Category: Minutes

July 9, 2026

Minutes from the July 9th, 2026 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 John Sonstegard at 5:00 p.m.

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

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

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the June 11th, 2026 minutes.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The June 2026 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 Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell to approve the bills as listed on the agenda with the addition of RMB invoices D091531($259) and D091641($192) for a total of $1,527.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS – NONE

SPECIAL REPORTS

Jody Peek, NRCS District Conservationist Team Lead joined the meeting remotely to give a presentation on NRCS activities.

NEW BUSINESS

Mehmel forest management plan cost share final payment
A motion was made by Sopkowiak, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Mehmel’s 2026-03 FMP-RR forest management plan cost share payment in the amount of $2,625.00 from Rainy-Rapid WBIF funding.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Orcutt forest management plan cost share final payment
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve Orcutt’s 2025-02 FMP-LW forest management plan cost share payment in the amount of $1,060.50 from the Lake of the Woods WBIF funding.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Colbert forest management plan cost share final payment

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Colbert’s 2026-04 FMP-RR forest management plan cost share payment in the amount of $1,188.00 from the Rainy-Rapid WBIF funding.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Larsen forest management plan cost share final payment

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve Larsen’s 2025-01 FMP-RR forest management plan cost share payment in the amount of $1,080.00 from the Rainy-Rapid WBIF funding.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Dahl shoreline stabilization cost share application

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve Dahl’s shoreline stabilization cost share application in the amount of $27,327.00 or 75% of the total project cost, whichever is less.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Hill shoreline stabilization cost share application

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve Hill’s shoreline stabilization cost share application in the amount of $21,776.00 or 75% of the total project cost, whichever is less.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Klein shoreline protection cost share payment request

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve Klein’s 2025-03 LW-WBIF shoreline protection cost share rate at 50% of $14,188.00 and the final payment in the amount of $7,064.00 contingent upon receiving the Engineering certification statement.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Reichert shoreline protection cost share payment request

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve payment for Reichert’s 2025-01 LW-WBIF shoreline protection project. Payment is authorized in the amount of $56,250.00 contingent upon receiving a final invoice from the Contractor and the Engineering certification statement.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

AIS Funding request – MN Lakes and Rivers Advocates
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve a contribution of $500.00 to the Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

TRAINING AND TRAVEL REQUESTS

MASWCD Leadership Training
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to authorize Sonstegard to attend the MASWCD Leadership Training sessions.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Int’l Rainy-LOW Watershed Board Meetings
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve Hirst to attend the International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Board Meetings in Fort Frances on August 10-13th.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

STAFF REPORTS – no staff reports due to project tour

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Area 8 Meeting – Bemidji

GENERAL INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION

Shoreline project alteration request
Bryce Evans, the current landowner of the Daly FY15-06DRAP cost share project (parcels 16-5501-150, 16-5501-160) has requested release from the 10 year contract. This contract was part of the Disaster Recovery Assistance Program. The project was not engineered and installed through cost share funding. Instead, the cost share contract was entered into as part of the Disaster Recovery Assistance Program which allowed the SWCD to reimburse the landowner for expenses incurred in October 2014 when they repaired their existing shoreline that was damaged during the 2014 flood. The reimbursement to the previous landowner occurred on June 12, 2017.

A motion was made by Sopkowiak, with a second by Dohmen, to cancel the Daly FY15-06DRAP shoreline protection project based on the fact that the project has been in place for 12 years which exceeds the 10-year lifespan of the practice and contract terms.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

AgBMP Loan Applications – applications were reviewed

MASWCD awards nominations – no action. Nominations will be considered at the August meeting.

The next regular board meeting has been set for August 13th, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.

Adjourn: Dohmen Seconded: Dunnell

Meeting adjournment time: 6:50 p.m.

The board departed for a road tour of sites on CR80 and an upcoming shoreline stabilization project.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

June 11, 2026

Minutes from the June 11th, 2026 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 Sonstegard at 5:45 p.m. following the Local Workgroup Meeting at 4:30 p.m..

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

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Team Lead, Jody Peek; County Commissioner, Joe Grund

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

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the May 14th, 2026 minutes.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The May 2026 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Krause, to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business

Strategic Planning Review – review of the SWCD’s draft Strategic Plan. The board and staff will continue to update goals and actions at upcoming meetings.

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek, Bemidji Team Lead, has been conducting Local Workgroup Meetings for EQIP ranking and priorities. There is no indication that Baudette Field Office vacancies will be filled. Lake of the Woods has no approved EQIP contracts.

New Business

Soil Health Summit sponsorship
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve utilizing Lake of the Woods Watershed Based Implementation Funds to provide a $500 sponsorship to producers in the watershed who attend the 2027 Soil Management Summit in Waite Park.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

County Fair Booth
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve an SWCD booth rental at the Lake of the Woods County Fair.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Watercraft inspector training expenses
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve travel time and mileage expenses for a watercraft inspector who attended a mandatory AIS training in Tower, MN.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Rainy-Rapid forest management plan cost share application – Schneider
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve Schneider’s forest management plan cost share application for up to 320 acres at a rate of 75% of the total allowed cost of $300 base plus $10/planned acre, or 75% of the invoiced amount, whichever is less.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Aquatic Invasive Species Radio Advertising Expense
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to approve $750 for AIS prevention radio advertising with funding to come from the AIS Program.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Brateng shoreline stabilization cost share

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve cost share for Brateng’s shoreline stabilization project in the amount not to exceed 75% of $25,926.00 or 75% of the final invoiced amount, whichever is less. The project must be completed by December 31, 2026.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests- none

Staff Reports – the staff presented a powerpoint presentation of accomplishments in lieu of individual staff reports

Committee Reports

Lake of the Woods Control Board

General Information and Discussion

Area VIII Meeting Agenda

The next regular board meeting has been set for July 9th, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Sopkowiak

Meeting adjournment time: 7;45 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

May 14, 2026

Minutes from the May 14th, 2026 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 Nancy Dunnell at 5:00 p.m.

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

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

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the agenda.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sopkowiak, with a second by Dunnel, to approve the April 9th, 2026 minutes.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The April 2026 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business

Strategic Planning – tabled until more supervisors are present

Special Reports – none

New Business

Reinvestment of maturing CD with Multi-Bank Securities
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the reinvestment of the maturing $125,000 CD with Multi-Bank Securities per manager’s approval.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Larsen 2025-01 FMP-RR cost share extension request
A motion was made by Sopkowiak, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Larsen’s 2025-01 FMP-RR cost share extension request until September 30th, 2026.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Local Work Group Meeting 2026
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to hold the Local Work Group Meeting on June 11th at 4:30 p.m.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

We Are Water Exhibit

The board consensus is to pursue the We Are Water Exhibit for 2027.

Brauch abandoned well sealing cost share application

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve Brauch’s abandoned well sealing cost share application in the amount of $1,000.00 or 100% of the total cost, whichever is less.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Koochiching SWCD drone services agreement

A motion was made by Sopkowiak, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the contract with Koochiching SWCD for drone services.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Friesner abandoned well sealing cost share application

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve Friesner’s abandoned well sealing cost share application in the amount of $1,000.00 or 100% of the total cost, whichever is less.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Shoreline Cleanup Insurance Coverage

A motion was made by Sopkowiak, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the 2026 Volunteer Agreement between Jared Martinson and the SWCD for boat transportation during the shoreline cleanup.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Superior Forestry Services Master Contract
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the Master Contract with Superior Forestry Services.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Sopkowiak, 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

Peterson Company LTD – 2025 Audit Planning Letter

2026 MASWCD Resolution updates

2026 Tree Sale Report

The next regular board meeting has been set for June 11th, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center. **time change due to local work group meeting prior

Adjourn: Sopkowiak Seconded: Dohmen

Meeting adjournment time: 6:45 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

April 9, 2026

Minutes from the April 9th, 2026 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 John Sonstegard at 5:00 p.m.

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

Members absent: None

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the March 12th, 2026 minutes.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The March 2026 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

The First Quarter Budget vs Actual reports were reviewed.

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business

Letter to International Lake of the Woods Control Board
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the joint letter to the International Lake of the Woods Control Board from the SWCD and the County Board and to allow for minor changes if any are requested by the County Board.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Letter regarding USDA staffing levels
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the joint letter regarding USDA Staffing Levels from the SWCD and the County Board and to allow for minor changes if any are requested by the County Board.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

MGLCA – agreement update and request
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve an additional contribution of $100 to the MN Grazing Lands Association for a total of $800 per mentor/mentee pair in 2026.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Strategic Planning – mini session – goal review
This agenda item was tabled.

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek, NRCS Team Lead, informed the board that the staff for the 5-county team is down one more, leading to fewer hours which will be allocated to Lake of the Woods and Koochiching producers. There are no EQIP contracts in LW County. Staff is currently completing CSP assessment and ranking, and there are eight applications.

New Business
Keep it Clean Donation Request
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to approve a $500 donation to the the Lake of the Woods Take a Kid Fishing Program from the Keep it Clean Account in exchange for the KIC logo to be included on tshirts.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Request to purchase pin flags
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve $316.50 from the tree program to the purchase of pin flags for resale
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Tree Program payments
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize payment of invoices from nursery suppliers upon delivery of tree seedlings.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Grant fund transfer request
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the transfer of MidPoint Assessment Grant payments from the SWCD to the LOW Joint Powers Board immediately upon receipt from the State.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Load Monitoring purchase request

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the purchase of a pH sensor in the amount of $225.00 through the Load Program contract.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Drone services

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve utilizing Koochiching SWCD for drone services to complete a seeding for the living snowfence project.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Summer internship

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to approve a summer intern position at the SWCD in a possible partnership with the County Public Works Department.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Sonstegard abstained. Motion carried.

Levasseur forest management plan cost share final payment
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the final payment for Levasseur’s 2026-02 FMP-RR contract in the amount of $531.00 upon receipt of all required documentation.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests – none

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

Committee Reports

TSA8 Committee meeting
Area 8 Remote Meeting

General Information and Discussion

Southern Shore Barrier Island Erosion Investigation presentation from AMI Engineering

State Climatology Office Annual Summary 2025

Artificial Intelligence Usage policy

2026 Elections reminder

Resolutions

Rainy-Rapid WBIF update

The next regular board meeting has been set for May 14th, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.

Adjourn: Sopkowiak Seconded: Krause

Meeting adjournment time: 7:30 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

March 12, 2026

Minutes from the March 12th, 2026 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 Sonstegard at 5:00 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Nancy Dunnell, John Sopkowiak. Roger Krause attended remotely. Votes were taken by roll call.

Members absent: none

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

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

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the February 12th, 2026 minutes.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The February 2026 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

A motion was made by Sopkowiak, with a second by Dunnell to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business

Review Items from Strategic Planning
The board discussed the vision statement and three options for the mission statement. The board was in consensus regarding the vision statement and agreed that the mission statement should be similar to option B, with the possible edits of:

The Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District is ~~serves as~~ a vital connection between landowners and agency partners to conserve and enhance natural resources.

The board reviewed the sorting and renaming of the goals and actions. The board will review one goal per monthly meeting for the next 5 SWCD Board Meetings. No action was taken.

Correction to Petty cash
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve amending the February 12th, 2026 motion for petty cash from $70.01 to $72.01.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek provided an update regarding NRCS activities. The office is busy with deadlines including an EQIP deadline for April 24th. Jody attended an operational meeting on February 25-26, where state leadership discussed hiring statewide. The outlook sounded grim with the likelihood that for every 4 employees that leave the NRCS only one can be hired. There is still a hiring freeze. In order for the DC position in Baudette to be filled, the position has to be opened up and then would only be filled with someone that already works for the NRCS. Another employee in the Bemidji Team has resigned leaving Jody and four planners left in the Team.
CRP general sign up deadlines are approaching. Continuous CRP enrollment opens Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026. FSA will batch Continuous CRP offers on a first-come, first-serve basis. The first Continuous CRP batching period ends March 20, 2026. If acreage remains available, FSA will consider offers submitted after this date in subsequent batching periods. General CRP enrollment opens March 9 through April 17, 2026.

The board discussed sending a letter to federal legislators regarding hiring NRCS staff to service the county.

New Business
BWSR Soil Health Grant Agreement
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize the Board Chair to sign the P26-0827 BWSR Soil Health Grant Agreement.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

MPCA Agreement for Lake Monitoring
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sopkowiak, to authorize the Lake of the Woods SWCD Monitoring Agreement with MPCA and authorize the District Manager to sign it in SWIFT once it is finalized.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

DNR Agreement for Peatland Monitoring

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the Joint Powers Agreement with the DNR for Phase 3 Monitoring and to authorize the District Manager to sign it via SWIFT.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2025 Rain Gauge Volunteer Recognition
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to approve $340 towards gift certificates as recognition for Rain Gauge volunteers.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Ravndalen R-R Forest Management Plan cost share final payment
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve Ravndalen’s 2025-01-FMP-LW Forest management plan cost share final payment in the amount of $2,380.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Arnesen Abandoned Well Sealing final payment
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve Arnesen’s 2019-18-SP abandoned well sealing cost share final payment in the amount of $1,000.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Blanch Abandoned Well Sealing final payment
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Blanch’s 2025-08-SP abandoned well sealing cost share final payment in the amount of $1,000.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Extension – Orcutt forest management plan cost share contract
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve Orcutt’s 2025-02-FMP-LW Forest Management Plan contract amendment to extend the contract until June 30, 2026.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Clean Water Fund Grant Fund Work Order – CCMI – LOW Shoreline Cleanup
A motion was made by Sopkowiak, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Clean Water Fund Grant Fund Work Order – CCMI – LOW Shoreline Cleanup and authorize Hirst to sign the contract.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Clean Water Fund Grant Fund Work Order – CCMI – Living Snow Fence
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve Clean Water Fund Grant Fund Work Order – CCMI – Living Snow Fence and authorize Trask to sign the contract.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Aitchison forest management plan cost share application
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve funding for Terry Aitchison’s Lake of the Woods Forest Management Plan cost share application for 120 acres in the amount of $1,125.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

VanDeHey forest management plan cost share application
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve funding for Justin VanDeHey’s Lake of the Woods Forest Management Plan cost share application for 63 acres in the amount of $697.50.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests
IJC Semi-Annual Meeting – Hirst
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Hirst’s attendance at the IJC’s semi-annual meeting in Washington DC the week of April 20th.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

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

Committee Reports
Lake of the Woods Control Board
Hirst and Dohmen updated the board with the regulation activities of the Lake of the Woods Control Board and provided an update on spring water level forecasts from the LWCB meeting on 3/5/2026.

General Information and Discussion – None

The next regular board meeting has been set for April 9th, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.

Adjourn: Dunnell Seconded: Sopkowiak

Meeting adjournment time: 6:45 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

February 12, 2026

Minutes from the February 12th, 2026 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 John Sonstegard at 5:05 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Nancy Dunnell, John Sopkowiak. Roger Krause attended remotely. Votes were taken by roll call.

Members absent: none

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

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

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the January 8th, 2026 minutes. Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The January Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

A motion was made by Sopkowiak, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business – none

Special Reports – none

New Business

Always There Staffing Agreement
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the 2026 Agreement with Always There Staffing, Inc for recruiting and hiring Aquatic Invasive Species Inspectors.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

MN Grazing Lands Conservation Association
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the 2026 Grazing Mentorship Program Partnership Agreement with the MN Grazing Lands Conservation Association in the amount not to exceed $1,400.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Peterson Company LTD 2025 audit bid
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the 2025 audit bid from Peterson Company LTD in the amount of $5,300.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Replenish Petty Cash Account.
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve replenishing the petty cash account with $70.01, bringing the total to $100.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Reinvestment of maturing CD with Multi-Bank Securities
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the District Manager to reinvest the maturing $125,000 CD with Multi-Bank Securities for a term of up to two years.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Keep it Clean Donation
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to accept a donation to the Keep it Clean Program in the amount of $720.00 from the Sporting Journal Radio.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Envirothon

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to approve a contribution to the Envirothon program in the amount of $300, payable to Clearwater SWCD.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Dodds FMP-RR cost share application

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve funding for John Dodd’s Rainy Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share application in the amount of $2,625.00
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Levasseur FMP-RR cost share application
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to approve funding for Steve Levasseur’s Rainy Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share application in the amount of $735.00
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Mehmel FMP-RR cost share application
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve funding for Gretchen Mehmel’s Rainy Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share application in the amount of $2,625.00
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Colbert FMP-RR cost share application
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve funding for Kyle Colbert’s Rainy Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share application in the amount of $1,552.50
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, 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

Strategic Planning

Giziibii RC&D Correspondence

The next regular board meeting has been set for March 12th, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.

Adjourn: Dunnell Seconded: Sopkowiak

Meeting adjournment time: 6:15 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

January 8, 2026

Minutes from the January 8th, 2026 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 Nancy Dunnell at 5:00 p.m.

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

Members absent: none

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

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

Annual Business Meeting

Officer Elections
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to nominate John Sonstegard as Chair. A call for further nominations was made three times. No further nominations were made.

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

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to nominate Nancy Dunnell as Vice Chair.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to nominate Monica Dohmen, Treasurer; John Sopkowiak, Secretary; Roger Krause, Public Relations.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Monthly meeting date, time and location
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sopkowiak, to set the SWCD regular monthly meetings on the second Thursday of the month at 5:00 p.m. in the boardroom of the County Government Center.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Official depositories
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to set the official depositories as Border Bank of Baudette and Multi-Bank Securities, Inc.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Check signing authority
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve check signing authority for Josh Stromlund, Corryn Trask, Mike Hirst and Nancy Dunnell.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Supervisor compensation rates
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Krause, to set the Supervisor compensation rates at $125 per meeting. This rate is per day, regardless of the number of meetings attended. Supervisors may receive a per-diem for travel days necessary for attending out of town meetings.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Mileage Rates, Meal Allowances and Spending Limits
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the following:

The 2026 mileage rate will reflect the most current IRS mileage rate.
Meal allowance for supervisors and employees is set at $75 per day.
District staff have permission to pay all District related bills prior to the next board meeting, including: payroll, payroll liabilities, fuel account at Northdale, Marco copier, or invoices not exceeding $200. Invoices for emergency vehicle repairs or other emergency items exceeding $200 may be paid upon authorization by the Board Chair or SWCD Manager.

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

Official Newspaper
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to designate the official newspaper as the Northern Light Region.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Membership Dues
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve the annual membership dues as follows:
Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts $5,564.17

MASWCD North Central Area (VIII) pending

Minnesota Association of Conservation District Employees $ 25/employee

C/C/OGA Membership Dues $ 84.00

Minnesota Association of County Feedlot Officers $ 150.00

National Association of Conservation Districts $ 775.00

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

Committee Assignments
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to approve 2026 Committee Assignments as follows:

Committee	Board	Staff	Mtgs/yr (approx.)
Area VIII Meetings	All supervisors	All staff	3 – Bemidji
North Central MN TSA 8	Nancy Dunnell	Josh Stromlund, Alternate: Corryn Trask	2 – Bemidji
Personnel Committee	John Sonstegard, Nancy Dunnell		Minimum 1
International Multi-Agency Technical Advisory Committee	n/a	Mike Hirst	3
Lake of the Woods Control Board	Monica Dohmen	Mike Hirst	3
International Rainy Lake of the Woods Watershed Board	n/a	Mike Hirst	10
Rainy-Rapid One Watershed One Plan Policy Committee	Monica Dohmen, John Sonstegard		6
School Forest Committee	n/a	Corryn Trask	8
Lake of the Woods Watershed Joint Powers Board	Nancy Dunnell Alternates: John Sonstegard		4 – Warroad
AIS/Keep it Clean Committee	John Sopkowiak	Mike Hirst	6
AIS/Keep it Clean Committee (at large member) – $75 per diem	Mike Larson		6

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

Fixed asset list -no items were presented for removal

The housekeeping items listed on the agenda were reviewed.

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the December 11th, 2025 minutes.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The December 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business – none

New Business

UMN Extension Contract Agreement

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize the agreement with the UMN Extension for strategic planning services.

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

Presentation

Jody Horntvedt, MN Extension met with the board and worked through strategic planning items in preparation for the upcoming workshop. Chad Severts, BWSR, participated remotely.

Special Reports
NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek, NRCS District Conservationist Team Lead, joined the meeting remotely to provide updates to the board. She announced two retirements which will impact Lake of the Woods County including Steve Cole, Assistant State Conservationist along with the Area Engineer. Local funding pools have now been established for EQIP funds, which should make the work of the local workgroup more impactful. CSP and EQIP application periods are still open.

New Business
Strategic Planning Session
A motion was made by Sopkowiak, with a second by Dunnell, to set the strategic planning session for January 28th from 8:00-10:00 at the Baudette Ambulance Garage.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Check reorder request
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the request to order 500 SWCD checks.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Mollberg abandoned well sealing cost share payment request

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Krause, to approve Mollberg’s 2025-07SP abandoned well sealing cost share final payment in the amount of $1,000.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Beltrami County SWCD Keep It Clean Wheelhouse Rental Agreement
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the rental agreement for the Keep it Clean fishhouse, along with a $250 rental fee and $5,000 damage deposit.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Correction to October Minutes
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to change all instances of Sindelir to Sopkowiak in the October 9, 2025 meeting minutes.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Williams Creek Settlement agreement amendment and supplemental agreement
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to authorize the board chair to sign the revised Williams Creek Settlement Agreement and supplemental agreement.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

WPLMN Draft Work Plan / Contract with MPCA
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize the District Manager to sign the pending amendment to the Watershed Pollution Load Monitoring Network grant to extend the grant until 6/30/28 and add two additional seasons of water monitoring.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Rainy-Rapid WBIF Cooperative Agreements
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Krause, to approve the Rainy Rapid Cooperative Agreements for the implementation of the FY26 Rainy-Rapid Watershed Based Implementation Funding.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Sustainable Farming Association Agreement
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the 2026-2027 Professional Services Agreement for agriculture workshops, field tours and producer coaching services from the Sustainable Farming Association not to exceed $20,000.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Event Services Contract with Sustainable Farming Association
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the Event Services Contract with the Sustainable Farming Association in the amount of $3,000.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2026 Buffer Law Implementation Grant Agreement

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the P26-0143 2026 Buffer Law Implementation Grant Agreement with the Board of Water and Soil Resources.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Northdale gas card for house charges

The board was in agreement to allow the staff to make an internal decision on retaining a Northdale Oil charge account and obtaining charge cards.

Training and Travel Requests
Rainy-LOW Watershed Forum
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Krause, to authorize staff and supervisors attendance at the Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Forum in International Falls.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

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

Committee Reports – none

General Information and Discussion

Election memo from BWSR/MASWCD

MASWCD milestones report

Memo – Peterson CPA

County Board Resolution Drainage Exemption Language
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to support the county board resolution #25-12-07, in support of the reinstatement of statutory language removing cropping history as a factor in determining eligibility for drainage practices.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The next regular board meeting has been set for February 12th, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.

Adjourn: Dunnell Seconded: Sopkowiak

Meeting adjournment time: 7:35 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

December 11, 2025

Minutes from the December 11th, 2025 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 Nancy Dunnell at 5:00 p.m.

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

Members absent: none

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

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the November 6th, 2025 minutes.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The November 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business – none
Special Reports – none

New Business
Forest management plan cost share rates
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to approve amending the Forest Management Plan cost share rates for the Lake of the Woods and the Rainy-Rapid Watershed Based Implementation Funding effective January 1 for all new applications. The maximum allowed plan cost will be based on the DNR rate of $300 + $10 per acre. Total cost share will not exceed 75% of the allowed cost. The maximum cost share acres is 320 acres.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

AIS Inspector Year End Appreciation Award
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve AIS Inspector appreciation awards for three inspectors in the amount of $150 each with funding to come from the AIS program.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

BWSR Keep it Clean Grant Agreement
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the Keep it Clean Grant Agreement C26-0072 in the amount of $40,000.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

BWSR Keep It Clean Purchases
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve the purchase of KQ92 radio advertising, Star Tribune geofencing, ice road pass logo reimbursements, RV dumpstation banners, and Keep it clean buckets for the 2025-2026 ice fishing season with funding from the Keep it Clean grant.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Livestock Producer Workshop

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve expenses not to exceed $1,000 for presenter stipend and mileage reimbursement, refreshments and facility rental to host a livestock producer workshop in Baudette.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

BWSR Rainy-Rapid WBIF Agreement

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the board chair to sign the FY26 Rainy-Rapid Watershed Based Implementation Funding grant agreement.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Lake of the Woods Watershed Joint Powers Board Cooperative Agreements

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve FY26 cooperative agreements with the Lake of the Woods Watershed JPB for Admin/Coordination, Ag and Forestry cost share programs, Keep it Clean, Ag Education and Shoreline Stabilization.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Extend Phase 2 Peatland Restoration agreement

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the amendment to extend the Phase 2 Peatland Restoration agreement #276018 with the MN DNR until March 31, 2026.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2026 Wages

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve a two-step wage increase for all employees effective January 1st, 2026.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

MN Leave Law

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the following MN Leave Law policies:

*The District Manager will be designated as the Leave Law Administrator.

*Premiums will be split 50:50 between the SWCD and Employee.

*Supplemental payments or “topping off” will not be allowed but may be considered in the future if it is determined that the payroll system can support it.

*Intermittent leave may be taken in no smaller than one (1) hour increments.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2026 Budget

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the 2026 budget as presented.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The final budget will be included as an attachment to the December board packet.

Increase operational reserve fund

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the increase to the Operational Reserve Fund by $35,000 to bring the balance to $185,000.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Peppel abandoned well sealing cost share payment request

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve final payment for Peppel’s 2025-06-SP abandoned well sealing cost share project in the amount of $1,000 with funds to come from the Well Sealing Special Projects fund.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Maus abandoned well sealing cost share payment request

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve final payment for Maus’s 2020-03-SP abandoned well sealing cost share project in the amount of $1,000 with funds to come from the Well Sealing Special Projects fund.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Hoscheid abandoned well sealing cost share payment request
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve final payment for Hoscheid’s 2024-13-SP abandoned well sealing cost share project in the amount of $1,000 with funds to come from the Well Sealing Special Projects fund.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests –none

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

Committee Reports
MASWCD convention – Trask updated the board on the results of the resolution voting held at the MASWCD convention.

General Information and Discussion
Update – Karvakko engineering service fees – the contract for on-call services will be used for the Brateng shoreline site.
Keep It Clean non-profit – LOW SWCD Staff participation – the Keep it Clean Coalition is forming a non-profit and has invited Lake of the Woods SWCD participation.
Office of State Auditor 2024 review – letter to Peterson Company LTD from the State Auditor International Lake of the Woods Control Board Correspondence – see attachment to the board packet First Quarter Special Meeting – staff will work on a strategic planning session in January

The next regular board meeting has been set for January 8th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.

Adjourn: Sopkowiak Seconded: Sonstegard

Meeting adjournment time: 7:25 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

November 13, 2025

Minutes from the November 6th, 2025 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 Nancy Dunnell at 5:20 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Roger Krause, Nancy Dunnell, John Sopkowiak

Members absent: Monica Dohmen

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

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the October 9th, 2025 minutes.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The October 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business – none

Special Reports – none

New Business

Replenish Petty Cash Account
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve replenishing the petty cash account with $63.29 to bring the total to $100.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Estling cover crop payment

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the Estling’s 2025-03 SH cover crop cost share final payment in the amount of $2,000.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Rennemo Forest Management Plan cost share final payment

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve Rennemo’s 2024-12 FMP-RR forest management plan cost share final payment in the amount of $2,380.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Reichert contract extension

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve Reichert’s 2025-01 LW WBIF contract extension until September 30th, 2026.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2026 Health Insurance

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to renew the current NW Service Cooperative health insurance plan and provide full coverage for family health insurance or full coverage of single health insurance plus an additional $300 monthly stipend payable to the employee’s HSA account. Open enrollment will be November 7th through November 21st.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Office closure request

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve closure of the SWCD office on November 28th.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests – none

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

Committee Reports

Lake of the Woods Control Board – see attachment to the board packet

Lake of the Woods Watershed JPB – see attachment to the board packet

Rainy-Rapid Policy Committee – see attachment to the board packet

General Information and Discussion

MN Paid Leave Law Administrator Designation and Policies
The board discussed policies that will need to be adopted for the MN Paid Leave Law. More information will be presented at the December board meeting.

November invoices

Due to the change in the November board meeting date, the staff will need to pay invoices prior to board approval in order to avoid late fees. The staff reminded the board of the SWCD policy authorizing this action.

The next regular board meeting has been set for December 11th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Sonstegard

Meeting adjournment time: 7:05 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

October 9, 2025

Minutes from the October 9th, 2025 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 Nancy Dunnell at 5:00 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Nancy Dunnell, John Sopkowiak

Members absent: Roger Krause

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; Guest Dick Nash

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the agenda as amended.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the September 11th, 2025 minutes.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The September 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

The 2025 third quarter profit vs loss reports were reviewed.

The third quarter supervisor expense reports were reviewed.

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business – none

Special Reports

Dick Nash, Lost Woods Whiskey Company – Nash introduced himself and updated the board on recent local developments with Lost Woods. He stated that the mission of Lost Woods is to give back to communities, specifically for environmental projects. They are interested in the mission of the SWCD and ways to partner in the future.

Nash excused himself from the meeting.

New Business

MASWCD Resolution Voting
The SWCD Supervisors voted on the 2025 MASWCD Resolutions.

FY23 Local Capacity Grant amendment – extension request

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to authorize the FY23 Local Capacity Grant amendment to extend the end date of the grant until December 31st, 2026.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Blanch abandoned well sealing cost share application

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to authorize Blanch’s abandoned well sealing cost share application in the amount of $1,000 or 100% of the cost to seal the well, whichever is less.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak,, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Goldsmith forest stewardship plan cost share payment request
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Goldsmith’s 2024-05 FMP-LW forest management plan cost share final payment in the amount of $2,029.00.

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

Klein cost share contract extension
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve Klein’s 2025-03 LW-WBIF cost share contract extension until October 31st, 2026.

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

Gillie and Bendickson cover crop cost share applications
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve cover crop cost share applications for Bruce Gillie at 67 acres/$50 per acre and Bill Bendickson at 80 acres/$50 per acre.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Cover crop final payments
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve cover crop cost share final payments for Hancock 2025-01 SH, $3,750.00; Rennemo 2025-02 SH, $3,500.00; Reinhart 2025-04 SH, $3,400.00; Bendickson 2025-05 SH, $4,000.00; Gillie 2025-06 SH, $3,350.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Keep It Clean purchases
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve purchases for the Keep it Clean program in the amount of $1,000 for lures and an ice road sign.

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

Drone footage for Winter Road Peatland Project
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve $500.62 payment to Roseau River Watershed District for the acquisition of drone footage.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Olson abandoned well sealing final payment
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve final payment for Olson’s 2024-15 SP abandoned well sealing contract in the amount of $1,000.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2026 Cost Share Programs
The board reviewed current cost share programs and policy of the SWCD.

Plantskydd purchase
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the purchase of 1 case of wettable powder concentrate and 22 pounds bulk powder concentrate Plantskydd from Tree World.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Sopkowiak, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

FY26 and FY27 Programs and Operations Grant Agreement
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the FY26 and FY27 Programs and Operations Grant P26-0247 and P26-0337 with the State of MN Board of Water and Soil Resources

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

Training and Travel Requests

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

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

Committee Reports

Area 8 Tour and Meeting – Sonstegard presented information from the Area 8 tour and meeting

Personnel Committee Updates – the board discussed the 2026 rate increases and options for employee health insurance

General Information and Discussion

No information was presented.

The next regular board meeting has been set for November 13th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.

Adjourn: Dohmen Seconded: Sopkowiak

Meeting adjournment time: 8:01 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

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