2015-02-11 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Draft North & East Metro Groundwater Management Area Plan 5-1 5. Actions Prior sections of the North & East Metro GWMA Plan have described the area; introduced the sustainability goals, objectives and sustainability thresholds for the area; and presented DNR's current understanding of natural resources and appropriations with respect to the sustainability thresholds. Section 4 described some of the information and data gaps that need to be addressed to continue to manage groundwater sustainably.This section restates the sustainability goal for the GWMA, and introduces the specific actions by each objective that DNR plans to take to meet the sustainability goal. The 2014 GWMA Goal: In the North & East Metro Groundwater Management Area (GMWA), the use of groundwater is sustainable, and therefore, does not harm ecosystems, water quality, or the ability of present and future generations to meet their needs. Objective I. Groundwater use in the GWMA does not harm aquifers and ecosystems, and does not negatively impact surface waters. 1. DNR will improve monitoring of groundwater levels, basin water levels, stream flows, climate, groundwater associated biological communities and water use within the GWMA to inform DNR permit decisions. a. DNR will continue to build a comprehensive hydrological and climate monitoring system for the GWMA. DNR will coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies in these efforts. The following are some initial efforts that may be adjusted over time: i. Stream Flow Monitoring-By 2016-Review Washington Conservation District, Valley Branch Watershed District, Metropolitan Council, and Rice Creek Watershed district stream flow monitoring stations and data with those agencies and evaluate opportunities for collaboration or data collection and maintenance improvements. ii. Lake Level Monitoring—Add lake gauges as needed to the existing 139 gauges. iii. Groundwater Level Monitoring-By 2016, install 3 observation wells.These are in addition to the existing 60 DNR groundwater level observation wells. In addition, DNR will continue to work with permit holders on reporting groundwater level data and adding observation wells as needed. iv. Identify additional climate monitoring requirements and add weather stations as needed to provide precipitation,temperature, solar radiation, dew point, and wind speed for improved evapotranspiration estimates. i. In cooperation with the White Bear Lake Conservation District and others, DNR will participate in the establishment, maintenance and monitoring of a network of evaporation stations on White Bear Lake. 80