Chisago Chain of Lakes Retrofit
The Chisago Lakes Chain of Lakes Stormwater Retrofit Assessment has assessed 54 small watersheds for the optimal locations for best management practices. A long list of Best Management Practices has been identified, the next step is to design and install the most cost effective projects.
Three assessments will be completed in Chisago County by the end of 2011. A list of the "Top Catchments" is defined at the end of the Assessment. Of the fifty-four catchments delineated in Lindstrom, sixteen are defined in the top catchment list. The best projects will be implemented with this Clean Water Fund grant. Economic stability of these Cities is dependent on the Chisago Lakes Chain of Lakes. Reducing pollution to the lakes will ensure that the area is a premeire fishing destination for years to come. The cumulative reduction of phosphorus and sediment to South Center, North Center, North Lindstrom and South Lindstrom Lakes will help meet the water quality goals that will be defined in the TMDL study that is currently underway. By installing all the BMPs identified pollutant loading can be reduced by 27.5 pounds of phosphorus and 10 tons of sediment per year. Some lakes that are not impaired are nearing the water quality standards. The installation of BMPs near lakes in high priority areas will help maintain the current water quality levels and possibly begin to move the water quality trends toward meeting standards.
All projects identified will use infiltration and filtration to keep water on the land. The proposed bioretention areas are at the optimal locations located near catch basins and will be sized to treat the most amount of stormwater runoff possible.
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)
By installing all the BMPs identified pollutant loading can be reduced by 27.5 pounds of phosphorus and 10 tons of sediment per year.
In the cities of Lindstrom and Center City, a total of 20 rain gardens, 2 tree pits, 1 grade stabilization, 1 shoreline restoration, and an area of pervious asphalt was installed with this grant funding. Together, these practices reduce an estimated 35 pounds of phosphorus, 20 tons of sediment, and 48 acre-feet per year of water from reaching local water bodies.