Cedar/Farm Island Lakes
Cedar and Farm Island are large recreational lakes located in the Aitkin/Brainerd Lakes area. Both lakes are showing significant downward trends in water clarity. The trend coincides with watershed development that increases water runoff. This project seeks to reverse that trend before these lakes degrade further and become impaired. Changing land uses now through incentives is a very cost-effective way to manage these lakes. The consequence of delaying funding for these lakes is a much higher future cost and the possibility that some of their environmental and social values will be lost forever.This project funds the design and installation of rain gardens, shoreland revegetation, and water diversions. These projects all reduce the rate of runoff to lakes and streams. Reducing the runoff will lower the amount of nutrients, especially phosphorus, that increases algae growth. Some additional forest stewardship assistance in the watersheds further slow runoff and nutrient transport.
Nicole Clapp
(c) $3,000,000 the first year and $3,000,000 the second year are for nonpoint source pollution reduction and restoration grants to watershed districts, watershed management organizations, counties, and soil and water conservation districts for grants in addition to grants available under paragraphs (a) and (b) to keep water on the land and to protect, enhance, and restore water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams, and to protect groundwater and drinking water. The projects must be of long-lasting public benefit, include a local match, and be consistent with TMDL implementation plans or local water management plans. Up to five percent may be used for administering the grants (2011 - Clean Water Assistance)
This project funds the design and installation of rain gardens, shoreland revegetation, and water diversions. These projects all reduce the rate of runoff to lakes and streams.
15 shoreland revegetation projects and one rain garden were installed.