Sherburne SWCD 2010 Land Treatment Projects

Sherburne County's Local Water Management Plan identifies eutrophication of lakes (heavy algae blooms) caused by excess phosphorus, loss of aquatic vegation, and loss of riparian vegetation. Removal of natural vegetation near the waters edge in developed and agricultural areas has caused loss of fish and wildlife habitat, increased runoff, and allowed bank erosion. The District will address sources of phosphorus and sediment for three important surface waters in the County. In all, phosphorus will be reduced by 355 pounds and sediment will be reduced by 400 tons per year. 400 feet of eroding streambank on the Rum River will be stabilized with stream barbs. Stream barbs will create structure in the stream which is desirable for fish habitat. Native trees and shrubs will be planted to stabilize soils and provide habitat. The Rum River is regionally important as a State Water Trail and is known for its smallmouth bass fishery. 670 feet of eroding lakeshore on Lake Fremont will be stabilized using innovative bio-engineering methods that will restore native shrubs and grasses on the lakeshore. Lake Fremont is a priority lake for improvement in Sherburne County, known regionally for its northern pike fishery. In older areas of Elk River, stormwater is piped directly to the Mississippi River. Urban runoff carries phosphorus and sediment impairing habitat and recreation. This reach of the Mississippi is designated by the State as a Wild and Scenic River and provides excellent walleye and smallmouth bass fishing. It is also a source of drinking water for the Twin cities. Stormwater treatment will be installed at three sites to infiltrate runoff before it enters the river.