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:_____________________

November 14th, 2024

Minutes from the November 14th, 2024 Regular Board Meeting

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

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

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

Others present: Resource Conservationist, Mike Hirst; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Resource Conservationist, Michael Steinhauer; County Commissioner, Joe Grund

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

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the October 10th, 2024 minutes.  The motion was seconded by Krause.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the October 30th, 2024 special meeting minutes.  The motion was seconded by Sonstegard.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The October 2024 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

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

Old Business – none

Special Reports

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

New Business

LOWW WBIF Cooperative Agreements   

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to approve the Shoreline Stabilization Cost Share, the Ad Education and the Keep it Clean Cooperative Agreements with the Lake of the Woods Joint Powers Board.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Mawyer R-R forest management plan cost share payment
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize the final payment for Mawyer’s 2023-02 FMP-RR forest management plan cost share contract in the amount of $2,380.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Kunze R-R forest stewardship plan cost share payment   

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize the final payment for Kunze’s 2024-04 FMP-RR forest management plan cost share contract in the amount of $1,021.50.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Blom R-R forest stewardship plan cost share payment    

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the final payment for Blom’s 2024-03 FMP-RR forest management plan cost share contract in the amount of $553.50.

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

Hauger LW forest stewardship plan cost share payment    
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the final payment for Hauger’s 2024-03 FMP-LW forest management plan cost share contract in the amount of $2,380.00.

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

Levasseur R-R forest stewardship plan cost share payment 
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize the final payment for Levasseur’s 2023-01 FMP-RR forest management plan cost share contract in the amount of $2,360.50.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Beckel R-R forest management plan cost share application
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Beckel’s Rainy-Rapid forest management plan cost share application for up to a maximum of 160 acres at $300 base payment plus $6.50 per planned acre.

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

Rennemo R-R forest management plan cost share application

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to authorize Rennemo’s Rainy-Rapid forest management plan cost share application for up to a maximum of 320 acres at $300 base payment plus $6.50 per planned acre.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

City of Baudette Stormceptor payment request  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to approve the payment request for the City of Baudette’s stormwater projects in the amount not to exceed $88,740.00 contingent upon receiving all required supporting documents for the invoice.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

AgBMP loan application    

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the AgBMP loan application for a septic application in the amount of $18,000 for Schwenzfeier.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Cost share ranking and project selection   

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to approve the following cost share application recommendations:

Approved applications:

  • Brent and Bruce Reichert, shoreline protection, $45,000 or 75% of the total cost, whichever is less. Funding from the LW WBIF shoreline cost share program. 
  • Michael Klein, shoreline protection, $8,438 or 75% of the total cost, whichever is less. Funding from the LW WBIF shoreline cost share program. 
  • Karl Perrson, shoreline protection, $15,000 or 75% of the total cost, whichever is less. Funding from the LW WBIF shoreline cost share program. 

Denied applications:

  • Michael Kraemer

Deferred applications:

  • Mathew Vickaryous, Anthony Pirkl, Larry Howard

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

Computer purchase request    

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the purchase of two USDA compatible computers and one non-compatible laptop computer for a total not to exceed $7,300.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Google Drive subscription 

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to approve the 1-year Google Drive subscription to a Google Business account with the intent to renew annually.

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

AIS Inspector Year End Appreciation Award 

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to approve a contribution of $150 per individual for four 2024 Lake of the Woods AIS inspectors with funding to come from the AIS fund.

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

Keep It Clean newsletter

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to approve expenses in the amount of $830 for email collection and an online newsletter to promote the Keep it Clean Program. Funding will come from the MPCA Keep it Clean Supplemental Grant.  

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

Letter of resignation  
A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sonstegard, to accept Becky Buegler’s letter of resignation, effective February 28th, 2025.  

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

Permission to advertise and hire   

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to develop items needed for posting and advertising the part-time office assistant position. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Special meeting schedule – budget and 2025 wages/benefits   

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to set a special meeting on November 21st at 4:00 p.m. to set 2025 wages and budget. 

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

Personnel handbook update 

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize the Grant Agreement for the BWSR Performance Review and Assistance Program for funding to support the update of the Personnel handbook.   

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

Olson abandoned well sealing application

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to approve Bill Olson’s abandoned well sealing cost share application in the amount of $1,000 or 100% of the total practice cost, whichever is less. 

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

Keep It Clean radio advertising
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize $1,500 towards radio advertisements for the Keep it Clean program. 

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

VanSickle abandoned well sealing cost share application
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to approve Jay VanSickle’s abandoned well sealing cost share application in the amount of $1,000 or 100% of the total practice cost, whichever is less.

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

Fjerstand R-R forest management plan cost share payment
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Joey Fjerstad’s 2024-06 FMP-RR Rainy-Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share final payment in the amount of $1,784.00. 

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

Training and Travel Requests

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Vrtacnik’s recertification workshop expenses in the amount of $260 for his Construction Site Management and Construction Installer certifications. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

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

Committee Reports 

Lake of the Woods Watershed JPB – new cooperative agreements approved for FY24 funding

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

General Information and Discussion

Cover crop cost share program summary – see attachment to the board packet

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

The next regular board meeting has been set for December 12th, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Sindelir Seconded: Sonstegard

Meeting adjournment time: 7:30 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

October 30th, 2024

Minutes from the October 30th, 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 3:30 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;  Cleveland Cliffs, Inc. Program Manager-Environmental Permitting and Regulatory, Brooke Lund; Cleveland Cliffs, Inc. Program Manager- Community and Government Relations, Sandra Karnowski

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

New Business

SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT – In the Matter of Hibbing Taconite Mine and Stockpile Progression and Williams Creek Project Specific Wetland Mitigation 

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize an amendment to the October 13, 2015 settlement agreement between the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Lake of the Woods Soil and Water Conservation District, Lake of the Woods County, Cliff’s Mining Company, and Northern Conservation LLC as presented.

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

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Sindelir

Meeting adjournment time: 4:08 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

October 10th, 2024

Minutes from the October 10, 2024 Regular Board Meeting

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

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

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

Members absent: none

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

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

A motion was made by Sindelir to approve the September 12th, 2024 minutes.  The motion was seconded by Sonstegard.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

The September 2024 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

The 3rd Quarter budget vs. actual reports were reviewed.

The Supervisor expense reports were reviewed. 

A motion was made by Sonstegard to approve the bills as listed on the agenda.  The motion was seconded by Dunnell. 
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

MASWCD Resolution Voting    

The Supervisors voted on the MASWCD 2024 resolutions. 

Health Insurance Renewal 2025    

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the following 2025 health insurance options: maintain the current SWCD health insurance plan with SWCD coverage at 100% for a family plan and 100% for a single plan. The open enrollment period will be set from October 11th until November 22nd.  No supplemental programs will be offered.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried. 

Personnel policy update    

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to initiate a personnel policy update and seek BWSR financial assistance to help with costs.  

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

2025 Buffer Implementation Grant Agreement  

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize the 2025 Buffer Implementation Grant Agreement P25-0606 with the Board of Water and Soil Resources.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Lake of the Woods county abandoned well sealing cost share application

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to approve the Lake of the Woods County abandoned well sealing cost share application at 100% funding, with total cost to exceed the $1000 maximum due to community benefit. The District Manager is authorized to set the maximum payment allowed upon receiving the contractor’s cost estimate.

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

Hoscheid abandoned well sealing cost share application    

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

Marken R-R Forest Management Plan cost share final payment   

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to authorize James Marken’s 2024-07 FMP-RR forest management plan cost share final payment in the amount of $2,081.00.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

2023 Audit and Management Representation Letter 

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize the 2023 draft audit from Peterson Company Ltd with corrections to page 11 leave amounts as noted in the board packet and to approve the Management Representation letter. 

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

Keep It Clean purchases   
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize Keep it Clean promotional expenses as submitted in the board packet for a total of $6,150 with funding to come from the MPCA contract.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Keep It Clean use of McAtee Memorial Fund    

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the use of the McAtee Memorial fund as match towards the Lake of the Woods WBIF funding.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

AIS purchases 
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the purchase of 1,200 towels to be used for AIS promotions with funding to come from the State AIS grant.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Rice cost share project final payment

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Dunnell, to authorize final payment for the Lake of the Woods County (S. Rice) cost share contract in the amount not to exceed $20,035.39 or 100% of the final invoiced amount. 

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

SWCD signs

A motion was made by Dunnell, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize up to $500 towards the cost of updating the SWCD signs.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir, Dunnell Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests

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

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

Committee Reports 

The Personnel Committee met to discuss wage and benefits for 2025. 

General Information and Discussion

International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Board’s updates

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

Adjourn: Krause Seconded: Dunnell

Meeting adjournment time: 6:30 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________

September 12th, 2024

Minutes from the September 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

Members absent: Nancy Dunnell

Others present: Land and Water Planning Director, Josh Stromlund; Resource Conservationist, Corryn Trask; NRCS Team Lead, Jody Peek; NRCS Area Forester, Garrett Christianson

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

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

The August 2024 Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.  

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

Old Business – none

Special Reports

NRCS partner updates – Jody Peek, Bemidji Team Lead DC presented on the recent CSP deadline, there are over 19,000 new contracted acres in the area and 10,000 are in Lake of the Woods county.  There was discussion on how the CSP program is implemented.  Garrett Christianson, NRCS Area Forester presented on implementing forestry practices in the region.  He discussed several ways that NRCS could assist with forestry initiatives.  

New Business

HEI Agreement for Services – GIS tool redevelopment    

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize the Board Chair to enter into an agreement for services with Houston Engineering to redevelop the culvert GIS tool for use in ArcPro.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

2025 Soil health delivery grant agreement   
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to enter into the 2025 Soil Health Delivery Grant with the Board of Water and Soil Resources. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Vehicle windshield replacement   
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize the replacement of the 2014 Dodge windshield. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Norske Acres Forest Management Plan cost share payment   
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Krause, to authorize final payment for Norske Acres Forest Management Plan cost share contract 2024-02 FMP-RR in the amount of $1,930. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Woodsmen Properties well sealing cost share payment   
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize final payment for Woodsmen Properties LLC 2024-04-SP abandoned well sealing cost share contract in the amount of $1,000.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Anderson Forest Management Plan Cost Share Application    

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Timothy Anderson’s Rainy-Rapid Forest Management Plan cost share application in the amount of $300 base payment plus $6.50 per acre, not to exceed 160 acres. 

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

Reinhart cover crop application    

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize Jean Reinhart’s cover crop cost share application in the amount of $50 per acre, not to exceed 61 acres. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Estling cover crop application  
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Estling Farm’s cover crop cost share application in the amount of $50 per acre, not to exceed 38 acres. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Canfield cover crop application  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize Beau Canfield’s cover crop cost share application in the amount of $50 per acre, not to exceed 36 acres. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Hancock cover crop application  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize Jake Hancock’s cover crop cost share application in the amount of $50 per acre, not to exceed 32 acres. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Cover Crop Contract Final Payments   
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize final payments on all approved cover crop cost share contracts prior to the next regular board meeting contingent upon them meeting all requirements for technical and administrative sign-off.  

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

Peppermint Creek final payment
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize final payment for Peppermint Creek’s 2024-11-CS-RRWBIF cost share contract in the amount of $12,416.25.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Certificates of Deposit   
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize the reinvestment of the four certificates of deposit expiring in 2024 for a period of up to two years and to replace the called certificate of deposit with a four year CD. 

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

AMI Shoreline Protection Proposal_REV1    
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to enter into an agreement with AMI Consulting Engineers for the purpose of providing lakeshore technical and engineering services. 

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

Edwards abandoned well sealing cost share application
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize Rodney Edward’s abandoned well sealing cost share application in the amount of $1,000 or 100% of the total project cost, whichever is less.

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

FY22 Local Capacity Grant Extension

A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Krause, to authorize the amendment of the FY22 Local Capacity Grant to extend the grant until December 31, 2025. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Training and Travel Requests

Trimble VRS Training, October 15   
A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize technical staff to attend the Trimble VRS training in Bemidji.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

BWSR Academy, all staff, October 29-31   
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize all staff to attend the BWSR Academy in Brainerd on October 29th-31st.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

IJC Semi Annual, Hirst, October 21-24 
A motion was made by Sindelir, with a second by Sonstegard, to authorize Hirst to attend the IJC Semi-Annual meeting in Ottowa, Canada on October 21st-24th.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

Soil Health Assessments Field Day, staff, October 3
A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize technical staff to attend the soil health assessment field day in Park Rapids on October 3rd. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

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

Committee Reports  – none

General Information and Discussion

2025 Wage and Benefits discussion   

A motion was made by Sonstegard, with a second by Sindelir, to authorize the personnel committee to meet and discuss 2025 wages and benefits.
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.


Annual well testing clinic summary
See attachment to the board packet for the annual well testing clinic summary. 

Int’l Rainy-LOW Watershed Board’s Phase 2 Report  

A motion was made by Krause, with a second by Sonstegard, to table the presentation of the International Rainy Lake of the Woods Phase 2 report. 
Affirmative: Sonstegard, Dohmen, Krause, Sindelir Opposed: None Motion carried.

The next regular board meeting has been set for October 10th, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. in the Boardroom of the County Government Center.  

Adjourn: Sonstegard Seconded: Sindelir

Meeting adjournment time: 7:25 p.m.

Secretary:_________________________________ Date:_____________________