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:

CommitteeBoardStaffMtgs/yr (approx.)
Area VIII MeetingsAll supervisorsAll staff3 – Bemidji
North Central MN TSA 8Nancy DunnellJosh Stromlund, Alternate: Corryn Trask2 – Bemidji
Personnel CommitteeJohn Sonstegard, Nancy DunnellMinimum 1
International Multi-Agency Technical Advisory Committeen/aMike Hirst3
Lake of the Woods Control BoardMonica DohmenMike 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 – Warroad
AIS/Keep it Clean CommitteeJohn SopkowiakMike Hirst6
AIS/Keep it Clean Committee     (at large member) – $75 per diemMike Larson6

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:_____________________

September 11, 2025

Minutes from the September 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, 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 Sonstegard, to approve the agenda as presented.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell, Sopkowiak   Opposed: None Motion carried.

The board welcomed John Sopkowiak, newly appointed District 3 board member and introduced themselves.

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

The August 2025 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

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

Old Business – none

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates -Jody Peek, NRCS Team Lead, joined the meeting remotely.  Peek informed the board that there were no new EQIP applications for Lake of the Woods.  There was discussion on how this can be attributed to having no NRCS staff present on a regular basis.  Chamberlain is covering the Baudette Field Office as the office assistant, and is now also assigned to team-wide duties. Field visits for current contracts will be conducted mainly by the Bemidji staff. 

New Business

Payment to LOTW JPB  
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to authorize the payment of $32,987.50 for the first installment of the FY26 Midpoint Assessment Grant to the Lake of the Woods Watershed Joint Powers Board.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell, Sopkowiak   Opposed: None Motion carried.

Permission to void check 
A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to void check number 9257 without a stop payment.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Dunnell, Sopkowiak   Opposed: None Motion carried.

Forest management plan cost share extension – Sonstegard  
A motion was made by Dohman, with a second by Sopkowiak, to grant an extension for Sonstegard’s Forest Management Plan cost share contract 2024-08 FMP-RR until September 30th, 2026.

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

Forest management plan cost share payment – Anderson

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to authorize final payment for Anderson’s contract 2024-10 FMP-RR in the amount of $1,138.50.

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

Forest management plan cost share payment – Herzog   

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sopkowiak, to authorize final payment for Herzog’s 2024-06 FMP-LW in the amount of $2,380.00.

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

DNR Peatland Restoration Phase 2 Joint Powers Agreement 

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to approve the Joint Powers Agreement Swift #276018 with the State of Minnesota for the Winter Road Lake Peatland Scientific and Natural Area Phase 2 Investigation.

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

HDR Peatland Restoration Phase 2 Contract  

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sopkowiak, to approve the Winter Road Peatland Phase 2 Investigation contract with HDR Engineering. 

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dunnell, Sopkowiak   Dohmen abstained Motion carried.

Wages, benefits, Earned Sick and Safe Time for 2026  

A motion was made by Dohmen, with a second by Sonstegard, to direct the Personnel Committee to provide a preferred and alternate health insurance option for the full board to review.

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dunnell, Sopkowiak   Dohmen abstained Motion carried.

Karvakko engineering cost estimate

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Dohmen, to table the Karvakko Engineering cost estimate until further information could be gathered.

Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dunnell, Sopkowiak   Dohmen abstained Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests – none

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

Committee Reports 

AIS – Keep it Clean Committee 

General Information and Discussion

Supervisor Committees – the board will review committee vacancies at the annual meeting unless it is determined that earlier action is needed. 

Cost share programs – discussion on existing SWCD cost share programs.  More information on the cover crop results will be provided at the October meeting.  The SWCD must make a formal request for funding in the next quarter. 

Well testing clinic report – see board packet. 

MCIT coverage for supervisors – see board packet 

MNDOT Living Snow Fence Agreement – all parties involved have signed on to the agreement.  The project will be installed in 2026 and the staff will begin acquiring materials this fall.  

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

Adjourn: Dohmen Seconded: Sopkowiak

Meeting adjournment time: 7:30 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

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:_____________________