent.
Managing Nicollet County’s water resources involves cooperation with many local, State, and Federal agencies, as
well as private citizens and special interest groups. For any water plan activity to be successful, a well-coordinated
effort is needed. Nicollet County is committed to working with each of these entities, as listed under specific water
planning topics, to ensure proper management of its water resources. Nicollet County will ensure coordination
and implementation of its LWM Plan through an advisory committee. This committee will meet semi-annually to
review progress, identify emerging problems, and discuss opportunities. The County Water Planner will administer
the implementation portion of the LWM Plan, coordinate committee activities, prepare grant proposals, annual
work plans, and reports, and other activities as needed.
GOAL – Assist residents with meeting local, state, and federal regulations that serve to protect natural resources.
Objective 1
Objective 2
Objective 3
Objective 4
Objective 5
Objective 6
Objective 7
Objective 8
Objective 9
Establish Buffers
Administer SSTS Program
Protect Wetlands Resources
Manage Parks and Scenic Areas
Administer Feedlot Program
Promote Responsible Manure Management
Administer Solid Waste Program
Administer Water Management Plan
Education
PRIORITY CONCERN 3
WATERSHED RESTORATION AND PROTECTION
MPCA has adopted an Intensive Watershed Monitoring approach that includes monitoring, assessment, stressor
identification, TMDL development, and restoration and protection strategies. This watershed approach follows a
10-year rotation for addressing waters of the state on the level of Minnesota’s major watersheds. MPCA and its
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 16 of 44
partners have begun implementing this approach since 2007 as directed by the Minnesota State Legislature. The
Minnesota River at Mankato major watershed project began in 2013 and the Lower Minnesota major watershed
project will begin in 2014. Through these projects, TMDL studies will be developed for all existing and newly
discovered impairments in Nicollet County.
GOAL – Proactively work to improve and remove water bodies from the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) list of
Impaired Waters while continuing to protect non-impaired water bodies.
Objective 1
Objective 2
Objective 3
Objective 4
Objective 5
Middle Minnesota Watershed Restoration and Protection
Seven Mile Creek Restoration and Protection
Roger’s Creek Restoration and Protection
Lower Minnesota Watershed Restoration and Protection
Education
PRIORITY CONCERN 4
GROUNDWATER
Groundwater is the main source for drinking water in Nicollet County. High quality drinking water is necessary for
both community health and economic well-being. Protecting the sources of drinking water is a goal for the water
plan by working with municipalities and individuals to prevent groundwater contamination.
Nicollet County is an area of intensive agriculture with areas of geology that make it susceptible to groundwater
contamination. Past studies have shown that some groundwater sources have been contaminated within the
County. Human activities including urban and industrial development and waste water treatment have the
potential to affect both private and public water sources.
Most areas of the County have shown the possibility of developing adequate ground water supplies for farm and
domestic use. Planning for future development and gaining an understanding of the groundwater resources will
help ensure that the resource is protected.
GOAL – Ensure a safe and adequate supply of groundwater.
Objective 1
Objective 2
Objective 3
Objective 4
Well Water Testing
Encourage Wellhead (Ground and Surface Water) Protection from Contamination
Encourage Proper Sealing of Unused or Abandoned Wells
Education
PRIORITY CONCERN 5
DRAINAGE
The agricultural drainage system provides artificial drainage of water from the soil profile in order to allow crop
production. The systems are designed to quickly and efficiently remove excess water creating the opportunity for
large quantities of water to exit the system. This increased flow has been shown to have detrimental effects to the
receiving waters that include ditches, streams, rivers, and lakes. The excess flow causes erosion and carries
sediment along with various pollutants that impact water quality.
Nicollet County’s drainage system consists of approximately 85 ditch systems covering an estimated 427 miles of
open drainage ditches and private tile. Nicollet County Board of Commissioners acts as the County Drainage
Authority and considers drainage repair and improvement issues. Much of the drainage system is outdated and
under designed to accept the ever increasing amount of tile that is installed. Understanding the existing system
and its potential will help to improve water quality. Options to reduce the load to the system including controlled
drainage and wetland and water storage opportunities should be considered.
Included in this amendment is the recommendation
Management Plan that addresses present and future
unintended consequences to water resources. The
Management Plan when a petition to improve a public
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
that the County develop a comprehensive Drainage
drainage needs as well as methods to mitigate the
County drainage authority will review the Drainage
drainage system is requested and consider options for
Page 17 of 44
mitigating increases in flow volume. A concerted effort by local decision makers, local and state agencies and
landowners will be necessary to ensure sufficient drainage for crop production while maintaining or improving
water quality. High priority areas will include impaired water bodies and reaches of impaired water bodies on the
Clean Water Act 303(d) list of impaired waters, though any area with high resource value waters should be
considered.
GOAL – Encourage efforts to maintain the public drainage system while improving water quality and managing
water quantity.
Objective 1
Objective 2
Improve Drainage Management
Education
ONGOING ACTIVITIES
Nicollet County is dedicated to preserving our resources while providing a sound economy and educational
opportunities for its citizens. Nicollet County strives to maintain and enhance the beauty of the Minnesota River
Valley. The Nicollet County staffs in all departments are known for their willingness to work with all citizens of the
County.
While the County staff cannot regulate the cities, there is a congenial working relationship and will continue to
work with the city staffs as opportunities arise. Cities continue to educate and enforce best management practices
in storm water control, erosion control during construction and offer incentives to their citizens to practice
enhancement and preservation of their natural resources.
Staff will continue to work with all the public water suppliers in the county to further efforts to protect water
quality and reduce potential impacts to drinking water sources that may be attributable to land uses.
Nicollet County’s youth are important. County staff will continue to join the staffs of the surrounding counties,
cities, agencies, and organizations to present and participate in educational opportunities throughout the county
on a yearly basis.
SWCD and ESD staffs continue to administer the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act Rules and Regulations. Staff
and other partners may also assist landowners to preserve and restore wetlands through education and/or grants,
such as Clean Water Partnership and Clean Water Legacy grants.
ESD staff will continue to provide administration of zoning, SSTS, feedlot, and solid waste ordinances. Staff
answers questions and enforces the regulations in zoning and shoreland areas, storm water and erosion control
methods, and solid waste.
Rural landowners are provided with education and low-interest loan opportunities, as available, for replacement of
non-compliant septic systems. The County Board of Commissioners has authorized County money, in the form of
low interest loans, to be used to assist people in upgrading their non-compliant septic systems. In addition, the
Rush River CWP and Middle Minnesota CWP also provides assistance with low interest loans.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 18 of 44
Staff provide opportunities for the citizens to access County, State and Federal funds to assist in farming practices
through such programs as RIM, Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) and grants from CWP, Clean
Water Legacy (CWL) funds, foundations and other groups. These programs help achieve the goals within set rules
and regulations while at the same time provides information that preserves and improves the natural resources.
There are also many other public and private efforts at the regional, State, and Federal levels which serve to
promote the regulatory and informational goals of sound water management. These particular ongoing activities
typically encompass all watersheds in the County, reaching a broad cross-section of local residents and businesses.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 19 of 44
IMPLEMENTATION TO ADDRESS PRIORITY CONCERNS
Nicollet County has established an implementation schedule that prioritizes and outlines a timeframe and appropriate funding necessary for completing the goals,
objectives, and actions identified throughout this document. This schedule also recognizes the agencies responsible for overseeing the implementation activities. The
Implementation Schedule on the following pages correlates with the goals, objectives, and actions identified in the LWM Plan. The year in which the activity is expected
to occur is provided, with most action items occurring throughout the five-year period.
PRIORITY CONCERN 1:
STORMWATER CONTROL
Objective
No.
Action Item Description
Timeframe
Focus Area
Urban Storm
Water Control
1
Provide technical and financial assistance (as available)
to communities to assist officials, developers, and
contractors in the implementation of water quality
related BMPs that will increase the infiltration of storm
water and fulfilling MS4 program requirements.
Example BMPs include rain barrels, rain gardens,
retention basins, and pervious surfaces. Approximately
12 projects/sites per year
Assist communities and townships in researching grants
and loans for stormwater projects, including control of
erosion during construction and general erosion control
along township roads
Continue research into various erosion control practices,
including ravine erosion. Attend one workshop or
conference dealing with erosion control each year.
2013-2018
Developed Areas
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
Implement erosion control practices at 5 locations per
year that incorporate site specific fluvial geomorphology
– toe wood sod mats and j hooks so fish can access the
floodplain
Assist with stabilization of ravine off of Lake Street
between North Mankato and Mankato through funding
from 319 grant dollars, MnDOT, or Clean Water Funds
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Ravine
4
Hold one demonstration of new practices each year
2013-2018
Countywide
5
Hold one demonstration on current practices each year
2013-2018
Countywide
2
Erosion
Control & Best
Management
Practices
1
2
3
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Responsible
Agencies
Municipalities,
Nicollet County ESD,
MPCA
Cost Estimate
Per Year
$2,000
Municipalities,
Townships, Nicollet
County ESD,
MPCA
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, SMC, NRCS,
MPCA, DNR
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, SMC, NRCS,
MPCA, DNR
$500
Nicollet County ESD,
City of Mankato,
City of North
Mankato
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River,
Nicollet ESD, MDA,
MPCA
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River,
$1,000
$6,000
$500
$2,000
$5,000
Page 20 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 1:
Objective
Protect
Sensitive Land
along Streams
No.
Focus Area
2013-2018
Countywide
1
Provide technical and financial assistance (as available)
to landowners and communities for implementation of
water quality related BMPs such as conservation tillage,
vegetative buffer strips, sediment basins, grade
stabilization structures, bank stabilization structures,
shore land restoration, and rock intakes. Approximately
16 project/sites per year
Send 20 buffer strip proposals to landowners per year to
promote structural practices in ravine
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
Assist with the stabilization of the bank along the
Minnesota River, specifically within the Seven Mile
Creek Park boundary. Assistance can include installation
of erosion control measures or identification of funding
sources.
Provide educational opportunities to increase awareness
of the effect of stormwater on slope stabilization and
water quality (ex. Master Gardner meetings, partners’
newsletters (St. Peter, North Mankato, Extension, Rush
River/HIC), DNR’s Moist Soil Management Unit).
Approximately 3 events/projects per year
2014-2018
Seven Mile Creek
Park
2013-2018
Countywide
1
PRIORITY CONCERN 2:
Establish
Buffers
Timeframe
Re-enroll 10 CRP contracts per year
3
Objective
Action Item Description
6
2
Education
STORMWATER CONTROL
Cost Estimate
Per Year
Nicollet SWCD,
Rush River, Nicollet
County ESD, NRCS,
SMC, MDA, MPCA
SMC, Nicollet
SWCD, Nicollet
County ESD, NRCS,
MDA, MPCA
$2,500
$1,000
$2,000
$10,000
Nicollet County ESD,
Rush River, SMC,
Master Gardener,
MDA, DNR, MPCA
$2,000
ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL
$34,500
URBAN AND RURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Countywide
Responsible
Agencies
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD
DNR
Cost Estimate
Per Year
$20,000
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
$500
No.
Action Item Description
Timeframe
Focus Area
1
Evaluate and annually update land use data including
GIS layers and LiDAR to identify and inventory high
priority natural corridors to be enhanced. Evaluate in
2016-2018.
Develop and maintain a protection system for restored
2016-2018
2016-2018
2
Responsible
Agencies
Nicollet ESD, MDA,
MPCA
Nicollet SWCD,
NRCS, Rush River,
SMC
Nicollet SWCD,
Rush River, Nicollet
ESD, NRCS, SMC,
MDA, MPCA
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Page 21 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 2:
Objective
No.
3
SSTS
Action Item Description
or enhanced areas previously identified. Initiate in
2016.
Establish buffer strips around 2 existing wetlands per
year throughout the duration of the Plan
Timeframe
Focus Area
2013-2018
Countywide
Responsible
Agencies
Nicollet SWCD, DNR,
BWSR, MPCA
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, NRCS, SMC,
DNR
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, SMC, Nicollet
County ESD, NRCS,
Master Gardner,
MDA, DNR
Nicollet County ESD,
BWSR, MPCA
Cost Estimate
Per Year
$1,000
4
Hold 2 demonstrations on important aspects of native
grass plantings in rural and urban areas where
applicable
2013-2018
Countywide
1
One County staff member will continue to provide
oversight and assistance of State and County
regulations and inspection services as part of the
County’s SSTS program.
Provide information and assistance to homeowners on
proper SSTS design, installation, operation, and
maintenance through the ESD application procedure,
annual newsletters, mailings, and website resources.
Provide educational and technical assistance to
homeowners who are upgrading noncompliant SSTSs.
Investigate and initiate corrective measures for
improperly discharging SSTSs. Upgrade 65 noncompliant systems per year
Secure and administer financial assistance programs to
provide assistance for homeowners to upgrade
noncompliant SSTSs. Promote cost-share incentive
payments available through the County to encourage
voluntary septic system upgrades. Work with 50
homeowners each year.
Seek out additional funding for noncompliant SSTSs for
Low Income homeowners and for SSTSs classified as
Imminent Threat to Public Health & Safety. Work with
10 homeowners each year.
One Nicollet County employee and one Nicollet SWCD
employee will continue to jointly administer the
Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act.
Work with other agencies to re-establish 25 acres of
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
MPCA
$20,000
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
MPCA
$55,000
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD
Rush River
$20,000
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD
Rush River
$5,000
2013-2018
Countywide
$30,000
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD
Nicollet SWCD
BWSR, DNR
Nicollet SWCD,
2
3
4
5
Protect
Wetland
Resources
URBAN AND RURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
1
2
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
$1,500
$45,000
$1,000
Page 22 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 2:
Objective
URBAN AND RURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
No.
Action Item Description
Responsible
Agencies
SMC, Rush River,
MPCA,NRCS,
Nicollet County ESD,
DNR
Nicollet County ESD,
SMC, MPCA
Cost Estimate
Per Year
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River,
MPCA,NRCS,
Nicollet County ESD,
DNR
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, MPCA
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, SMC, DNR,
BWSR, MPCA
Nicollet SWCD
Nicollet County ESD
BWSR, NRCS, MDA
Nicollet County PW
Nicollet County ESD
$1,000
County Parks
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County PB
$1,000
2013-2018
Countywide
$1,000
2013-2018
County Parks
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet County PB,
Nicollet SWCD
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County PB
Timeframe
Focus Area
Utilize college interns to continue mapping historic
wetlands (started under Seven Mile Creek CWP Project)
through an inventory of drained wetland sites using
ARC GIS, LiDAR, hydric soils layers, other GIS data
layers, and other tools available. Begin inventory in
2014.
Assess restoration and preservation priorities based on
functions and values of wetlands mapped in the
wetland inventory once inventory of drained wetland
sites is completed. Anticipated start in 2016.
2014-2018
Countywide
2016-2018
Countywide
5
Examine potential wetlands impacts that may result
from growth of St. Peter by 2015
2013-2015
East-Central
Nicollet County
6
Research the need for Local Comprehensive Wetland
Protection Plan development by 2018
2013-2018
Countywide
7
Pursue grants or other initiatives to assist landowners in
enrolling in agricultural wetland mitigation banking.
Establish 200 acres by 2018.
Initiate Park Plan that identifies goals and objectives
specific to Nicollet County Parks & Scenic Areas
operations
Continue efforts to purchase additional land for
established parks and scenic areas, with a priority on
lands that would benefit from stream stabilization
Identify grants and other avenues of funding to
continue to furnish state-of-the-art playground
equipment for existing County parks
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Continue to enhance the County park and scenic areas
with landscaping (including costs)
wetlands; continue establishing wetland acreage to
total 100 acres by 2018
3
4
Manage Parks
& Scenic Areas
1
2
3
4
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
$2,000
$500
$500
$1,000
$500
$7,000
Page 23 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 2:
Objective
Cost Estimate
Per Year
$1,000
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
MPCA
$45,000
On-going
Countywide
$15,000
Advocate manure and soils testing with 10 area
producers and continue directing, according to State
rules, any producer with stored manure from 100+ au
and those with 300+ au to complete manure and soils
testing, respectively
According to State rules, producers with 300 au or more
who do not have commercial applicators need to
prepare a Manure Management Plan (MMP). Assist
producers in developing a MMP utilizing U of M
guidelines that match application rates with needs of
crops and discuss with area producers. This has
occurred for at least 5 producers in the County and
continues with each new application.
Provide educational and technical assistance to 5
agricultural and/or livestock producers each year on the
effects of over-application of commercial fertilizer and
manure
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
Extension, SMC,
Rush River, MPCA,
Nicollet SWCD,
NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Extension, SMC,
Rush River, MPCA,
Nicollet SWCD,
NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Extension, SMC,
Rush River, MPCA,
Nicollet SWCD,
NRCS
2013-2018
Countywide
$1,000
Continue to provide educational, technical and financial
assistance (as available) to livestock producers for the
implementation of water quality-related BMPs that will
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
Extension, SMC,
Rush River, MPCA,
Nicollet SWCD,
NRCS
Nicollet County ESD
Rush River, MDA,
NRCS, MPCA,
Action Item Description
Timeframe
Focus Area
5
Provide educational, technical, or financial assistance to
landowners, cities, townships and agencies in
preserving and enhancing scenic areas such as lakes
and the scenic roadways as requested
Work with DNR and landowners in the Swan Lake
Watershed to plant 25 acres of native plants and
restore 25 acres of wetlands in addition to what has
already been established since the 2008 LWM Plan
One staff member will locally administer the County
Feedlot Program to assist feedlot operators in obtaining
and maintaining compliance with State and County
regulations. Inspect at least 20 sites annually.
Provide educational, technical, and financial assistance
(as available) to livestock producers to upgrade
noncompliant feedlots. Work with approximately 5
noncompliant livestock producers each year.
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Swan Lake
On-going
1
2
Promote
Responsible
Manure
Management
Responsible
Agencies
Nicollet County ESD,
Municipalities,
Extension, Rush
River, SMC, DNR
DNR, Nicollet SWCD,
Nicollet County ESD
No.
6
Administer
Feedlot
Program
URBAN AND RURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
1
2
3
4
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
$1,000
$1,000
$10,000
$5,000
Page 24 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 2:
Objective
No.
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
Extension, Rush
River, MPCA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Tri-County SW, DNR
$1,000
2013-2018
Countywide
Continue to provide disposal options to discourage the
illegal burning and burying of solid waste and
investigate and remediate illegal dumping activities.
Close 5 solid waste violation files each year.
Promote proper solid waste disposal by annually
educating residents, students, and businesses on waste
reduction, recycling, and composting through school
visits, newsletters, brochures, and events. Participate in
2 educational events per year.
Continue Open Burning/Burn Barrel education
campaign through exhibits at County Fair or 1 other
demonstration each year and distribute educational
information packets to 50 residents per year
Explore alternative waste disposal practices that would
benefit all or particular townships and cities within
Nicollet County
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
Tri-County SW,
Nicollet SWCD,
MPCA, DNR
$3,000
2013-2018
Countywide
$1,500
2013-2018
Countywide
5
Seek additional funding for solid waste education
programs to assist with the clean-up of problem areas
2013-2018
Countywide
1
Continue to fund the LWM Plan Coordinator position to
oversee implementation of the LWM Plan
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
Tri-County SW,
Nicollet SWCD,
MPCA
Nicollet County ESD,
Tri-County SW,
Townships,
Municipalities
Nicollet County ESD,
Tri-County SW,
MPCA
Nicollet County ESD,
BWSR
2
3
4
Administer
Water
Management
Plan
Cost Estimate
Per Year
Focus Area
1
Action Item Description
Responsible
Agencies
Nicollet SWCD,
Extension
Timeframe
5
Administer
Solid Waste
Program
URBAN AND RURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
reduce impacts from feedlots and manure management
issues. Point source pollutants can be addressed by
installing agricultural waste storage facilities, filter
strips, roof structures, and animal mortality compost
structures. Non-point source pollutants could be
addressed through exclusion fencing and by installing
animal watering facilities outside naturally occurring
waterways. Provide assistance on approximately 3
projects/sites per year.
Seek 2 landowners who will install educational signs
that show benefits of using manure as fertilizer, e.g. 10
hogs fertilize 1 acre
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
$30,000
$3,000
$500
$30,000
Page 25 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 2:
Objective
Responsible
Agencies
Nicollet County ESD,
Task Force
Cost Estimate
Per Year
$10,000
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD
$500
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
BWSR
$1,000
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD
$10,000
2013-2018
Countywide
$2,000
2013-2018
Countywide
BNEH, Nicollet
County ESD, BWSR,
MPCA, DNR, GAC,
MDA, Nicollet
SWCD, Brown
County ESD
Nicollet SWCD,
NRCS, DNR
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet SWCD
$500
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
DNR
$1,000
No.
Action Item Description
Timeframe
Focus Area
2
Hold semi-annual task force meetings to review funding
requests, review progress in achieving LWM Plan
initiatives, and identify emerging issues that should be
incorporated into the LWM Plan through the
amendment process prior to its expiration in August
2018.
Comply with agency reporting requirements by
announced deadlines and manage grant funds once
obtained from funding sources.
Actively pursue additional funding sources and grants
to fund the implementation of LWM Plan initiatives.
Seek partnerships and cooperative agreements to
finance initiatives, when appropriate.
Invest in the acquisition, development, and
maintenance of GIS datasets, including LiDAR, digital
soil survey, land use layers, USFWS restorable wetland
inventory layers, USFWS National Wetland Inventory,
GIS generated storm maps, local inventory, and DNR
data deli layers. Utilize these datasets to make
informed decisions to prioritize implementation of
conservation practices, land use planning, and water
resource management.
Continue to hold the Annual Children's Water Festival
th
for 4 Graders as an opportunity to introduce youth to
water quality and conservation topics.
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Continue to attend Career Day and present
occupational information in the environmental services
to Nicollet County high school age students.
Educate elementary students on the importance of
planting trees by donating tree seedlings to Nicollet
County schools.
Continue to participate in the DNR’s Fort Ridgely
th
Education Days for nearby Nicollet County area 5 and
th
6 graders. This activity provides an opportunity to
relate wetlands and conservation topics to youth.
3
4
5
Education
URBAN AND RURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
1
2
3
4
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
$500
Page 26 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 2:
Objective
No.
5
PRIORITY CONCERN 3:
Objective
Middle
Minnesota
Watershed
Restoration &
Protection
URBAN AND RURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Action Item Description
Hold one event each year that provides education on
wetland functions and importance and promotes
wetland preservation and restoration programs
Timeframe
2013-2018
Responsible
Agencies
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, SMC, NRCS
ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL
Focus Area
Action Item Description
Timeframe
Focus Area
1
Continue the initiatives as set forth in the CWP Work
Plan
2013-2018
Seven Mile Creek
Watershed
2
Participate in the development of TMDL pollutant
allocations for impaired waters through MPCA’s WRAP
process
Nicollet County to assist in the development of
strategies to address TMDL allocations through:
 Assessment of streams
 Identification of stressors
 Development of stream protection strategies
 Development of stream restoration strategies
 Engaging the public in education and awareness of
goals and strategies
Form partnerships with adjacent counties and other
stakeholders within the Middle Minnesota River
Watershed to implement the Turbidity TMDL Study
through the WRAP process
2013-2015
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
5
Continue to assist the MPCA with implementation of
the Fecal coliform TMDL, through WRAP, as needed
2013-2018
Countywide
6
Develop and implement 2 innovative ways of
accomplishing the objectives of the Fecal Coliform
TMDL Implementation
2013-2018
Countywide
4
$388,000
WATERSHED RESTORATION AND PROTECTION
No.
3
Cost Estimate
Per Year
$1,000
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Responsible
Agencies
Nicollet SWCD,
Nicollet County ESD,
MPCA, DNR, BWSR,
MDA, NRCS
Cost Estimate
$2,000
MPCA
Nicollet County ESD
Nicollet SWCD
MPCA
Nicollet County ESD
Nicollet SWCD
$3,000
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
MPCA, Renville,
Brown, Blue Earth,
Le Sueur, and Sibley
Counties
MPCA,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, SMC
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, MPCA, DNR,
$1,500
$5,000
$2,500
$3,000
Page 27 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 3:
Objective
Seven Mile
Creek
Restoration &
Protection
Roger’s Creek
Restoration &
Protection
WATERSHED RESTORATION AND PROTECTION
No.
Action Item Description
Timeframe
Focus Area
7
Contact 5 landowners each year along ditch systems to
implement CRP
2013-2018
Countywide
8
Contact 5 landowners each year for wetland
restorations under CRP
2013-2018
Countywide
9
Install 2 structural practices through EQIP & State CostShare Program each year
2013-2018
Countywide
10
Seek funding from Clean Water Land & Legacy
Amendment to install Water Quality BMPs in Nicollet
County
2013-2018
Countywide
11
Install 10 Erosion Control and/or Sedimentation
Reduction BMPs in the Middle Minnesota Watershed
using funding from 319, Clean Water and Legacy
Amendment
Investigate Impairment Listings on Seven Mile Creek
2013-2018
Middle Minnesota
Watershed
2013-2018
Seven Mile Creek
Watershed
2
Pursue writing a TMDL Study for impairments on Seven
Mile Creek, if applicable
2013-2018
Seven Mile Creek
Watershed
3
Pursue removal of Seven Mile Creek from the TMDL List
2013-2018
Seven Mile Creek
Watershed
1
Assist the MPCA in investigating the Fish Biota (IBI)
Impairment Listing on Roger's Creek, through the
Middle Minnesota Watershed
2013-2018
Roger’s Creek
Watershed
1
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Responsible
Agencies
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
MPCA, SMC,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, DNR,
BWSR
MPCA, SMC,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, DNR,
BWSR
MPCA, SMC,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, DNR,
BWSR
MPCA,
Nicollet County ESD
Nicollet SWCD, DNR,
BWSR
Cost Estimate
$1,000
$1,000
$3,000
$2,000
$10,000
$2,500
$4,000
$10,000
$1,500
Page 28 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 3:
Objective
Lower
Minnesota
Watershed
(former listed
as Rush River
Watershed)
Restoration &
Protection
WATERSHED RESTORATION AND PROTECTION
No.
Action Item Description
Timeframe
Focus Area
2
Pursue writing a TMDL Study for impairments on
Roger’s Creek, if applicable
2013-2018
Roger’s Creek
Watershed
3
Pursue removal of Roger’s Creek from the TMDL List if
appropriate
2013-2018
Roger’s Creek
Watershed
1
Complete the Implementation Plan under WRAP for
Fecal coliform Bacteria Impairment and continue
assistance during the implementation of MPCA’s Plan
2013-2018
Lower Minnesota
Watershed
2
Assist the MPCA with the implementation of the Fecal
Coliform TMDL Study through WRAP, within the Lower
Minnesota Watershed
2013-2018
Lower Minnesota
Watershed
3
Assist with the implementation of the Turbidity TMDL
Study through WRAP, within the Lower Minnesota
Watershed
2013-2018
Lower Minnesota
Watershed
4
Seek innovative ways of accomplishing the objectives of
the Fecal coliform Implementation Plan
2013-2018
Lower Minnesota
Watershed
5
Contact 5 landowners per year along ditch systems to
implement CRP
2013-2018
Lower Minnesota
Watershed
6
Contact 5 landowners per year for wetland restorations
under CRP
2013-2018
Lower Minnesota
Watershed
7
Install 2 structural practices each year through EQIP &
2013-2018
Lower Minnesota
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Responsible
Agencies
MPCA
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, DNR,
BWSR
MPCA,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, DNR,
BWSR
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Nicollet County ESD,
Cost Estimate
$4,000
$10,000
$2,500
$5,000
$5,000
$1,500
$1,000
$1,000
$3,000
Page 29 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 3:
Objective
WATERSHED RESTORATION AND PROTECTION
No.
Action Item Description
Timeframe
State Cost-Share Program
Education
8
Install 5 rock tile inlets per year
2013-2018
1
Promote education on the improvement of the
Minnesota River and the importance of its tributaries
through website, brochures, advertisements, and
educational events; Target 6 events per year
Engage the public through events that create
awareness and a culture of working together toward a
common goal of a cleaner Minnesota River; Target 2
events per year
2013-2018
2
PRIORITY CONCERN 4:
Objective
Well Water
Testing
Cost Estimate
$5,000
$1,500
$3,000
$94,500
GROUNDWATER
Lead Agency
Supporting Agency
Nicollet County ESD
MDA, DNR, MDH
No.
Action Item Description
Timeframe
Focus Area
1
Continue Township Well Water Testing program if
applicable, every three years, through Nicollet County’s
nitrate clinic, MDA, or DNR’s geologic atlas
Continue to support GIS water quality data base that
records the results of the Township Well Water Testing
program
Assist the MDH and the 5 municipalities within Nicollet
County with the preparation and implementation of
wellhead protection plans for public water suppliers.
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
DNR, MDH,
Nicollet County ESD
$500
2013-2018
Municipalities
MDH, Cities of
Lafayette,
Courtland, Nicollet,
St. Peter, and North
Mankato
Nicollet County ESD
$1,500
Provide technical assistance to 5 property owners per
year that have MDH designated transient and nontransient wells
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD
Nicollet SWCD
BN CHS
$500
2
Encourage
Wellhead
(Ground &
Surface Water)
Protection
from
Contamination
2013-2018
Responsible
Agencies
Watershed
Nicollet SWCD,
MPCA, DNR, BWSR,
MDA, NRCS
Lower Minnesota
Nicollet County ESD,
Watershed
Nicollet SWCD, Rush
River, MPCA, DNR,
BWSR, MDA, NRCS
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
Rush River, SMC,
MPCA, CURE, DNR,
BWSR, Extension
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
Rush River, SMC,
MPCA, CURE, DNR,
BWSR, Extension
ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL
Focus Area
1
2
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Cost Estimate
$1,500
Page 30 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 4:
Objective
No.
Education
Action Item Description
Timeframe
Focus Area
Lead Agency
Supporting Agency
Nicollet County ESD
Nicollet SWCD
BN CHS
Nicollet County ESD
Cities of Lafayette,
Courtland, Nicollet,
St. Peter, and North
Mankato, BN CHS,
MDH
Nicollet County ESD
BN CHS, MPCA
Nicollet County ESD
MDA
Cost Estimate
3
Educate 5 property owners per year about wellhead
protection areas around their private wells
2013-2018
Countywide
4
Assist in seeking wellhead protection implementation
funding
2013-2018
Countywide
5
Identify the status of well vulnerability mapping and
research the need for Conditional Use Permitting
Promote irrigation BMPs (e.g., irrigation scheduling,
monitoring soil moisture, etc.) to preserve water quality
and quantity
Continue to provide information to the public on how
to identify, locate and properly seal abandoned wells
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet SWCD
DNR
Nicollet County ESD
BC CHS
$500
2
Provide cost share (when available) to seal
approximately 10 abandoned wells each year
2013-2018
Countywide
$500
3
Develop a Countywide inventory feasibility study of
abandoned wells, initiating in 2015
2015-2018
Countywide
4
Assist cities in obtaining funding for sealing and
relocation of municipal wells
Assist Extension in one educational event (e.g.,
brochure, presentation, poster, etc.) per year on
protection of rural wells
2013-2018
Municipalities
2013-2018
Countywide
Annually promote groundwater protection and water
conservation of noncommunity public water supply
systems and inter-well management zones through
newsletters, mailings, website resources, and
presentations
2013-2018
Countywide
Nicollet SWCD
Nicollet County ESD,
SMC, Rush River,
BWSR
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD
MDH, BN CHS
Nicollet County ESD,
Municipalities, DNR
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River,
Extension
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River,
MDH
6
Encourage
Proper Sealing
of Unused or
Abandoned
Wells
GROUNDWATER
1
1
2
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
$500
$500
$500
$500
$1,000
$500
$1,000
$1,500
Page 31 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 4:
Objective
No.
Timeframe
Focus Area
Research what impact accelerated runoff across the
landscape has on groundwater recharge by attending
conferences, one per year
2013-2018
Countywide
4
Review of geologic atlas to see what geology
contributes to groundwater movement within the
County
Identify impacts, amount and duration, to groundwater
resources from anticipated industrial & rural
development within the County
2013-2018
Countywide
Conduct one training/workshop per year on nutrient
management for agricultural producer who farms
within a WHP area
2013-2018
6
PRIORITY CONCERN 5:
Improve
Drainage
Management
Action Item Description
3
5
Objective
GROUNDWATER
Action Item Description
1
Pursue the development of a comprehensive drainage
management plan for Nicollet County that promotes
water storage on landscape. Initiate the plan by 2015.
Have County Drainage Authority consult the Drainage
Management Plan as part of petition review process
Use flood water reduction and water quality
improvement technologies based on current science
and BMPs (ex. buffers, conservation drainage) when
designing and implementing drainage repair
Coordinate & cooperate with other county drainage
authorities regarding management of the drainage
system
Establish a GIS-based Public Drainage System Inventory
by 2016.
3
4
5
6
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
MDH, BN CHS,
Municipalities
Countywide
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River,
MDA,
ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL
Cost Estimate
$1,000
$500
$500
$1,000
$14,000
DRAINAGE
No.
2
2013-2018
Lead Agency
Supporting Agency
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River
Utilize the Public Drainage System Inventory to identify
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
Timeframe
Focus Area
2015-2018
Countywide
2015-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2018
Countywide
2013-2016
Countywide
2016-2018
Countywide
Responsible
Agencies
Nicollet County PW
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, MDA
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD
Nicollet County PW,
Cost Estimate
$30,000
$1,500
$500
$500
$20,000
$25,000
Page 32 of 44
PRIORITY CONCERN 5:
Objective
No.
7
8
Action Item Description
streams that are overloaded, areas needing filter strips,
potential wetland restorations, and potential sites for
controlled drainage
Promote and market State and Federal conservation
programs that target drainage areas
Timeframe
2013-2018
Provide assistance to private drainage system
operators, including incentive programs, to implement
BMPs
Redetermination of ditch benefits conducted in a
proactive manner
Incorporate approaches outlined in BWSR’s
Multipurpose Drainage Synopsis as well as standards
described in NRCS Drainage Water Management
2013-2018
11
Identify 10 properties each year that could utilize tile to
augment long term water levels in wetlands
2013-2018
1
Conduct one education outreach event per year that
describes and promotes incentive programs for
conservation practices that retain water on landscape
(ex. side inlet controls, bioreactors, control structures
on tile systems, etc.)
Conduct a yearly drainage work group that invites area
producers and other interested parties to a discussion
on conservation drainage strategies
2013-2018
9
10
Education
DRAINAGE
2
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment
2013-2018
2013-2018
2013-2018
Responsible
Agencies
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River
Countywide
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River
Countywide
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD,
SMC, Rush River
Countywide
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD
Countywide
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River
Countywide
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River
Countywide
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD,
SMC, Rush River,
MDA
Countywide
Nicollet County PW,
Nicollet County ESD,
Nicollet SWCD, DNR,
BWSR
ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL:
Focus Area
Cost Estimate
$1,000
$3,500
$500
$1,500
$10,000
$500
$2,000
$96,500
Page 33 of 44
APPENDIX A
NICOLLET COUNTY LOCAL WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN
PRIORITY CONCERNS SCOPING DOCUMENT
NICOLLET COUNTY LOCAL WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN
PRIORITY CONCERNS SCOPING DOCUMENT
Prepared for the Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan Task Force
By Nicollet County Environmental Services
A. Summary
The priority concerns scoping document for the Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan was developed
in accordance with the Comprehensive Local Management Act, MN Statutes: 103B.301 – 103B.355. This
document identifies the priority concerns developed by the Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
Task Force. The concerns identified will be the focus of water resources planning and management in Nicollet
County for 2013-2018.
B.
Introduction
1.
County Primer
Nicollet County is located in south central Minnesota and is adjacent to Blue Earth, Brown, Le Sueur,
Renville and Sibley Counties. The triangular shape of the County is due in part to the Minnesota River
forming the southeast and southwest boundaries. Approximately 245,000 acres are actively farmed.
There are five cities within the County
including North Mankato, St. Peter,
Courtland, Lafayette and Nicollet.
There are also two unincorporated
rural townsites; Klossner is located in
Lafayette Township and Saint George is
located in West Newton Township.
According to the 2010 US Census, there
are 32,727 residents in the County,
which represents a 9.9% increase from
the 2000 US Census.
Nicollet County has a humid continental
climate that is characterized by large
seasonal temperature differences, with
warm to hot (and often humid)
summers and cold to severely cold
winters. For summer months, the
average temperature in Nicollet County
is 70.20F and the winter months
average a temperature of 16.40F. The
average rainfall is 29.67 inches, 64% of
which falls in the months from April
through September.
2.
Plan Information
The Nicollet County Board of Commissioners authorized the development of the first Nicollet County
Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan in the spring of 1987. It addressed surface
water, groundwater, and related land uses and resources on a watershed basis.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment – Priority Concerns Scoping Document
Page 35 of 44
Beginning that fall with an informational meeting, development and implementation of the original
1990 Local Water Plan achieved extensive citizen and intergovernmental involvement. Numerous
Nicollet County residents, county organizations, local units of government, adjacent counties, state
agencies, federal agencies, private companies, and institutions of higher learning assisted county staff
and officials. Regular communication and cooperation with neighboring counties was essential and
remained a key ingredient in the process in developing the first Water Plan.
Currently referred to as the Nicollet County Water Management Task Force, the original Water
Planning and Implementation Task Force, has continued to be a part of the process. In 1994, 1999
and November 2005, the Task Force provided a review of the Goals, Objectives and Actions for the
second, third and fourth revisions, respectively.
This is the fourth edition of a local water management plan for Nicollet County. The current version
was approved by the BWSR Board on August 29, 2008 and is in effect until August 31, 2018. The
Nicollet County Commissioners adopted the plan on September 10, 2008.
The Nicollet County Environmental Services is responsible for local water management in Nicollet
County, including facilitation of public input and convening the Nicollet County Local Water
Management Task Force. Currently, Task Force membership includes the following individuals:
Dr. Bruce Beatty
Garry Bennett
Deanna Biehn
Marie Dranttel
Mike Fischer
Al Fox
Bob Freyberg
Robby Gieseke
Seth Greenwood
Blake Honetshschlager
Chris Hughes
John Kral
Mandy Landkamer
Christian Lilienthal
Scott MacLean
Kevin Mixon
Kevin Ostermann
Eric Peters
Marty Schott
Joe Stangel
Lee Sundmark
Brady Swanson
Karen Swenson
Karen Voz
C.
Commissioner; Nicollet County (Ex-Officio)
Eco-Water Resources, DNR
Feedlot Officer, Nicollet County Environmental Services
Commissioner, Nicollet County (Ex-Officio)
Planner, City of North Mankato
Resident, Lafayette; Rush River Watershed Technical Advisory Committee
City of North Mankato
Nicollet SWCD Board-Alternate
Public Works Director, Nicollet County
District Technician, Nicollet SWCD
Interim Board Conservationist, BWSR (Ex-Officio)
Board Supervisor, Nicollet SWCD; Area Agriculture Producer
Director, Nicollet County Environmental Services (Ex-Officio)
Minnesota Extension Service, Nicollet County
Watershed Unity, MPCA
Eco-Water Resources, DNR
District Manager, Nicollet SWCD
Resident, Nicollet County
Area Business Representative and Agriculture Producer
Area Wildlife Supervisor, DNR
Fisheries, DNR
Coordinator, Rush River Watershed Clean Water Partnership
Director, Brown-Nicollet Community Health
Minnesota Health Department
List of Priority Concerns
The following concerns were identified through priority concern scoping, discussions with the Task Force,
and through recommendations from state agencies.
1. Storm Water Control – includes concerns regarding water quality of urban and rural runoff from
storms.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment – Priority Concerns Scoping Document
Page 36 of 44
2. Urban and Rural Resource Management – includes continued management of the County’s water
resources through existing feedlot, septic, wetlands, solid waste and water planning programs.
3. Watershed Restoration and Protection – this concern addresses the need to be involved with the TMDL
allocation and implementation processes as well as promoting best management practices and other
land use practices that reduce the amount of sediment and nutrients entering a water body.
4. Groundwater - this concern addresses wellhead protection in order to protect the quantity and quality
of the County’s primary water source
5. Drainage – this concern addresses the need for drainage system management and promotes water
quality programs
D. Priority Concern Identification
1.
The following outlines the process that was used to gather input for updating the Nicollet County
LWM Plan Amendment:
January 24, 2012: Nicollet County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution to update the
Nicollet County LWM Plan Amendment
March 9, 2012:
Notice to update the LWM Plan and Priority Concerns Input form was sent out to
neighboring Local Government Units, agencies, and other interested parties
March 15, 2012
Notice of Decision to revise and update Nicollet County LWM Plan sent to the
Chair of Le Sueur, Sibley, Brown, and Blue Earth Counties’ Board of
Commissioner.
April 13, 2012:
Deadline to receive Priority Concerns Input comments
May 16, 2012:
The Nicollet County Task Force met to review the current County LWM Plan and
discuss current and future issues, concerns, and needs.
July 31, 2012:
Subset of Task Force meets to review comments
April 19, 2013:
Priority Concerns Scoping comments summarized and emailed to subset of Task
Force members for review and edits
May 10, 2013:
Priority Concerns Scoping comments summarized and emailed to all Task Force
members for review and edits
June 17, 2013
Review of Goal Table and Implementation Schedule by all Task Force members
2.
Summary of Task Force Proceedings
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
Task Force Kick Off Meeting
May 16, 2012
Participants List
In attendance
Name
Marie Dranttel
Tom Fischer
Garry Bennett
Lee Sundmark
Scott McLean
Mike Fischer
Blake Honetshschlager
Kevin Ostermann
Ron Otto
Seth Greenwood
Christian Lilienthal
Joe Stangel
Affiliation
Nicollet County, Commissioner
Board of Soil & Water Resources
Minnesota Dept. Natural Resources
Minnesota Dept. Natural Resources
MPCA
City of North Mankato
Nicollet SWCD
Nicollet SWCD
Sibley SWCD
Nicollet County, Public Works
Nicollet County Extension
Minnesota Dept. Natural Resources
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment – Priority Concerns Scoping Document
Email
dranttel@hickorytech.net
Tom.D.Fischer@BWSR.state.mn.us
garry.bennett@state.mn.us
lee.sundmark@state.mn.us
scott.maclean@state.mn.us
michaelf@northmankato.com
blake.honetschlager@nicolletswcd.org
kevin.ostermann@nicolletswcd.org
ron.otto@sibleyswcd.org
sgreenwood@co.nicollet.mn.us
lili000@umn.edu
joseph.stangel@state.mn.us
Page 37 of 44
Amy Linnerooth
Invitees Not in Attendance
Name
Al Fox
Eric Peters
John Kral
Robby Gieseke
Marty Schott
Deanna Biehn
Karen Swenson
Karen Voz
Art Persons
Bob Freyberg
Kevin Mixon
Dr. Bruce Beatty
Mandy Landkamer
Nicollet County
Affiliation
Resident; City of Lafayette
Resident
Nicollet SWCD Board
Nicollet SWCD Board
Area Business Representative
Nicollet County, Feedlot
B-N Community Health, Director
Minnesota Dept. Health
Minnesota Dept. Health
City of North Mankato
Minnesota Dept. Natural Resources
Nicollet County, Commissioner
Nicollet County, Director
alinnerooth@co.nicollet.mn.us
Email
lafayette-utilities@hotmail.com
nlrepair@hickorytech.net
jdkral@newulmtel.net
robbygieseke@aol.com
mshooter@myclearwave.net
dbiehn@co.nicollet.mn.us
kswenson@co.nicollet.mn.us
karen.s.voz@state.mn.us
Art.Person@state.mn.us
bobfreyberg@northmankato.com
Kevin.Mixon@state.mn.us
bbeatty@co.nicollet.mn.us
mlandkamer@co.nicollet.mn.us
Introduction
Amy Linnerooth gave brief introductory remarks on the purpose of the meeting and what was to be accomplished by the Task
Force. Tom Fischer described the Plan Amendment process.
To summarize, Nicollet County’s Local Water Management Plan (Water Plan) was approved in 2008 and will guide water
planning efforts for the County through 2018. Currently, the Water Plan is half-way through its planning period. At this time,
Water Plans undergo an Amendment process. This process provides the opportunity to amend goals and objectives (as
needed), and to incorporate new data and address new issues within the Water Plan.
The Task Force ensures coordination and implementation of the Nicollet County Water Plan.
Current Local Water Management Plan Goals and Objectives
The task force reviewed the objectives listed under the current plan to see which had been met and for those objectives that
remain, what needs to be done to complete them as well. A summary of what was discussed has been included on the updated
hand-out.
Discussion of Priority Concerns
Prior to this meeting, letters were distributed to agencies soliciting Priority Concerns. Comments received from these agency
members were summarized and provided in a hand-out. There was a brief discussion about which concerns were new and
which had already been addressed by the Water Plan and could thus be eliminated. It was decided that a second meeting with
a smaller, core group of Task Members could go through these more closely.
Other comments
General

Flooding was not an issue included in the Water Plan and should be addressed in the Plan Amendment

Include a ‘working lands’ options for drainage, two-stage drainage

Mention rotational grazing as an option to confining cattle if no one is willing to sign up for CRP

Address the chemicals that we put in the environment without knowledge of how they interact with other chemicals and
on biota
DNR

The Plan Amendment should include a description of drainage and pattern tile affects on hydrology

There should also be a discussion on how downcutting streams promote sedimentation into streams – this coincides with
stormwater goals and can addressed with wetland restoration, ravine stabilization, etc.

Wetland restoration should be actively promoted – the benefits of holding water on the land helps fish and wildlife
habitat, groundwater recharge, reduction in flooding, etc.

Find programs that work with the attitudes and mores of the area – at some point we may have to pay people to produce
water
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment – Priority Concerns Scoping Document
Page 38 of 44
Next Meeting
A core group will need to go through the Priority Concerns more closely and eliminate those already addressed in the Water
Plan and identify which should be carried forward in the Plan Amendment. Anyone from the Task Force is encouraged to
volunteer for this core group. When a core group has been established, a meeting time and date will be forwarded to those
members in the core group.
The next Task Force meeting will occur after the core group has completed a review of the concerns. The purpose of this
meeting will be to discuss as a group how well the concerns will be addressed in the Plan Amendment.
There could potentially be subsequent meetings beyond this for the Task Force, depending on the comments received from the
public hearing. If input is needed from the Task Force, a meeting notice will be provided at that time.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
Review of Priority Concerns
July 31, 2013
Subset of Task Force - Participants List
Name
Affiliation
Tom Fischer
Board of Soil & Water Resources
Garry Bennett
Minnesota Dept. Natural Resources
Al Fox
City of Lafayette
Scott McLean
MPCA
Amy Linnerooth
Nicollet County
Email
Tom.D.Fischer@BWSR.state.mn.us
garry.bennett@state.mn.us
Lafayette-utilities@hotmail.com
scott.maclean@state.mn.us
alinnerooth@co.nicollet.mn.us
Amy Linnerooth gave brief introductory remarks on the purpose of the meeting and what was to be accomplished by the Task
Force. Basically, the Priority Concerns that were already addressed in the Water Plan could be eliminated and the group was to
identify which of the new concerns should be carried forward in the Plan Amendment. A discussion regarding those to carry
forward was conducted.
T. Fischer asked that a copy of MDH comments were made and provided to the group.
The inclusion of a Drought Management Plan within the LWM Plan was discussed. A Drought Management Plan would address
environmental concerns during times of drought. Issues such as water conservation and if the County has the authority to
oversee water use was discussed. It was determined that the County can oversee water on its own property but not for the
entire County. Instead, the more appropriate agency would be the DNR for this type of plan.
Reassessment of benefits for ditches was discussed. There was a consensus that this be included in the Plan, perhaps along
with stormwater under filter strips.
Comments were made regarding education and various events to host.
The comments would be revised according to the direction provided in today’s meeting and then shared again with this group.
It would then be determined if the group needed to meet again before a review of the draft Plan was prepared.
3.
Summary of Priority Concern Comments Received
No plans or controls were received from any state or local agency. Nicollet County Environmental
Services Department administers the zoning ordinances for the County and has found no conflicts
with other plans currently in place.
Summary of Priority Concerns received through April 2012
Source
Priority Concern
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment – Priority Concerns Scoping Document
Actions Needed
Page 39 of 44
Source
Brown County
Priority Concern
Soil Erosion
Groundwater
Drainage
Wetlands
Human Wastewater
BNEH
BWSR
Support Needs of
Public
Water
Suppliers
Pesticide/Nutrient
Impacts to Surface
Water
Erosion & Runoff
Control
Erosion & Sediment
Control / Nutrient
Management
Feedlot
Program
Management
&
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment – Priority Concerns Scoping Document
Actions Needed
Implement construction practices for impaired waters
Reduce soil erosion from agricultural lands
Reduce stream/ditch bank erosion
Reduce urban runoff and stormwater impacts to surface
waters
Protect sources from chemical contamination
Protect drinking water sources
Minimize impacts to groundwater from development
Better cooperation with drainage authorities
Determination and mapping of problem areas
Reduction of water inputs and provide for storage
Development of education and incentive programs to
increase conservation practices
Identify current wetlands & potential wetland restoration
sites
Educate citizens & officials on wetland functions &
importance
Encourage wetland restoration & management
Develop a Local Comprehensive Wetland Protection Plan
Maintain an onsite inspection program
Provide education & seek funding for septic program
Inventory of existing processes in wastewater treatment
facilities
Inventory of needs & funding opportunities for improved
technologies
Assist with well-head protection plan implementation
Enforcement of Best Management Practices
Replacement of natural vegetation for stabilization
Education & enforcement of soil erosion ordinance
Install and use Best Management Practices
An acceleration effort to re-enroll CRP contracts
Active promotion and marketing of conservation
programs
Installation of ag-BMPs, structural and land use changes
Identify measurable actions for selected BMPs
Continue to participate with watershed management
projects and groups
Technical assistance to land owners for planning and
implementing ag-BMPs
Educate land owners and users to follow UofM nutrient
management recommendations
Continue to be a Feedlot Program delegated county
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Source
Priority Concern
Non-Conforming
SSTS
Drainage
System
Maintenance,
Repair,
Management Plan
Wetland Protection
& Enhancement
City of Mankato
Lake Street Ravine
Courtland
Township
Washouts
on
Township Roads
MDH
MPCA
Wellhead Protection
Stormwater
Management
Impaired Waters /
TMDL
Increase
Coordination with
other Counties for
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment – Priority Concerns Scoping Document
Actions Needed
Continue to provide staff to administer the Feedlot
Program
Continue to implement SSTS Program
Continue to provide staff to administer the SSTS Program
Seek funding sources to provide cost-share assistance
Educate land owner on Feedlot and SSTS issues
Establish a GIS-based public drainage system inventory
Seek out information from other county drainage
authorities regarding management
Develop a drainage management plan
Use flood water reduction and water quality improvement
technologies when designing and implementing drainage
repair
Provide assistance to private drainage system operators
Promote and market State and Federal conservation
programs
Complete a drained wetland inventory & identify high
priority areas
Inventory remaining wetlands & prioritize restoration
Identify and target natural corridors to be enhanced
Determine protection level for target areas
Promote and market wetland preservation and
restoration programs
Continue education efforts
Stabilization of ravine through installation of energy
dissipaters
Initiate culvert replacements
Install erosion control on Township roads
Promote wellhead protection activities and support
wellhead protection planning efforts
Cooperation of the County to work with landowners to
address stormwater issues
Participate in the development of TMDL pollutant
allocations and implementation of TMDLs for impaired
waters
Include a list of impaired waters and types of impairments
Identify the pollutant causing the impairment
Submit data collected to MPCA and provide plans for
monitoring
Describe actions and timing the County intends to take to
reduce the pollutant causing the impairment
Work with counties to identify and develop stakeholder
groups throughout each watersheds in Nicollet County
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Source
Priority Concern
the
MPCA
Watershed Study
Work with MPCA staff to develop understanding of bioimpairment / stressor identification work and how they
related to critical area identifications
Utilize MDA’s terrain analysis tool to identify critical areas
Communicate with other county water planners
Communicate and coordinate across counties, agencies,
and organizations to define watershed goals
Develop a comprehensive Drainage Management Plan
Agricultural
Drainage
Management
MDA
Agricultural
Drainage
Wetlands & Water
Retention
Ground & Surface
Water Protection
Manure
Management
Agricultural
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment – Priority Concerns Scoping Document
Actions Needed
Land
Identify that the County Drainage Authority consults the
Drainage Management Plan with any petition to improve
a public drainage system
Discuss how conservation drainage can be utilized based
on the drainage needs of the County
Local drainage authorities be proactive in the use of
conservation drainage practices in association with
managing the existing drainage system
Redetermination of benefits for ditch systems continue to
be done in a proactive manner
Buffer initiatives continue to be implemented
Base local drainage regulations on science and current
BMPs, above and beyond Statute 103E
Consider approaches outlined in BWSR’s Multipurpose
Drainage synopsis
Inventory culvers and initiate water retention projects
Select appropriate sized culverts to reduce downstream
impacts
Utilize tiling to augment long-term water levels in
wetlands
Develop agricultural wetland mitigation banking initiatives
Utilize constructed wetlands for treating tile drainage
water
Seal abandoned wells and prioritize SSTS upgrades
Promote irrigation BMPs
Conduct training sessions & workshops for those with
agriculture production areas within DWSMAs or WHPs
Education on manure management planning and
implementation
Educate producers on value of GIS/GPS technologies
Encourage participation of producers in impaired
watersheds and vulnerable areas
Provide technical & financial assistance for BMPs
Encourage participation in on-farm environmental
assessment programs
Encourage use of Precision Agricultural Technologies
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Source
Priority Concern
Management
Targeting of BMPs,
Aligning Local Plans
and
Engaging
Agriculture
DNR
Declining
Water
Quality / Clarity
Stormwater
Drainage
Management
Natural
Habitat
Destruction
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment – Priority Concerns Scoping Document
Actions Needed
Promote cover crop utilization when appropriate
Promote residue management and other conservation
tillage techniques
Promote the use of survey and diagnostic tools to
understand effects of current farm practices
Encourage the use of targeted buffer strips, filter strips,
and other erosion control measures in priority areas.
Utilize targeting tools and technologies to site BMPs
Implement a multifaceted approach in working with
producers
Engage local partners on conservation implementation
Foster new relationships with agricultural sector or
enhance existing relations
Increase wetland acres & enhance wetlands and
hydrology supporting them
Enhance and conserve riparian corridors
Increase acres enrolled in conservation programs
Create a program that improves and strengthens wetland
oversight
Support MPCA’s watershed approach and TMDL program
Continue to have households install code compliant SSTS
and replace failed SSTS
Offer low interest loans when practical for SSTS
upgrades/replacement
Research the combination of urban, industrial, and
agricultural chemicals that are discharged to water
Properly seal abandoned wells and gravel pits
Improve compliance & oversight of manure / septic
management practices
Support collection of data on manure application to land
Promote stream bank stabilization
Increase wetland acres & enhance wetlands and
hydrology
Enhance and conserve riparian corridors
Increase acres enrolled in conservation programs
Create a program that improves and strengthens wetland
oversight
Obtain data that describes hydrological and economic
effects of surface and subsurface drainage
Increase wetland acres & enhance wetlands and
hydrology
Enhance and conserve riparian corridors
Increase acres enrolled in conservation programs
Create a program that improves and strengthens wetland
oversight
Page 43 of 44
Source
E.
Priority Concern
Actions Needed
Obtain data that supports / refutes the value of these
programs
Obtain data that looks at the sustainability of current land
use practices
Priority Concern Selection
The Priority Concerns listed in Section D, above, were selected by the Local Water Management Plan Task
Force members after reviewing the concerns submitted by State and local agencies. ESD and BWSR staff then
reviewed and refined focused Priority Concerns for Task Force consideration. After discussions of the subset
of the Task Force and staff, Priority Concerns presented in Section D were selected by consensus.
F.
Priority Concerns Not Address by the LWM Plan
The Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan Task Force carefully considered all concerns submitted, as
well as concerns of individual members representing a diverse constituency in the County. Concerns beyond
the specific focus of the Priority Concerns listed above are typically beyond the scope of local water
management, or are currently or potentially being addressed by other entities which work closely with Nicollet
County Environmental Services.
Nicollet County Local Water Management Plan
2013 Amendment – Priority Concerns Scoping Document
Page 44 of 44