How can I get involved in water resources conservation efforts?

The Sherburne SWCD is the lead agency for coordinating the County Water plan. The state of Minnesota mandates that each county develop a comprehensive plan for protection of its water resources. The first County Water Plan was completed in 1992 and is updated every five years.

The Water Plan provides a framework to plan for the water resources of the county including lakes, streams, wetlands and groundwater. Issues are identified, long-range goals are determined and a plan of action is developed to address priority concerns.

Protecting Lakeshore from Erosion

BEFORE

AFTER

The plan of action includes the areas of environmental education, monitoring and data collection, inventory and mapping, land treatment projects and water resources related to regulation and controls. Responsibilities for implementing specific action are assigned tot he appropriate county entity such as the SWCD, Extension and County Zoning. Many areas require close cooperation with state and federal agencies such as the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the MPCA, and the DNR.
The Water Plan Advisory Committee is made up of representatives of the County board of Commissioners, the SWCD Board of Supervisors, County Departments, and citizens at large. This committee meets quarterly to monitor the progress of implementation and to identify emerging issues and opportunities.

The Sherburne SWCD participates in this joint effort of Sherburne and Benton Counties. The Elk River watershed drains about 70% of these two Counties and includes many of the county's streams and lakes. The Association works with landowners to put land use practices in place that will help protect water resources from pollution and provide other benefits such as water storage and wildlife habitat. They also conduct water quality studies on streams in the watershed.

Through the HLP Sherburne Soil and Water Conservation District partners with the Initiative Foundation and county lake associations to provide a means for shoreline property owners to plan for the future of their lake. The Initiative Foundation provides training and funding to participating lake associations to help them involve their lakeshore communities in developing lake management plans. Five Sherburne County Lake Association are currently working on developing and implementing lake management plans.

Healthy Lakes Partnership - developing a management plan for Lake Orono

Everyone has a role in protecting water resources. What can you do?

Adopt Best Management Practices (BMPs)

"BMPs" are practices that help reduce pollution. These have been developed for fertilizer use, septic systems, yard waste, landscaping, livestock and many other areas. For more information on which BMPs apply to you, contact Sherburne SWCD or visit the Minnesota Extension web site or call them at (763) 241-2720 or             (800) 433-5236.

Volunteer to monitor a lake or stream

The MPCA sponsors the Citizen Lake Monitoring and Citizen Stream Monitoring program. These volunteers are providing the County with valuable water quality data. For information visit the MPCA's website or contact Sherburne SWCD.

Inquire about becoming a member of the Sherburne County Water plan Advisory Committee. Contact Mark Basiletti, County Water Plan Coordinator mark.basiletti@mn.nacdnet.net

Volunteer monitoring water quality on Big Lake