1995-07-20_AgendaPacket - Laserfiche WebLink

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~ Water BilllBoarc! geology, hydrogeology and groundwater sensitivity done for a larger area. In practice, the Minnesota Geological Survey does geo- logic mapping, and the DNR uses the geo- logic data as a basis for mapping and evalu- ating groundwater resources and groundwa- ter sensitivity to pollution. r ... The value of the resulting maps and data- bases for addressing county concerns is illustrated by the fact that counties contribute up to $90,000 toward their cost. The basic information provided by atlases and assess- ments is necessary for maintaining ground- waterquality, siting facilities that may gener- ate pollutants, planning for wise use and development of land and water resources, and supporting economic development. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Minnesota Department of Agriculture are required by the 1989 Groundwater Protection Act to take groundwater sensitivity into ac- count in developing best management prac- tices. The Minnesota Department of Health needs sound geologic and hydrogeologic information to delineate wellhead protection zones. The two maps illustrate the expected ten- yeareffort of the DNR and MGS if funding were provided at a level of $900,000 per year above the present base. The DNR and MGS would appreciate your support for this joint effort. Further information about the County Geologic Atlas/Regional Hydrogeologic Assessment Program is available from: Sarah Tufford, DNR Division of Waters, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155-4032, phone: (612) 297-2431; or David Southwick, Minnesota Geological Survey, University of Minnesota, 2642 University Avenue West, St. Paul, MN 55114-1057, phone: (612) 627- 4780. The Department of Natural Resources is proposing language for an omnibus water bill for the 1995 Minnesota legislative session. The bill proposes changes to several water management statutes to 1) provide the DNR with additional flexibility in working with local govemment units, and 2) provide additional incentives for dam owners to remove dams that are obsolete or unsafe. T.rte legislation will allow the DNR to issue general permits for classes of activities identified in consultation with affected local units of govemment, and will allow the DNR to delegate permit authority to local govem- ment units desiring this authority. The bill will also authorize the DNR to fund up to the full cost of removing dams that present signifi- cant public safety hazards, are causing property damage due to partial failure, or are significantly degrading river ecosystems. 9