2001-08-23_AgendaPacket - Laserfiche WebLink

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BWSR Meeting Minutes May 23, 2001 Page Six Farm Services Agency (FSA) Update -John Munson, Executive Director of FSA, was introduced. John stated that he worked as a congressional aid to Congressman Stenglund, was an employee of Dodge SWCD and now executive director of FSA. John stated that FSA is trying to build a strong partnership with BWSR. He believes in focal government, decentralizing control is a good thing, local partnership is good. He's looking forward to working outside of the "federal box". John thanked Ron Harnack for his efforts on CREP; FSA supports CREP funding. John commented on biomass, which is not totally supported, however alternative energy is needed; FSA will work to achieve other ways to continue with biomass. John suggested that continuous CRP might be the best program for producers, its flexible, it pays well, it focuses on addressing agricultural water quality issues, and it's non-competitive. It is also a great program to get living snowfences on the ground. Communication, education, leadership, and partnership is very important.. John asked board members to continue to work with MES. He stated that the foot. and mouth disease is a critical issue, FSA is working with MDA on informational brochures, and will continue to inform others; perception can become reality. John reported that he is the flood emergency chair at the federal level. John stated that FSA is very involved with GIS and satellite imagery and will continue to work with BWSR, MDA and locals on this program. He looks forward to working with BWSR, he urges board members to call if they have questions; he hopes to attend board meetings on a regular basis.. Chair Coe thanked John for coming in with his inspiring remarks. Chair Coe called for a break in the meeting at 11:00 a.m. The meeting reconvened at 11:15 a.m. ** 01-37 ** 01-38 Consent Agenda Douglas County Request for Comprehensive Local Water Plan Extension -Ron Harnack stated that BWSR staff recommend approval of the Douglas County request for extension. Moved by Clair Nelson, seconded by Jerome Deal, to approve the Douglas County Comprehensive Local Water Plan request for extension to December 31, 2003. Discussion followed. Karen Harder requested a map identifying how many plans have extensions. There was also interest in ensuring consistency with the past decisions and making the counties aware that the extension in no way removes their obligation to complete the update in a timely manner. Motion passed on a voice vote. Committee Recommendations Metro Water Planning Sub-Committee Lower. Mississippi River Watershed Management Organization Watershed Management Plan -Jack Frost reported that the metro subcommittee met and recommends approval. Moved by JoAnn Coover, seconded by Dwain Otte, to approve the Lower Mississippi River Watershed Management Organization Watershed Management Plan. Discussion followed. Motion passed on a voice vote.