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NRC Packet 12.14.2022CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Wednesday, December 14, 2022- 6:00 P.M. Mendota Heights City Hall-Council Chambers AGENDA 1.Call to Order 2.Roll Call 3.Approval of the Agenda 4.Approval of the Minutes a.Approve meeting minutes from the November 10, 2022 Natural Resources Commission Meeting 5.New Business a.2023 Community Event Calendar b.2023 Potential Natural Resources Grant Opportunities c.2023 Natural Resources Budget Information 6.Staff Announcements 7.Commission Comments 8.Adjourn Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities are available at least 120 hours in advance. If a notice of less than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make every attempt to provide the aids. This may not, however, be possible on short notice. Please contact City Administration at 651-452-1850. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Thursday, November 10- 6:00 P.M. Mendota Heights City Hall-Council Chambers The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Natural Resources Commission was held on Thursday, November 10, 2022, at Mendota Heights City Hall; 1101 Victoria Curve. 1. Call to Order Chair Swank called the meeting to order at 6:00pm. 2. Roll Call Coordinator Spreiter called the roll. Commissioners present: Husbands, Quick, Swank, Stein, Tupper. Commissioners Absent: Fahnhorst, McCaslin. Student Representative Byrnes present. Staff present: Natural Resources Coordinator Krista Spreiter and Assistant City Administrator Kelly Torkelson. 3. Approval of the Agenda Motion to approve the agenda by Quick, second by Stein. Motion passed 5-0. 4. Approval of the Minutes a. Approve meeting minutes from the October 12, 2022 Natural Resources Commission Meeting Motion to approve the minutes as amended by Tupper, second by Quick. Commissioner Husbands amended her comment on requesting that the Assistant Engineer Candidate have a background in Environmental Engineering as part of the criteria for hiring. Motion passed 5-0. 5. Old Business a. Fall Community Project Planning Natural Resources Coordinator Spreiter noted a buckthorn removal event at Valley Park on November 12. This opportunity will allow for volunteer engagement. Commissioner Tupper asked how many volunteers the City expects. Coordinator Spreiter noted there will be eight volunteers plus commissioners and any others who attend. Chair Swank asked for opportunities to share this event on social media. Assistant City Administrator Torkelson suggested people share the event on Facebook. b. 2023 Work Plan Draft Natural Resources Coordinator Spreiter recapped the four main goals that capture the efforts from the commission’s work session. Commissioner Stein commented that the discussion on the ordinance review was intended to lay out a timeline to guide their work, as opposed to completing the whole goal in 2023. Commissioner Husbands suggested delineation of which ordinances to work with; the tree ordinance and the landscape and development ordinance. Commissioner Tupper noted it would be helpful to add more detail for tracking purposes. She liked the idea of adding a sub-goal to that item, and suggested doing so for all of the goals listed. Chair Swank would like to see a calendar for how it will play out over the year. Assistant City Administrator Torkelson added that the City Council may add additional items to the workplan, which should be looked at as a flexible, working document. Commissioner Husbands asked for clarification on the strategic priorities of the City Council and how they pertain to the Natural Resources Commission. Assistant City Administrator Torkelson stated that the City Council will be working on their 2023 strategic priorities early in 2023. Commissioner Stein commented that the Natural Resources Management Plan Consultant has already done work regarding one ordinance, so that might be a topic the Commission addresses earlier. Coordinator Spreiter clarified the work done by the Consultant and concurred those areas might be a good starting point. She will send out some possible work session dates for the Commission to look at. Commissioner Tupper suggested coordinating with City and County events as opportunities for education and outreach as they plan. 6. New Business a. NRMP Prioritized Projects Budget and Grant Funding 2023 Natural Resources Coordinator Spreiter discussed the five-year phasing of Mendota Heights priority projects: Valley Park Pollinator Corridor, Valley Park Northwest Forest Enhancement, Valley Park East Forest Enhancement, and Valley Park South Oak/Aspen Knoll Enhancement. She summarized the estimated costs to the City and the grant funding that will be used. Commissioner Tupper asked if the Valley Park South Oak project is a good candidate for future volunteer events. She also asked what is included with the “tree city” designation. Coordinator Spreiter confirmed it would be a good volunteer site. She also commented that the tree city designation fund would be $25,000. Commissioner Husbands asked how much of the budget is tree removal. Coordinator Spreiter noted that line item would be $110,000 because it’s in two departments; Parks and Streets. She clarified that the $99,000 is the increase in the ask for the 2023 budget. Commissioner Stein noted the wonderful grants we’ve received and wants to ensure the City monitors the progress and upkeep for continuous monitoring after the first initial project. Coordinator Spreiter noted that there is budget for long-term maintenance fees to maintain these projects long- term. Chair Swank asked if the City is waiting on grants and what’s the waiting period for the Oak/Aspen Knoll Enhancement project. She would also appreciate a document on where the grants come from and how the City pursues this type of funding. Coordinator Spreiter noted that Great River Greening, in our partnership, has taken on the grant application process. Commissioner Husbands asked if it was a possibility to have the funding come out of Natural Resources as a department, as opposed to spreading it out across departments. Coordinator Spreiter noted that Natural Resources is not its own department, which is why the budget is split as such. Assistant City Administrator Torkelson noted it’s rare to have Natural Resources as its own department in a city our size. b.Natural Resources Projects and Sites Tour Chair Swank suggested the commission take advantage of a sites tour in the spring. Commissioner Tupper added that she’d like to see it opened up to the public to join them. Commissioner Stein asked for staff’s input on their best time of year based on workload. Motion to add a site tour item to the work session agenda by Husbands, second by Stein. Motion passes 5-0. 7.Staff Announcements Natural Resources Coordinator Spreiter reminded of the buckthorn removal event this weekend. She also added that City Hall will be closed for Veteran’s Day. Assistant City Administrator Torkelson added that the City is currently hiring for seasonal positions this winter. 8.Commission Comments Commissioner Tupper asked staff if a grant through the Board of Water and Soil Resources for habitat resource would be appropriate for the 2023 work plan. Commissioner Quick congratulated the newly elected City officials. Commissioner Husbands noted that the City Council agendas and packets are very accessible and would be beneficial for this commission to keep tabs on. 9.Adjourn Motion to adjourn the meeting by Quick, second by Husbands. Motion passes 5-0. Chair Swank adjourned the meeting at 6:59pm. Minutes taken by Sheila Robertson City of Mendota Heights, Office Support Assistant Auxiliary aids for persons with disabilities are available at least 120 hours in advance. If a notice of less than 120 hours is received, the City of Mendota Heights will make every attempt to provide the aids. This may not, however, be possible on short notice. Please contact City Administration at 651-452-1850. DATE: December 14, 2022 TO: Natural Resources Commission FROM: Krista Spreiter, Natural Resources Coordinator SUBJECT: Available Natural Resources Grants and Timelines Background At the regular Natural Resources Commission meeting on November 10th, 2022, a request was made for a community event calendar to be compiled containing events open to the public that relate to Natural Resources and that may be of interest to the Commission. The Commission may attend or use these events to connect with residents, provide natural resources education, or simply attend. The attached calendar contains information on events throughout the 2023 calendar year. Most events contain a link that connect to the event’s webpage with more information. Many events have not yet been announced. Staff will continually update the community event calendar and report to the Commission on any updates as they occur. Requested Action None. Information Only. January 2023 Community Events January Events (TBD): •Nibi Water Walks, on-going, various locations nation-wide •St. Paul Winter Carnival, Jan. 25-Feb. 4 •Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 D 6-7:30p: Forever Wild Family Friday 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 D 4:30- 6:30p: Let's Go Owling D 10a: Knee High Naturalists D 10a: Knee High Naturalists D 1p: Bison Snowshoe 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 D 6p: Trails by Candlelight 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 M Blade with the Blue 29 30 31 February 2023 Community Events February Events (TBD): • St. Paul Winter Carnival, Jan. 25-Feb. 4 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednes day Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 M Tour de Rec @Southview Park D 6p: Forever Wild Family Friday 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 D 10a: Sensory Friendly Sunday D 1p: Bison Snowshoe D 10a: Knee High Naturalists M Frozen Fun Fest D Just Eat It - A Food Waste Story Movie M Frozen Fun Fest D 10a: Knee High Natural ists 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 M Frozen Fun Fest D 6:30p: Valentine Snowshoe D 6p: Trails by Candlel ight 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 March 2023 Community Events March Events (TBD): • Mendota Heights Online Tree Sale Begins Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 M 6p: Tour de Rec @Harmon Park D 6p: Forever Wild Family Fridays 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 D 10a: Knee High Naturalists D 10a: Knee High Naturalists 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 D 7p: Decluttering your Home (Recycling) D 10a: Family Hike: Bison Walk 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 April 2023 Community Events April Events (TBD): • Mendota Heights Online Tree Sale Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 M 6p: Tour de Rec @Marie Park 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 M Earth & Arbor Day Celebration 30 May 2023 Community Events May Events (TBD): • Farmer’s Markets - West St. Paul, Eagan, and surrounding communities; May - October Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 M 6p: Tour de Rec @Mendota Elementary 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 M Touch-a-Truck M Tree Sale & Rainbarrel/Compost Bin Pick-up 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 June 2023 Community Events June Events (TBD): • Mendota Heights Natural Resources Tour • We are Water MN; June 22-August 14, Minneapolis Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 July 2023 Community Events July Events (TBD): • We are Water MN; June 22-August 14, Minneapolis Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 M Pickleball Tournament 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 M Fishing Derby 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 M Adult Hiking Club 30 31 August 2023 Community Events August Events (TBD): • Dakota County Fair • We are Water MN; June 22-August 14, Minneapolis Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 M Parks Celebration M Parks Celebration 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 M Parks Celebration 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 September 2023 Community Events September Events (TBD): • Mendota Mdewakanton Traditional Wacipi (Pow Wow); St. Peter’s Church grounds, Mendota Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 October 2023 Community Events October Events (TBD): Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 M Trick-or-Teeing 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 November 2023 Community Calendar November Events (TBD): Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 December 2023 Community Calendar December Events (TBD): Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 DATE: December 14, 2022 TO: Natural Resources Commission FROM: Krista Spreiter, Natural Resources Coordinator SUBJECT: Available Natural Resources Grants and Timelines Background At the regular Natural Resources Commission meeting on November on November 10th, 2022, a request was made for information on potential grant funding sources for Mendota Heights Natural Resources Projects and programs in 2023. The attached spreadsheet contains information on grants, eligibility, criteria, award amounts, and timelines for applications. Many of the grant sources and programs have not provided announcements for the 2023 calendar year. It is anticipated that announcements will be made in early 2023. Staff will continually update the grant tracking database and report to the Commission on any updates as they occur. Requested Action None. Information Only. Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program Expedited Conservation Projects (ECP) Activity List # Forest habitat: 1 Winter (thermal) cover 2 Tree planting 3 Promotion of natural regeneration 4 Bud capping 5 Rx burning within BMP prescription, including aerial support # Prairie habitat: 1 Establish new prairie/grassland 2 Seed purchase of native species 3 Rx burning within BMP prescription 4 Mowing/herbicide for invasives control in recently established grassland/prairie 5 Tree removal/woody encroachment management 6 Interseeding of monoculture/low biodiversity sites # Wetland/water habitat: 1 Water level control structures 2 Fish Barriers 3 Upland vegetation enhancement 4 Tile breaks/ditch blocks # Fish Game and Wildlife habitat: 1 Brushland shearing 2 Dam removal/modification 3 In-stream habitat modification 4 Trout stream restoration/habitat improvement 5 Site prep for habitat enhancement 6 All ECP activities from forest, prairie, wetland habitats Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program Page 1 of 5 Expedited Conservation Projects Activity List ver. 1.2 082714 FOREST Habitat ECP Activity List Definitions and Details # Activity Definitions Requirements Included treatments/costs Excluded costs 1 Winter (thermal) cover Planting woody vegetation (native trees, bushes, shrubs) for the purpose of providing overwinter cover for native animal species Planting tree/woody vegetation, herbicide, mowing, tree mats/stake, seedlings/bare root stock Non-native species, equipment purchase (including mowers, chainsaws, heavy equipment) 2 Tree planting/seeding purchase Planting and purchase of native tree species for reasons other than replanting of clear cut timber harvest trees, seedlings, contractor costs, equipment rental, herbicide, tree mats/stakes Equipment purchase (including hand tools, saws, attachments for heavy equipment), PPE 3 Promotion of natural regeneration Activities that promote natural regeneration within native stand types with defined fish and/or wildlife habitat benefit Mowing, shearing, herbicide, hand/mechanical release, thinning, contractor costs, equipment rental Equipment purchase (including mowers, chainsaws, heavy equipment) 4 Bud capping Protecting young conifer buds overwinter from deer browse with defined fish and/or wildlife habitat benefit Papers, clips, contractor costs, equipment rental Equipment purchase 5 Rx burning within BMP prescription, including aerial support Burning of understory to remove heavy fuels, improve stand health and promote regeneration of young successional forest species with defined fish and/or wildlife habitat benefit Burn break installation, contractor costs, burn fuel (minimal cost), pre-burn site prep, equipment rental, non- state aerial contractor for current planned burn Agency staff time, equipment purchase, PPE, burn equipment (sprayers, drip torches, slip-on units), herbicide, chainsaws, vehicles Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program Page 2 of 5 Expedited Conservation Projects Activity List ver. 1.2 082714 PRAIRIE Habitat ECP Activity List Definitions and Details # Activity Definitions Requirements Included treatments/costs Excluded costs 1 Establish new prairie/grassland by planting seeding of native species within BMP prescription Restoring native grassland species (including forbs) in a suitable area currently void of or covered in non-native vegetation DNR lands require approved and adopted Restoration Plan; must be submitted with application Mowing, herbicide, seed purchase, equipment rental, contractor costs for seeding Burn costs, equipment (seeder, packer, tractor, ATV, sprayer, etc.) 2 Seed purchase of native species Purchase of native, local ecotype grassland seed and forbs from a local contractor to be planted by land manager before end of grant period Purchase of seed to provide current agencies/staff opportunity to complete a restoration or enhancement Non-native vegetation, woody vegetation, trees 3 Rx burning within BMP prescription Burning to restore native grassland/prairie species as prescribed by current BMP Mowing burn breaks, contractor costs, burn fuel (minimal cost) PPE, burn equipment (sprayers, drip torches, slip-on units), herbicide, chainsaws, vehicles 4 Mowing/herbicide for invasives control in recently established grassland/prairie Invasive control within newly planted or newly established grassland/prairie sites (within 3 years), including both cutting and spraying to eliminate invasive species Herbicide, equipment rental, contractor costs for spraying/mowing Equipment purchase (including mower attachments, replacement parts for existing equipment, mowing units, sprayers, sprayer parts, etc.), PPE 5 Tree removal/woody encroachment management Removal of individual trees or woody encroachment within grassland/prairie sites Herbicide, equipment rental, contractor costs for removal Chainsaws, pruner, brush saw, sprayer, PPE, seed/seedlings 6 Interseeding of monoculture/low biodiversity sites Increasing the biodiversity of an existing grassland site by adding additional grassland species and forbs Contractor costs for seeding, seed purchase, equipment rental Equipment purchase (seeder, packer, ATV, tractor, etc.), management activities (mowing, herbicide, etc.) Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program Page 3 of 5 Expedited Conservation Projects Activity List ver. 1.2 082714 WETLAND/WATER Habitat ECP Activity List Definitions and Details # Activity Definitions Requirements Included treatments/costs Excluded costs 1 Water control structures Installation of a structure to control the level of water, necessary due to altered hydrology of a shallow lake or wetland system Engineering, survey and design and construction estimates must be complete and submitted with application Fixed crest, variable crest structures, contractor costs, equipment rental, materials, site clean-up, associated upland or lowland restoration Access or conservation easement acquisition, engineering and design, survey work 2 Fish Barriers Barriers places on larger or shallow lake systems to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species Engineering, survey and design and construction estimates must be complete and submitted with application Contractor costs, equipment rental, materials, site clean- up, associated upland or lowland restoration Fish removal (commercial or chemical), access or conservation easement acquisition, engineering and design, survey work 3 Upland vegetation enhancement Enhancement or restoration of uplands associated with existing wetlands or water systems that have been degraded Invasives control, Rx burning, herbicide, tree removal, seeding, equipment rental, contractor costs PPE, burn equipment (sprayers, drip torches, slip-on units), chainsaws, vehicles, pruner, brush saw, Rip-rap, access or conservation easement acquisition, engineering and design, survey work 4 Tile breaks/ditch blocks Decommissioning installed water drainage systems by tile break or removal equipment rental, contractor costs, re-meandering of ditch channels Tile system improvements, access or conservation easement acquisition, engineering and design, survey work Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program Page 4 of 5 Expedited Conservation Projects Activity List ver. 1.2 082714 FISH GAME and WILDLIFE Habitat ECP Activity List Definitions and Details # Activity Definitions Requirements Included treatments/costs Excluded costs 1 Brushland shearing/mowing/ chopping Use of heavy equipment during ground stable conditions to remove over mature trees and brush at ground level to allow for regeneration Shearing, mowing, chopping, hydro-ax, follow-up site burning, contractor costs Equipment purchase 2 Dam removal/modification The removal of an existing dam within a public waterway, or installation of a dam modification or nature-like fishway to allow for fish and other aquatic species to pass the current barrier Engineering, survey and design and construction estimates must be complete and submitted with application Dam removal and weir placement, nature-like fishway, rock arch rapids, rapids construction, contractor costs, equipment rental, materials, site cleanup, river/stream channel modification or re-meandering Equipment purchase, barrier/structure replacement or maintenance, fish ladders, fish elevators, engineering and design, survey work, access or conservation easement acquisition 3 In-stream habitat modification Restoring or enhancing degraded or missing in-stream habitat or access to habitat to provide spawning, resting, feeding areas for aquatic species Engineering, survey and design and construction estimates must be complete and submitted with application Structure placement, spawning area restoration, natural bank stabilization, log jam removal, equipment rental, contractor costs Rip-rap, access or conservation easement acquisition, engineering and design, survey work, 4 Trout stream restoration/habitat improvement Restoring or enhancing degraded or missing in-stream habitat or enhancements to upland/lowlands to provide spawning, resting, feeding areas and for trout species Engineering, survey and design and construction estimates must be complete and submitted with application Beaver dam removal, equipment rental, contractor costs, structure placement, spawning area restoration, upland restoration Rip-rap, access or conservation easement acquisition, engineering and design, survey work, 5 Site prep for habitat enhancement Use of heavy equipment to remove current site vegetation, including grasses, brush and/or trees, to allow for future enhancement work on the landscape Shearing, mowing, chopping, hydro-ax, burning, contractor costs, equipment rental, invasives control, herbicide Equipment purchase (including mowers, chainsaws, heavy equipment and attachments for heavy equipment), non-native species All ECP activities from forest, prairie, wetland habitats Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program Page 5 of 5 Expedited Conservation Projects Activity List ver. 1.2 082714 Grant Program Category Sponsor/AgencyFederal/Non‐FederalInformation/PurposeEligibilityAward/Match Application Submittal Deadline(s)Link to Website Other Contact InfoAlternative Landscape Equipment GrantClimate/SustainabilityMPCA Non‐FederalFunding to replace 2‐cycle gasoline‐powered landscaping and snow removal equipment with electric‐powered equipment.Businesses under 500 enployees, LGUs, Triable Nations, Educational Institutions, Non‐governmental organizations$24,000; 50% required matchConcluded. Offered again in the future?https://www.pca.state.mn.us/news‐and‐stories/1‐million‐invested‐in‐electric‐landscaping‐equipment‐reduces‐air‐pollutionAquatic Invasive Species Control GrantsAIS/Water QualityMN DNR Non‐FederalSupport the control of Eurasian watermilfoil, curly‐leaf pondweed, flowering rush and starry stonewort. Funding is for reimbursement of expenses incurred while conducting local AIS control projects under Invasive Aquatic Plant Management (IAPM) Permits. AIS control projects consist of a pre‐treatment delineation survey conducted by a third party and a treatment. $1,500 waterbodies 10ac or less; $15,00 for first 10 acres & $150/ac. for each above 10 acres.12/12/2022; 2023 TBDhttps://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/aquatic_invasive/index.htmlAquatic Invasive Species Control Grant Program ‐ Dakota CountyAIS/Water QualityDakota County Non‐FederalDakota County has developed a grant program to fund local AIS prevention and management projects on waters within Dakota County. Examples of projects eligible for funding include (but are not limited to): education and outreach programs, early detection and population assessment, watercraft inspection and decontamination programs, and management of new or established AIS populations.LGUsMatching funds preffered but not required.March 22,2021; 2023 TBDhttps://www.co.dakota.mn.us/Environment/WaterResources/AIS/Documents/AISGrantApplicationInstructions.pdfemily.gable@co.dakota.mn.us Clean Water Fund Competitive Grants Program: Projects and Practices, P&P Drinking Water, Multipurpose Drainage Management, & Soil HealthWater Quality MN BWSR Non‐FederalThe purpose of this policy is to provide expectations for implementation activities conducted via the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) Clean Water Fund (CWF) implementation program. ‐ Allocated portion of the Clean Water Legacy amendment dedicated to protecting, enhancing and restoring water quality in lakes, rivers and streams, and protecting groundwater.‐ Also can be used to fund easements that provide permanent protection of private land for improved surface and ground water quality. Local Government Units working under a current, state‐approved, locally‐adopted water management planAverage award (FY23): $397,000; 25% Match Required8/22/2022; 2023 TBDgwen.steel@state.mn.usClean Water Fund Competitive Grants Program: Soil Erosion and Drainage Law Compliance Program (SEDLCP)Water Quality MN BWSR Non‐FederalRestore and protect surface water quality , particularly Impaired Waters, and to supplement local efforts to sustain clean water in Minnesota, by applying existing soil erosion reduction and drainage ditch statutes and associated rules.Local Government Units working under a current, state‐approved, locally‐adopted water management plan25‐50%8/22/2022; 2023 TBDClean Water Fund Competitive Grant ‐ BWSR Buffer Implementation SupplementalWater Quality MN BWSR Non‐FederalProvide funding and assistance for buffer law implementation. Eligible activities include assistance to support drainage system mapping and map review, landowner outreach, landowner technical and financial assistance, equipment purchases, and other buffer law implementation activities.Local Government Units working under a current, state‐approved, locally‐adopted water management plan8/22/2022; 2023 TBDhttps://bwsr.state.mn.us/node/8916 Clean Water Fund ‐ Targeted WatershedWater Quality MN BWSR Non‐FederalTargeted Watershed grants are funded through a competitive application process. Grants are awarded to local government units organized for the management of water in a watershed or subwatershed that have multiyear plans that will result in a significant reduction in water pollution in a selected subwatershed.LGUs; A workplan must be approved before work can begin.25% matchClean Water Fund ‐Watershed Based Implementation FundingWater Quality MN BWSR Non‐Federal Watershed‐based funding is used to implement activities identified in comprehensive watershed management plans developed under the One Watershed, One Plan program, the Metropolitan Surface Water Management Act, or the Metropolitan Groundwater Management Act. These plans focus on results and an evidence‐based decision‐making process. Plans contain implementation timelines, milestones, and cost estimates that address the largest pollution threats and provide the greatest environmental benefits to each watershed.To be eligible, counties, watershed districts, watershed management organizations, soil and water conservation districts, and municipalities1 must have a current state approved and locally adopted watershed management plan as required under §103B.231, county groundwater plan authorized under §103B.255, or soil and water conservation district comprehensive plan under Minnesota statutes §103C.331, Subd. 11. Participants, including one representative from each watershed district, watershed management organization, soil 25% match 2023 TBD https://bwsr.state.mn.us/watershed‐based‐implementation‐funding‐programClean Water Fund ‐ Water Quality and Storage Pilot ProgramWater Quality MN BWSR Non‐FederalCWF grant program intended to control water volume and rates to protect infrastructure, improve water quality and related public benefits, and mitigate climate change impacts.LGUs; A workplan must be approved before work can begin.25% match On‐going through 2022; 2023 TBDhttps://bwsr.state.mn.us/node/8931Clean Water Partnership LoansWater Quality/GroundwaterMPCA FederalThe Clean Water Partnership (CWP) program offers low‐interest loans to local units of government and other organizations for implementing nonpoint‐source best management practices and other activities that target the restoration and protection of water resources such as lakes, streams, or groundwater aquifers. First tier loans are provided for local governments to build projects. Second tier loans allow local entities to make loans to landowners and other stakeholders.The maximum loan award for a project: $750,000, with the potential to increase by $500,000 @rate of 1.5%.On‐going https://www.pca.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/wq‐cwp7‐35b‐fy23.pdfClimate Adaption Planning GrantClimate/SustainabilityMPCA Non‐FederalThe MPCA offers grants for climate adaptation planning projects. Communities can use the funds to assess climate change vulnerabilities and plan for resilience in stormwater/flooding, wastewater, and community services,ordinances, and public spaces.LGUs Open; Total Funding Available = $395,0001/12/2023 16:00 https://www.pca.state.mn.us/business‐with‐us/climate‐adaptation‐resourcesCommunity Conservation PartnershipStormwater Management/Habitat ProtectionDakota County SWCDNon‐FederalThe Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District staff use the Community Conservation Partnership (CCP) program to connect local government with the technical, and financial support needed to install innovative stormwater management and conservation practices.Installation of Best Management Practices at public facilities within the County.$50,000; 15% MIN Cost ShareOn‐going https://dakotaswcd.org/services/incentives/ Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program/Outdoor Heritage Fund ‐ Expedited Conservation Projectshttps://metrocouncil.org/Wastewater‐Water/Planning/Water‐Supply‐Planning/Projects/GRANTS‐FINANCIAL‐ASSISTANCE/Water‐Efficiency‐Grant‐Program.aspxMN DNR Non‐FederalProvide funding for projects that restore, enhance, or protect forests, wetlands, prairies, and habitat for fish, game, and wildlife in Minnesota.Projects must be on the ECP Activity List (http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/assistance/grants/habitat/cpl/ecp‐project‐list.pdf). 4‐6 week review process.• Restoration and enhancement projects only (no acquisitions)• Projects must be on public lands or watersNonprofit organizations and government entities are eligible for CPL funding. Private individuals and for‐profit organizations may not apply. Partnerships are encouraged.$50,000; 10% Match Round 1: September 12, 2022; Round 2: November 14, 2022; Round 3: January 17, 2023; Round 4: March 13, 2023; Round 5: May 8, 2023https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/habitat/cpl/index.htmlConservation Partners Legacy Grant Program/Outdoor Heritage Fund ‐ TraditionalNatural Resources/Habitat ProtectionMN DNR Non‐FederalProvide funding for projects that restore, enhance, or protect forests, wetlands, prairies, and habitat for fish, game, and wildlife in Minnesota. Public lands or waters. Private lands permanentlyprotected by a conservationeasement. 2‐3 month review process.Nonprofit organizations and government entities are eligible for CPL funding. Private individuals and for‐profit organizations may not apply. Partnerships are encouraged.$5,000‐$500,000; 10% MatchRound 1: 9/19/2022; Round 2 TBDhttps://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/habitat/cpl/index.htmlConservation Partners Legacy Grant Program/Outdoor Heritage Fund ‐ MetroNatural Resources/Habitat ProtectionMN DNR Non‐FederalProvide funding for projects that restore, enhance, or protect forests, wetlands, prairies, and habitat for fish, game, and wildlife in Minnesota. Projects must be located on eligible lands/waters within the 7‐coutny metro area, or within the city limits of Duluth, St. Cloud, or Rochester. 2‐3 month review period.$5,000‐$500,000; 10% MatchRound 1: 9/19/2022; Round 2 TBDhttps://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/habitat/cpl/index.htmlEnvironmental Assistance LoansSustainability MPCA Non‐FederalMPCA partners with private financial institutions to offer loans resulting in substantially reduced interest rates for projects that will improve the environmental and economic quality of Minnesota.Priority eligible projects: green chemistry, pollution prevention, source reduction, recycling, and source‐separated compostable materials.Participatory loans = $250,000 @0%, $1/$1 match; Direct = $50,000 @4%, $1/$2 match.Ongoing https://www.pca.state.mn.us/grants‐and‐loans/environmental‐assistance‐loansEV Charging Station Grants ‐ Level 2Climate/SustainabilityMPCA Non‐FederalThe MPCA has $664,000 available to install Level 2 EV charging stations in public places, workplaces, and multiunitdwellings. Level 2 charging stations provide 6.6kW to 19.2 kW of power for drivers to charge their electric vehicles. The purpose of the program is to increase the use of electric vehicles in place of gas‐powered cars to reduce tailpipe emissions including greenhouse gas emissions in the state.Businesses, Nonprofit organizations, Mulit‐unit dwellings of 8 or more units, Public entities including municipalities, and educational institutions.$150,000; ($7,500 for single‐port station and $15,000 per dual‐port station installation); 20% cash matchFebruary 28, 2023; 4:30phttps://www.pca.state.mn.us/grants‐and‐loans/level‐2‐electric‐vehicle‐ev‐charging‐station‐grantsFreshwater Future Grant ProgramsWater Quality Freshwater FutureNon‐FederalProvides financial support for activities led by community groups working through grassroots advocacy efforts. Awards range from $500 to $5,000 for grassroots project expenses and activities that promote water protection of drinking water, shorelines, inland lakes, rivers, and wetlands in the Great Lakes Basin.Community Groups$500 ‐ $5,000 September 30, 2022; 2023 TBDhttps://freshwaterfuture.org/project‐grants/ Great Lakes Protection FundWater Quality/Habitat ProtectionGreat Lakes Protection FundNon‐FederalThe Fund’s mission is to identify, demonstrate and promote regional action to enhance the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.Teams do not need to be located within the Great Lakes region, but all funded projects must have a positive environmental impact on the Great Lakes basin ecosystem. Government agencies must show that Fund support is not being used to replace or duplicate public Open Ongoing. 6‐8 month process.https://glpf.org/get‐funding/submitting‐an‐idea/Incentive Payment Practices Program (IPP)Stormwater Management/Habitat ProtectionDakota County SWCDNon‐FederalAll projects must demonstrate a water quality improvement and comply with local, state, and federal regulations. SWCD staff will work with applicants on project planning and design, and to submit a final project application. Applications are prioritized for funding based on their potential to provide water quality benefits. The number of applications approved may be limited by the amount of funding and staff time available.Installation of stormwater Best Management Practices.$50,000; 15% MIN Cost ShareOn‐going https://dakotaswcd.org/services/incentives/Laura Jane Musser Fund ‐ Environmental InitiativeHabitat ProtectionLaura Jane Musser FundNon‐FederalA COMMUNITY‐BASED approach with broad and active local stakeholder participation in both planning and implementation stages of projects concerning the environmental preservation and sustainable use of public open spaces. It has been our experience that projects designed through this process have a greater chance of acceptance and lasting success.Planning grant applications must demonstrate commitment to a broad‐based, active community process for the design and use of local publicly‐owned open spaces; Implementation grant applications must demonstrate clear evidence of local community active participation and support.Planning ‐ $8,000; Implementation $35,000Deadline: March 15, 2023https://musserfund.org/environmental‐initiative‐program/Lawns to Legumes Demonstration NeighborhoodsHabitat ProtectionMN BWSR Non‐FederalEstablishes community projects on residential properties, and is intended to enhance pollinator habitat in key corridors, raise awareness for residential pollinator protection, and showcase best practices.Community Groups, LGUs25% match; 10% match in High Potential Zone for RPBB2023: TBD https://bwsr.state.mn.us/grant‐profile‐lawns‐legumes‐demonstration‐neighborhoodMidwest Glacial Lakes Partnership ‐ Lake Conservation GrantWater Quality/Habitat ProtectionMidwest Glacial Lakes Partnership/National Fish Habitat PartnershipNon‐Federal: Includes 40,000 lakes in 8 states of the upper midwest.Promote protection and improvement of glacial lake fish bahitats, including addressing chemical, physical, and biological components of the habitats that feshes found in glacial lakes us throughout their lives. Projects should address the processes that cause fish habitat impairments as opposed to managing or treating the symptoms.Open Average award: $30,000 ‐ $100,000TBD http://midwestglaciallakes.org/North American Wetland Conservation Act Grants ‐ US SmallWater Quality/Habitat ProtectionUS Fish & Wildlife ServiceFederalSupport projects that further the goals of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act. Projects must involve long‐term protection, restoration, and/or enhancement of wetlands and associated uplands habitats for the benefit of all wetlands‐asociated migratory birds.Public‐Private Partnerships $100,000; 1‐1 minium match requirementOn‐going; Up to 12‐month review period ‐ all grants must be received by February of each calendar year.https://www.fws.gov/service/north‐american‐wetlands‐conservation‐act‐nawca‐grants‐us‐small North American Wetland Conservation Act Grants ‐ US StandardWater Quality/Habitat ProtectionUS Fish & Wildlife ServiceFederalSupport projects that further the goals of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act. Projects must involve long‐term protection, restoration, and/or enhancement of wetlands and associated uplands habitats for the benefit of all wetlands‐asociated migratory birds.Public‐Private Partnerships Between $100,001 and $1,000,000; 1‐1 minium match requirementOn‐going; Up to 7‐month review period ‐ all grants must be received by June or December of each calendar year.https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/north‐american‐wetlands‐conservation‐act‐us‐eligibility‐criteria_0.pdfNoxious Weed and Invasive Plant GrantNatural Resources/Habitat ProtectionMN Department of AgricultureNon‐FederalGrant programs to address noxious weeds and invasive plants, with priority given to species on the noxious weed list. Counties, municipalities, and weed management entities $500 ‐ $5,000 2023: TBD https://www.mda.state.mn.us/plants‐insects/noxious‐weed‐invasive‐plant‐grantPoint Source Implementation Grant ProgramWater Quality Minnesota Pollution Control AgencyFederalProvide assistance with the cost of water infrastructure projects to meet wasteload reductions under a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) plan, reduce total phosphorus to one milligram/liter or less, meet a total Nitrogen limit that requries discharging ten millligram/liter or less, meet any other water quality based effluent limit under MN Statute 115.03, 1, (e)(8).Projects must be listed on the Project Priority List (PPL)20% Match; Up to $7 millionDeadline for PPL Application: First Friday in March; Deadline for project application: July 31; Project Plan, Plans & Specifications Deadline: April 30https://mn.gov/deed/pfa/funds‐programs/point‐source‐grants.jspProtect Community Forests by Manageing Ash for EAB Grants ProgramUrban ForestryMN DNR Non‐FederalManage ash for emerald ash borer (EAB) on public land, and improve community forests by involving community members and planting diverse trees. LGUs $150,000; No match 2023: TBD https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/grants/forestmgmt/protect‐community‐forests.htmlRegional Sustainable Development PartnershipsSustainability University of MNNon‐FederalThe Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP) bring together community and University knowledge and resources to encourage sustainability in four focus areas: agriculture and food systems, clean energy, natural resources and resilient communities. Local projects are supported through five regional boards made up of community members and University faculty and staff. Open Open Funding Decisions: March ‐ Mayhttps://extension.umn.edu/regional‐partnerships/how‐we‐do‐our‐workWater Efficiency Grant ProgramGroundwater Metropolitan Council/Land and Legacy AmendmentNon‐FederalPromote reduction of groundwater use through efficiency efforts in local communitites throughout the Metropolitan area. 25% Match; $1,287,100 plus additional $750,000 appropriated for 2019‐22TBD https://metrocouncil.org/Wastewater‐Water/Planning/Water‐Supply‐Planning/Projects/GRANTS‐FINANCIAL‐ASSISTANCE/Water‐Efficiency‐Grant‐Program.aspx Wellhead Protection Partner Grants Program (Pilot)Water Quality/GroundwaterBWSR Non‐FederalAssist LGUs in addressing sensitive wellhead areas through land protection such as fee title acquisiton or long‐term easements.Local Government Units. Only High‐Very High vulnerable Wellhead Protection Areas as mapped in an approved MDH Wellhead Protection Plan are elibigle.10% Match Required Last day of each month as funding is available.https://bwsr.state.mn.us/applySharon.Doucette@state.mn.us Natural Resources Budget Natural Resources Category 2022 2023 (*APPROVED‐ PRELIMINARY) Comments Eradication of Invasive Plants 40,000 50,000 Mainly dedicated to buckthorn, amur maple, and garlic mustard removal in Valley Park, Copperfield Ponds Park, and Rogers Lake Park Oȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob Preservation Site 11,000 15,000 City's contribution towards grants obtained and work conducted by Great River Greening. Future funding by and larger partnership with Dakota County. Supplies and maintenance 7,500 7,500 This amount is not a separate line item. A portion of the Parks Department maintenance budget is used for maintenance of natural resources projects. Native Plantings 10,000 40,000 New line item as of 2022. This is mainly dedicated towards native restoration and restoration projects throughout the City. Tree Removal/Replacement (Parks, Streets, Par 3) 91,500 111,500 Mainly dedicated to the removal of ash trees as a result of EAB, and replacement plantings. Tree City Designation Fund 0 25,000 New line item for 2023. Tree Sale 0 10,000 New line item for 2023. Previously taken from other budget categories. TOTALS:160,000 259,000 * Increase of $99,000 GRANT FUNDS SECURED FOR 2023: TOTAL AFTER GRANT REIMBURSEMENTS: DATE: TO: FROM: SUBJECT: December 14, 2022 Natural Resources Commission Krista Spreiter, Natural Resources Coordinator Natural Resources 2023 Budget Background At the regular Natural Resources Commission meeting on November on November 10th, 2022, a request was made for further information on the preliminary budget for Natural Resources in 2023. The following is a summary of what is proposed by line item as it relates to Natural Resources. The City Council passed the final 2023 budget on December 6, 2022. Eradication of Invasive Plants: 2022 - $40K 2023 - $50K Increase of $10,000 Oȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob Preservation Site Restoration: 2022 - $11,000 2023 - $15,000 Increase of $4,000 *Also eligible for City/County Collaboration Funding. Maintenance Supplies/Costs Natural Resources Tasks: This is not broken out specifically but is a potential funding source for some park improvements related to Natural Resources. This is mainly for playgrounds, mulch, athletic field maintenance, fencing repairs, etc. 2022 $7,500 indicated ($60K for Parks total) 2023 $7,500 ($60K for Parks total) No increase Native Plantings: 2022 - $10,000 2023 - $40,000 Increase of $30,000 Tree Removal: 2022 Parks - $40,000 2023 Parks - $50,000 Increase of $10,000 2022 - Par Three - $1,500 2023 - Par Three - $1,500 No Increase 2022 Streets - $50,000 2023 Streets - $60,000 Increase of $10,000 Other Natural Resources Budget Items- Tree City Designation Fund: 2022 - $0 2023 - $25,000 Increase of $25,000 Tree Sale: Budget 2022 - $0 Budget 2023 - $10,000 Increase of $10,000 The City allocated $118,500 for line items related to Natural Resources in 2022. The 2023 preliminary budget is proposing $217,500 for Natural Resources tasks, supplies, and programs. This is an increase of $99,000. Requested Action None. Information Only.