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control, most managers use atwo-step process: a spring burn, followed by application of the herbicide Roundup. Reed canary grass is not an exotic species but it is considered invasive because it tolerates all: climate extremes, outcompeting other native vegetation. The rhizomes and roots must be killed in order to halt recolonization, so the research has centered on determining the most effective time of year to apply herbicide.. A total of 80 experimental plots are being used in the study. Spring burning is not effective for long term control results. Increased carbohydrate reserve in the rhizome occurs between July 20 and August 29, which appears to be the most effective time to apply herbicide. It should also be noted that herbicide does not affect dense seed banks. Representatives of the cooperating agencies serve on a technical advisory panel (Bill Bartodziej is the District's representative). Carrie spoke of how this partnership has enhanced her research efforts, and it is essential to ensure that the final research product will be applicable to management efforts. The study will continue for a fourth year, and she is seeking~other funding opportunities through various fellowships and grant programs. 6. PROJECT STATUS REPORTS Beltline Outlet Structure Improvements The preconstruction meeting was held today with Lametti & Sons. They plan to start by the end of August. Tanners Lake Alum System WQ Monitoring Phosphorus removal performance has improved compared to the average removal rates of previous years. Bob Johnson asked for the District's cost associated with the increased percentage of removal Cliff Aichinger stated that once the system has been allowed to stabilize, he will look at all related operational costs (including staff time and utility costs) to come up with an answer. Natural Resources Update Productive Day Golf Courser Jack Frost expressed concern with District staff being involved during the design phase, prior to its submission. as a grading permit application. Cliff explained that the initial golf. course design would not have met District wetland standards. With staff involvement, the plan that comes to the Board for permit approval will be very close to meeting all District setback requirements. He believes that the Board will be pleased with the outcome. 7. ADMINISTRATORS REPORT Grading Permit Enforcement Actions Since April, the District has issued 63 violation notices, and in turn, there has been an increase in enforcement letters generated by Tracey GaIowitz. Cliff does not believe this indicates an increase in violations, but it reflects Karl Hammers' diligence to the task. A permit enforcement report will now be included as a monthly agenda item, and Karl will be asked to make a presentation at a future Board meeting. Paul Ellefson was curious to know if the violations issued could be organized by type, and he cited the importance of monitoring District administrative processes in general. WERF Charter Membership Request The District has the opportunity to become a charter subscriber to the stormwater research program. The current rate structure would require a $6,500 annual fee if they chose to participate. The District would have access to research data on specific stormwater issues that could assist the Board with policy decisions that need to be based. on scientific fact. The Met Council currently is a subscriber to the separate WERF wastewater research program.. Cliff plans to approach them about their interest in subscribing to the new stormwater research program as well. He believes there are other cost-share options to pursue. Roger Lake would like the District to participate in some fashion, but believes that the cost of this information needs to be spread among other metro organizations as well. Page 2 August 1, 2001 RWMWD Minutes