March 14th, 2024

Minutes from the March 14th, 2024 Regular Board Meeting

The meeting of the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District was held in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

The meeting was called to order by Monica Dohmen at 5:00 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell

Members absent: Roger Krause

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Resource Conservationist, Michael Steinhauer; County Commissioner, Joe Grund

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the agenda with the addition of the RMB Load Labs Invoice D056594 for $250.  The motion was seconded by Sonstegard. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Dunnell to approve the February 8th, 2024 minutes.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The February 2024 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

A motion was made by Sonstegard to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Special Reports

Bob Guthrie – MN DNR Region 1 Area Groundwater Appropriation Hydrologist – Guthrie presented on the process for reviewing groundwater appropriation permits.  There are three current permit applications in Lake of the Woods County. Two are for agricultural irrigation and one is for a gravel pit. 

Sindelir excused himself from the meeting.

Old Business

HSA contribution

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to approve payment of HSA monthly fee at Border Bank for all eligible employees in one lump sum at the beginning of the year
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Michael Steinhauer, Resource Conservationist –  see the board packet for a copy of Steinhauer’s report. 

New Business

Letter of support for Keep It Clean Legislation 
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sonstegard, to submit a letter of support for the Keep it Clean legislation which provides funding and a state agency lead for the program.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.
  

Request to purchase a QuickBooks yearly subscription
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to purchase the Quickbooks Desktop Pro Plus yearly subscription.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Envirothon contribution   
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to contribute $300.00 to the Envirothon program.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

MPCA Surface Water Assessment Grant amendment  
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the District Manager to sign the MPCA Surface Water Assessment Grant amendment to increase funding for shipping and laboratory costs. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Aery abandoned well sealing application  
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to approve Tim Aery’s abandoned well sealing cost share application to seal two wells. Cost share is approved at $1,000.00 per well, with payment not to exceed 100% of the total cost.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Rainy-Rapid WBIF Cooperator Agreements    

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the Rainy-Rapid Cooperator Agreements for SWCD Administration and the Forest Management Plan Cost Share Program.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Purchase Pin Flags for Tree Program   

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the purchase of pin flags for the Tree Program at a cost of $310.70 for 26 bundles.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

LOW County Fair Agreement

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the rental agreement for the Lake of the Woods County Fair booth for 2024. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

R-R Forest Management Plan cost share applications 
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to allocate $1,600 from County Allocation to the Rainy-Rapid Forest Management Plan Cost Share Program for the FY24 grant cycle.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the Forest Management Plan Cost Share applications for Waconia Hunt Club (120 acres) and Anthony Kunze (120 acres).  The cost share rate, per contract, is not to exceed $300 base payment plus $6.50 per planned acre, or 100% of the total cost, whichever is less.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 


MOA with City of Baudette

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the Memorandum of Agreement with the City of Baudette for implementation of the City of Baudette Stormwater BMPs Clean Water Fund Grant (C24-0033).
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests – none

Staff Reports – the board reviewed staff reports as presented with the agenda.  

Committee Reports 

Rainy-Rapid Policy Committee – see attachment to the agenda   

Lake of the Woods Control Board – see attachment to the agenda

General Information and Discussion

*Demonstration of SWCD Project Mapping  

*Additional Forest Management Planning Cost Share funds  

*Rain barrel workshop   

*Special work session discussion, April 11th – a decision was made to postpone this session. 

The next regular board meeting has been set for April 11th, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Dunnell Seconded: Sonstegard

Meeting adjournment time: 7:20 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

February 8th, 2024

Minutes from the February 8th, 2024 Regular Board Meeting

The meeting of the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District was held in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

The meeting was called to order by Monica Dohmen at 5:00 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell

Members absent: none

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; NRCS Resource Conservationist, Michael Steinhauer

A motion was made by Krause to approve the agenda as amended.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Dunnell to approve the January 11th, 2024 minutes.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The January Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

A motion was made by Krause to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business
Vehicle purchase 
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the purchase of a 2023 Ford F150 through the County Public Works Department state contract. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The consensus of the board was to authorize the purchase of vehicle accessories with total vehicle plus accessories cost not to exceed the amount budgeted in the 2024 SWCD budget.

Special Reports
NRCS partner updates – Michael Steinhauer, Resource Conservationist – see the board packet for a copy of Steinhauer’s report.  

New Business

Henning RR Forest Management Plan Cost Share Application   
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize the Rainy-Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share application for Timothy Daniel Henning Revoc Trust at $300 base payment plus $6.50 per planned acre, not to exceed 240 acres. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Vail 2021-03SP abandoned well sealing cost share payment    

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize final payment for Vail’s abandoned well sealing contract in the amount of $500.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Operating Funds – Well Sealing Assigned Account   
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the establishment of an assigned fund account for $20,000 with funding received from Lake of the Woods County to be used towards an abandoned well sealing program.  
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.


Cover crop policy and payment rates  
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to adopt the Cover Crop payment rates of $25 per acre for single species and $50 per acre for multiple species, for a maximum of 80 acres.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.


LW WBIF FY24 Admin/Coordination Agreement  
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to enter into the Lake of the Woods Watershed Joint Powers Board Watershed-Based Implementation Funding FY24-01 agreement for Administration and Coordination services.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.


State of MN Master Joint Powers Agreement    

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to enter into the State of MN Professional and Technical Services Master Joint Powers Board SWIFT Contract #241849 for RIM services and to authorize the District Manager to sign the agreement. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: Dohmen Motion carried.

MPCA Load Monitoring Contract 2024   

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize the District Manager to sign the 2024 MPCA Load Monitoring Contract when the final draft is completed.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Letter of support request from the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to send a letter of support for the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation’s funding application to the ECCC Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative for Lake of the Woods to support efforts to reduce phosphorus loading. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

First quarter meeting date, time, subject and budget   
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to approve a budget of $1,200 for food, facilitator and location expenses for a special board retreat and planning session. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.


Gillie LOWW WBIF forest management plan cost share payment
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize final payment for Gillie’s forest management plan contract #2023-FMP-06 in the amount of $1,537.00 from the Lake of the Woods WBIF funding. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Horntvedt R-R WBIF forest management plan cost share application
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the Rainy-Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share application for Horntvedt, Norske Acres LLC at $300 base payment plus $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 320 acres.  

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Blom R-R forest management plant cost share application
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize the Rainy-Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share application for Joann Blom at $300 base payment plus $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 40 acres.  

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.


Walton LOWW WBIF forest management plan cost share application
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize the Lake of the Woods Watershed Forest Management Plan cost share application for James Walton at $300 base payment plus $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 160 acres.  

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.


Recognition for 2023 Rain Gauge Volunteers
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize $320 of Water Plan funds to be used towards rain gauge volunteer recognition. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2024 Medica Plan Document
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize the District Manager to sign the 2024 Medica Plan document. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize Vrtacnik’s training and travel expenses to attend a Frontier Precision training
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.


Staff Reports – the board reviewed staff reports as presented with the agenda. 
Committee Reports – none

General Information and Discussion
Proposed Keep It Clean legislation – presentation of proposed funding legislation
MASWCD Legislative Webinar, Briefing, and Day at the Capitol  – March 13th is SWCD Day at the Capitol. 

The next regular board meeting has been set for March 14th, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Sonstegard Seconded: Krause

Meeting adjournment time:  6:48 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

January 11th, 2024

Minutes from the January 11th, 2024 Regular Board Meeting

The meeting of the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District was held in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.

The meeting was called to order by Monica Dohmen at 5:00 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell

Members absent: none

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Resource Conservationist, Michael Steinhauer;  County Commissioner, Joe Grund; BWSR Board Conservationist, Chad Severts

A motion was made by Krause to approve the agenda as presented.  The motion was seconded by Dunnell. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Annual Organizational Meeting Items

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to approve the annual business items as follows: 

  • Officer Elections 

2024 SWCD offices are as follows:

District Chair,  Monica Dohmen

Vice Chair, Frank Sindelir

Treasurer, Nancy Dunnell

Secretary, John Sonstegard

Public Relations, Roger Krause

  • Monthly Meeting date, time and location

Second Thursday of each month at 5:00 p.m.  in the Boardroom of the County Government Center. 

  • Designate Official Depositories – (Minn Stat. 118A.02, subd 1 provides that the governing body, or its designee, shall designate the depository in which all the District’s funds shall be deposited.)


Border Bank of Baudette, Multi-Bank Securities, Inc.

  • Check Signing Authority – 

Josh Stromlund, District Manager; Nancy Dunnell, Treasurer; Mike Hirst, Resource Conservationist; Corryn Trask, Resource Conservationist; Becky Buegler, Office Assistant

  • Supervisor Compensation Rate 

$125 per meeting. This rate is per day, no matter how many meetings are attended. Supervisors may receive a per‐diem for travel days necessary for attending out of town meetings.

  • Mileage Rate 

Mileage compensation will reflect the most current IRS mileage rate.  

  • Meal Allowances 

Maximum meal allowance for supervisors and employees at $75.00 per day for approved meetings.

  • Spending Limits ‐
    District staff have permission to:

*Pay all district related bills prior to the next board meeting including: payroll, payroll liabilities, fuel account at Howard’s Cenex, Marco copier, other invoices not exceeding $200.  *Pay invoices for: emergency vehicle repairs exceeding $200 or other emergency items exceeding $200 as authorized by the SWCD manager or Board Chair. 
*Purchase miscellaneous supplies up to $200.  

  • Designated Official Newspaper 

Northern Light Region

  • Annual membership dues for 2024

Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts $ 4,916.35

MASWCD North Central Area (VIII) $ 275.00

Minnesota Association of Conservation District Employees $ 125.00  $25/employee

C/C/OGA Membership Dues $ 84.00

Minnesota Association of County Feedlot Officers $125.00

National Association of Conservation Districts $775.00

  • Committee Assignments * = new committee on the list 
CommitteeBoardStaffMtgs/yr (approx.)
Area VIII MeetingsAll supervisorsAll staff3
North Central MN TSA 8Frank SindelirJosh Stromlund, Alternate: Corryn Trask2
County/SWCD Joint Powers Agreement Liaison CommitteeMonica Dohmen Roger KrauseStromlundas called
Personnel CommitteeJohn Sonstegard,
Nancy Dunnell		1
International Multi-Agency Technical Advisory Committeen/aMike Hirst3
Lake of the Woods Control BoardNancy DunnellMike Hirst3
International Rainy Lake of the Woods Watershed Boardn/aMike Hirst10
Rainy/Rapid Board Citizen’s Advisory CommitteeNancy DunnellMike Hirst1
Rainy-Rapid One Watershed One Plan Policy Committee Monica Dohmen, John Sonstegard4
School Forest Committeen/aCorryn Trask8

Lake of the Woods Watershed Joint Powers Board		Nancy Dunnell 
Alternates: John Sonstegard		4
Local Work GroupFrank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell1
AIS/Keep it Clean CommitteeMonica DohmenMike Hirst6
AIS/Keep it Clean Committee     (at large member) – $40 per diemMike Larson6
  • Review Fixed Asset List 

Authorize removal of the following items from the comprehensive fixed asset list:
Waders -LaCross Big Chief Insulated size 10; thermometer – traceable ultra long-stem; thermometer – VWR, Staff gage 4 ft;  Keep it Clean Banners with website;  Keep it Clean banners old style. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to acknowledge the review of the housekeeping items.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the December 14th, 2023  minutes.  The motion was seconded by Krause.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The December 2023 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

The 2023 Fourth Quarter Budget vs Actual report was reviewed. 

A motion was made by Krause to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business – none

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Michael Steinhauer, Resource Conservationist –  Steinhauer presented a report of NRCS activities.  

Chad Severts – BWSR Board Conservationist – Severts presented an overview of the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR).  He also presented on the policy changes to the cost share programs and upcoming soil health grants available. 

New Business

Comstock LWW Forest management plan cost share application
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the Willard Comstock Lake of the Woods watershed forest management plan cost share contract in the amount of $300 or $6.50 per acre for a maximum of 144 acres. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Abandoned well sealing cost share rates    

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to increase the cost share rate for the abandoned well sealing cost share program to $1,000.00 per well, with payment not to exceed 100% of the total practice cost. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Sustainable Farming Association Agreement   

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize the agreement with the Sustainable Farming Association for on-call soil health outreach consulting services for January 1, 2024-December 31, 2025 in the amount of $20,000.00 with added language to include compensation for “related travel expense reimbursement.” Funding will come from the Lake of the Woods Watershed-based Implementation funding.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.


Always There Staffing Agreement  

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to approve the agreement for AIS inspector staffing services with Always There Staffing for the 2024 inspection season with funding to come from the AIS program. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

AIS promotional contracting services  

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to approve the 2024 Promotional Partnership agreement with Curt’s Quesnell’s NCOR Guide Service LLC in the amount of $3,000 for AIS promotional services with funding to come from the AIS program. .  
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Peterson Company LTD 2023 audit bid  

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the bid from Peterson Co. LTD in the amount of $4,500.00 for 2023 audit services, and to authorize the District Manager to sign the engagement letter upon receipt.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Karvakko proposal for engineering services 

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the Karvakko Engineering, Inc. Agreement for Engineering Services for the Stuart Rice project, not to exceed $13,750.00, with funding to come from the TSA8 engineering allocation.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Approve BWSR 2024 Clean Water Fund Competitive Grant #C24-0033 

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the BWSR 2024 Clean Water Fund Competitive Grant #C24-0033 for the City of Baudette Stormwater Project in the amount of $150,000.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize staff and supervisors to attend Rainy-Lake of the Woods Water Quality Forum on March 6th and 7th in International Falls.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Staff Reports – the board reviewed staff reports as presented with the agenda.  

Committee Reports  – none

General Information and Discussion

MASWCD Resolution – DNR shoreline protection task force    

First Quarter Special Meeting 

MCIT Open Meeting Law and Remote Participation Webinar   

Correspondence: Giziibii RC&D

The next regular board meeting has been set for February 8th, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Sindelir

Meeting adjournment time: 6:52 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

December 14th, 2023

Minutes from the December 14, 2023 Regular Board Meeting

The meeting of the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District was held in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

The meeting was called to order by Frank Sindelir at 5:00 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell

Members absent: Monica Dohmen 

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS District Conservationist, Jody Peek

A motion was made by Krause to approve the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Dunnell. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sonstegard to approve the November 9th, 2023 minutes.  The motion was seconded by Krause.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Krause to approve the  November 14th, 2023 Special Meeting minutes.  The motion was seconded by Sonstegard..
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The November 2023 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

A motion was made by Krause to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Sonstegard. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Fourth quarter supervisor expense reports were reviewed. 

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates –  NRCS District Conservationist, Jody Peek presented NRCS program updates

Old Business

2024 Employee Wages and Benefits
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to move the Office Assistant from a Specialist level to a Senior level position. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to set wages effective January 1, 2024 as follows: Resource Conservationists, Sr. Hirst and Trask from Grade 14, Step F6 to Grade 15, Step F6; Office Assistant, Sr. Buegler from Grade 8, Step D4 to Grade 9, Step D4; Water Resources Technician Vrtacnik, Sp. from Grade 11, Step C3 to Grade 12, Step C3.    

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

New Business

2024 Budget 

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the 2024 Budget as presented.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Increase Special Projects fund balance

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to increase the Special Projects Fund Equity Account using District funds to $20,000.00 effective January 1, 2024.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.
 

Operating funds – SWCD State Aid Assigned Account   

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to establish a SWCD State Aid Operating Funds Assigned Equity Account designated for current and future SWCD State Aid payments.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Request to purchase checks for the Border Bank checking account and envelopes

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the purchase of 500 checks and envelopes from Intuit Quickbooks with funds from the office supply account.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Authorize winter newsletter expenses 

The board was in consensus to move forward with expenses related to publishing the biannual newsletter.

Final payment for Keelan abandoned well sealing   

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize final payment for Kevin Keelan’s FY22-02SP Abandoned Well Sealing project in the amount of $500.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Final payment for Estling abandoned well sealing    

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize final payment for Rod Estling’s FY23-06SP Abandoned Well Sealing project in the amount of $500.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Gerulli Rainy-Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share application 

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to authorize the Rainy Rapid Forest Management Plan Cost Share contract with Nick Gerulli in the amount of $300 plus $6.50/acre, not to exceed 137 acres total.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Kukowski Rainy-Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share application    

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize the Rainy Rapid Forest Management Plan Cost Share contract with Jim Kukowski, White Tail Ranch of Baudette, in the amount of $300 plus $6.50/acre, not to exceed 320 acres total.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Thompson abandoned well sealing cost share application 
This item was tabled. 

Livestock Workshop
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize up to $1,000 in feedlot program funds for a livestock producer workshop in 2024.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

MPCA Keep It Clean contract amendment and change order
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to amend the MPCA Keep it Clean #227227 contract from $97,560.00 to $117,560.00 and add public outreach events to allowable costs.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Keep It Clean volunteer expenditures for MASWCD Convention Booth  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize a $200 per person stipend for Robyn and Brian Dwight and $100 stipend for Ann Bruccianni Lyon for staffing the Keep it Clean convention booth during the MASWCD convention in Minneapolis with funding to come from the MPCA Keep it Clean contract. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 


Beltrami SWCD – Keep It Clean wheelhouse use agreement  

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to agree to the terms and conditions of the Keep it Clean Ice House Rental Agreement with Beltrami SWCD and to allow the District Manager to enter into the agreement as events are scheduled.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Adopt policy for Earned Sick and Safe Time 

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to adopt the interim earned sick and safe time policy for expanded uses of sick leave.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

See attachment to the December 14th, 2023 board packet for a copy of the policy language. 


Keep It Clean Donation – Tom’s Tackle

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to accept a Keep it Clean donation from Tom’s Tackle.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests – none.

Staff Reports – the board reviewed staff reports as presented with the agenda.  

Committee Reports
Personnel committee – items were covered during the wage and benefit review.

General Information and Discussion
Human resources legal support – the staff will pursue options for covering costs related to updating the personnel policy. 

AIS promotional contracting services – discussion regarding contracting costs for AIS promotion.

Vehicle needs and purchasing options – staff presented a current inventory of vehicles, use and options for upgrading.
  

MN Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board Correspondence

The next regular board meeting has been set for January 11th, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Sonstegard Seconded Krause
Meeting adjournment time: 7:33 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

November 14th, 2023

Minutes from the November 14th, 2023 Special Board Meeting

The special meeting of the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District was held in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

The meeting was called to order by Vice Chair, Frank Sindelir, at 9:20 a.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell
Members absent: Monica Dohmen

Others present:  Josh Stromlund, Land and Water Planning Director and Mike Hirst, Resource Conservationist

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to close the meeting pursuant to attorney-client privilege. 

Topic of discussion: Joint meeting with the Lake of the Woods County Commissioners and Attorney John Kolb to discuss the Williams Creek Mitigation Site.  


A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir to reopen and adjourn the meeting at 10:10 a.m. 

Adjourn: Sonstegard Seconded: Sindelir

Meeting adjournment time: 10:10 a.m.


Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

A recording of the meeting is on file at the Lake of the Woods County Courthouse.  

November 9th, 2023

Minutes from the November 9th, 2023 Regular Board Meeting

The meeting of the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District was held in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

The meeting was called to order by Monica Dohmen at 5:00 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell
Members absent: none

Others present: Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Resource Conservationist, Michael Steinhauer

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the amended agenda.  The motion was seconded by Krause. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Krause to approve the October 10th, 2023 minutes.  The motion was seconded by Sonstegard.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The October 2023 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Dunnell.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.  

Old Business

Employee wages and benefits
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Kruase, to have the personnel committee meet to review employee wages and benefits for the upcoming year. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Michael Steinhauer, Resource Conservationist – see the board packet for a copy of Steinhauer’s report.  

New Business

Approve stipend rates for online soil health training and soil health summit
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize funding from the Lake of the Woods Watershed-Based Implementation funds for a $500 per person stipend to attend the Midwest Soil Health Summit on March 13th and 14th in Mankato, and a subscription for the Understanding Ag online courses at $200 per course, minimum of 10 courses, to be offered to producers in Lake of the Woods and Roseau counties.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Final payment for Baudette Arena Association Stormwater Outfalls    

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize final payment for the Baudette Arena contract 2023-01-CS/SP in the amount of $4,650.00 from State Cost Share FY22 and $1,550.00 from the District Special Projects fund.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Final payment for Pierson’s 2023 FMP-02 Stewardship Plan    

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve Pierson’s 2023 FMP-02 stewardship plan final payment in the amount of $393.00, with funding from the Lake of the Woods watershed-based implementation funds.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Clifford Comstock Forest Management Plan Cost Share Application    

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Clifford Comstock’s Lake of the Woods Watershed Forest Management Plan Cost Share Application in the amount of $300+$6.50 per acre, not to exceed 160 acres.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Final payment for Pieper’s 2023 FMP-01 Stewardship Plan

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Dan Pieper’s 2023 FMP-01 stewardship plan final payment in the amount of $1067.00, with funding from the Lake of the Woods watershed-based implementation funds.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Hirst’s travel to the MPCA County Feedlot Program Continuous Improvement Project Meeting in Little Falls on November 30th – December 1st.

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Staff Reports – the board reviewed staff reports as presented with the agenda.  

Committee Reports – none

General Information and Discussion

Williams Creek Mitigation Site proposed settlement – see attachment to the board packet.
Present draft 2024 budget and 2023 expense vs actual review – the draft budget was presented.

The next regular board meeting has been set for December 14th, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Dunnell
Meeting adjournment time: 6:19 p.m.


Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

October 10th, 2023

Minutes from the October 10th, 2023 Regular Board Meeting

The meeting of the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District was held in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

The meeting was called to order by Monica Dohmen at 5:00 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell

Members absent: none

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Resource Conservationist, Michael Steinhauer

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Dunnell. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the September 14th, 2023 minutes.  The motion was seconded by Dunnell.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The September 2023 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

The 3rd Quarter budget vs actual reports were reviewed. 

The 3rd Quarter Supervisor expense reports were reviewed. 

A motion was made by Sonstegard to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.  

Old Business – none

Special Reports – Michael Steinhauer, NRCS Resource Conservationist – Steinhauer gave a report of recent activity along with a presentation of EQIP and CSP contracts summarized on a county-wide and area-wide basis. 

New Business

MASWCD Resolution voting   
The Supervisors voted on the 2023 MASWCD resolutions.

FY21 Local Capacity grant end date extension   
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to approve the FY21 Local Capacity grant amendment to extend the end date for one year. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

FY24/25 SWCD Programs and Operations Grant Agreement   

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize the FY24/25 SWCD Programs and Operations grant agreement with the MN Board of Water and Soil Resources. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Authorization to purchase promotional items
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to approve the purchase of 300 promotional pens from Nelson Ink.

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Website ADA compliance tool   
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to renew the annual website hosting contract with SandPieper Design without the ADA Compliance Checker tool.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Certificates of Deposit   

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize investment in two $150,000 certificates of deposit with Multi-Bank Securities at a term of up to one year.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Sonstegard excused himself from the meeting. 


Authorize Estling’s abandoned well sealing cost share application  
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Rod Estling’s abandoned well sealing cost share contract at a rate of $500 or 75% of the total cost, whichever is less.  

Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Pine Island bathymetry contract with AMI Engineering   
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize the District Manager to approve a contract for services if one is needed with AMI Engineering for the SWCD’s portion of the bathymetric survey on Lake of the Woods as part of the Southern Shore – Barrier Island Study.  

Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Approve forest management plan application for Brad Levasseuer   
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Levasseuer’s Rainy-Rapid Cost Share Contract for a forest management plan at a rate of $300 plus $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 317 acres.  The contract start date will be upon final approval of grant funding.  

Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Approve forest management plan application for Evan Mawyer

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize Mawyer’s Rainy-Rapid Cost Share Contract for a forest management plan at a rate of $300 plus $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 320 acres.  The contract start date will be upon final approval of grant funding.  

Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Approve forest management plan application for Mitch Chrzianowski

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Krause, to authorize Chrzianowski’s Rainy-Rapid Cost Share Contract for a forest management plan at a rate of $300 plus $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 222 acres.  The contract start date will be upon final approval of grant funding.  

Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

AMI Contract for Services
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize a contract for services with AMI Engineering for shoreline stabilization designs. 

Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Outstanding Conservationist Convention Expenses

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to approve expenses for the Outstanding Conservationist to attend the MASWCD Annual Convention. Expenses approved for reimbursement include a 1-night stay at the convention hotel rate, meal expenses with receipts up to $75 and round-trip mileage at the federal rate.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests

WPLMN Training
The board approved travel reimbursement for Vrtacnik’s attendance at the WPLMN training under District bills. 

MASWCD Annual Convention
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Krause, to authorize staff and supervisors to attend the MASWCD Annual Convention.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Staff Reports – the board reviewed staff reports as presented with the agenda.  

Committee Reports – none

General Information and Discussion

Peterson Company LTD. letter to the Board of Supervisors  – see attachment to the board packet. 

2024 Budget and Vehicle Purchase 

2024 wages and benefits 

The next regular board meeting has been set for November 9th, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Dunnell Seconded: Sindelir

Meeting adjournment time: 7:00 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

September 14th, 2023

Minutes from the September 14th, 2023 Regular Board Meeting

The meeting of the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District was held in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

The meeting was called to order by Monica Dohmen at 5:00 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell
Members absent: None

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Resource Conservationist, Michael Steinhauer; County Commissioner, Joe Grund

A motion was made by Dunnell to approve the agenda as presented.  The motion was seconded by Sonstegard.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the August 10th, 2023 minutes.  The motion was seconded by Sonstegard.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The August 2023 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

A motion was made by Sonstegard to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business – none

Special Reports
AMI Engineering – Zac Morris and Ryan Dagger joined remotely to present information on shoreline engineering services
NRCS Resource Conservationist, Michael Steinhauer: see attachment to the September board packet

New Business

Certificate of Deposit

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize the reinvestment of the four certificates of deposit which are expiring in September through December 2023 back into certificates of deposit with Multi-bank Securities.  Length of new certificates authorized is 6 months to one year, as approved by the District Manager.   
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Krause, to authorize up to $300,000 deposited into a 12-month certificate with Border Bank.  Becky Buegler, Office Assistant, is authorized as the signer on the certificate of deposit. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Dodge truck repairs 

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize front and rear brake replacements and new tires for the Dodge truck through Custom Auto.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2022 Audit

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to approve the Management Representation Letter and the 2022 Audit from Peterson Company Ltd..
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Dunn forest management plan cost share payment  
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve final payment for Dunn’s Lake of the Woods Watershed FMP-05 forest management plan cost share contract in the amount of $2,159.00. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Keep It Clean purchases  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize the following expenses for the Keep it Clean Program using MPCA grant funds: $2,500 for a geofencing campaign with Star Tribune, $848 for banners through SandPieper Design, and an incentive payment program for resorts with winter ice roads to print the Keep it Clean message on road passes at a cost of $250 per resort not to exceed 16 total participants.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Replenish Petty Cash account   

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize $62.19 to replenish the petty cash account.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Outstanding Conservationist nomination   

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to name Jeff Birchem and Gretchen Mehmel as the 2023 Outstanding Conservationists for Lake of the Woods County.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Health insurance renewal 2024 

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to maintain the current health insurance plan offered by the SWCD for 2024.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to not elect any supplemental health insurance programs for the 2024 year.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made  by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to set the open enrollment period for health insurance from September 15th through November 22nd, with flexibility to extend with approval from the NW Service Cooperative. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to cover 100% of the premium for family coverage and 100% of the premium plus a $200 monthly HSA contribution for single coverage for the 2024 year.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried  

Health Insurance Settlement Refund  

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to split the 2022 health insurance settlement refund from the Minnesota Healthcare Consortium equally between the three covered employees. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Request to purchase survey equipment
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize $7,453.10 of TSA8 Engineering funds to reimburse the LW County Public Works Department for the purchase of a TSC-7 Controller which will be shared between the SWCD and Public Works Department.  

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2024 Buffer Law Implementation Grant Agreement
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to enter into the 2024 Buffer Law Implementation grant agreement and to authorize Chairperson Dohmen to sign the agreement. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Rainy-Rapid Watershed-Based Implementation Grant Agreement

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to enter into the 2024 Rainy-Rapid Watershed Based Implementation grant agreement upon review and approval by the District Manager and to authorize Chairperson Dohmen to sign the agreement. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize staff and supervisors to attend the Area Tour and Meeting in Park Rapids on October 12th-13th.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to authorize staff to attend the BWSR Academy in Brainerd on October 24th-26th.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Staff Reports – the board reviewed staff reports as presented with the agenda.  

Committee Reports – none

General Information and Discussion

Cost share Policy Memo – see attachment to the board packet
Annual well testing clinic summary – see attachment to the board packet

The next regular board meeting has been set for October 10th, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  *Change from regular date due to scheduling conflicts

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Sindelir

Meeting adjournment time: 7:30 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

August 10th, 2023

Minutes from the August 10th, 2023 Regular Board Meeting

The meeting of the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District was held in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

The meeting was called to order by Monica Dohmen at 5:05 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell

Members absent: Roger Krause

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Resource Conservationist, Michael Steinhauer; County Commissioner, Joe Grund

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the agenda as amended.  The motion was seconded by Sonstegard. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the July 13th, 2023 minutes.  The motion was seconded by Dunnell.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The July 2023 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

A motion was made by Sonstegard to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.  

Old Business – none

Special Reports – Michael Steinhauer, NRCS, presented updates on contracting and staffing. 

New Business

Rainy-Rapid WBIF FY24 Implementation Work Plan

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the Rainy-Rapid Work Plan for FY24 Watershed-based Implementation Funding and to authorize the implementation committee to certify any final changes needed for approval by the Board of Water and Soil Resources. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Athman Forest Management Plan Cost Share final payment  

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize Athman’s forest management plan cost share payment in the amount of $1,294.50. Funding will come from the LW WBIF program.

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Goos Forest Management Plan Cost Share final payment   

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize Goos’s forest management plan cost share payment in the amount of $768.00. Funding will come from the LW WBIF program.

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Gillie Forest Management Plan cost share application    

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Gillie’s forest management plan in the amount of $300 base payment plus $6.50 per planned acre, not to exceed 320 acres.  Funding will come from the LW WBIF program.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Kevin Keelan abandoned well sealing cost share contract extension 

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize a contract extension for Kevin Keelan’s abandoned well sealing project until December 31, 2024.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Request to reserve trees for 2024 Tree Program  

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize staff to reserve trees for the 2024 Tree Program.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Karvakko engineering services for upcoming projects   

The board and staff discussed how and when to incur costs for engineering services. Suggestions included batching visits when possible, determining if a project addresses a resource concern and is cost-shareable prior to incurring costs, and ranking projects if there is limited funding.  No action was taken. Staff will work to develop a system that can be generally applied.   

Request to amend Pieper’s 2023FMP-01 Forest Management Plan Cost Share Contract

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to amend Pieper’s 2023FMP-01 cost share contract from 80 acres to 135 acres. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Training and Travel Requests – none

Staff Reports – the board reviewed staff reports as presented with the agenda.  

Committee Reports  – none

General Information and Discussion

Cost share project updates: Weirsma, Chiaverini and Brateng  – the staff updated the board on the recent completion of the projects
Grant application – joint with City of Baudette – the SWCD is assisting the city with a Clean Water Fund stormwater practice grant application.   

Special Work Session date and time – August 30th at 4:30 pm was set as the date and time for a board tour.
Buckthorn program update – Trask updated the board on the progress of the buckthorn removal. 

Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure – Supervisor information review – Supervisors reviewed and initialed their information. 

The next regular board meeting has been set for September 14th, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Dunnell Seconded: Sonstegard

Meeting adjournment time: 6:55 pm

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

July 13th, 2023

Minutes from the July 13, 2023 Regular Board Meeting

The meeting of the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District was held in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

The meeting was called to order by Monica Dohmen at 5:00 p.m.

Members present: Monica Dohmen, John Sonstegard, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell

Members absent: None

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Resource Conservationist, Michael Steinhauer

A motion was made by Krause to approve the agenda as amended.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sonstegard to approve the June 8th, 2023 minutes.  The motion was seconded by Sindelir.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The June 2023 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed. 
The 2nd Quarter Budget vs. Actual reports were reviewed.
The 2nd Quarter Supervisor expense reports were reviewed.  

A motion was made by Dunnell to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Krause.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business – none

Special Reports – Michael Steinhauer, NRCS Resource Conservationist, presented his report. 

New Business

Request to amend LOW SWAG contract with MPCA  
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to amend or revise the SWAG work plan in consultation with the District Manager and MPCA. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Authorize well testing clinic   
A motion was made by Sonstegard with a second by Sindelir to authorize up to $1,500 in expenses for the 2023 well testing clinic and set the landowner cost per test kit at $15.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Maurice Dunn forest management plan cost share application
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize Dunn’s LW-WBIF Forest Management Plan cost share contract in the amount of $300 + $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 320 acres.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Eklund abandoned well sealing cost share application 

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir. to authorize Eklund’s Special Projects abandoned well sealing cost share contract in the amount of $500 or 75% of the total project cost, whichever is less.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Authorize final payment for Wiersma grassed waterway
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize the District Manager to approve final payment for Weirsma’s 2023-04-CS grassed waterway project upon receiving all necessary financial documents and project certifications.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Authorize amendment for Brateng shoreline protection
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve increasing 2023-02-WBIF Brateng’s cost share rate from 50% to 75% contingent upon the installation of the shoreline buffer.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Statewide Keep It Clean Digital Marketing campaign contract  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize entering into a contract with the Star Tribune for the 2023-2025 Keep it Clean digital marketing campaign funded through the MPCA grant.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Authorize newsletter expenses 
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize expenses for the summer/fall SWCD newsletter.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Forest Stewardship Plan Cost Share – Rainy Rapid watershed   
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize a forest management plan cost share program through the Rainy-Rapid watershed funding that aligns with policy and ranking of the LW watershed program. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Adopt resolution for use of SWCD Aid funding  
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to approve the following resolution for the use of SWCD Aid funding:

LAKE OF THE WOODS SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT (SWCD)

2023 GUIDELINES ON USE OF SWCD AID PAYMENTS

Minn. Stat. § 477A.23, subd. 4(b)

(effective July 20, 2023)

State SWCD Aid payments will be used by the district board and staff to carry out the following duties as outlined in Minn. Stat. § 103C.332, subd. 1:

(1) respond to and provide technical and financial assistance to landowners to maintain and improve the quality, quantity, distribution, and sustainability of natural resources, including surface water, groundwater, soil, and ecological resources;

(2) provide technical assistance in implementing the soil erosion law under sections 103F.401 to 103F.48;

(3) arrange for employees to serve on technical evaluation panels to implement the wetland laws as required under section 103G.2242;

(4) locally administer the reinvest in Minnesota reserve program under section 103F.515 and rules adopted thereunder, using knowledge of local resources to manage each easement to maximize environmental benefits;

(5) participate in administering the Wetland Conservation Act as provided under sections 103G.221 to 103G.2375, either in an advisory capacity or as the designated local government unit administering the program;

(6) participate in the local water management program under chapter 103B, either in an advisory capacity or as the designated local government unit administering the program;

(7) participate, as appropriate, in the comprehensive watershed management planning program under section 103B.801;

(8) participate in disaster response efforts as provided in chapter 12A;

(9) provide technical recommendations to the Department of Natural Resources on general permit applications under section 103G.301;

(10) provide technical assistance and local administration of the agricultural water quality certification program under sections 17.9891 to 17.993;

(11) provide technical assistance for the agricultural land preservation program under chapter 40A, where applicable;

(12) maintain compliance with section 15.99 for deadlines for agency action;

(13) coordinate with appropriate county officials on matters related to electing soil and water conservation district supervisors; and

(14) cooperate to the extent possible with federal, state, and local agencies and with private organizations to avoid duplicating and to enhance implementing public and private conservation initiatives within the jurisdiction of the district.

In carrying out the above duties, the district board and staff will use state aid payments to deliver the following services as outlined in Minn. Stat. § 103C.332, subd. 2:

(1) performing administrative services, including comprehensive and annual work planning, administering grants, leveraging outside funding, establishing fiscal accountability measures, reporting accomplishments, human resources management, and staff and supervisor development;

(2) entering into cooperative agreements with the United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and other United States Department of Agriculture agencies to leverage federal technical and financial assistance;

(3) providing technical expertise, including knowledge of local resources, performing technical evaluations and certifications, assessing concerns, and providing oversight in surveying, designing, and constructing conservation practices;

(4) providing information and education outreach, including increasing landowner awareness and knowledge of soil and water conservation program opportunities to protect soil and water resources and publicizing the benefits of soil and water conservation to the general public;

(5) facilitating regulatory processes for impacted landowners and providing technical review and comment on regulatory permits and development plans for regulations relating to soil and water conservation;

(6) administering projects and programs, including but not limited to the nonpoint source pollution abatement program; reinvest in Minnesota reserve conservation easements program; disaster response; local water management and comprehensive watershed management planning programs; and projects related to floodplains, lakes, streams and ditches, wetlands, upland resources, and groundwater resources, to maintain and improve the quality, quantity, distribution, and sustainability of natural resources, including surface water, groundwater, soil, and ecological resources;

(7) monitoring and inventorying to collect data that provide a baseline understanding of resource conditions and changes to the resources over time and analyzing and interpreting the data to support program implementation; and

(8) maintaining a modern technology infrastructure that facilitates planning and projects, including geographic information systems, modeling software, mobile workstations, survey and design equipment and software, and other technology for linking landowners with conservation plans.

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Authorize purchase of chemical for buckthorn removal   

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize $1,570 for the purchase of chemical for the treatment of buckthorn using Local Capacity funds. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests – none requested

Staff Reports – the board reviewed staff reports as presented with the agenda.  

Committee Reports – the board reviewed committee reports as presented with the agenda. 

General Information and Discussion

Soil Health Field Day – the staff presented a report on the recent soil health field day hosted by Sustainable Farming Association. 

MCIT Updates and impacts to policies – see attachment to the July 13, 2023 board packet. 

Cost share funding matrix – staff presented a draft matrix of cost share funding

Set quarterly meeting date – the board discussed holding a quarterly meeting at the end of August or early September 

The next regular board meeting has been set for August 10th, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Dunnell

Meeting adjournment time: 7:25 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________