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1991 LCMR PROJECT
ABSTRACTS
Laws 1991 Chapter 254 Including Projects From:
MN FUTURE RESOURCES FUND (MFRF) -
OIL OVERCHARGE FUND (OOC)-
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES TRUST FUND (TF) -
M.L. 1991, Chapter 254, Art. 1, Sec. 14*
July 1, 1991 - June 30, 1993
The following documents are short abstracts for projects
funded during the 1991-93 biennium. If you would like further
information about specific projects, please contact the appropriate program
manager at the address or phone number listed.
Contents
RECREATION
WATER
EDUCATION
AGRICULTURE
FORESTRY
FISHERIES
WILDLIFE
LAND
MINERALS
WASTE
OIL OVERCHARGE
RECREATION (Subd. 3)
3(a) Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Areas
$75,000 MFRF
3(b) Superior Hiking Trail
$400,000 MFRF
3(c) Local River Planning
$400,000 MFRF
3(d) Access to Lakes and Rivers
$1,000,000 MFRF
3(e) Land and Water Resource Management for the Lower St. Croix National
Scenic Riverway
$360,000 TF
3(f) Mississippi River Valley Blufflands Initiative
$150,000 TF
3(g) Reclamation of Recreational Systems and Environmental Resources from
Existing Urban/Suburban Neighborhoods
$200,000 MFRF
3(h) Preservation of Historic Shipwrecks in Lake Superior
$100,000 MFRF
3(i) Land and Water Conservation Fund Administration
$84,000 MFRF
3(j) Historic Records Database
$180,000 MFRF
3(k) Fur Trade Research and Planning
$250,000 MFRF
3(l) Mystery Cave Resource Evaluation
$150,000 MFRF
3(m) Rails-to-Trails Acquisition and Development
$1,000,000 TF
WATER (Subd. 4)
4(a) Stream and Watershed Information System
$200,000 TF
4(b) South Central MN Surface Water Resources Atlases and Data Base
$300,000 TF
4(c) MN River Basin Water Quality Monitoring
$700,000 TF
4(d) Waterwatch -- Citizen Monitoring and Protection Program
$270,000 MFRF
4(e) Demonstration of Biotechnology for Removing Organic Chemicals from
Aquifers and Groundwater
$96,000 MFRF
4(f) County Geologic Atlas (MGS) / Groundwater Sensitivity Mapping (DNR)
$1,400,000 TF
4(g) Aquifer Analysis in Southeastern Minnesota
$73,000 MFRF
4(h) Clean Water Partnership Grants to Local Units of Government
$700,000 TF
4(i) Cannon River Watershed Grants
$60,000 TF
4(j) Mitigating Mercury in Minnesota Lakes and Streams
$300,000 TF
4(k) Development and Application of Aeration Technologies
$148,000 MFRF
4(l) Lake Superior Initiative/Institute for Research
$400,000 MFRF
4(m) Lake Mille Lacs Public Land Use
$20,000 MFRF CANCELLED
4(n) Ecological Evaluation of Year-Round Aeration
$100,000 TF
4(o) Erosion Control Cost-Share Grants
$250,000 TF
4(p) Well-Sealing Cost-Share Grants
$750,000 TF
EDUCATION (Subd. 5)
5(a) State Environmental Education Program
$790,000 TF
5(b) Teacher Training for Environmental Education
$5,000 MFRF
5(c) Video Education Research and Demonstration Project
$100,000 TF
5(d) Integrated Resource Management Education and Training Program
$300,000 TF
5(e) Continuing Education in Outdoor Recreation Management for Natural
Resource Managers
$125,000 MFRF
5(f) Environmental Exhibits Collaborative
$400,000 TF
5(g) Upper Mississippi River Environmental Education Center
$600,000 MFRF CANCELLED
5(h) Urban Rangers Program
$100,000 MFRF
5(i) Crosby Farm Park Nature Program
$85,000 MFRF
5(j) Youth in Natural Resources
$250,000 MFRF
5(k) Environmental Education for the Handicapped
$130,000 MFRF
AGRICULTURE (Subd. 6)
6(a) Biological Control of Pests
$650,000 TF
6(b) Review and Evaluation of Degradation and Bioremediation of Elevated
Levels of Pesticides at Spill Sites
$300,000 MFRF
6(c) Effective Nitrogen and Water Management for Water Quality Sensitive
Regions of Minnesota
$300,000 MFRF
6(d) Conservation Reserve Easements
$600,000 TF
6(e) Native Grass and Wildflower Seed
$130,000 MFRF
6(f) Community Gardening Program
$110,000 MFRF
FORESTRY (Subd. 7)
7(a) MN Old-Growth Forests: Characterization & Identification
$150,000 MFRF
7(b) Impacts of Intensified Forest Management and Atmospheric Change on
Nutrient Cycling and Tree Species Suitability
$220,000 MFRF
7(c) State Forest Land Acquisition
$500,000 MFRF
7(d) Regeneration and Management of Minnesota's Oak Forests
$225,000 MFRF
7(e) Private Forest Management for Oak Regeneration
$200,000 MFRF
7(f) Aspen Hybrids and New Tissue Culture Techniques
$70,000 MFRF
7(g) Aspen Decay Models for Mature Aspen Stands
$85,000 MFRF
7(h) Generic Environmental Impact Statement on Timber Harvesting
$400,000 TF
FISHERIES (Subd. 8)
8(a) Pilot Fish Pond Complex for Fisheries development and Education
$250,000 MFRF
8(b) Aquaculture Facility Purchase and Development and Transgenic Gamefish
Growth Studies
$,200,000 MFRF
8(c) Urban Aquatic Education Program
$340,000 MFRF
8(d) Catch & Release Program
$35,000 MFRF
8(e) Metropolitan Lakes Fishing Opportunities Study
$75,000 MFRF
8(f) Lake Minnetonka Bass Tracking
$85,000 MFRF
8(g) Stocking Survey
$35,000 MFRF
WILDLIFE (Subd. 9)
9(a) Insecticide Impact on Wetland and Upland Wildlife
$650,000 TF
9(b) Biological Control of Ecologically Harmful Exotic Species: Eurasian
Watermilfoil
$160,000 MFRF
9(c) Microbial/Genetic Strategies for Mosquito Control
$150,000 MFRF
9(d) MN County Biological Survey
$1,000,000 TF
9(e) Data Base for Plants of Minnesota
$130,000 TF
9(f) Aquatic Invertebrate Assessment Archive
$130,000 TF
9(g) Wetlands Forum
$40,000 TF CANCELLED
9(h) Easement Acquisition on Restored Wetlands
$400,000 TF
9(i) Swan and Heron Lake Area Projects
$1,000,000 MFRF
9(j) Wildlife Oriented Recreation Facilities -- Sandstone Unit
$9,000 MFRF
9(k) Scientific and Natural Areas Acquisition and Betterment
$300,000 MFRF
9(l) Black Bear Research in East Central MN
$100,000 MFRF
9(m) Partnership for Accelerated Wild Turkey Management
$50,000 MFRF
9(n) Restore Thomas Sadler Bird Sanctuary
$50,000 TF
9(o) Effects of Change in the Forest Ecosystem on the Biodiversity of
Minnesota's Northern Forest Birds
$300,000 TF
9(p) Establish Northern Raptor Rehabilitation and Education Facility
$75,000 MFRF
9(q) Effect of Avian Flu Virus on Growth and Production Parameters in
Mallard Ducks
$16,000 MFRF
LAND (Subd. 10)
10(a) Base Maps for the 1990's
$1,900,000 TF
10 (b) Accelerated Soil Survey
$1, 270,000 MFRF
10(c) Statewide National Wetlands Inventory, Protected Water Inventory, and
Watershed Map Digitization
$750,000 TF
10(d) Statewide Land Use Update of MN
$338,000 MFRF
10(e) Local Geographic Information System Project
$143,000 MFRF
10(f) GIS Control Point Inventory
$175,000 MFRF
10(g) Land Use and Design Strategies to Enhance Environmental Quality
$100,000 MFRF
10(h) Model Residential Land Use Guidelines
$150,000 MFRF
MINERALS (Subd. 11)
11(a) Subsurface Greenstone Belts in Southwestern MN
$120,000 MFRF
WASTE (Subd. 12)
12(a) Remediation of Soils Contaminated with Semi-Volatiles by Composting
with Leaves
$110,000 MFRF
12(b) Land Spreading of Yard Waste
$100,000 MFRF
OIL OVERCHARGE (Subd. 13)
13(a) Traffic Signal Timing and Optimization Program
$1,175,000 OOC
13(b) Waste Crumb Rubber in Roadways
$100,000 OOC
13(c) Synthesis of Biodegradable Plastics in Microbial and Crop Plant
Systems
$150,000 OOC
13(d) Agricultural Energy Savings Information
$150,000 OOC
13(e) Residential Urban Environmental Resource Audit
$150,000 OOC
13(f) Means for Producing Lignin-Based Plastic
$100,000 OOC
13(g) Cellulose Rayons for Packaging
$150,000 OOC
13(h) Tree and Shrub Planting for Energy
$1,250,000 OOC
13(i) Oil Overcharge Program Administration
$200,000 OOC
13(j) Evaluating Performance-Based Standards for Energy-Efficient New Homes
$75,000 OOC
RECREATION
Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Areas
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(a) $75,000 MFRF
Dan Collins
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612) 296-3093
This project analyzed the feasibility of creating a recreation area in Minnesota for
off-highway vehicles (OHV). After measuring OHV concerns, an advisory council concluded
that an off-highway vehicle recreation area is technically feasible, and they developed
five criteria to aid final sight selection.
Council members reviewed 13 areas in the Twin Cities region and found them to be
appropriate for OHV recreation sites. They recommended siting a park-like recreation area
of at least 25000 acres within 80 miles of the Twin Cities and recommended that DNR manage
the process in cooperation with the local authorities, residents, federal agencies, and
OHV owners.
Superior Hiking Trail
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(b) $400,000 MFRF
Thomas L. Peterson
MN DNR
1300 Highway 61 E.
Two Harbors, MN 55616
(218) 834-4556
This appropriation was used to plan and build 65 miles of hiking and backpacking trail, 15
bridges, three parking areas, and ten separate campsites between Knife River and the
Canadian border. This biennium's construction brings the total length of the Superior
Trail to 200 miles.
Corresponding to this growth in trail length, membership in the Superior Hiking Trail
Association has also grown from 700 to 1400 and has been featured in newspaper, magazine,
radio, and TV stories. Through volunteer labor and various funding sources, the
Association is committed to completing the remaining segments of the Superior Hiking
Trail.
Local River Planning
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(c) $400,000 MFRF
Daniel G. Retka
DNR Division of Waters
1201 E. Highway 2
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
(218) 327-4416
This project assisted local units of government in the wise management of rivers within
their jurisdiction. Collaborative teams created river plans -- consisting of land use
zoning criteria, recreational objectives, water quality considerations, and
historic/cultural recommendations -- for the St. Louis, Cloquet, Whiteface, Rainy, and
Rapid rivers. These locally designed plans all contain more restrictive zoning provisions
than the statewide standards and are tailored to specific local needs and concerns.
The plans for the St. Louis, Cloquet, and Whiteface rivers have resulted in a program to
purchase large blocks of land for protection, and it is intended that all the plans will
be distributed widely as examples of river management. This project is continuing into the
1993-95 biennium (M.L. 1993, Ch. 172, Sec. 14, Subd. 11(b).
Access to Lakes and Rivers
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(d) $1,000,000 MFRF
Michael T. Markell
Trails and Waterways
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155-4052
(612)296-6413
This program provided new or improved public access to lakes and rivers statewide in order
to increase the opportunities for enjoying MN's water resources. During this biennium, two
access sites were purchased (Lake Minnetonka and Green Lake), one boat access site is
being developed (Mississippi), 22 fishing piers were purchased, and the Metro Shore
Fishing Map was published -- showing over 180 public fishing sites.
Five of these sites are being improved to meet the needs of children, elderly, and people
with disabilities. This project is continuing into the 1993-1995 biennium through
additional LCMR funding (M.L. 1993 Chapter 172, Sect. 14, Subd. 10(l)).
Land and Water Resource Management for the Lower St. Croix National
Scenic Riverway
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(e) $360,000 TF
Dan McGuiness
The MN-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission
619 Second Street
Hudson, WI 54016
(612)436-7131
This appropriation was used to develop better management and increased local stewardship
of the land and water resources in the Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The
resulting outcomes were threefold.
First, a Geographical Information System(GIS) for the Lower St. Croix Watershed was
created in order to assess the ecological and visual impacts of growing use. The GIS
includes geo-referenced data about water quality, aquatic habitat, cultural settlement
patterns, and topographic conditions for the waterway.
Second, an assessment of current management strategies and needed changes was completed.
And lastly, the project expanded communication and coordination efforts among stakeholders
and designed a program that will provide ongoing assistance, information, and
education.
Mississippi River Valley Blufflands Initiative
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(f) $150,000 TF
Steven P. Johnson
DNR/ Rt. 2, Box 230
Lake City, MN 55041
(612)345-3331
This project provided technical assistance to local governments for developing land-use
planning tools that protect the scenic and biological resources of the blufflands region.
To this end, blufflands zoning plans were developed in Goodhue and Houston counties, and
information on land-use policy was disseminated to Wabasha and Winona counties and other
interested communities.
The Blufflands initiative heightened awareness of the significance and the sensitivity of
bluffland resources and generated enthusiasm among citizen groups for long-term blufflands
stewardship, as well as enhancing the cooperative working relationships among concerned
individuals and organizations. The project also published a booklet entitled "Visions
and Vistas -- Blufflands Forever" that will be widely distributed in visitor centers,
state parks, chambers of commerce and other public places.
Reclamation of Recreational Systems and Environmental Resources from
Existing Urban/Suburban Neighborhoods
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(g) $200,000 MFRF
William R. Morrish, Director
Design Center for American Urban Landscape, U of MN
320 Wulling Hall
Minneapolis, MN 55455
(612)626-0333
This project investigated the potential for enhancing and enriching the open space,
recreational amenities, and overall physical quality of existing urban/suburban
neighborhoods as part of future capital improvement programs. To this end, the project
group completed case studies of Chanhassen, Maple Grove, Farmington, and Saint Paul's
Phalen Neighborhood which examined the inter-relationship of urban design, capital
infrastructure, and ecology.
The case study process included the following components: an urban design
education/workshop format was developed for city administrative staff and elected
officials; urban design principles were studied which link civic design, recreation, site
ecology, and community capital improvements; and the results of the case studies were
synthesized for application to other communities in the metropolitan area.
The case studies were disseminated in newsletter format to participating communities and
are available with the summary report at the U of MN Architecture library and the
Metropolitan Council library in St. Paul.
Preservation of Historic Shipwrecks in Lake Superior
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(h) $100,000 MFRF
Donn Coddington
MN Historical Society
345 Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55111
(612)297-7451
This appropriation was used to survey shipwrecks that were not surveyed during the first
phase (1989-1991) of the LCMR-funded Lake Superior shipwreck project (M.L. 89, Ch. 335,
Sec. 29, Subd. 9(f)). The Minnesota Historical Society spearheaded this project in
conjunction with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and private contractors
with expertise in maritime history and archaeology.
The surveys from this biennium resulted in the nomination of five shipwrecks to the
National Register of Historic Places and the creation of three survey reports, research
files, wreck drawings, video tapes, color slides, and black and white photographs. A draft
management plan and educational materials were also produced. The SPHO plans to work with
the MN Historical Society Press to publish the results of the Lake Superior Shipwrecks
Study.
An additional component of this project consisted of planning and constructing diver
access facilities along the north shore of Lake Superior. DNR has entered into a contract
with the city of Silver Bay to construct the diver access.
Land and Water Conservation Fund Administration
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(i) $84,000 MFRF
William H. Becker
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155-4010
(612)296-3093
This appropriation was designated for the administration of the federal Land and Water
Conservation Fund grant program to maximize federal receipts and ensure Minnesota's
continuing eligibility to participate. This appropriation was also used for the
administration of other grant activities assigned to the DNR commissioner through
contracts with outside organizations for conducting LCMR projects assigned to the DNR in
Chapter 254.
Under this administration, federal reimbursements totaling $287,000 were captured, and the
remaining $378,000 due from L&WCF grant funds will be reimbursed to the state as the
designated projects are completed. Of the 27 "pass-through" LCMR appropriations
made to the commissioner, 24 contracts were executed and three were canceled.
Historic Records Database
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(j) $180,000 MFRF
Michael Fox
MN Historical Society
345 Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55101
(612)296-1014
This project increased the accessibility of the Minnesota Historical Society's resources
by converting older card files and published lists into electronic form and entering them
into the PALS computer network. During this biennium, catalog records for 169,272 items in
the Historical Society's collections were completed and are now available for searching at
15 terminals in the History Center, at over 500 other terminals connected to PALS, and by
dial access from any home in the state with a computer and modem.
There is strong evidence of increased use of the collections because the number of
database searches by History Center patrons has grown from 16,000 to more than 103,000 per
month, and the demand for loans of books, articles, and microfilm is also growing.
Fur Trade Research and Planning
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(k) $250,000 MFRF
Donn Coddington
MN Historical Society
345 Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55111
(612)297-7451
This appropriation was used to expand research about the North West Fur Post on the Snake
River near Pine City, MN and to improve educational programming and facilities planning at
the fur post. In close cooperation with the citizens of Pine City, the master plan for the
North West Fur Post was expanded and improved. Designs for an education building and an
exhibit program were completed, and comprehensive education planning was conducted to
provide for both coordinated and expanded programming between the fur post and the Ojibwe
encampment's interpretation, exhibits, trail signage and on- and off-site education
programs.
New research was also completed regarding the fur trade and Ojibwe life of the early 1800s
in the Snake River area. The research document, "Angwammas (It's About Time) -- A
Research Report on the Ojibwe/European Fur Trade Relations From an Ojibwe
Perspective," provides a way to tell the stories of the North West Fur Post from
multiple perspectives.
Mystery Cave Resource Evaluation
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(l) $150,000 MFRF
Warren Netherton
MN DNR
Forestville State Park
Preston, MN 55965
(507)937-3251
This appropriation was used to carry out an in-depth resource inventory and study of
Mystery Cave which included groundwater quality, cave meteorology, geology, and biology.
One important outcome is a better understanding of the dynamic relationships between
surface and cave meteorology and between surface precipitation and cave water quality.
Other results include the creation of a detailed geologic map including stratigraphic
profiles and cross sections and the collection of various aquatic invertebrates, including
two species not previously reported in Minnesota.
The researchers disseminated their findings at training sessions and through written
narratives which the Forestville State Park staff will utilize during environmental
education programs and public cave tours.
Rails-to-Trails Acquisition and Development
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(m) $1,000,000 TF
Dennis W. Asmussen
Trails and Waterways
DNR 500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)296-4822
This appropriation was used to acquire the abandoned Burlington Northern grade from Hawick
to Richmond and the remaining abandoned Burlington Northern grade needed for the Paul
Bunyan State Trail.
The acquisition of the Hawick to Richmond grade now provides contiguous ownership of the
abandoned grade from Willmar to Richmond; trail development has been initiated on the
Willmar to Hawick segment. The Paul Bunyan State Trail will span 95 miles from Baxter to
Bemidji (excluding the towns of Pine River, Nisswa, and Pequot Lakes), and trail
development will be initiated in the near future.
WATER
Stream and Watershed Information System
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(a) $200,000 TF
Susanne Maeder
LMIC/ Department of Administration
330 Centennial Building
658 Cedar Street
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)297-4986
This appropriation was used to develop an integrated information system describing
Minnesota's streams and associated watersheds. The system combines Geographic Information
System (GIS) layers describing the river traces and land characteristics of the watershed
with tabular information describing stream flow, water quality, water appropriation, and
other features.
A menu interface was designed to allow both experienced and inexperienced users to define
their search by geographic area (county or watershed), display map information on the
screen, query the system about streams, lakes, monitoring activity, or appropriations,
create reports from the data, and create hard-copy maps. This Stream and Watershed
Information System is designed to be expanded as data layers become available, and users
of the system will include state and local agencies and local water planning groups.
South Central MN Surface Water Resources Atlases and Data Base
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(b) $300,000 TF
Henry W. Quade
Water Resources Center
MSU/ Box 34
Mankato State University
Mankato, MN 56002
(507)389-5492
This project produced thirteen county surface water resources atlases with the same
mapping base as MN's geologic atlases. They have been recorded in both hard copy and
electronic (GIS) format. These surface water references can be directly compared with
subsurface geologic-hydrogeologic maps for interpretation, planning, and management.
The database provides broad-based water resource data in a coherent and accessible format.
Training workshops on the database were conducted at Mankato State University's
Information Sciences Institute. This project is continuing in the 1993-1995 biennium with
additional LCMR funding (M.L. 93, Ch. 172, Sec. 14, Subd. 11(e)).
MN River Basin Water Quality Monitoring
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(c) $700,000 TF
Wayne Anderson
Water Quality, Pollution Control Agency
520 Lafayette Rd.
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612) 296-7323
This appropriation was used to conduct a comprehensive nonpoint source pollution (NPS)
evaluation of the entire Minnesota River system. The monitoring program was a
collaboration between federal, state, and local operators and included physical/chemical
assessment, biological/toxicological assessment, and land use assessment.
The study found that most of the NPS loading occurs during runoff events, when large
amounts of fine-particle sediment and nutrients are washed into the system. The biological
communities at many locations were less diverse and had fewer species than expected due to
the effects of channelization, siltation, and organic enrichment.
To prevent the run-off and leaching of fine-particle sediment and nutrients, the study
recommends several management practices including: conservation tillage, nutrient
management, feedlot runoff controls, buffer strips along all open channels, strategic
wetland restoration, clandestine dump site cleanups, more work to address open tile
intakes, and the correction of faulty septic systems.
The results of this project are recorded in a four-volume report given to all SWCD offices
and local river planners. The overall summary report will be available upon request from
MPCA. The nonpoint source control strategies generated by this project will be documented
in the Nonpoint Source Management Program prepared under Section 319 of the Federal Clean
Water Act.
Waterwatch -- Citizen Monitoring and Protection Program
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(d) $272,000 MFRF
David Christopherson
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
520 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)296-8856
This project encouraged and coordinated public involvement in water quality monitoring by
building partnerships between local interests and state agencies. The main components
consisted of developing and implementing monitoring programs for the Upper Mississippi
River, Itasca County lakes, and the St. Louis River.
The Mississippi Headwaters Board (MHB) River Watch involved students from nine schools in
monitoring the upper Mississippi and conducted an inventory of natural, cultural, scenic,
scientific, and recreational values for the first 400 miles. This data was then entered
into a GIS format.
Itasca County undertook an extensive monitoring program of its lakes in order to start
developing a lake management plan in collaboration with other stakeholders. Several lake
and school groups assisted the Conservation District with water sampling.
The St. Louis River Watch involved 16 schools in water quality monitoring that included
both chemical and biological parameters and the first comprehensive survey of benthic
macro-invertebrates on the St. Louis.
Other project outcomes included a Frog Watch program, a radio show produced by students, a
river congress attended by 200 students, and a program called Keepers of the Waters that
brings scientists and artists together over water-quality concerns. Water quality data
from these monitoring efforts was also entered into a database and is available through
the national STORET database.
Demonstration of Biotechnology for Removing Organic Chemicals from
Aquifers and Groundwater
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(e) $96,000 MFRF
Walter Maier
Dept. of Civil and Mineral Engineering, U of MN
Minneapolis, MN 55455
(612) 625-3016
This appropriation was used to develop and demonstrate in situ methods for bioremediation
of organic pollutants in groundwater. Several compounds were shown to completely
biodegrade through oxidation, and higher molecular weight polynuclear aromatic
hydrocarbons were shown to degrade by resident soil organisms as long as sufficient oxygen
was present. The compounds that are less soluble in water took longer to biodegrade.
A protocol for testing minimally disturbed soil cores was developed which utilizes columns
to assess the spatial distribution of pollutants and oxygen. Column testing was carried
out at the Reilly Superfund Site in St. Louis Park, where the results showed that rates of
biodegradation were limited by oxygen availability. Oxygen enrichment resulted in the
complete biodegradation of all polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH's) without the
addition of either nutrients or specially adapted microorganisms. These studies are
ongoing using funding from other agencies.
The column studies generated a large database of information, and mathematical models have
been developed to analyze the data. One model helps interpret changes in soluble and
absorbed PAH concentrations, and the other is most useful for simulating the dynamics of
oxygen deficiencies. The latter model, however, was not adequate for fitting the column
test results; this was resolved by working with the staff at the Army High Performance
Computer Center to develop a model that is capable of finding best fit values of selected
coefficients that cannot be measured directly. The results of this research have been
presented at two conferences, and five papers have been submitted for publication.
County Geologic Atlas (MGS)/Groundwater Sensitivity Mapping (DNR)
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(f) $1,400,000 TF
Priscilla Grew
MN Geological Survey
2642 University Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55114
(612)627-4780
Sarah Tufford
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd.
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)297-2431
This appropriation was used to accelerate the production of County Geologic Atlases (CGA)
and Regional Hydrogeologic Assessments (RHA). During this biennium, the Ramsey County CGA
was published, and the Anoka Sand Plain RHA was completed. Work is in progress on the
Rice, Fillmore, and Stearns CGA's and on the Red River and Southwestern RHA's. Public
presentations and workshops have been held in each project area.
These CGA's and RHA's will expedite the acquisition, verification, interpretation, and
transfer of geologic and hydrogeologic information at an appropriate scale for planners,
resource managers and educators to make well-informed decisions about local land use.
Production of county geologic atlases and regional hydrogeologic assessments will be
expanded during the 1993-1995 biennium through continued LCMR funding (M.L. 93 Ch. 172
Sec.14, Subd. 11(g)).
Aquifer Analysis in Southeast Minnesota
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(g) $73,000 MFRF
Nancy O. Jannik
Department of Geology
Winona State University
Winona, MN 55987
(507)457-5267
This appropriation was used to perform pumping tests of two widely used aquifers in
Southeast Minnesota in order to analyze aquifer characteristics and interaction. Two key
findings were that aquifer characteristics varied considerably over the study region, and
that interaction between the two aquifers is not as clearly defined as was widely
proposed.
This study found that the transmission and storage parameters for the two aquifers need to
be determined based on local characteristics and stratigraphy. This research involved
undergraduates and local citizens in the scientific process.
Clean Water Partnership Grants to Local Units of Governments
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 4(h) $700,000 TF
Gayleen Reetz
MN Pollution Control Agency
520 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)296-7323
This project accelerated the Clean Water Partnership program by providing grants to local
units of government to solve surface and groundwater quality problems resulting from
nonpoint sources of pollution. Three projects were selected and received funding.
The Lambert Creek Improvement project focused on the domestic water supply for St. Paul
and included the impoundment of three areas and, if necessary, the chemical treatment of
sediments to enhance nutrient retention.
The Brown-Nicollett-Cottonwood Groundwater Implementation project goals include reduction
of nitrate-nitrogen contamination in drinking water, prevention of drinking water
contamination in the future, and increasing public awareness of the linkage between land
use practices, water quality, and public health.
The Lake Shaokatan Restoration Implementation Project has defined specific watershed
sources of excess nutrients which will be reduced by implementation of various management
practices such as feedlot management, wetland restorations, and agricultural nutrient
management. Results from these three projects will be shared with other local governments
so they can learn from the experiences of these and the other 32 Clean Water Partnership
projects.
Cannon River Watershed Grants
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd.4(i) $60,000 TF
David Peterson
Board of Water and Soil Resources
1200 S. Broadway, Rm. 135
Rochester, MN 55904
(507)285-7458
This appropriation was used to provide grants for research and demonstration projects in
the Cannon River Watershed that promote proper resource management techniques or
investigate unique watershed features. Grants were awarded to nine applicants. Three
projects demonstrated management practices for minimizing agricultural non-point pollution
from nutrients and soil erosion. Two projects demonstrated forestry practices to improve
understandings and promote forest management in the watershed.
A grant to the Cannon Falls school district was used to establish an on-site school nature
area in conjunction with St. Olaf College. The French Lake Association demonstrated
planting of selected aquatic vegetation with a technique called aquascaping. A project by
Carleton College dealt with management needs to maintain a threatened species of turtles.
St. Olaf College conducted a survey to determine wetland biodiversity in the
watershed.
Mitigating Mercury in Minnesota Lakes and Streams
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(j) $300,000 TF
Dan Helwig
MN Pollution Control Agency
520 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)296-7215
Continuing from the 1989-1991 biennium (M.L. 1989, Ch. 335, Art. 1, Sec. 29, Subd. 4(c)),
this project investigated the mechanism of mercury bioaccumulation in fish and began to
develop and test methods for mitigating this accumulation. First, an in-water test chamber
was modified to accommodate experiments, then an impact assessment protocol and sampling
regime were developed and tested.
Various methods for mitigating mercury contamination in fish were then tested. The results
were threefold: 1)Addition of bioactive carbon (vegetation) significantly increased
mercury contaminations in fish; 2) Addition of a micronutrient significantly decreased the
concentration of mercury in fish and, 3) Addition of mercury absorbing polymer and
chelator also decreased the concentration of mercury in fish but to a lesser extent than
the micronutrient. Experimentation will continue during the next biennium (M.L. 93, Ch.
172, Sec. 14, Subd. 11(c)).
Development and Application of Aeration Technologies
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(k) $148,000 MFRF
Heinz Stefan
St. Anthony Falls Hydraulic Lab, U of MN
Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612)627-4010
This research project explored the relationship between sedimentary oxygen demand and
water velocities above the sediment bed in order to optimize the placement of lake
aerators, the selection of aerator capacity, and the design of membrane aerators.
The experiments and analysis showed that sedimentary oxygen demand (SOD) increases in
proportion to the velocity of the water moving over the sediments. Aeration devices can
also artificially create water velocities near the sediment water interface which are not
usually factored into the estimation of aerator capacity but were recognized in this
research. During this project, the laboratory measurements of sedimentary oxygen demand
rates agreed with the range of values determined for natural lakes.
A design that employs hollow fiber modules was found to be applicable as an instream
aerator and hypolimnetic aerator because no bubbles are produced and 100% transfer
efficiency is approached. Using the results of laboratory experiments, researchers
developed a parametric relationship that may be used to predict the performance of
instream or hypolimnetic aerators in the field. The results of this research are available
from the St. Anthony Falls Hydraulic Laboratory and have also been disseminated through
presentations at conferences and publication in professional journals.
Lake Superior Initiative/ Institute for Research
M.L. 1991, Ch.254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(l) $400,000 MFRF
Dr. Robert M. Carlson
U of MN-Duluth, Dept. of Chemistry
10 University Drive
Duluth, MN 55812
The purpose of this appropriation was to form and staff the Institute for Lake Superior
Research and to develop a coordinated program of research on Lake Superior. A permanent
director was not appointed during this biennium. The interim director and associate
director initiated a symposium to ascertain the state of knowledge about Lake Superior.
Science and policy groups from several American Universities and Canada attended and
exchanged research priorities.
Research projects carried out this biennium under the auspices of the Institute for Lake
Superior Research include:1) the cataloging and partial analysis of lake core samples, 2)
the development of a new method for analysis of reactive toxicants, 3) a set of lake
investigations using conceptual and mathematical models previously applied on a similar
lake in Russia, and 4) an investigation of the accumulation and sources of natural and
anthropogenic organic chemicals in lake sediments. Currently eight publications describing
this work are in preparation or have been accepted.
-- CANCELLED -- Personnel problems
Lake Mille Lacs Public Land Use
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(m) $20,000 MFRF
Robert E. Hance, Jr.
MN DNR
1601 Minnesota Drive
Brainerd, MN 56401
(218)828-2613
The goal of this project was to survey public land adjacent to Lake Mille Lacs to
determine which governmental unit has administrative control and assess current use by the
public.
Ecological Evaluation of Year-Round Aeration
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(n) $100,000 TF
David Wright
MN DNR
Box 25-500 Lafayette Rd.
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)297-4886
This program explored the ecological impacts of year-round aeration on MN lakes in order
to evaluate the claim that aeration mitigates a variety of water quality problems. The key
finding was that the impact of aeration on lake ecology varied as a function of lake type.
Deep lakes were affected both physically and chemically by aeration, showing higher
nutrient levels, more algae, poorer water clarity, but less blue-green algae. Shallow
lakes, however, showed no such response.
Researchers will present project results at the 1993 meeting on the North American Lake
Management Society and will disseminate information to interested groups through the
Ecological Services section of the DNR.
Erosion Control Cost-Share Grants
W.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec.14, Subd. 4(o) $250,000 TF
Eric Mohring
Board of Water and Soil Resources
155 South Wabasha St.
St. Paul, MN 55107
(612)297-7360
This project provided funding, as well as engineering and technical support, to seven soil
and water conservation districts (SWCDs) in southeastern Minnesota to help them carry out
conservation projects in the catchment areas of sinkholes. Funded projects included two
large-scale diversion projects in Fillmore county and 25 smaller-scale projects in
Fillmore, Mower, Olmsted, Houston, Dodge, Winona, and Goodhue counties.
Activities included surface water diversions and controls, watershed conservation
practices, and a variety of sinkhole treatments designed to reduce the contamination of
ground water. The emphasis was on sites where innovative practices could be used with a
high information and educational potential.
Several of the projects will be utilized as demonstration sites and a guidance document
will be available for use by SWCDs, local government, and landowners.
Well-Sealing Cost Share Grants
W.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 4(p) $750,000 TF
Eric Mohring
Board of Water and Soil Resources
155 South Wabasha St.
St. Paul, MN 55107
(612)297-7360
This project provided grants to counties for sharing the cost of sealing high-priority
abandoned wells. A total of 39 counties received cost-share grants, ranging in size from
$2,000 to $55,000. As of June 1993, 1270 abandoned wells have been sealed and
approximately 2,000 more are projected to be sealed.
These local cost-share programs served to raise public awareness about the contamination
threat of abandoned wells. Consequently, more wells have been slated to be sealed
voluntarily and local education efforts have been initiated.
This program enabled the Board of Water and Soil Resources and other agencies to expand
their training and technical support to local units of government, and local government
staff members have learned and benefitted from each others' administrative and technical
experience.
EDUCATION
State Environmental Education Program
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 5(a) $790,000 TF
Pam Landers
MN Dept. of Education
550 Cedar Street
St. Paul, MN 55101
(612)296-8132
This appropriation was used to fund several different initiatives aimed at strengthening
environmental education across Minnesota. "A GreenPrint for Minnesota: The State Plan
for Environmental Education" was created which outlines recommended actions, priority
audiences, and longterm goals for environmental education in Minnesota.
Another project initiative resulted in the development of several model environmental
education curriculums that utilize innovative approaches and also stress the dissemination
of information across districts.
In addition to GreenPrint and model curriculum development, an assessment of Minnesota's
environmental learning centers was completed which identifies strategies to help improve
coordination and communication between learning centers and other institutions involved in
environmental education.
A related initiative sought to incorporate environmental education into the state's system
of Community Education by improving communication and offering several environmental
training programs (workshops, inservice, and conferences) to community education
personnel.
Teacher Training for Environmental Education
M.L. 1991, Ch.254, Sec. 14, Subd. 5(b) $5,000 MFRF
Marion Brooks Wallace
St. Paul Chapter of National Audubon Society
2603 Cohansey St.
St, Paul, MN 55113
(612)484-7062
This program provided scholarships to 3rd-5th grade teachers for training workshops held
at Audubon's Northwoods Center which taught teachers how to integrate environmentally
sound concepts into their classes. Two 4-day workshops were conducted in the summers of
1992 and 1993, where a total of 27 teachers were trained and received 40 recertification
credits. 19 teachers registered at Hamline University for three graduate credits.
The hands-on workshop included a variety of field instruction, simulation games, and
curriculum planning. This program is potentially adaptable to other nature centers in the
state which would make training accessible to more teachers on an in-service basis.
Video Education Research and Demonstration Project
W.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 5(c) $100,000 TF
James E. Carufel
Twin Cities Public Television
172 E.4th St.
St. Paul, MN 55101
(612)229-1453
This project developed a video education demonstration project and created a model for
statewide video environmental education and communication networks. Initial background
research indicated that there are significant teacher needs that could be met through many
avenues, including in-service video training programs, teacher-friendly video curriculums,
teacher training via teleconferencing, and a video resource library of reliable videos.
The results of this research were documented on two professionally-prepared videotapes.
A teacher training model was developed in collaboration with master teachers from North
Dakota and Minnesota and was tested at a two-day workshop with 100 teachers. The training
module was shown to be over 90% effective in improving teacher use of video and student
learning. In addition, a demonstration project for public awareness was tested when six
public TV stations broadcast specially produced "Enviro-Tips" with a 1-800
feedback line 800 times over a six-month period.
Integrated Resource Management Education & Training Program
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 5(d) $300,000 TF
Ron Nargang
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Rd.
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)296-4810
This program provided 27 internships and 25 scholarships to attract individuals into
natural resource and related careers. More than 25 percent of scholarship recipients were
minorities and nearly half were female.
The program also sponsored a graduate level agronomy course for 30 staff members, paid for
two state employees to attend a comprehensive emergency response training conference, and
partially funded both a major environmental spill exercise and a statewide conference on
environmental emergencies. The internship and scholarship program will continue for an
additional two years under the Governor's Investment Initiatives.
Continuing Education in Outdoor Recreation Management for Natural
Resource Managers
M.L. 1991, Ch.254, Sec.14, Subd. 5(e) $125,000 MFRF
David Lime
Forest Resources, U of M
1530 N. Cleveland
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612) 624-2250
This project developed, implemented, and evaluated a training and education program for
DNR employees and other natural resource professionals in order to expose them to new
concepts and technologies that have direct application to outdoor recreation management.
Through a partnership between the University of Minnesota, DNR, and other agencies, an
interdisciplinary short course was developed and conducted in four two-week training
sessions. Over 140 professionals participated from various agencies including DNR,
National Park Service, and U.S. Army Corp of Engineers.
Evaluation of the short course, compiled from participant questionnaires and a follow-up
workshop, indicates that perceived knowledge increased for most participants and will
potentially last for the long run. Some participants, however, had little chance to put
their new knowledge to work on the job and cited organizational barriers, lack of clear
divisional goals, instability of funding, and resistance to change as the reasons.
Environmental Exhibits Collaborative
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 5(f) $400,000 TF
Louis Casagrande
Science Museum of Minnesota
30 E. 10th Street
St. Paul, MN 55101
(612)221-9432
This appropriation was used to create a statewide partnership of MN museums, environmental
learning centers, governmental agencies, and private organizations for the purpose of
sharing environmental exhibits and programs throughout the state. The Science Museum and
the Bell Museum each produced an exhibit on a water-related topic, and these exhibits
traveled free of charge to Environmental Exhibits Collaborative (EEC) members across
Minnesota.
The MN DNR purchased copies of the exhibits for use in the state park system. The Science
Museum shared its stormwater exhibit with several EEC members and is exploring ways it
might construct additional copies. The Science Museum also gave each residential
environmental learning center a Water Trunk for on-site water education.
The Bell and Science museums jointly organized and ran two exhibit-development workshops
in order to provide EEC members with the knowledge and confidence to build their own
small-scale exhibits through the use of inexpensive and readily available materials.
Both museums intend to continue working closely with EEC partners and the Science Museum
is working with Twin Cities Public Television to develop "Science Minnesota," a
proposal to the National Science Foundation for increasing public awareness about
scientific topics important to this region.
-- CANCELLED -- Required match not met
Upper Mississippi River Environmental Education Center
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 5(g) $600,000 MFRF
Eric Sorenson
City of Winona
P.O. Box 378
Winona, MN 55987
(507)457-8233
The goal of this project was to develop detailed architectural designs necessary
to obtain federal construction funding for an Upper Mississippi River Environmental
Education Center.
Urban Rangers Program
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd.5(h) $100,000 MFRF
Larry Nelson
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
310 4th Ave. South
Minneapolis, MN 55415
(612)348-2226
This project developed an environmental education program for children in urban areas.
After a review of existing urban environmental education programs in the United States and
an inventory of Minneapolis resources, Urban P.L.A.C.E. (People Learning About Community
and Environment) was chosen as an appropriate model, and pilot programs were conducted at
ten recreation centers throughout Minneapolis in the summer of 1992.
Since each site presented significant differences in terms of resources available,
demographics, and staff support, each of the ten programs was unique. 395 children
participated in the pilot programs free of charge.
After follow-up evaluations and resulting refinements, 32 recreation centers chose Urban
P.L.A.C.E as part of their offerings for summer 1993. As evidence of Urban P.L.A.C.E.'s
dissemination in Minneapolis, some public schools are modelling programs after it, and
non-profit organizations, schools, and recreation departments from other large cities have
requested information about it.
Crosby Farm Park Nature Program
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 5(i) $85,000 MFRF
Ed Olsen
Parks and Recreation, City of St. Paul
1224 N. Lexington Parkway
St. Paul, MN 55103
(612)488-7291
This project instituted a nature study program at Crosby Park and developed an
environmental education curriculum for St. Paul elementary schools. A full time naturalist
was hired and interpretive displays were developed, as well as weekend, after- school, and
vacation programming. Over the two-year project, 742 adults and 2,518 children have
participated in programs at the Nature Park.
An environmental education curriculum was also developed for St. Paul schools which
utilizes classes both in school and at the Nature Park; over 6,722 school children and
their teachers have participated.
To insure access for audiences with special needs, specific efforts are being made to
mainstream these students into regular programming offered at the Nature Park.
To disseminate information about the Nature Park programs, brochures have been delivered
to over 21,000 residents in St. Paul, and school brochures have been distributed to every
elementary school. This project will be expanded during the 1993-1995 biennium through
continued LCMR funding (M.L.93, Ch. 172, Sec. 14, Subd. 7(m)).
Youth in Natural Resources
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 5(j) $250,000 MFRF
Larry Fonnest
Office of Youth Programs
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Road
St, Paul, MN 55155-4004
This project developed a career exploration program in the natural resources for minority
youth and tested their vocational interests, skills, and aptitudes. Participants in this
program spent up to 20 hours per week learning about their cultural ties to the natural
world, about the issues and techniques involved in resource management, and about various
career options. The balance of the week was devoted to field work experience.
By June 1993, 175 young people, ages 15 to 18, and 39 adult staff of color participated in
the program. Due to this success, Youth in Natural Resources has been honored by several
public service organizations and has received considerable media attention.
The development of strong working partnerships with six minority community agencies, four
Job Training Partnership Act Service Delivery Areas, and four natural resource agencies
will serve as the foundation for the program's future.
Environmental Education for the Handicapped
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 5(k) $130,000 MFRF
Marty Cushing
Vinland National Center
Lake Independence, Box 308
Loretto, MN 55357
(612)479-3555
This project developed an environmental education curriculum for people with disabilities.
The model curriculum, entitled "Celebrate the Earth" includes information about
integration techniques and guidelines for adapting environmental education activities.
Formal and informal evaluations of the model were carried out by both professionals and
people with disabilities.
Much of the second year of the project was spent teaching about the importance of
environmental education for people with disabilities and how to use the model curriculum.
Training was provided for 63 educators, 113 environmental professionals, and 111
rehabilitation professionals. To further disseminate the curriculum beyond these 300
individuals, articles and press releases about the curriculum will be submitted to 20
professional publications.
AGRICULTURE
Biological Control of Pests
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 6(a) $650,000 TF
Dharma Sreenivasam
MN Dept. of Agriculture
90 West Plato Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55107
(612)296-1350
Continuing from the 1989-1991 biennium (M.L. 89, Ch.335, Sec.29, Subd.8(b)), the long-term
goal of this research program is to develop biological controls for several MN pests
including leafy spurge, Canada thistle, European corn borer, corn rootworm, weevils,
forest defoliators, filth flies, gypsy moths and grasshoppers. This biennium's research
program consisted of eight separate projects carried out by 15 scientists from two
colleges and five departments at the University of MN and four scientists from the MN
Department of Agriculture.
In the area of weed control, exotic flea beetles were used to successfully control leafy
spurge, and a bacterium was isolated and is being patented to be used against Canada
thistle.
In the area of microbiological control, cultivation of pathogens which act against corn
borers and grasshoppers was improved, and suppressive isolates tested against potato scab
yielded up to 80% scab reduction over a four-year field test.
In the area of field and vegetable crop control, three parasitoids and one pathogen of the
alfalfa weevil were determined to be widely distributed and to reduce weevil populations
by 90% or more. The production and field testing of egg parasite species for corn borers
has improved but further study is still needed to uncover the combined impact of egg,
larval, and pupal parasites. Several treatments were found to be effective at
significantly reducing larval infestations by the imported cabbageworm, diamondback moth,
and cabbage looper.
Concerning the area of urban, livestock, and commercial greenhouse pest control, a gypsy
moth parasite was reared and released at nine sites, 3.2 million parasites were produced
for release against houseflies and stable flies, and predators were evaluated for their
potential to combat aphids and thrips in commercial rose production.
To disseminate the results of these research projects, a symposium was held in October
1992 with over 140 scientists from the U.S., Canada, Israel, Korea, Mexico, and Europe.
Other dissemination has included the publication of 37 articles in scientific journals and
ten presentations at national and international conferences. This research program is
continuing through the 1993-1995 biennium (M.L.93, Ch. 172, Sec. 14, Subd.3(a)).
Review and Evaluation of Degradation and Bioremediation of Elevated
Levels of Pesticides at Spill Sites
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 6(b) $300,000 MFRF
Greg Buzicky
MN Department of Agriculture
90 West Plato Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55107
(612)296-5639
This research project investigated the application of bioremediation technologies to
pesticide-contaminated soils and water. The bioremediation literature was first reviewed,
and then laboratory and field studies were conducted to explore how concentration levels
affect the persistence of two pesticides, atrazine and alachlor, at spill sites. It was
found that at the high concentrations characteristic of spill sites, degradation of
alachlor is slow whereas the degradation of atrazine can be rapid depending upon soil
type.
Innovative bioremediation technologies were then studied using plants and microbes in the
laboratory. In experiments using cultivated microbes, high concentrations of atrazine were
degraded rapidly into harmless end products.
These bacterial cultures were also added to heavily contaminated soils from a site in MN
and significant biodegradation was observed. Although the use of bioremediation
technologies on pesticide contaminated media is largely untested at the field scale,
results from these laboratory experiments show it to be a promising method.
Effective Nitrogen and Water Management for Water Quality Sensitive
Regions of Minnesota
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 6(c) $300,000 MFRF
Dr. H.H. Cheng
Department of Soil Science, U of M
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)625-9734
This research developed and demonstrated ways to reduce nitrogen contamination of
groundwater through more effective utilization of nitrogen from manure, legume, and
fertilizer sources. An inventory of soil, climate, and management practices of the Central
Sands of Minnesota was prepared based on intensive interviews of MN farmers.
The project then evaluated tillage influences on nitrogen available to corn from manure
and fertilizer sources as well as nitrate leeching losses. The research also included
monitoring soil nitrogen distribution and developed a nitrogen budget for irrigated
potatoes. Finally, the experimental models for nitrate leeching were tested and validated.
Early research indicates that over-application of nitrogen on manured fields appears to
have the most potential impact on water quality. To minimize nitrogen loss through
percolation, different methods were recommended depending upon the season. These
recommendations include managing the source and timing of fertilizer application in the
spring, managing the amount and timing of irrigation in the summer, and growing a cover
crop to tie up the residual nitrogen within the root zone during the fall.
Based on model simulations, a procedure was developed to derive risk indices for nitrate
leaching loss from soils as influenced by changes in nitrogen and irrigation management
practices and climatic conditions. This procedure has the potential to be linked to the
computerized database of the Soil Survey Information System, so that risk indices for
other similar soils could be derived.
Demonstrations were also developed during this biennium to be used in educational efforts.
Five on-farm demonstration sites were established to illustrate ways of minimizing nitrate
contamination including the use of alternative sources of nitrogen, alternative scheduling
of nitrogen applications, legume and manure nitrogen credits, improved tillage practices,
over crops, and sap nitrate tests for potatoes.
Conservation Reserve Easements
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 6(d) $600,000 TF
David Behm
MN Board of Water and Soil Resources
155 South Wabasha #104
St. Paul, MN 55107
(612)296-0880
The Conservation Reserve Easements project allowed the Board of Water and Soil Resources
to accelerate its Reinvest in Minnesota Reserve wetland restoration and easement
acquisition activities. This appropriation provided permanent protection to 280.6 acres of
restored wetlands and 420.4 acres of adjacent enhanced uplands. This cumulative acreage
reflects a net gain in critically important waterfowl production habitat.
Due to these accelerated wetland restoration activities, the Board is pursuing
opportunities to leverage further easement acquisition and practice establishment funds
within the Minnesota River watershed from the North American Wetland Conservation Act.
LCMR funding for continued acquisition activities will continue through the 1993-1995
biennium (M.L. 93, Ch. 172, Sec. 14, Subd. 3(e)).
Native Grass and Wildflower Seed
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 6(e) $130,000 MFRF
Charles Dale
MN Department of Agriculture
90 West Plato Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55107
(612)296-6123
This project developed varietal, cultural, and market information necessary to encourage
expanded commercial production of native Minnesota wildflower and grass seed. The project
studied the genetic diversity of native species and found that local populations within a
region could be intermixed without reducing or altering genetic diversity.
Using these and other findings, solutions to seed production problems were developed that
can be used as models for production that are both genetically sound and economically
feasible. One example includes subjecting seed to a dormancy-reducing treatment that makes
seed more marketable for cultivation.
Germination percentages were also determined for seven species which can be included on
seed labels to help increase buyer confidence. Results from this project have been
disseminated in a database for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's Marketing
Division that lists all the native seed producers in the state, in a research report
entitled "A Market Assessment of Minnesota's Native Wildflower and Grass Seed
Industry," and in a fact sheet on native plants that will be distributed through the
Minnesota Extension Service.
Community Gardening Program
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 6(f) $110,000 MFRF
Dorothy Johnson
MN State Horticultural Society
1979 Folwell Ave. #161
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)624-7752
In cooperation with the MN State Horticultural Society and the Self-Reliance Center, this
project provided gardening information and technical assistance in metropolitan and
nonmetropolitan areas. Through the Minnesota Green program and the Sustainable Resources
Center, this project focused on both small-community land stewardship and urban food
gardening. Minnesota Green provided assistance to over 50 communities outside the Twin
Cities metro area by linking people to resources and technical support which resulted in
greening efforts at parks, schools, food-shelf sites, entryways, public housing
developments, and commercial districts.
Within the Twin Cities area, the Sustainable Resources Center helped establish 20 new
gardens. As a result, municipal support for community gardens has increased substantially.
Both programs produced a newsletter disseminating information about the programs. All
community gardening efforts started through the Sustainable Resources Center are expected
to function autonomously and are encouraged to expand urban gardening throughout their
areas.
FORESTRY
MN Old Growth Forests: Characterization & Identification
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 7(a) $150,000 MFRF
Kurt A. Rusterholz
Natural Heritage Program
MN DNR
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)297-7265
This project developed quantitative, structural definitions of Minnesota old-growth forest
types and examined the importance of old growth as sensitive habitat. In northern
Minnesota, 60 stands of old-growth and mature white pine, red pine, and northern hardwood
were sampled and examined for their structural characteristics and species
characteristics.
The findings from this study were used to augment the guidelines and criteria for
evaluating candidate old-growth stands. DNR resource personnel and forest inventory
contractors are in the process of sampling several hundred candidate stands using these
updated criteria. This project is continuing in the 1993-1995 biennium through additional
LCMR funding (M.L. 93, Ch. 172, Sec. 14, Subd. 6(c)).
Impacts of Intensified Forest Management and Atmospheric Change on
Nutrient Cycling and Tree Species Suitability.
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 7(b) $220,000 MFRF
Alan R. Ek
Forest Resources, U of MN
2004 Folwell Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)624-3400
This research examined forest nutrient cycling processes and tree requirements in order to
address management questions concerning species-site matching, choice of rotation lengths,
and appropriate levels of tree and stand utilization. A positive correlation was found
between aspen growth and the availability of calcium and nitrogen. It was also concluded
that nutrient cycling in young aspens was high with a corresponding increase in available
nutrients, and that increased soil moisture favored nutrient cycling.
This research project also explored the rate at which aspen stands store and accumulate
nutrients added by atmospheric deposition and soil weathering and how nutrient cycling via
litterfall relates to nutrient fluxes into and out of the system. Data collected during
this study came from a wide range of aspen sites in Minnesota and are now accessible for
modelling forest growth. The ecosystem simulation model LINKAGES was also refined to
facilitate long-term analyses.
State Forest Land Acquisition
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 7(c) $500,000 MFRF
John Hellquist
DNR Forestry
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)624-9298
This appropriation was used to acquire lands in high priority areas of the R.J. Dorer
Memorial Hardwood State Forest to work toward the acquisition goal of 83,150 acres as
identified in the 1979 Plan for Acquisition in the Lewiston Area Forest Resources Plan.
Three properties in Goodhue, Olmsted, and Winona counties were acquired totaling 584
acres. An interpretive trail is being built on the Goodhue county property and all the
lands purchased are open to recreational use.
Regeneration and Management of Minnesota's Oak Forests
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 7(d) $225,000 MFRF
Steven Laursen
MN Extension Service, U of MN
247 Coffey Hall
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)624-9298
This research project examined the effect of site and stand conditions and forest
management systems on oak regeneration. It was found that oak seedling and acorn survival
rates were not affected by site preparation with herbicides or bulldozing, or by tree
shelters. Tree shelters were found to reduce animal damage and increase the height and
diameter growth of seedlings but not acorns.
Researchers also found that survival rates for acorns were significantly lower than
survival rates for seedlings, but there was no significant difference in the survival,
height, or diameter growth of premium and nursery-run planted oak seedlings.
A data base containing information from 91 recently harvested oak sites was compiled and
summarized, and general inspection of the data suggested that oak constituted over 75
percent of removal on most sites but averaged only 12 percent of the regeneration.
Analysis showed that oak regeneration may be affected by harvest technique and by the
slope and aspect of sites; but it doesn't appear to be affected by residual stand amount
or composition.
To disseminate information about this research and about oak management strategies in
general, the research team conducted approximately 133 educational events in southeast MN
and reached approximately 600 woodland owners, 2371 youth, 210 youth educators, and 1,670
other adults.
Private Forest Management for Oak Regeneration
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 7(e) $200,000 MFRF
Steven Laursen
U of MN Extension Service
240 Coffey Hall
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)624-7281
This project assessed privately owned oak forests in southern Minnesota for pre- and
post-harvest regeneration needs and offered technical and educational assistance to
private landowners to help increase oak regeneration.
A total of 1,446 landowners were assisted in some way, and a total of 3,852 acres of
woodlands were planned for in detail. 130 acres of timber harvest were planned, over 700
acres of oak were regenerated, and 40 acres of oak were improved.
Aspen Hybrids and New Tissue Culture Techniques
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 7(f) $70,000 MFRF
Carl A. Mohn
Forest Resources, U of M
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)624-7281
This project continued research initiated by the U of MN Departments of Horticultural
Science and Forest Resources by working to develop the biological efficiency of two new
tissue culture (cloning) techniques, examining clonal fidelity of these two systems, and
assessing the commercial production efficiency of the systems. A root culture system and a
micro-cross section (MCS) system were refined and compared.
Both systems produced a satisfactory level of microshoot production and clonal fidelity.
In terms of production costs and duration, the root culture system was comparable to the
traditional system of shoot tip propagation. However, the micro-culture system would cost
roughly 39% less than either of the other two systems because of reduced materials,
overhead, and administrative cost.
Commercial use of these results will depend upon acceptance by the forestry industry of
one of the tissue culture procedures as a method of clonal propagation.
Aspen Decay Models for Mature Aspen Stands
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 7(g) $85,000 MFRF
Dennis Hummitzsch
Koochiching County Land Department
International Falls, MN 56649
(218)283-6295
This project developed a model based on easily observable aspen stand characteristics that
will enable land managers to minimize aspen loss due to decay. The research indicates that
the leading indicators of decay are generally age, size, and site index. Consequently, the
researchers developed a model that contains one equation which provides a risk index and
one that provides an estimate of the amount of decay likely.
The equations will be used in an ongoing project to develop a package which links a
geographic information system (GIS) with forest growth and yield models so that other
counties and organizations in northern Minnesota can use the models.
Generic Environmental Impact Statement on Timber Harvesting
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 7(h) $400,000 TF
Michael Kilgore
Office of Strategic and Long Range Planning
300 Centennial Office Building
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)297-2607
This appropriation was used to develop a generic environmental impact statement (GEIS) on
timber harvesting in Minnesota. The resulting GEIS identifies and quantifies long-term
sustainable timber removal levels, and the environmental, economic, and social impacts
that will likely occur over the next 50 years under three different levels of timber
harvesting.
In response to the significant impacts identified, the GEIS recommends Minnesota establish
several levels of forest programs to deal with issues at the site level, landscape level,
and research level. The GEIS process itself provided insights regarding how other
large-scale resource assessments might be conducted and how this project's methodology can
be applied to other resource studies.
It is expected that the study's findings and recommendations will have a significant
impact on the future policies and programs that influence how Minnesota's forest resources
are used, managed, and protected.
The draft GEIS has been distributed to policymakers, resource managers, interest groups,
and citizens throughout Minnesota, the United States, and Canada. The resulting technical
and background papers continue to be used as technical reference guides.
FISHERIES
Pilot Fish Pond Complex for Fisheries Development and Education
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec.14, Subd. 8(a) $250,000 MFRF
John P. Ringlet
Leech Lake Reservation
Box 100
Cass Lake, MN 56633
(218)335-8240
This appropriation contributed to the design and ongoing construction of a multi-species
fish production complex on the Leech Lake Chippewa Reservation. To contain costs and
minimize environmental impacts, an agreement was negotiated with DNR to renovate an
abandoned DNR fish pond facility below the Lake Winnibigoshish Dam. Construction is
progressing with over 50% completion to date.
Additional funds for this project were obtained from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the
Administration for Native Americans, and some materials were donated by the Forest Service
and Great Lakes Gas Transmission Ltd.
Aquaculture Facility Purchase and Development and Transgenic Gamefish
Growth Studies
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 8(b) $1,200,000 MFRF
Ira Adelman
U of MN, Dept. of Fisheries and Wildlife
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612) 624-3600
Perry Hackett
U of MN, Dept. of Genetics and Cell Biology
1445 Gortner Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612) 624-6736
This appropriation was used to construct an aquaculture/ fisheries research and
demonstration facility on the U of MN St. Paul campus and to continue research on the
growth, performance, molecular structure, and breeding of transgenic fish. The aquaculture
facility is scheduled to be completed December 1993.
The research facet of the project inserted genes for growth enhancement into transgenic
fish and analyzed their level of expression, growth effects, and stable transmission to
succeeding generations. Of 10,000 transgenic northern pike, walleye, rainbow trout, and
Atlantic salmon that were produced between 1988-1990, 200 founders remain. These low
numbers can be attributed to the continued stress, including fluctuation in temperature
and chlorine levels, that occurred when fish were moved around the state to different
facilities. From the founders that remain, researchers do have second generation northern
pike, rainbow trout, and Atlantic salmon.
Because an evaluation is needed of the potential environmental impact of these fish and
their exploitation by MN aquaculturists, this project is being continued into the
1993-1995 biennium (M.L.93, Ch. 172, Sec. 14, Subd. 12(o)). The 1991-1993 project results
have been disseminated through several research papers published in peer-reviewed
scientific journals.
Urban Aquatic Education Program
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 8(c) $340,000 MFRF
Linda Erickson-Eastwood
MN DNR - Fisheries
500 Lafayette Rd.
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)297-4919
This project expanded urban fishing opportunities and awareness, especially among
inner-city minority youth, single parent families, women, people with disabilities, and
low-income families. Approximately 57,000 Minnesotans have experienced the MinnAqua
Program through its series of 312 special events, 131 clinics, and 94 nibbles.
Networks were developed with about 102 different groups who contributed either technical
expertise, donations, or equipment. Program volunteers have donated over 2,000 hours per
year to help implement the program. MinnAqua continues to spread and has been recognized
as a model program for others to follow.
Catch & Release Program
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 8(d) $35,000 MFRF
Henry G. Drewes
MN DNR - Fisheries
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)297-3287
This program promoted statewide awareness of the benefits of catch and release as a method
for enhancing fishing quality. Administered through the Cooperative Opportunities for
Resource Enhancement(CORE) program, 12 groups participated and completed projects.
These efforts increased angler awareness of the benefits of catch and release, provided
information on proper methods for handling and releasing fish to insure good survival, and
promoted cooperation with sports clubs to expand the use of catch and release as a viable
management tool.
Materials produced from this project, including a video entitled "Fish for
Tomorrow," have been distributed to thousands of anglers throughout Minnesota.
Metropolitan Lakes Fishing Opportunities Study
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 8(e) $75,000 MFRF
Duane Shodeen
MN DNR
1200 Warner Road
St. Paul, MN 55106
(612)772-7950
This project developed a profile of metro angler needs and barriers to angling based on a
telephone survey of 1000 anglers. The data is available on computer disk which will make
its utilization for management needs easier. Presently, errors in the data base are being
corrected before an assessment of metro lakes management for angling can be completed and
evaluated.
Lake Minnetonka Bass Tracking
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 8(f) $85,000 MFRF
Tim Goerman
Fisheries Research
MN DNR
Brainard, MN 56401
(218)828-2246
This research project explored the biological and behavioral impacts of fishing
tournaments on largemouth bass. Researchers found that tournaments did affect bass biology
and behavior depending mostly upon the season tournaments were held, the fish-holding
techniques employed, and the quality of livewell water. Fish mortality associated with
tournaments is most likely due to the cumulative effects of sublethal stressors of poor
water quality and handling, as well as physical injuries related to angling.
From these results the researchers made five recommendations: 1) continue point incentives
for live-release tournaments, 2) continue minimum-impact weigh-in procedures, 3) change or
dilute livewell water frequently during tournaments, 4) rotate use of weigh-in sites on
lakes for multiple tournaments within a season, and 5) avoid traditional tournaments
during the spawning season.
Stocking Survey
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 8(g) $35,000 MFRF
Roy Johannes
MN DNR Fisheries
Box 12, 500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)296-2308
Because state stocking production may not always be able to meet demand, this project was
organized to identify and survey organizations statewide to determine their willingness
and ability to participate in a cost-sharing stocking program. Surveys were mailed to
1,800 organizations and 135 responded. 53% of respondents were willing to donate time
and/or money to potential DNR fish-stocking projects, while some respondents were already
working cooperatively with the DNR. The remainder of the organizations wanted more
specific information before considering donating any time or money, or they were not
interested in participating.
The final report of this project was presented to the president of the MN Sportfishing
Congress.
WILDLIFE
Insecticide Impact on Wetland and Upland Wildlife
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(a) $650,000 TF
Alfred Berner
Farmland Wildlife Populations Research, DNR
Rt. 1, Box 181
Madelia, MN 56062
(507)642-8478
This project researched the magnitude of impacts on growth, behavior, and survival of
young upland and wetland birds caused by insecticides used to control agricultural pests.
In the wetland research, although application of insecticide showed no significant effect
on duckling mass 15 days after treatment, the mean survival for broods reared on treated
sites was significantly lower than for broods reared on untreated sites, suggesting that
subtle effects of insecticide application on food availability may result in decreased
survival and recruitment of ducklings.
In all upland experiments, invertebrate abundance and biomass were reduced following
application of insecticide, but there was no effect on daily mass change in pheasant
chicks.
The results of this research project can be used to guide the application of insecticides
as part of routine agricultural practices, and to more fully understand the potential
direct and indirect effects of insecticide on non-target organisms.
Biological Control of Ecologically Harmful Exotic Species: Eurasian
Watermilfoil
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(b) $160,000 MFRF
Luke Skinner
DNR Box 25
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)297-3763
The long-term goal of this project is to utilize native insects and fungal pathogens to
develop long-term biological control techniques for controlling Eurasian Watermilfoil. To
this end, the current project focused on identifying naturally occurring control organisms
and selecting those which inflict the most damage for additional research.
Three native insects -- a weevil, a caterpillar, and a caddisfly -- are known to feed on
Eurasian watermilfoil. The weevil was shown to hold the most promise of the three insects
for controlling Eurasian watermilfoil because it seems to strongly prefer the plant during
multiple choice experiments.
In addition to insects that prey on watermilfoil, native fungi were also examined for
their control potential. The three isolates that were found to display the greatest
virulence will be mass cultured and then tested in field plots for effectiveness.
This insect and fungal research will continue through 1995 and results will be shared with
peer-reviewed journals and other researchers as they become available. This project is
continuing through the 1993-1995 biennium (M.L.93, Ch. 172, Sec. 14, Subd. 12(l)).
Microbial/Genetic Strategies for Mosquito Control
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(c) $150,000 MFRF
Ann Fallon and T.J. Kurtti
Department of Entomology, U of MN
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)625-3728
(612)624-4740
This project researched microbial/genetic strategies for controlling mosquitoes by
utilizing microbial agents, especially pathogenic microsporidia, that are environmentally
safe and specific for mosquitoes.
Three strains of microsporidia were evaluated as control agents; one was not infective to
mosquitoes, one was difficult to propagate in the laboratory and therefore requires
additional research, and one (Nosema algerae) was found to be infectious in mosquitoes and
able to be propagated in caterpillar larvae. The researchers also characterized
physiological processes that limit microsporidian infection in mosquitoes.
Further research in this area has potential implications for therapeutic control of
mosquito-born disease, including LaCrosse encephalitis. Researchers also documented the
existence of defense reactions to microsporidia in mosquitoes, which must be factored into
the current research efforts. Results from this research have been disseminated through
posters at scientific meetings and in a pending manuscript.
MN County Biological Survey
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(d) $1,000,000 TF
Carmen Converse
Natural Heritage Program, DNR
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)296-9782
Continuing from the 1989-1991 biennium (M.L.89, Ch. 335, Art. 1, Sec. 29, Subd. 3(t)), the
MN County Biological Survey is a county-by-county inventory of rare animals, rare plants,
and significant natural vegetation communities. All data are entered into the Natural
Heritage Information System and are used for environmental review, forest and wildlife
planning, urban and recreational development planning, nature preserve acquisition,
additional research, and public education on the state's endangered species.
During this biennium, the survey was completed in eight counties (Goodhue, Kittson, Rice,
Roseau, Morrison, Red Lake, Pennington, Marshall) and continues in five (Polk, Winona,
Cass, Dakota, Houston), bringing the total to 20 counties since 1987. Three sites
recommended by MCBS have become Scientific and Natural Areas. One of the most significant
protection efforts has been the 6900 acre addition of aspen parkland to Beaches Lake
Wildlife Management Area, which the MCBS identified as a natural ecosystem restricted to
NW Minnesota and adjacent Canada. The MN Biological Survey is continuing through the
1993-1995 biennium (M.L. 93, Ch. 172, Sec.14, Subd.6(a)).
Data Base for Plants of Minnesota
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(e) $130,000 TF
Anita F. Cholewa
Herbarium, Dept. of Plant Biology
U of M
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)625-3702
This project computerized information about the 2000 species of plants that grow in
Minnesota. The resulting database was created to supply easier access to biological data,
where searches can be conducted by species' name, locality, preserve or state park name,
nearby town, township and range, latitude and longitude, habitat, collector, and
collection date.
The data base has also been linked to a mapping program so that current statewide
distribution maps can be created. Network connection allows remote access by users. Two
predicted users are the DNR personnel working on the County Biological Survey and the MN
Department of Transportation personnel concerned with roadside plantings of native plants.
Notification of the data base will also be made available to other potential users
including the public.
Aquatic Invertebrate Assessment Archive
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(f) $130,000 TF
Judy Helgen
Water Quality Division, MN PCA
520 Lafayette
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)296-7240
This appropriation was used to continue work from the 1989-1991 biennium (M.L. 89, Ch.
335, Sec.29, Subd. 10(c)) on a database of aquatic invertebrates and to analyze unimpaired
wetland sites for invertebrate and other biological communities in order to develop
biological assessment methods and biological criteria of pollution.
35 wetlands in the Central Hardwood Forest ecoregion in 17 counties of Minnesota were
analyzed for several invertebrate groups, amphibian densities, and 11 water and six
sedimentary chemistry parameters. The reference sites show a broad representation of
invertebrate groups and vegetation and have indications of high water quality.
This project has formed the basis for funding requests to U.S. E.P.A which cover a full
analysis of the large data set for aerial photography of the sites, landscape analysis,
descriptive data analysis, and work on developing appropriate protocols and metrics of
biological condition for wetlands.
-- CANCELLED -- Required match not met
Wetlands Forum
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(g) $40,000 TF
John Stine
DNR
1200 Warner Road
St. Paul, MN 55106
(612)772-7910
The purpose of this project was to collect, analyze, and disseminate information
on the wise use and conservation of wetlands in the metropolitan area.
Easement Acquisition on Restored Wetlands
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(h) $400,000 TF
David H. Behm
MN Board of Water and Soil Resources
155 South Wabasha, #104
St. Paul, MN 55107
(612)297-8341
This pilot program acquired permanent easements on private lands containing federally
restored wetlands or enhanced wetlands and adjacent lands. In cooperation with the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service and the Izaak Walton League, the BWSR encouraged landowners with
restorations on Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) contract lands or restorations
associated with F&W Service wildlife development agreements to enroll the desired
parcels under perpetual easements in the Reinvest in Minnesota (RIM) Reserve.
20 perpetual conservation easements were enrolled in the RIM Reserve Program, providing
permanent protection to 279.1 acres of restored wetlands and 424.6 acres of adjacent
uplands.
The enrolled acreage represents 34 restored wetland basins, mostly within the prairie
pothole region of MN; and eight of the 20 easement areas include multiple wetland basins
or complexes.
As a result of this program, the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service
(ASCS) approved a statewide policy allowing CRP contract holders to modify or cancel their
CRP contracts without repayment or penalties as long as the lands are enrolled under
perpetual conservation easements into the RIM Reserve Program.
Swan and Heron Lake Area Projects
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(i) $1,000,000 MFRF
Larry R. Nelson
DNR/ Fish and Wildlife
Box 756
New Ulm, MN 56073
(507)359-6030
Continuing from the 1989-1991 biennium ( M.L. 1989, Ch. 335, Sec. 29, Subd. 3(s)), the
Swan and Heron Lake projects have leveraged $5,169,430 in matching funds from a broad
spectrum of partners including conservation organizations, private donors, and various
state and federal entities to be used to acquire critical wetland habitat. To date, over
3,971 acres have been purchased, including 951 acres of protected or restored wetlands.
All lands have been included in the Minnesota outdoor recreation system and are open for
appropriate public use. Color brochures and short videos have been produced about the Swan
and Heron Lake projects, and numerous tours and presentations have been given to local,
national, and international interest groups.
Wildlife Oriented Recreation Facilities -- Sandstone Unit
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(j) $9,000 MFRF
John Lindell
US Fish & Wildlife Service
Rt.2, Box 67
McGregor, MN 55760
(218) 768-2402
This appropriation was used to construct basic recreational facilities at the 2,000 acre
Sandstone Unit of Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge. The completed facilities include a
visitor parking area and an information kiosk that houses leaflets describing the
Sandstone Unit to visitors and will also eventually include interpretive panels describing
the biological significance of the Refuge Unit.
Project managers anticipate 2000 visitors to the Sandstone unit annually.
Scientific and Natural Areas Acquisition and Betterment
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(k) $300,000 MFRF
Bob Djupstrom
MN DNR - Box 7
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)624-2357
This appropriation was used to protect Minnesota's natural diversity through public land
acquisition and development of dedicated scientific and natural areas (SNA). Lands at
three sites were protected for sand prairie, sand dunes, mesic prairie, and habitat for
five-lined skink.
Other project activities included carrying out prescribed burning, reducing woody
encroachments on prairies, eliminating exotic species, and working on restoration
projects. Scientific and Natural Areas are used by the public for observing rare plants
and animals, outdoor education, and scientific research.
Black Bear Research in East Central MN
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(l) $100,000 MFRF
Elmer C. Birney
Bell Museum of Natural History
100 Ecology Building, U of MN
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)624-6293
This program studied black-bear population size and structure, individual movements, and
habitat-use patterns in order to better understand the problem of bear damage to crops in
east-central MN.
From collected data, several conclusions about black bears and crop damage were drawn: 1)
Bear densities are relatively high in the study area. 2) Given the large number of
resident bears involved in crop damage and the dispersed nature of crops, techniques aimed
at individual problem bears are not feasible. 3) During years of widespread failure of the
berry and mast crops, higher levels of crop damage are predicted. 4) The physical
characteristics of the landscape surrounding agricultural fields does not seem to
correlate strongly with the probability of damage by bears. And 5) most landowners in the
study area appear to expect and tolerate the levels of crop damage by black bears
experienced during the study. Except in years of low natural food availability, additional
mitigation will not be necessary.
Partnership for Accelerated Wild Turkey Management
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(m) $50,000 MFRF
John R. Beard
701 E. Lake Street
Wayzata, MN 55391
(612)475-4127
This appropriation was used to accelerate and complete the MN DNR Wild Turkey
Reintroduction Program. The LCMR appropriation generated a match of $50,000 from the
National Wild Turkey Federation.
The project group trapped 931 wild turkeys in southeast Minnesota, and 882 of these were
released into 43 new sites in Minnesota's identified turkey range. Also, 88 additional
wild turkeys were obtained through wildlife exchanges with other states for release into
unoccupied turkey habitat.
This project also expanded the wild turkey survey to include all current and potential
range and developed an innovative GIS which will model and monitor our expanding turkey
population.
Restore Thomas Sadler Roberts Bird Sanctuary
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(n) $50,000 TF
Jeffrey T. Lee
Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board
3800 Bryant Ave.South
Minneapolis, MN 55409
(612)348-4448
In conjunction with neighborhood residents and the Minneapolis chapter of the Audubon
Society and utilizing a local match of $50,000, the Thomas Sadler Roberts Bird Sanctuary
project designed and constructed a trail system that has increased public access to the
sanctuary wetlands with a minimum of impact on the flora and fauna.
In addition, various interpretive materials have been developed including
topographic/habitat maps and a detailed guidebook, which will help orient visitors to the
sanctuary's wildlife and help them identify these same plants and animals throughout the
city and state.
Effects of Change in the Forest Ecosystem on the Biodiversity of
Minnesota's Northern Forest Birds
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(o) $300,000 TF
Lee Pfannmuller
Nongame Wildlife Program
DNR - 500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)297-2276
In order to help facilitate the development of an integrated resource management policy
that would provide a sustainable resource base and preserve biodiversity, this research
program assessed historical forest bird population trends, developed a research and
monitoring program to predict future trends, digitized regional forest cover and land use
data, and began an analysis of the relationship between regional bird populations and land
use patterns.
The resulting data files have wide applications to other resource management issues in the
northern forest. To disseminate important results, this work group developed a slide show
on biodiversity and forest songbirds, an information guide outline, and a management
leaflet on forest fragmentation. This project has been featured in several newspaper,
magazine, TV, and radio pieces and continues into the 1993-1995 biennium (M.L. 93, Ch.
172, Sec. 14, Subd. 6(b)).
Establish Northern Raptor Rehabilitation and Education
Facility
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(p) $75,000 MFRF
Ron Osterbauer
The Raptor Center, U of MN
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)624-4745
This appropriation was used to establish a raptor rehabilitation and release facility at
the Audubon Center of the Northwoods. The facility includes educational and veterinary
care areas, rehabilitation and release facilities, and a landscaped area.
A staff person was hired to coordinate educational programs and on-site visits. Volunteers
have been recruited and trained, and birds are now being admitted to the facility. An
educational curriculum and video have been completed for 4th-6th grade teachers to teach
about the natural history of raptors and the environmental pressures they face. This
curriculum should be distributed in January 1994.
Effect of Avian Flu Virus on Growth and Production Parameters in
Mallard Ducks
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 9(q) $16,000 MFRF
David Halvorson
Dept. of Veterinary Science, U of MN
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)625-5292
This appropriation was used to research the pathogenicity of avian influenza virus on
mallard ducks and its affect on rate of growth and reproduction. Results suggest that
influenza viruses are capable of having negative effects on the immune system of ducks,
but do not appear to cause significant lesions in other tissues. The viruses did not
appear to affect rate of growth in ducklings.
Concerning the viruses' effect on reproductive health, there was a significant decrease in
egg production following inoculation with the virus, but it returned to normal levels by
the second week. No effect was seen on egg shape, weight, or fertility.
It was concluded that other influenza viruses probably exist in nature which may be even
more pathogenic in waterfowl than the non-pathogenic isolate examined in this study. The
results of this study were accepted into two journals for publication and shared at annual
veterinary meetings in 1992 and 1993.
LAND
Base Maps for the 1990's
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 10(a) 1,900,000 TF
Don Yaeger
Land Management Information Center
330 Centennial Building
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)297-2490
This appropriation provided the state match for a federal program to complete a major
portion of the statewide air photo and base map coverage. Two sets of state-wide aerial
photography were purchased.
A pilot digital orthophotography project was completed in Olmsted County, and a contract
was then written for $1,520,000 to start the two-year orthophotography production process
for the southeastern half of the state. Products are scheduled to be delivered in the
second half of 1994.
The final objective of this project was completed with a $200,000 contract to print
revised USGS topographic quad maps for the state's seven largest urban areas (Twin Cities,
Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, Winona, Mankato, and Moorhead). Final printed maps will be
delivered in late 1993.
The sets of photography generated from this project have been used by both the general
public and public agencies at all levels. Data from the Olmsted County pilot has been
distributed to GIS researchers at the federal, state, and local levels. Published quad
maps of the urban areas are for sale to the public and will be distributed free to major
state agencies and all major public map libraries. This project is continuing through the
1993-1995 biennium (M.L. 93, Ch. 172, Sec. 14, Subd. 8(a)).
Accelerated Soil Survey
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 10(b) $1,270,000 MFRF
James Anderson
Dept. of Soil Science, U of MN
St. Paul, MN 55108
(612)625-8209
This project completed field soil surveys in eight counties (Aitken, Becker, Clearwater,
Lac Qui Parle, Mahnomen, Marshall, McLeod, and Meeker) and continued surveys in six
counties (Hubbard, Ottertail, Polk, Renville, Roseau, and St. Louis). The data gathered
about particle size, organic matter content, pH, water retention values, and bulk density
can be used to determine the leeching potential of agrichemicals and the soil-specific
management needs for crop production.
Since the start of the acclerated soil survey, 36 soil survey reports have been published
and 14 are pending publication. These reports are useful for interpretation of a variety
of land uses including agricultural, silvacultural, residential, and recreational. A
digitized information system, Soil Survey Information System (SSIS) was developed which
allows the spatial display of soils and selected properties for any given section of land.
This information can then be incorporated into the multi-layer analysis of landscapes and
watersheds.
Statewide National Wetlands Inventory, Protected Water Inventory, and
Watershed Map Digitization
M.L. 1991 Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 10(c) $750,000 TF
John Stine, Administrator
DNR Division of Waters
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)296-0440
This project completed the digitization of the National Wetland Inventory, the protected
waters inventory, and the watershed boundaries. All three data sets make up the Wetlands
GIS. Because there are many potential users of this information, a significant effort was
made to develop GIS applications which are easy to use, affordable, and accessible.
The GIS layers will be used in the management of wetlands and especially in the
implementation of the Wetlands Conservation Act of 1991. The Land Management Information
Center (LMIC) has filled over 30 National Wetlands Inventory data requests for use by
local communities, private consultants, and members of the public. As the Wetlands
Conservation Act of 1991 continues to be implemented, demand for wetlands GIS data will
most likely increase.
Statewide Land Use Update of MN
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 10(d) $338,000 MFRF
Karla Parkinson
International Coalition for Land and Water
PO Box 127
Moorhead, MN 56560
(218)233-0292
This appropriation was used to update the statewide land use maps of all land and water
resources outside the Twin City metropolitan area. The project interpreted a total of 1017
full or partial quadrangle maps out of a total of 1733 maps statewide. In addition, 166
quadrangle map equivalents have been similarly typed from other sources. This leaves 550
maps from the transition and forested zones of the state to complete.
A detailed manual describing project techniques was also developed to facilitate the use
and update of data. The project data resides at Land Management Information Center (LMIC)
in a compatible form with other state data. The data will be supplied to other users
through the Board of Water and Soil Resources Water Interface program.
Local Geographic Information System Project
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 10(e) $143,000 MFRF
Karla Parkinson
International Coalition for Land and Water
PO Box 127
Moorhead, MN 56560
(218)133-0292
This appropriation was used to expand the applicability and use of geographic information
systems (GIS) by developing programs and providing training at the local level. A GIS
Users Group of resource managers in the Red River Basin was formed to monitor and
facilitate the project, and a cooperative effort to tie the local GIS project with the Red
River Watershed Management Board GIS management needs was undertaken.
A four-part Geographic Information System Users Foundation program effort was developed to
define problems collaboratively, to provide the information needed to address these
problems, to provide computer and GIS training, and to develop a help line to help
managers with future problems. The program is designed to relate surface water data,
ground water data, and land-use relationships.
GIS Control Point Inventory
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 10(f) $175,000 MFRF
Don Yaeger
Land Management Information Center
330 Centennial Building
St. Paul, MN 55155
(612)296-1209
This appropriation was used to produce digital files of the Public Land Survey (PLS) as
represented on the most commonly used maps in the state and to establish a central PLS
information file and a plan for long-range maintenance and retrieval of the information.
A review of and update of PLS data for input to all future Inventory data sets was
completed. And a digital section corner file from USGS quad maps was completed for
statewide regional and statewide mapping.
While searching for a better system to track and organize precise PLS data as collected by
field surveyors, it was decided that an existing DNR pilot project in Houston County could
meet these needs with some modification and enhancement. Therefore, a contract was written
between Land Management Information Center and DNR Engineering to refine and test the
pilot inventory in five additional counties. After the pilot, a system for state-wide use
was completed and is now available.
To disseminate the project results, both of the PLS digital data bases are available for
clients of Land Management Information Center and are sold at nominal costs to other
users. The system developed by DNR Engineering is being given free to every county, the MN
Department of Transportation, two national forests, and any other public agency in the
state who conducts land surveys.
Land Use and Design Strategies to Enhance Environmental Quality
M.L. 1991, Ch. 254, Sec. 14, Subd. 10(g) $100,000 MFRF
Harrison Fraker
College of Architecture and Landscape Architecture, U of MN
Minneapolis, MN 55455
(612)626-1000
This appropriation was used to develop land use and urban guidelines for typical station
stops on light rail transit (LRT) and busway systems that would create pedestrian oriented
neighborhoods with improved environmental quality. In conjunction with the Metropolitan
Council, five case study sites were chosen, and urban design prototypes were developed
with the local communities.
From this process, several core principles emerged encompassing the notion that station
stops should integrate a mixed-use commercial core, a better density and diversity of
housing, and a public open space system of streets, sidewalks, parks, and squares that
encourages pedestrian and bike use.
This work has influenced both the new Metropolitan Development and Investment Framework
(MDIF) and the Regional Transit Facilities Plan. One city, Robbinsdale has also developed
its own specific Downtown Redevelopment Plan using the guidelines from this research
project.
A sixth case study in the Phalen neighborhood of St. Paul led to the development of a
design framework in cooperation with the Phalen Small Area Plan Task Force that includes
recreating a wetlands park as the neighborhood's signature and reintroducing distinct
neighborhood streets as a way to rehabilitate existing deteriorating housing blocks and
developing new diverse housing types.
The results of this total research effort have been disseminated in presentations to local
community and planning groups, professional meetings, and committees of the state
legi
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