August 14th, 2025

Minutes from the August 14th, 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: Monica Dohmen, Roger Krause, Nancy Dunnell

Members absent: John Sonstegard

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; Conservation Corps Intern, Marisa Schmidt

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

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve the July 14th, 2025 minutes. 
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The July 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

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

Old Business

Supervisor District 3 Vacancy
John Sopkowiak submitted an application for District 3 Supervisor. Sopkowiak was present remotely for an interview.  Dunnell called for a vote to appoint John Sopkowiak as District 3 Supervisor for the remainder of the term.   

Ayes = 3 Nayes = 0

Sopkowiak is appointed as District 3 Supervisor. 

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek, NRCS Team Lead, updated the board on the status of CSP and EQIP contracting. There are no new updates on staffing for the Baudette Field Office. Bemidji staff are covering the office on a limited basis.  The reduction in service is noticeable in the amount of contracts being awarded within Koochiching and Lake of the Woods County. 

New Business
Mollberg abandoned well sealing cost share application  
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve the abandoned well sealing cost share application from Eugene Mollberg in the amount of $1,000 or 100% of the total practice cost, whichever is less.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Peppel abandoned well sealing cost share application   
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the abandoned well sealing cost share application from Keith Peppel in the amount of $1,000 or 100% of the total practice cost, whichever is less.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Carlson abandoned well sealing cost share payment   
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Sandra Carlson’s 2025-04-SP abandoned well sealing final payment in the amount of $1,000.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Horner abandoned well sealing cost share payment   
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve Loren Horner’s 2025-04-SP abandoned well sealing final payment in the amount of $1,000.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Perrson shoreline protection cost share final payment  
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve Karl Persson’s 2025-02CS shoreline protection project final payment in the amount of $8,014.27.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Johnson AgBMP low interest loan  

The board reviewed Johnson’s AgBMP low-interest loan application for a septic system in the amount of $20,000.  The application was approved by staff per SWCD policy. 

Nelson AgBMP low interest loan  

The board reviewed Nelson’s AgBMP low-interest loan application for a septic system in the amount of $20,000.  The application was approved by staff per SWCD policy.

Keep It Clean Donation – Sporting Journal Radio

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

Letter of support – County/DNR
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve the draft letter of support for Lake of the Woods County’s application for Outdoor Heritage Funding to replace culverts for fish passage.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Reinhart cover crop cost share application   
The board reviewed Gene Reinhart’s cover crop cost share application for 70 acres at $50 per acre. Staff have authorized the contract per SWCD policy. 

2024 Audit and Management Representation Letter 

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to accept the 2024 independent audit from Peterson Company and to authorize the signing of the Management Representation letter.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

AC Water Analysis well testing clinic invoice

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve payment of the AC Water Analysis invoice for the well testing clinic.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests

MASWCD Governance
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to authorize any staff and supervisors to attend the MASWCD Governance Training on September 10th and 11th.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Area VIII Fall Tour and Meeting
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to authorize any staff and supervisors to attend the Area VIII Fall tour and meeting on September 18th and 19th.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

BWSR Academy
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to authorize any staff to attend the BWSR Academy on October 21st-23rd.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Int’l Rainy-LOW Watershed Board Meetings, Tower, MN
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to authorize Hirst to attend the International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Board meetings on August 12th-13th.
Affirmative: Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

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

Committee Reports -none

General Information and Discussion

CCM end of service term -Marisa Schmidt presented her end of service slideshow to the board. The slideshow captured her roles and responsibilities at the SWCD throughout her service term.

Update – forest management plan cost share program  – Roseau SWCD is implementing their own forest management plan cost share program   

Summer working session – board tour – the board discussed options for a fall tour.     

Notice of MCIT Dividend and Property Coverage Deductible change – the dividend notice, and deductible increase notice, was presented. 

Winter Road Peatland Phase 2 – Stromlund presented the Phase 2 proposal from HDR Engineering for the Winter Road project.  The proposal is only preliminary at this time. 

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

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Dohmen

Meeting adjournment time: 7:15 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

July 10th, 2025

Minutes from the July 10th, 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, Roger Krause, Nancy Dunnell

Members absent: Monica Dohmen

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; Conservation Corps intern, Marissa Schmidt

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

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the June 12th, 2025 minutes. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The July 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed. 

The 2025 2nd quarter budget vs actual report was reviewed. 

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

Old Business

District 3 Supervisor Vacancy Appointment 
No action was taken. Discussion included suggestions on ways to promote the vacancy and options for direct outreach.  

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek, NRCS Team Lead, notified the board that the deadline for EQIP applications had been moved up to August 1st. This is quite a bit earlier than prior years.  There will likely be a screening process because of the competitive nature of the funding. The Baudette field office vacancies have not changed but there is a current relocation process underway at a national level.  Bemidji staff is traveling to Baudette on a limited basis. 

New Business

CD renewal
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the reinvestment of the three $125,000 CDs expiring in 2025 into a maximum of a 2-year CD available through Multi-Bank Securities. The District Manager is the authorized staff with signing authority through Multi-Bank Securities.  
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Beckel Forest management plan cost share final payment
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve final payment for Tony Beckel’s 2024-11 FMP-RR forest management plan in the amount of $1,340.00 from the Rainy-Rapid Watershed Based Implementation funding. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Comstock forest management plan cost share final payment
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve final payment for Clifford Comstock’s 2023-07 FMP-LW forest management plan in the amount of $1,301.00 from the Lake of the Woods Watershed Based Implementation funding. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Carlson abandoned well sealing cost share application
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve Sandra Carlson’s abandoned well sealing cost share application in the amount of $1,000 or 100% of the total practice cost, whichever is less.  Funding will come from the District’s abandoned well sealing cost share funding. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Horner abandoned well sealing cost share application 
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve Loren Horner’s abandoned well sealing cost share application in the amount of $1,000 or 100% of the total practice cost, whichever is less.  Funding will come from the District’s abandoned well sealing cost share funding. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Cover crop cost share applications 
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the following cover crop cost share applications: Hadyn Rennemo for 70 acres at $50 per acre, Jade Estling for 40 acres at $50 per acre, Jake Hancock, 70 acres at $50 per acre. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Summer Newsletter
The consensus of the board was to develop a summer newsletter to be distributed county-wide.  

Training and Travel Requests – none

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

Committee Reports – none 

General Information and Discussion

Winter Road Peatland Restoration – Trask presented the map of the six sites that are currently being modeled as part of the Winter Road Lake Restoration investigation. 

Fall Winter Road Lake SNA Peatland Tour – discussion about ways to tour the sites being investigated to help inform the projects. 

2025 MASWCD Award Application period – an Outstanding Conservationist selection will need to be presented and approved at the August meeting

US Army Corps water level correspondence shared with the LOW Co. Board – see board packet for correspondence

Wetland Conservation Act Fees – the board discussed pros and cons of assessing fees as part of the violation/restoration order process. 

Williams Creek Wetland Mitigation Site – settlement agreement changes  – a new agreement is being developed to separate components of the current settlement. 

Vacker sign for stormwater practices
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the use of education funding for the purchase of stormwater interpretive signage based on the Vacker Sign Company quote for the City of Baudette stormwater treatment chambers. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Promotional items purchase
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the purchase of promotional pens from Nelson Ink in the amount of $504.00. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The next regular board meeting has been set for August 14th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Sonstegard Seconded: Krause

Meeting adjournment time: 7:52 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

June 12th, 2025

Minutes from the June 12th, 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 5:05 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; Corryn Trask; NRCS Team Lead, Jody Peek; County Commissioner, Joe Grund; Conservation Corps Intern, Marisa Schmidt

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

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

The May 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

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

Supervisor District 3
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to accept the resignation from Frank Sindelir, District 3 Supervisor, effective June 13th, 2025.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Sindelir has served as board supervisor since 2013.  The board expressed their appreciation to Sindelir for his years of service on the Board. 

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to accept nominations for Supervisor District 3 until the close of business July 9th, 2025.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Old Business

Cover crop policy
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to allow participants to enroll in cover crop cost share under the current 2025 soil health grant for up to three years. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – NRCS Team Lead, Jody Peek, presented information on current staffing levels.  There is no change to the current staffing in Baudette.  She also informed the board that contracts pre-obligated with Inflation Reduction Act funding had been terminated.

New Business

Replenish Petty Cash
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve replenishing the petty cash account in the amount of $69.63 to bring the total to $100.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Dirks LW FMP cost share application   

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dohmen, to approve David Dirks’ Lake of the Woods Watershed Forest Management Plan cost share contract in the amount of $300 + $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 106 acres.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Dirks FMP Cost share payment authorization 
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve David Dirks’ 2025-03 FMP-LW cost share contract final payment in the amount of $846.00.  

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

Safe deposit box authorizations  
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve the addition of Jacquelin Becklund and removal of Rebecca Buegler and Russel Hansen on the safe deposit box account at Border Bank. Josh Stromlund, Mike Hirst and Corryn Trask will retain account access. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Patton cover crop cost share application    

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sindelir, to approve Bill Patton’s cover crop cost share application for multi-species cover crops at a rate of $50 per acre, not to exceed 25 acres.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Annual well testing clinic budget   
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize expenses and approve a maximum budget of $2,000 for the annual well testing clinic. 

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

Larson AgBMP loan application
The board reviewed Boyd Larson’s AgBMP low-interest loan application for the purchase of a manure spreader. 

Aery AgBMP loan application  
The board reviewed Christina Aery’s AgBMP low-interest loan application for a septic system replacement.  

Keep It Clean Donation from LOW Whitetails Unlimited Chapter 

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to accept a donation in the amount of $500.00 for the Keep it Clean Program from the Lake of the Woods Whitetails Unlimited Chapter. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

MN DOT Living Snow Fence Agreement and Resolution
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to approve Agreement No 1058747 with the State of Minnesota and to authorize the purchase of weed suppression mat once signatures are obtained from all parties involved.   

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

Krause made a motion to adopt the following Resolution, the motion was seconded by Sindelir: 

LAKE OF THE WOODS SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT RESOLUTION #06-12-2025

IT IS RESOLVED that the Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District enter into MnDOT Agreement No. 1058747 with the State of Minnesota, Department of Transportation for the following purposes: 

To provide for payment by the State to the Conservation District of the State’s share of the costs of the living snow fence materials to be furnished and installed along Trunk Highway No. 172, in Control Section 3904, from Reference Point 0+00.05 to Reference Point 1+00.0, in Section 36 of Baudette Township at the property of Robert Bosch Corporation; and along Trunk Highway No. 11, in Control Section 3901, from Reference Point 127+00.912 to Reference Point 128+00.204, in Section 36 of Baudette Township at the property of Robert Bosch Corporation. 

IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors Chair and the District Manager are authorized to execute the Agreement and any amendments to the Agreement. 

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

County Fair – Keep it Clean Trailer rental space
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dohmen, to approve renting a space at the Lake of the Woods County Fair for the Keep it Clean trailer. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, 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 

Area VIII Meeting – the June meeting was the resolution meeting for Area VIII. Resolutions included support of advocating for maintaining enrollment in Sustainable Forest Incentives Act during budget reduction years and simplifying eLink reporting. MASWCD Director, LeAnn Buck, was in attendance at the meeting and provided a legislative update.  

LW Control Board Meeting – see attachment to the board packet for a copy of the report.  Hirst attended the meeting.   

General Information and Discussion

*Tree Sales 2025 report – see attachment to the board packet

*Conservation Corps – 2026 crew/internship application period – staff will be applying for 2 crews and an intern position for 2026. 

*County Fair Booth ideas – board suggestions included promoting programs of the SWCD including the AgBMP program, and a raffle drawing.   

*National Night Out ideas – staff requested ideas for the August community youth-based event.   

*Open meeting law – 2025 legislative changes – supervisors will no longer be required to post their locations as open if attending meetings remotely. They will still need to be able to be seen and heard, along with all members in attendance.  

The next regular board meeting has been set for July 10th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Sindelir Seconded: Krause

Meeting adjournment time: 7:10 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

May 8th, 2025

Minutes from the May 8th, 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 regular meeting was preceded by the Local Work Group session.

The board convened the Local Work Group meeting at 4:30 p.m.  The meeting was called to order by Frank Sindelir, acting Chair. 

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir. Nancy Dunnell joined at 5:15 p.m.

Members absent: none

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

NRCS 2025 Local Work Group Meeting

Peek presented the rankings from 2024.  The board reviewed the rankings and discussed changes to make for 2025.  Peek recorded the changes to the Pasture and Farmland categories for 2025.  The board also commented that there is reduced landowner outreach due to lack of staffing in the Baudette Field Office.  This lack of staffing has an impact on technical assistance provided and also overall participation in programs.  

The Local Work Group meeting concluded at 5:25 p.m.  

Dunnell called the regular SWCD board meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

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

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the April 10, 2025 minutes. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The April 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

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

Old Business – none

Special Reports

MN Star Tribune – a representative from the MN Star Tribune presented the results of the Keep it Clean Digital Marketing Campaign funded by a grant through the MN Pollution Control Agency.  

NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek, NRCS District Conservationist Team Lead, presented to the board. She noted that the Baudette Field Office has been deemed mission critical so there is strong support for keeping it open.  Peek also discussed the proposed NRCS staffing schedule to cover the current office vacancies.

New Business

Donation request from Take-A-Kid Fishing
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize a contribution of $500.00 from the Keep it Clean account towards the purchase of shirts for participants of the Take a Kid Fishing program. The shirts would include the Keep it Clean logo. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Multi-year cover crop cost share contracts

The board discussed landowner eligibility for multiple years of cover crop contracts. No action was taken. 

Load Program Purchase 

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the purchase of a replacement pH module for $211.00 with funding from the MPCA Load Program.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, 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 

Lake of the Woods Joint Powers Board – the JPB is proposing an amendment to the current watershed plan to help simplify it.
Keep it Clean Committee – presentation from the Star Tribune representative.  

General Information and Discussion

MASWCD Call for Resolutions – the board was notified that the resolution period was now open.  

The next regular board meeting has been set for June 12th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Sindelir

Meeting adjournment time: 7:10 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

April 10th, 2025

Minutes from the April 10th, 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 Frank Sindelir at 5:00 p.m.

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

Members absent: Nancy Dunnell

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 Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the March 13th, 2025 minutes. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

The March 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

The First Quarter Budget vs. Actual reports were reviewed. 

The First Quarter Supervisor Expense reports were reviewed.  

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

Old Business– none

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek, the NRCS Team Lead, presented on recent staffing updates.  There is no new information on the building lease.  Landowner contracts which were funded under the previous administration are being honored.  There may be changes to contracts which were not fully obligated.    

New Business

Local Workgroup Meeting Schedule

The Natural Resources Conservation Service Local Workgroup Meeting is set for May 8th at 4:30 prior to the regular SWCD board meeting. 

MPCA Keep It Clean Contract Change Order
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the budget change order for the MN Pollution Control Agency Keep it Clean contract and authorize the District Manager to sign the change order.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Personnel Policy Handbook Revision
The board reviewed the list of personnel policy handbook revisions provided in the board packet.  It is the consensus of the board to preliminarily approve the revisions presented and incorporate them into the policy handbook.    

Credit Cards
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to authorize Hirst and Trask to acquire SWCD Business Credit Cards with a cap of $1,000 per card through Border Bank’s provider.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Permission to pay tree sales invoices in advance of board meeting 
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to authorize paying the private nursery invoices for the tree sales program in advance of a regular board meeting.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests – none

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

Committee Reports 

TSA 8 Meeting – Stromlund gave an update on the recent TSA8 meeting.  No dues will be required for the non-state grant match due to the change in match requirements.  All Districts are able to use the survey equipment owned by the TSA.  

General Information and Discussion

2024 Rain Gauge Report – MN State Climatology Office – see attachment to the board packet for the 2024 report from the State Climatology Office

MASWCD Call for Resolutions – see attachment to the board packet for the call for resolutions memo.

Letter – FSA lease – see attachment to the board packet for a copy of the letter

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

Adjourn: Sonstegard Seconded: Dohmen

Meeting adjournment time: 6:45 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

March 13th, 2025

Minutes from the March 13th, 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 Frank Sindelir, Vice-Chair, at 5:00 p.m.

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

Members absent: Nancy Dunnell

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 Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the agenda.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the February 13th, 2025 minutes. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

The February 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

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

Old Business – none

Special Reports

Red Lake DNR – Mindy Phillips – Phillips presented on the Red Lake DNR proposal being drafted to the MN Legislative Citizen-Commission on Minnesota Resources to install monitoring buoys on Lake of the Woods that would collect water quality data. The Red Lake DNR is requesting a letter of support for the project and also a future partnership with monitoring assistance from the SWCD.  

NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek, NRCS Team Lead presented information on the current hiring freeze and staff terminations, lease termination of the Baudette Service Center offices, and program payments. SWCD staff have been receiving inquiries about the state of the office, staffing levels and cost share payments to landowners. 

New Business

Letter of Support for “Red Lake Nation Long-Term Monitoring Buoys”  Proposal
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the letter of support to the MN Legislative Citizen-Commission on Minnesota Resources for the Red Lake Nation long-term monitoring buoy project.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

It was the consensus of the SWCD board to consider a contract for services with the Red Lake DNR if and when the grant is awarded. 

Conservation Corps MN & IA Agreement for Shoreline Cleanup
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the Conservation Corps MN and Iowa Agreement for project #220-10674, for the Keep it Clean Shoreline Cleanup. 

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

Appointment on the IRLWWB – three year term – Hirst
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to authorize Hirst to serve on the International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Board for a three-year term.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Orcutt L-W forest management plan cost share application
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Orcutt’s Lake of the Woods Watershed forest management plan cost share application in the amount of $300 base payment plus $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 120 acres.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Larsen R-R forest management plan cost share application 

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Larsen’s Rainy-Rapid forest management plan cost share application in the amount of $300 base payment plus $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 120 acres.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Waconia Hunt Club Rainy-Rapid forest management plan cost share payment (Kunze) 

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to approve Waconia Hunt Club’s Rainy-Rapid forest management plan cost share reimbursement for contract 2024-05 FMP-RR in the amount of $995.50.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Request to purchase a QuickBooks yearly subscription
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve renewal of the QuickBooks Desktop yearly subscription and to authorize payment via ACH withdrawal.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

April SFA workshop 

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve expenses for the Sustainable Farming Association (SFA) workshop in April at an amount not to exceed $736. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

HDR Proposal – Winter Road Peatland Area Phase 1 Assessment 

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve entering into the agreement for engineering services from HDR Engineering for the Winter Road Peatland Area Phase 1 Assessment contingent upon securing funding from the MN Department of Natural Resources. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Banking authorizations  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve online viewing access of the SWCD’s Border Bank Checking Account and Border Bank Savings Account for SWCD staff Corryn Trask, Mike Hirst and Jacquelin Becklund.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

County Fair Booth  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the rental agreement for a fair booth at the Lake of the Woods 2025 County Fair.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Contract for services 

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the contract for administrative services with Rebecca Buegler, effective no earlier than April 1st, 2025. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Baudette Service Center lease 

The SWCD board was notified that the Farm Service Agency lease for the Baudette Service Center has been terminated effective August 2025.  The NRCS and SWCD offices are part of this leased space.  No action was taken.

Cost Share Contract Corrections    

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve amending the November 14th, 2024 cost share allocations based on an increase of the total estimated cost for Reichert’s shoreline protection project to $75,000.00, Persson’s shoreline protection project to $25,000.00 and Klein’s shoreline protection project to $12,500.00.  Additional funding will come from the state cost share program. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.  

Persson cost share partial payment 
Persson submitted a request for partial payment for rock delivered to the project site. The total invoiced amount submitted for reimbursement was $14,314.31.
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve Persson’s 2025-02 CS/LWWBIF contract partial payment in the amount of $10,735.73, which is 75% of $14,314.31.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests

TSA Meeting in Bemidji on April 8th – Stromlund and Sindelir are the representatives with Trask as the alternate.  

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

Committee Reports 

Area VIII Meeting report – Trask presented information from the Area VIII Meeting in Bemidji.  

General Information and Discussion

Draft Employee Policy – the staff will draft up a list of changes to help determine if a full board or personnel committee presentation is more appropriate.  

NACD Update on Recent Executive Actions – see attachment to the SWCD February board packet.

The next regular board meeting has been set for April 10th, 2025  at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Sonstegard Seconded: Dohmen

Meeting adjournment time: 7:40 pm

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

February 13th, 2025

Minutes from the February 13th, 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, Frank Sindelir, Nancy Dunnell
Members absent: none

Others present: Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Team Lead, Jody Peek; County Commissioner, Joe Grund

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

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the January 16th, 2025 minutes. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The January 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

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

Frank Sindelir joined the meeting.

Old Business 

Feedlot Dues
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to amend the January 9th motion setting Feedlot Program dues at $125.00 to the correct amount of $150.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – NRCS Team Lead, Jody Peek, presented a report on the current hiring and funding freezes. Program payments are being impacted. 

New Business

Letter of support for the Phase II – Lake of the Woods Southern Shore Barrier Island Erosion Investigation 
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to approve a letter indicating support for Lake of the Woods County to pursue LCCMR funding for Phase II of the Lake of the Woods Southern Shore Barrier Island Erosion Investigation.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Reinvestment of called CD   

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the reinvestment of a $125,000 certificate of deposit at Multi-Bank Securities which was recently called.  

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

Replenish Petty Cash  

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve replenishing the petty cash fund with $57.02 to bring it back to $100.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Envirothon

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to approve a contribution of $300.00 for the Area VIII Envirothon program. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Replacement of lost checks

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to approve reissuing check #9113 to Bradley Levasseur in the amount of $2,360.50 with a stop-payment and reissue check #9163 to Sun Life Financial in the amount of $95.24. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Peterson Company LTD 2024 audit bid  

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to approve the audit engagement letter and bid from Peterson Company LTD for the 2024 audit. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Check signing authority   

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to authorize the removal of Rebecca Buegler from all Border Bank financial accounts and online access effective February 28th, 2025. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2024 Rain Gauge Volunteer recognition  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve $20 per volunteer ($320 total) for the purchase of gift cards from Northdale Oil and Subway.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

DNR Joint Powers Agreement  

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize the District Manager to sign the Joint Powers Board agreement with the Department of Natural Resources for Phase 1 Winter Road Peatland feasibility study. 

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

Paulseth-Bautch forest management plan cost share payment request  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to approve Paulseth-Bautch’s 2024-04-FMP forest management plan cost share final payment request in the amount of $1,340.00

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


Johnston abandoned well sealing cost share payment request

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve Johnston’s 2024-17-SP abandoned well sealing cost share payment in the amount of $1000.00. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.


Keep It Clean Legislation – Letter of Support  

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sindelir, to approve a letter of support for the proposed 2025 Keep it Clean Legislation.  

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

Microsoft Suite purchase

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the purchase of replacement Microsoft Suite software for the Office Assistant computer seat.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests

Area VIII Meeting – a motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize staff and supervisors to attend the Area meeting in Bemidji.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Legislative Days – a motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize staff and supervisors to attend Legislative Days in St. Paul on March 4th and 5th.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

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

Committee Reports 

Hiring committee
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to extend an offer to Jacqueline Becklund for the position of Office Assistant with a starting wage of Grade 8/3.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

General Information and Discussion

Giziibii RC&D Correspondence

Registration reminder for WQ forum 

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

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Dohmen

Meeting adjournment time: 7:20 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

January 9th, 2025

Minutes from the January 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 Board Chair, 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; County Commissioner, Joe Grund

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

Annual Organizational Meeting Items: 

Officer Elections

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to nominate Nancy Dunnell as Chair. 

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

Nancy Dunnell took over as Chair. 

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

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to nominate Monica Dohmen as Treasurer.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Krause, to nominate John Sonstegard as Secretary.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to nominate Roger Krause for Public Relations.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to set the following business items for 2025: 

Monthly Meeting date, time and location – Second Thursday of each month at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom at the County Government Center. 

Designate Official Depositories – Border Bank of Baudette, Multi-Bank Securities, Inc.

Check Signing Authority – Josh Stromlund, District Manager; Nancy Dunnell, Chair; 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 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 Northdale, 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 2025

Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts $ 5,402.27

MASWCD North Central Area (VIII) $ 275.00

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, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Committee Assignments

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to set the committee assignments for 2025 as follows:

CommitteeBoardStaffMtgs/yr (approx.)
Area VIII MeetingsAll supervisorsAll staff3
North Central MN TSA 8Frank SindelirJosh Stromlund, Alternate: Corryn Trask2
Personnel CommitteeJohn Sonstegard,
Nancy Dunnell		Minimum 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 One Watershed One Plan Policy CommitteeMonica Dohmen, John Sonstegard6
School Forest Committeen/aCorryn Trask8
Lake of the Woods Watershed Joint Powers BoardNancy Dunnell 
Alternates: John Sonstegard		4
AIS/Keep it Clean CommitteeMonica DohmenMike Hirst6
AIS/Keep it Clean Committee     (at large member) – $75 per diemMike Larson6

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

Review Fixed Assets List – the fixed asset list was reviewed. 

Housekeeping items – the following housekeeping items were reviewed: updated list of current Memorandums of Understanding and Agreements, policy handbook, campaign finance and public disclosure, PERA membership.

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to approve the December 12th, 2024  minutes. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The December 2024 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

The 2024 fourth quarter budget vs. actual report was reviewed. 

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

Old Business

PRAP Assistance Grants – the Board reviewed the Performance Review and Assistance Program grant agreement with the Board of Water and Soil Resources that was approved at the December 2024 meeting. 

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek, District Conservationist – Peek informed the board that Michael Steinhauer had taken a new position and would no longer be serving in the Baudette Field Office.  The board discussed the three vacancies that now currently exist in Baudette and directed staff to write a letter asking NRCS to address these vacancies.

New Business
Livestock Producer Workshop  
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dohmen, to authorize a budget of $1,000 to host a livestock producer workshop.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Always There Staffing Agreement    

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the 2025 General Agreement for recruiting and employment services with Always There Staffing, Inc. for the Aquatic Invasive Species Inspector Program.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

DNR Delegation Agreement – AIS Prevention Inspection of Water-related Equipment    

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to enter into a Delegation Agreement for Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention: Inspection of Water-related Equipment with the MN Department of Natural Resources.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Edwards abandoned well sealing cost share final payment   

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dohmen, to authorize the final payment for Edwards’ 2024-12SP abandoned well sealing project in the amount of $1000.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Henning Forest Management Plan cost share final payment  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize final payment for Henning’s 2024-01 FMP-RR forest management plan in the amount of $1,717.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Ravndalen forest management plan cost share application    

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dohmen, to authorize Milo Ravndalen’s forest management plan cost share application in the amount of $300 base payment plus $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 320 acres.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2025 MN Pay Equity Report    

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sindelir, to approve the 2025 MN Pay Equity Report for submission.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Inventory/Asset List items for removal

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize the following removal and disposal of items from the inventory list: 

  • Screen protectors – Dispose
  • Step ladders – 4 on hand, donate 2
  • Wheel chocks  – 4.5 on hand. Donate to Keep it Clean. 
  • Projector Epson 2002 -Donate
  • Computer, docking station, cords – HP Elitebook 2018 -Destroy hard-drive and recycle
  • Computer, docking station, cords – HP Elitebook 2019 -Destroy hard-drive and recycle
  • Computer, docking station, cords – Dell Optiplex, 2018 -Destroy hard-drive and recycle
  • Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021 – Updated TO 2024 (digital only)
  • RAM memory module on Buegler computer – Destroy and recycle
  • Gauge station – replacement 7Ah sealed battery (2018) – donate
  • Hip Waders, size 7 – Disposed
  • Charge It – Battery maintainer – Donate
  • VanDorn Sampler  -Return to MPCA
  • VanDorn Sampler  -Return to MPCA
  • YSI – 50 foot cable -Return to MPCA
  • YSI 6920 V2 Sonde S/N 08E100535 -Return to MPCA
  • YSI MDS Hand Pad S/N 08F101766 -Return to MPCA
  • YSI sonde to computer cable #006067 -Return to MPCA
  • YSI Model 6560 Conductivity/Temperature Probe Replacement kit -Return to MPCA
  • YSI handpad -Return to MPCA
  • 2004 Chevy -Returned to County


Training and Travel Requests

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to approve staff and supervisor registrations for those wishing to attend the Rainy-Lake of the Woods Water Quality Forum on March 12th-13th.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve Hirst’s attendance at the MN Association of County Feedlot Officer’s Conference on March 25th-27th.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

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

Committee Reports 

Hiring Committee – the board discussed the current job posting and directed the District Manager to conduct screening interviews on candidates who have submitted full applications. The board directed the staff to continue to post the position and actively recruit. 

General Information and Discussion

First Quarter Special Meeting – the staff will work on setting a first quarter special meeting. Possible discussion topics include strategic planning and 5-year outlook and staffing needs. 

Correspondence – the MASWCD Key Achievements and Milestones report was presented. 

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

Adjourn: Dohmen Seconded: Krause

Meeting adjournment time: 7:35 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

December 12th, 2024

Minutes from the December 12th, 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

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

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to approve the November 14th, 2024 minutes. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to approve the November 21st, 2024 special meeting minutes as amended. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The November 2024 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

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

Old Business – none


Special Reports

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

New Business
Approve the 2025 Budget
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the 2025 budget.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Approve Herzog’s LW Forest Management Plan Cost Share Application
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve Herzog’s Thundering Herd Hunt Club Lake of the Woods Watershed Forest Management Plan cost share application in the amount of $300 base payment plus $6.50 per planned acre, not to exceed 320 acres.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Approve Johnston’s abandoned well sealing cost share application  

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

Approve abandoned well sealing application blanket extensions

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve a one-year extension for Arnesen, Stodgel and Maus well sealing contracts with the requirement that the practice be completed or the contract be terminated, and a one-year blanket extension for all other active well sealing contracts.   

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

Approve Kvarnlov’s R-R forest management plan cost share payment 

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Dunnell, to approve Chris Kvarnlov’s Rainy-Rapid forest management plan cost share final payment in the amount of $1,387.50.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

AgBMP low-interest loan request for reduced tillage equipment   

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dunnell, to approve Arnesen’s AgBMP low-interest loan application for reduced tillage equipment. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

New hire  

The board consensus was to extend the job posting for an additional three weeks.  Sonstegard and Dohmen will be on the hiring committee.  

Regen Ag Courses 

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the purchase of 2025 online training seats for Regen Ag and Adaptive Grazing.  Total cost is not to exceed $2,000 with funds to come from the Lake of the Woods watershed-based implementation funding. 

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

Keep It Clean sign purchases

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the purchase of Keep it Clean 3’x5’ metal signs and lumber to construct four access signs.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Approve LW County’s 2024-14-SP well sealing cost share final payment  

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve Lake of the Woods County’s abandoned well sealing cost share final payment in the amount of $1700.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Approve Vansickle’s 2024-16SP abandoned well sealing cost share final payment

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve Jay Vansickle’s abandoned well sealing cost share final payment in the amount of $1,000.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Thompson abandoned well sealing cost share application
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to approve Dean Thompson’s abandoned well sealing cost share application and final payment in the amount of $1,000.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, 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 

MASWCD Convention – the annual convention was held December 2nd-4th. Sonstegard and Hirst were in attendance. 

General Information and Discussion

2024 SWCD Election Results and Reminders   

Hiring and Personnel Policy updates – staff is waiting on the grant agreement from BWSR on the performance grant.  

Williams Creek Settlement Agreement – Correspondence with the County Board – the consensus was to request that the County board keep the SWCD board updated on the use of funds related to the settlement agreement.  

The next regular board meeting has been set for January 9th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Sonstegard Seconded: Krause

Meeting adjournment time: 6:45 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

November 21st, 2024

Minutes from the November 21st, 2024 Special 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 4:00 p.m.

Members present: John Sonstegard, Monica Dohmen, Roger Krause, Frank Sindelir
Members absent: Nancy Dunnell
Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask 

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

New Business.

2025 Wage Scale

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir to approve the 2025 wage scale (LW County 2024) to replace the current SWCD wage scale. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelirl Opposed: None Motion carried.

*The newly adopted 2025 Wage Scale is added as an attachment to the November 21st, 2024 agenda.  

2025 Wages
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sindelir to approve the 2025 wages effective January 1st, 2025 as follows:

  • Resource Conservationist, Senior: Grade 16, Step B/2
  • Office Assistant, Senior: Grade 9, Step B/2 
  • Water Resources Technician, Specialist: Grade 12, Step A/1 

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

Update Position Descriptions

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard to approve updating the position descriptions for all current staff to the current Grade and Level.  
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Review Position Description for new hire

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir to approve the Office Assistant Position Description at a Grade 8-9 Specialist level, the Position Announcement, Application, and a December 16th application deadline.  
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Adjourn: Sindelir Seconded: Sonstegard

Meeting adjournment time: 5:00 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________