Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Final Report:
Publications to Assist Property Owners in Protecting
Eric Stoller
Project No.306-13-09
This project was funded in part under the Coastal Zone Management Act, by NOAA’s
Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, in cooperation with Minnesota’s
Lake Superior Coastal Program.
INTRODUCTION
In 2007, the Lake Superior Costal Program awarded a grant to the Planning &
Development Department of St. Louis County, Minnesota (the department) to produce
shoreland and wetland guides. These guides will assist property owners and developers in
the Coastal Zone, as well as other areas, to make improvements to their property in ways
that protect these important environments.
The Wetland Guide is comprised of a series of guides for different wetland types and
complements an earlier publication prepared by the department. It provides detailed
information on identification of wetland types, agencies involved in wetland regulation
and protection, and strategies to avoid wetland impacts. The Shoreland Guide provides
information on the importance of the shore impact zone, rules and regulations that govern
development within that zone, and strategies to enhance riparian environments.
WORK COMPLETED
Wetland Guide: Research was conducted with partner agencies to determine the most
appropriate classification system to use in the guide. Once this was determined, an
outline was produced, text was developed, and images were created and assembled.
Drafts of the guide received extensive review from wetland specialists in the department
and in partnering agencies. A limited run of printed guides was produced and distribution
will begin shortly. The digital version of the guide will be distributed through the
department’s website and through partner agencies.
Shoreland Guide: This guide was more straightforward and its development was guided
largely through the department’s in-house expertise in shoreland development. The work
completed is similar to that for the Wetland Guide.
RESULTS
The project resulted in the production of Shoreland Guide and Wetland Guide that will
assist property owners and developers to make legal and environmentally responsible
improvements to their property. It is expected that as the guides are distributed and used,
property owners will become more knowledgeable about how to avoid negative impacts
to wetlands and shoreland areas. The guides will also provide contact information for
additional resources and technical assistance.
The process of producing the guides helped the department refine its approach to the
development of instructional videos and the production of those videos is underway.
PARNTERNSHIPS
None to report.
LEVERAGED DOLLARS
None to report.
CONCLUSIONS
Lessons Learned: Conducting the research to determine the proper wetland classification
system to use delayed the project timeline, but resulted in the guide being more accurate
and useful. It also led to the decision that separate guides for each of the six major
wetland types would better serve the intended audience. Another benefit is better
coordination with other wetland agencies.
Unexpected Challenges: The science of wetlands continues to evolve. To keep the guides
relevant, regular review and updates of current knowledge will be required. As the
Shoreland Guide was in development, the state’s rules that govern development in such
areas were being rewritten, and are not yet complete as of this report. The Shoreland
Guide incorporates information based on staff members’ best understanding of what the
new rules are likely to require. However, like the Wetland Guide, it will need to be
reviewed and updated periodically.
Newly Identified Needs: While the guides will do an excellent job of explaining complex
issues related to property development, we became aware of the need to provide
information in multiple formats. The increasing ease of producing and providing digital
video compelled the department to begin production of videos that explain and illustrate
some of the information provided in the guides.
Building on Our Success: Aggressive marketing and distribution of the guides will help
ensure their use and value to the intended audience. By completing and distributing the
video resource currently under development, the department will extend the reach of this
important information.
APPENDICES
Attached are copies of the materials produced through these grants. Electronic copies of
the documents were sent with the electronic copy of this report.
shoreland guide
F O R S T. LO U I S C O U N T Y, M N
This guide is intended to provide general guidance for developing shoreland property.
Each project may have special circumstances that require additional planning. Contact the
St. Louis County Planning and Development Department for more information.
Produced by:
St. Louis County Planning and Development Department
100 Missabe Building
227 West First Street
Duluth, MN 55802
(218) 725 - 5000
Toll Free Minnesota 1 - 800 - 450 - 9777
Revisions:
Revised 2 - 2010
INTROdUCTION
Overview of Shoreland Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 General Setbacks and Standards . . . . . . . . . . . page 17
Tips for using this Guide General Setbacks
Zoning Ordinance Road Setbacks
Comprehensive Land Use Plan Dimensional Standards
KeYS TO SUCCeSSFUL
ShOReLaNd deveL-
OPMeNT:
sewage system
pollutants
Sewage system
pollutants
• Sewage
system
below
standards • No erosion • Dwelling
• House too control • Fertilizer on is screened
close to bluff • Runoff waste shoreline from lake
causing • Impervious • Artificial • Polluted • Dock and • Filter strip • Runoff and
• Ground water plants leach • Aquatic pollutants • Standard
erosion and pollutants surface stairway help keeps
into lake, beach water life and shoreline filtered and setbacks
lack of water contributing stimulating allows no destroys • No healthy avoid impact,
filtration of stable, absorbed by respected
filtration to the lake, excess natural aquatic water enjoyed by filter strip
water swimmers healthy • Sufficient
contaminating algae habitat life
• Vegetation not and boaters and scenic sewage
water • Excess except
Animals maintained algae system
ShOReLaNd
glossary: Shoreland is identified as
shoreland area: The land locat the land located within a
ed within a set distance of public distance of public waters
waters as follows: 1,000 feet from as follows: 1,000 feet from
lake or flowage; 300 feet from river Shoreland Area
a lake, pond, or flowage;
or stream. 300 feet from a river or Shoreline
ohWl: Ordinary High Water Level. Setback River Corridor
stream.
Typically the level where the wa
ter is highest during an average
spring thaw. Ordinary High
shoreline setback: A set dis- Water Level
tance from the shoreline that (OHWL)
restricts development between it IdeNTIFYINg ShORe River/Stream
lot of record: A lot which is re tyPe oF inFormation dePartment & location Web site & Phone
corded in the office of the county
Duluth: (218) 725-5000 69-20 69-19 City and township zoning administered Phone:
Virginia: (218) 749-7103 Kabetogama 69-18
69-17 by own zoning department
68-21 68-20 68-19 second
rv/ canosia town hall 68-18
Phone:
68-15
68-14
COOK 62-17
62-21
town of gnesen
Breitung Eagles Nest
Linden Grove 53 Owens
TOWER
(218) 721-5433 73
60-19
Angora
135
60-18 169
Sandy Pike BABBITT
Embarrass
city of hermantown
60-20
French
Waasa
(218) 729-3600
Balkan MT. IRON
BIWABIK
KINNEY AURORA
VIRGINIA MCKINLEY
Biwabik
BUHL
GILBERT
town of lakewood
CHISHOLM
EVELETH 58-14
LEONIDAS Bassett
(218) 728-1015
169 37
310
618
Administered by
56-17 Colvin 56-14 Fairbanks
56-16
town of midway
3467 Lindahl Rd. 55-21
Lavell
Mcdavitt
53
Toivola Kelsey Cotton 54-15 54-14 54-13 Pequaywan (from OHWL to landward) Ordinary High Water
town of rice lake Cedar Valley
Level (OHWL)
4107 W. Beyer Rd. Elmer MEADOWLANDS
Meadowlands
Northland
53-16 53-15 North Star Alden
(218) 721-5101
52-21 New Independence Gnesen
Normanna Duluth
Van Buren Ness Alborn Fredenberg
Administered
Floodwood Culver 33
Rice Lake
Halden Canosia
BROOKSTON
(218) 624-3641
73
Arrowhead
by the State:
2 53
DULUTH
Prairie Lake Fine Lakes Stoney Brook
Brevator
HERMANTOWN Water Level
town of greenwood
Solway
DNR (from OHWL
2
PROCTOR
4227 Nelson Rd. Note: These zoning maps are an integral Midway
35
to waterward)
part of Ordinance 46, the zoning
Tower, MN 55790 Ordinance of St. Louis County, MN and
Phone: (218) 290-1132 may not be used independently.
T here are two types of jurisdictions for zoning in additional dimensional numbers added to sig-
St. Louis County: one is administered by St. Louis nify the dimensional standards or parcel size
County and the other is administered by its own of that district. Thus, every zoning district is la-
city or township zoning department. If your city or beled with an abbreviated name (e.g. Residen
township is designated on this map as having its tial: RES, Shoreline Mixed Use: SMU) and fol
own zoning ordinance, you should contact them lowed by a dimensional district (e.g. 1,1a, 2,3,4).
for your zoning and permit information. Township Identify your land use and dimensional district
zoning is required to be at least as restrictive as as a first step of your project. Be aware that there
the county zoning, and may be more restrictive. may be circumstances that alter the standards for
Townships are divided into zoning districts, with your property.
88’ Shoreline
125’ Shoreline
tance from your side property line sketch:
Setback
to your proposed project. • Property boundaries
Setback
rear yard: The distance from your and dimensions Trees
proposed project to the property • Existing structures
line opposite the road. with dimensions and Well
setbacks
lot width: The measurement of • Proposed structures
the property between the side
• Areas of vegetation
Centerline
174’ Road
water level of a river landward
188’ Rearyard
Setback
geNeRaL SeTbaCKS:
Dwelling All parcels have road and structure setbacks, or
requirements, for their zoning district.
Dimensional setbacks for your zone can be ob
Buildable Area tained from the dimensional standards chart be
side yard set back low. Lake, river and stream shore and road setbacks
Propery Line
Centerline
dimensional standard: Regula
tions set by the zoning Ordinance
ROAD road standards on the size of property.
ROAD CENTER RIGHT-OF-WAY
ROAD CLASSIFICATION setback standard: Regulations
LINE
set by the zoning Ordinance on the
Principal & Major Arterials 110’ 35’ distance away from structure.
Major Collectors 85’ 35’ structure standards: Regula
Accessory Structures* 48’ 15’ tions set by the zoning Ordinance
An example of identifying road setbacks. on structures.
Minor Collectors & Local 68’ 35’
Roads Performance standards: Regu
* Accessory structures on local roads (privately maintained), or on publicly lations set by the zoning Ordinance
maintained roads that serve ten principal uses or less. on what can be done to your land.
dimensional standards For land use districts (FAM, RES, SMU, LCO, SENS, LIU, LSO)
DIMENSIONAL 1 1a 2 3 3a 4 4a 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
DISTRICT
Minimum Lot area (acres) 35 35 17 9 9 4.5 4.5 2.5 2 1 1 1 2 0.5 0.33* .25** 2
Minimum Lot Width (ft) 600 1,200 600 300 600 300 400 200 200 150 200 150 200 100 100 75 200
% Max Lot Coverage 2 2 2 10 2 10 10 25 25 25 30 25 25 25 35 35 30
Side Yard Principal 100 100 100 50 50 50 50 20 20 20 20 15 15 15 10 10 25
(ft)
Accessory 100 100 100 25 25 25 25 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 5 5 25
Rear Yard Principal 100 100 100 100 100 50 50 45 45 45 45 40 40 40 40 40 50
(ft)
Accessory 100 100 100 50 50 50 50 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 5 5 50
Maximum 35’
Structure Height
Minimum Same as “ Minimum lot width”
Shoreline Frontage
*with public sewer **with pubic water and sewer Special standards apply for Plat of Soudan, Town of Breitung
uses authoriZed by conditional use Permit: Multiple and three and four
family dwellings, residential planned unit developments, home business, group home,
public/semi-public uses, mineral exploration and evaluation, utility facilities, mobile
home park, neighborhood commercial.
LaNd USe TeRMS Permitted with Performance Standards: Uses that are permitted
A land use guide for each zoning district is available from the St.
Louis County Planning and Development Department. To best un if the standards are met. If the standards cannot be met, the use
derstand zoning standards and their purpose, land owners should may be allowed with a variance or conditional use permit, depend
be familiar with the following terms: ing on the conditions.
Purpose Statement: Provides guidance for the zone district. The Uses authorized by Conditional Use Permit: Uses that require
district can not be used contrary to the purpose statement of the approval by the planning commission in accordance with the cri
district. teria set forth in the ordinance. Uses other than those stated in the
ordinance may be permitted though the conditional use process if
Permitted Uses: Uses that are allowed with a permit from the they are similar to the uses listed under the performance standard
county, provided all standards are met. or conditional use standard of that zone district, and they are con
sistent with the purpose of that district.
weTLaNd:
Wetland describes a wide variety of wet environ weTLaNd IMPaCT
ments varying from a slight depression, which Wetland impact is a term used to describe actions
holds water only after spring run that effect the environment of a wetland. Since glossary:
off, to open water wetlands most wetlands are in prime condition in their un
that never draw disturbed state, any change is usually referred to hydrology: The study of
down. By as a negative impact. water and its effects in a
most stan given area.
dards, a
wetland’s soil Obligate plants: A plant
is saturated with TYPICaL aCTIvITIeS ThaT CaUSe that has adapted to a cer
water either above IMPaCT: tain condition and lives
or just below the sur Filling: Adding any material to change the primarily in these condi
face, and is covered bottom level of a wetland. tions.
with plants that have
adapted to the wet con draining: Removing the water from a wet Sequencing: A step - by -
ditions characteristic to land by ditching, tilling, pumping, or other step review process used
their wetland environ such techniques. to determine possibility
ment. Since there are excavating: Dredging and removing soil and of wetland development.
many laws protect vegetation from a wetland.
ing wetlands, it is Organic soils: Soil con
diverting water: Preventing the flow of water taining decomposed
important to iden into a wetland by removing water upstream,
tify wetlands and plants; typically, peat or
Minnesota Wetlands lowering lake levels, or lowering groundwa composted vegetation.
their boundaries. ter tables.
Clearing: Removing vegetation by digging Mineral soils: Clay, sand,
IdeNTIFYINg weTLaNd ChaRaCTeRISTICS: or scraping. or silt with little organic
Water influences the vegeta Flooding: Raising water levels, either behind (or composted) material.
Shoreland tion and soil found on any site. dams or by pumping or otherwise channel
Therefore, the vegetation, soil, ing water into a wetland so that water levels hydric soils: Soils that
video
available on this subject and hydrologic factors must all are too high for wetland vegetation and ani do not drain well, or that
www.co.st-louis.mn.us be addressed in identification mals to survive (i.e., converting a wetland to a have a layer of soil that
of a jurisdictional wetland. lake or pond). slows drainage.
wetland Plants: In undisturbed sites, vegetation diverting or withholding sediment: Trap
is the most visible criterion and can be useful in ping sediment through the construction of
wetland observations. Some common wetland dams, channelization or other such projects
plants are willow, alder, black ash, black spruce, that inhibit the regeneration of wetlands in
balsam fir, aspen, cattails, sphagnum moss, red natural areas of deposition, such as deltas.
osier dogwood, and sedges. Shading: Placing pile supported platforms or
wetland Soils: Two common types of soil are bridges over wetlands, causing vegetation to
found in wet conditions. One is organic soils, or die.
peat. The second is mineral soils that do not drain Conducting activities in adjacent areas:
well because of high water table, low land, ground Disrupting the interactions between wet
water seepage, or a slowly permeable soil layer, lands and adjacent land areas, or indirectly
such as clay. These are called hydric soils. impacting wetlands through activities at ad
Mineral soils that are saturated much of the time joining sites.
become dull colored or gleyed. Gleyed soils are
neutral gray and occasionally greenish or bluish.
Mineral soils that are saturated for short periods
develop spots or blotches of different colors.
These spots can be an indication of hydric or wet
land soils.
wetland hydrology: Hydrology refers to the
presence or flow of water through a site. Some
wetlands are relatively dry during drier times of
the year. Often, aerial photographs, personal in
terviews with residents, and visual evidence are
used to determine wetland hydrology.
sequencing
FloodPlain Forest: Wetland tyPe 1 seasonally saturated basins: Wetland tyPe 1 & 2
characteristics: Floodplain forest wetlands are poorly drained, shallow depres characteristics The primary difference between the two seasonally saturated ba
sions located in the floodplain of a watercourse with no well defined inlets or outlets. sin wetlands is in the seasonal length of standing water and duration of the soil satura
These wetlands may have standing water for a few weeks each year, but are dry for tion. Seasonally flooded basins may have alternating periods of flood and drought; high
much of the growing season. They are frequently cultivated. When they are not, wet water table found in wet meadows may allow the soil to remain saturated.
land vegetation can become established. Alternating periods of flood and drought
can eliminate perennial plants so annual plants typically dominate the community.
Function & values: These nutrient rich temporary water holding basins frequently
Function & values: Floodplain forest wetlands are important for reducing shore have an abundance of plant seeds and invertebrates, making them ideal habitats for rare
line erosion by pooling and absorbing flood waters, stabilizing the shoreline, and plants and migrating waterfowl and shorebirds, especially in spring. During periods of
providing a filter for surface runoff. Especially in the spring, these temporary water high rainfall, seasonally saturated basin wetlands collect runoff which reduces the likeli
holding basins frequently have an abundance of plant seeds and invertebrates, which hood of seasonal flooding to downstream low-lying areas and acting as a natural filter.
makes them ideal nesting, feeding and resting areas for migrating waterfowl and
shorebirds.
vegetation: Floodplain forest wetlands are dominated by mature, deciduous vegetation: Seasonally saturated basin wetlands are dominated by non forested veg
hardwood trees growing on soils associated with riverine systems. The shrub layer, etation that can tolerate their roots and lower stem submerged in water over a period
although usually lacking, is sparse. Floodplain forest wetlands are vegetatively pro of time. Seasonally saturated basin wetlands are generally dominated by aquatic and
ductive because nutrients are periodically added to the system by flooding. submergent vegetation, and are not populated by shrubs or trees.
Wetland Plants
Being able to identify wetland plants can help identify wetlands.
adaPted
photo by Elaine Haug @USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database courtesy of Smithsnian Institute
Plants:
If you see the
following obligate
wetland plants, you
may be looking at
wetland:
Pink weed Wild Calla Lily Waterlilies Cattails
• bog rosemary
• bog birch
• cotton-grass
• black willow
• labrador tea
• cattail
• swamp milkweed
• sand bar willow
• skunk-cabbage
• sphagnum moss
• wild rice
Black Spruce White Cedar Black Ash Alder
STRUCTURe STaNdaRdS
In an effort to maintain a healthy ecosystem and quality commu fish cleaning houses, screen houses, gazebos, detached decks,
nity for all, standards have been set for all structures. Other stan and satellite dishes. These structures may be located within the
dards, such as setbacks and zoning standards, will still apply. shore impact zone or at the principal structure setback or beyond.
The maximum slope allowed for the construction site is 20%, and
PRINCIPaL STRUCTUReS must meet setbacks for slopes. Only one accessory structure, in
Single-family homes and cabins are principal structures, and all cluding satellite dishes, is allowed within the normal shoreland
other buildings are accessory structures. setback. Bathroom and sleeping quarters (except bunkhouses)
are not allowed at this setback. The standard also requires that
aCCeSSORY STRUCTUReS the structure be stained or painted an unobtrusive color, and
Specific water-orientated accessory structures are allowed at a re screened from the shore by natural means. These structures are
duced shoreline setback in certain zone districts with performance not allowed in Voyageurs National Park, on trout streams, or on
standards. These include saunas, boathouses, storage buildings, Natural Environmental Lakes.
bunkhouses
Bunkhouses shall be reviewed as added living and bedroom space, and the septic treatment system of the principal
structure shall be sized to take into account the added water use. A septic review will be required.
Bunkhouses on shoreland lots shall not exceed 260 square feet, and 14 feet height, unless they are located on lots that
have twice the minimum width and lot area requirements, in which case the mentioned standards do not apply.
boat houses
A boat house is a structure designed and used solely for the storage of boats or boating equipment. A permit is required
prior to construction. They are allowed on all general and recreational development lakes.
Use: May not include the following: deck or roof used as a deck, storage or garage for items unrelated to water sports.
Size: On lakes under 5,000 acres: The maximum size is 400 sq. ft. with maximum width 20 feet on side most parallel
to shoreline, and a maximum depth of 26 ft.
On lakes over 5,000 acres: The maximum size is raised to 520 sq. ft. Other standards remain the same.
Setback and Standards: Setback is minimum 10 feet and maximum 25 feet from shore line, maximum width 20 feet
on side most parallel to shoreline, and a maximum depth of 26 ft. The maximum height is 14 feet from ground to roof
peak, and limited to one story.
Design standards: Boathouse must have a garage type door that faces the water.*
Setbacks and Standards: Limited to 150 sq. feet in size, one story and 12 ft. high, minimum setback of 30 ft., no decks.*
saunas
A sauna is an accessory structure used for the sole purpose of a steam bath and changing room, and storage of related
items. You must obtain a land use permit prior to construction and must be served by a grey water septic system, ap
proved by the St. Louis County Environmental Services Department.
Setbacks and Site Design: 50 ft. from the shoreline on General Development; 75 ft, on Recreational Development lakes.
Performance Standards: 200 square ft. maximum size, and 12 ft. high; may include changing room but no bathroom,
and may not be used for storage of combustible petroleum products; shall not be attached to a structure where com
bustible products are stored; deck is allowed but must be included as part of floor plan.*
Use: May not have an attached deck; waste from fish cleaning house must conform to county regulations and policies
regarding waste disposal.
*Unobtrusive colors are a required standard for exterior building materials used.
Groundwater moving toward the lake can carry contaminants in saturated soil. If your system is
improperly designed or located too close to the water, contaminants may reach your lake.
Property
address: Road Center line ( p.16)
Shoreline (p. 8)
Building &
structure Side yard near
setbacks
Parcel id#: ( page 17)
Side yard far
Rear yard
Wetland area
Wetland area
Wetland area
Characteristics
Floodplain forest wetlands are poorly drained, shallow de-
pressions located in the floodplain of a watercourse with
no well defined inlets or outlets. These wetlands may have
standing water for a few weeks each year, but are usu-
Water Flood Erosion ally dry for much of the growing season. Floodplain for-
Habitat est basins are frequently cultivated. However, when these
Quality Control Control basins are not cultivated, wetland vegetation can become
established. One unique aspect of floodplain forest wet-
lands is that the alternating periods of flood and drought
Vegetation can eliminate perennial plants so that annual plant species
Floodplain forest wetlands are dominated by mature, decidiuous hardwood trees grow- typically dominate the community.
ing on soils associated with riverine systems. Dominant hardwood trees found in this
wetland include silver maple, green ash, river birch, eastern cottonwood, American elm Sequencing
and black willow. The shrub layer, although usually lacking, is sparse.
Prior to any draining, filling or excavating in a wetland,
Submergent and floating – vegetation requiring complete immersion, and are rooted proposed impacts to nonexempt wetlands must undergo
in the bottom or free floating with majority of the leaves floating on the surface;
a process known as sequencing. Sequencing is a step-
Emergent – rooted vegetation where most of the plant material is above the water sur- by-step process that must be followed for clearly defined
face; water levels must fluctuate for proper growth and seed germination (usually during projects that intend to impact wetlands and reviewed to as-
drawdown in late summer);
sess the efforts made by the applicant to follow these prin-
Herbs and forbs – broad-leaved plants that typically grow either in the shallow water ciples: avoidance, minimization, reduction or elimination of
edges of wetlands, or ponds, and streams; impacts over time, and replacement. Therefore, a Local
Shrub – woody vegetation that is less than 20 feet tall with single or multiple stems; Government Unit (LGU) may not consider or approve a
species can be broad-leaved deciduous, or broad-leaved evergreen; wetland replacement plan unless the LGU finds that the
Tree – woody vegetation that dominates forested wetlands and is greater than 20 feet applicant has demonstrated the activity impacting the wet-
tall. lands has complied with all of the following principals in
ascending order:
Floodplain forest wetlands are vegetatively productive because nutrients are periodi-
cally added to the system by flooding. 1. Avoiding Impacts
The first priority is to avoid impact to a wetland. If a
project can be redesigned or relocated to eliminate
any wetland impact, you must select this option.
Trees
2. Minimization
If St. Louis County determines that wetland im-
pacts are unavoidable, you must then demonstrate
Silver Green American Black
that the project minimizes wetland impacts to the
Maple Ash Elm Willow
greatest extent possible. The county will determine
if sufficient effort was made to minimize impacts by
considering:
• The purpose of the project
• Size requirements of the project
Trees
• Location
• Sensitivity of the site design to the natural fea-
Eastern River White tures of the site, including topography, hydrol-
Aspen ogy, and existing vegetation
Cottonwood Birch Spruce
modify the size and scope of the project Draining: removing the water from a wetland by ditching, tilling, pumping, or
3. Rectification
Excavating: dredging and removing soil and vegetation from a wetland;
county if the activity is completed and the physi- Flooding: raising water levels, either behind dams or by pumping or other-
cal characteristics of the wetland are restored wise channeling water into a wetland so that water levels are too high for
within six months from the start of the activity. wetland vegetation and animals to survive (i.e., converting a wetland to a lake
St. Louis County Soil & Water Fond Du Lac U.S. Army State of Minnesota State of Minnesota
Planning and Development Conservation District Reservation Corps of Board of Water & Soil Department of Natural
North St. Louis Office of Water Protection Engineers Resources (BWSR) Resources (DNR)
Waters Division
or
South St. Louis
Local administers of the Minnesota Provides technical, educational, and Administers wetland regulations on all Regulates deposition of fill or dredge State Administration of the Minnesota Regulates Public Waters Permits for all
Wetland Conservation Act. Provides financial resources to land occupiers in lands on the Fond du Lac Reservation material in waters of the U.S. or adjacent Wetland Conservation Act work within public water wetlands of types
plan and site reviews for wetland order to implement practices and projects and provides technical and educational wetlands through section 404 of the Clean 3, 4 and 5 that are 10 or more acres in size
determinations, delineations, banking and that preserve, protect, and enhance water resources to help protect and enhance Water Act and section 10 of the Rivers or 2.5 acres in incorporated areas.
replacement. Coordinates enforcement quality and other natural resources. water quality. Water Act of 1899.
with DNR.
St. Louis County North St. Louis County Fond du Lac Reservation U.S. Army BWSR DNR Waters
Planning and Development Soil and Water Office of Water Protection Corps of Engineers 394 S. Lake Ave. Ste 403 Duluth Metro
Northland Office Bldg Conservation District (SWCD) 1720 Big Lake Rd. 1554 Hwy. 2, Ste 2 Duluth, MN 55802 1568 Hwy. 2
307 1st St. S. Northland Office Bldg Cloquet, MN 55720 Two Harbors, MN 55616 Phone: 218-723-4923 Two Harbors, MN 55616
Virginia, MN 55792 307 1st St. S., Ste 114 Phone: 218-878-8022 218-834-6630 Fax: 218-723-4794 Phone: 218-834-1440
Phone: 218-749-0633 Virginia, MN 55792 Fax: 218-879-4854 Fax: 218-834-6639
800-450-9777 Phone: 218-742-9505
Rest of St. Louis County
Fax: 218-749-0620 Fax: 218-742-9515 7979 Hwy. 37
Eveleth, MN 55734
www.nslswcd.org Phone: 218-744-7450
Fax: 218-744-7451
South St. Louis County
Soil and Water
Conservation District (SWCD)
215 N. 1st Ave. E.
Duluth, MN 55802
Phone: 218-723-4867
Fax: 218-723-4731
Differences
The primary difference between the two seasonally satu-
rated basin wetlands described in this guide is in the sea-
sonal length of standing water and duration of the soil sat-
uration. Seasonally flooded basins may have alternating
periods of flood and drought, while the high water table
Water Flood Erosion
Habitat found in wet meadows may allow the soil to remain satu-
Quality Control Control rated.
Sequencing
Vegetation
Prior to any draining, filling or excavating in a wetland,
Seasonally saturated basin wetlands are dominated by nonforested vegetation that can
proposed impacts to nonexempt wetlands must undergo
tolerate their roots and lower stem submerged in water over a period of time. Familiar-
ity with common vegetation found in these wetlands is a useful wetland determination a process known as sequencing. Sequencing is a step-
tool. Brief descriptions of vegetation types and other wetland plant indicators are listed by-step process that must be followed for clearly defined
below: projects that intend to impact wetlands and reviewed to as-
sess the efforts made by the applicant to follow these prin-
Submergent and floating – vegetation requiring complete immersion, and are rooted
in the bottom or free floating with majority of the leaves floating on the surface; ciples: avoidance, minimization, reduction or elimination of
impacts over time, and replacement. Therefore, a Local
Emergent – rooted vegetation where most of the plant material is above the water sur-
Government Unit (LGU) may not consider or approve a
face; water levels must fluctuate for proper growth and seed germination (usually during
drawdown in late summer);
wetland replacement plan unless the LGU finds that the
applicant has demonstrated the activity impacting the wet-
Herbs and forbs – broad-leaved plants that typically grow either in the shallow water lands has complied with all of the following principals in
edges of wetlands, or ponds, and streams;
ascending order.
Shrub – woody vegetation that is less than 20 feet tall with single or multiple stems;
species can be broad-leaved deciduous, or broad-leaved evergreen; 1. Avoiding Impacts
Tree – woody vegetation that dominates forested wetlands and is greater than 20 feet The first priority is to avoid impact to a wetland. If a
tall. project can be redesigned or relocated to eliminate
Seasonally saturated basin wetlands are generally dominated by acquatic and submer- any wetland impact, you must select this option.
gent vegetation, and are not populated by shrubs or trees. 2. Minimization
If St. Louis County determines that wetland im-
pacts are unavoidable, you must then demonstrate
Plants
cal characteristics of the wetland are restored Diverting water: preventing the flow of water into a wetland by removing wa-
within six months from the start of the activity. ter upstream, lowering lake levels, or lowering groundwater tables;
An example would be the construction of a tem- Clearing: removing vegetation by digging or scraping;
bond would need to be provided to the county wetland vegetation and animals to survive (i.e., converting a wetland to a lake
storing the wetland to pre-project conditions. Diverting or withholding sediment: trapping sediment through the construc-
tion of dams, channelization or other such projects that inhibit the regeneration
Over Time
Shading: placing pile supported platforms or bridges over wetlands, causing
reduced or eliminated by managing the project Conducting activities in adjacent areas: disrupting the interactions between
in a manner that preserves remaining wetland wetlands and adjacent land areas, or indirectly impacting wetlands through
functions and values. The county must require activities at adjoining sites.
St. Louis County Soil & Water Fond Du Lac U.S. Army State of Minnesota State of Minnesota
Planning and Development Conservation District Reservation Corps of Board of Water & Soil Department of Natural
North St. Louis Office of Water Protection Engineers Resources (BWSR) Resources (DNR)
Waters Division
or
South St. Louis
Local administers of the Minnesota Provides technical, educational, and Administers wetland regulations on all Regulates deposition of fill or dredge State Administration of the Minnesota Regulates Public Waters Permits for all
Wetland Conservation Act. Provides financial resources to land occupiers in lands on the Fond du Lac Reservation material in waters of the U.S. or adjacent Wetland Conservation Act work within public water wetlands of types
plan and site reviews for wetland order to implement practices and projects and provides technical and educational wetlands through section 404 of the Clean 3, 4 and 5 that are 10 or more acres in size
determinations, delineations, banking and that preserve, protect, and enhance water resources to help protect and enhance Water Act and section 10 of the Rivers or 2.5 acres in incorporated areas.
replacement. Coordinates enforcement quality and other natural resources. water quality. Water Act of 1899.
with DNR.
St. Louis County North St. Louis County Fond du Lac Reservation U.S. Army BWSR DNR Waters
Planning and Development Soil and Water Office of Water Protection Corps of Engineers 394 S. Lake Ave. Ste 403 Duluth Metro
Northland Office Bldg Conservation District (SWCD) 1720 Big Lake Rd. 1554 Hwy. 2, Ste 2 Duluth, MN 55802 1568 Hwy. 2
307 1st St. S. Northland Office Bldg Cloquet, MN 55720 Two Harbors, MN 55616 Phone: 218-723-4923 Two Harbors, MN 55616
Virginia, MN 55792 307 1st St. S., Ste 114 Phone: 218-878-8022 218-834-6630 Fax: 218-723-4794 Phone: 218-834-1440
Phone: 218-749-0633 Virginia, MN 55792 Fax: 218-879-4854 Fax: 218-834-6639
800-450-9777 Phone: 218-742-9505
Rest of St. Louis County
Fax: 218-749-0620 Fax: 218-742-9515 7979 Hwy. 37
Eveleth, MN 55734
www.nslswcd.org Phone: 218-744-7450
Fax: 218-744-7451
South St. Louis County
Soil and Water
Conservation District (SWCD)
215 N. 1st Ave. E.
Duluth, MN 55802
Phone: 218-723-4867
Fax: 218-723-4731
Differences
The primary difference between the three open water wet-
lands described in this guide is in the depth of standing
water and duration of the soil saturation. Shallow marshes
are in 6 inches of water during the growing season while
Water Flood Erosion deep marshes are in 6 inches to 3 or more feet of water
Habitat during the growing season. Shallow open water wetlands
Quality Control Control have up to 6.6 feet of water and are rarely, if ever, drawn
down preventing emergent aquatic vegetation to become
established.
Vegetation
Open water wetland are dominated by nonforested vegetation that can tolorate their Sequencing
roots and lower stem submergend in water over a period of time. Familiarity with com-
mon vegetation found in these wetlands is a useful wetland determination tool. Brief Prior to any draining, filling or excavating in a wetland,
descriptions of vegetation types and other wetland plant indicators are listed below: proposed impacts to nonexempt wetlands must undergo
a process known as sequencing. Sequencing is a step-
Submergent and floating – vegetation requiring complete immersion, and are rooted
by-step process that must be followed for clearly defined
in the bottom or free floating with majority of the leaves floating on the surface;
projects that intend to impact wetlands and reviewed to as-
Emergent – rooted vegetation where most of the plant material is above the water sur- sess the efforts made by the applicant to follow these prin-
face; water levels must fluctuate for proper growth and seed germination (usually during ciples: avoidance, minimization, reduction or elimination of
drawdown in late summer);
impacts over time, and replacement. Therefore, a Local
Herbs and forbs – broad-leaved plants that typically grow either in the shallow water Government Unit (LGU) may not consider or approve a
edges of wetlands, or ponds, and streams; wetland replacement plan unless the LGU finds that the
Shrub – woody vegetation that is less than 20 feet tall with single or multiple stems; applicant has demonstrated the activity impacting the wet-
species can be broad-leaved deciduous, or broad-leaved evergreen; lands has complied with all of the following principals in
Tree – woody vegetation that dominate forested wetlands and is greater than 20 feet ascending order:
tall.
1. Avoiding Impacts
Open water wetlands are generally dominated by acquatic and submergent vegetation,
and are not populated by shrubs or trees. The first priority is to avoid impact to a wetland. If a
project can be redesigned or relocated to eliminate
any wetland impact, you must select this option.
2. Minimization
Plants
3. Rectification Draining: removing the water from a wetland by ditching, tilling, pumping, or
not possible to avoid but the impact either is Excavating: dredging and removing soil and vegetation from a wetland;
temporary or results in no net loss of wetlands. Diverting water: preventing the flow of water into a wetland by removing wa-
Temporary impacts may be approved by the ter upstream, lowering lake levels, or lowering groundwater tables;
porary road through a wetland that is needed wetland vegetation and animals to survive (i.e., converting a wetland to a lake
completed, the road is removed. A performance Diverting or withholding sediment: trapping sediment through the construc-
bond would need to be provided to the county tion of dams, channelization or other such projects that inhibit the regeneration
for an amount sufficient to cover the cost of re- of wetlands in natural areas of deposition, such as deltas;
storing the wetland to pre-project conditions. Shading: placing pile supported platforms or bridges over wetlands, causing
Over Time Conducting activities in adjacent areas: disrupting the interactions between
St. Louis County Soil & Water Fond Du Lac U.S. Army State of Minnesota State of Minnesota
Planning and Development Conservation District Reservation Corps of Board of Water & Soil Department of Natural
North St. Louis Office of Water Protection Engineers Resources (BWSR) Resources (DNR)
Waters Division
or
South St. Louis
Local administers of the Minnesota Provides technical, educational, and Administers wetland regulations on all Regulates deposition of fill or dredge State Administration of the Minnesota Regulates Public Waters Permits for all
Wetland Conservation Act. Provides financial resources to land occupiers in lands on the Fond du Lac Reservation material in waters of the U.S. or adjacent Wetland Conservation Act work within public water wetlands of types
plan and site reviews for wetland order to implement practices and projects and provides technical and educational wetlands through section 404 of the Clean 3, 4 and 5 that are 10 or more acres in size
determinations, delineations, banking and that preserve, protect, and enhance water resources to help protect and enhance Water Act and section 10 of the Rivers or 2.5 acres in incorporated areas.
replacement. Coordinates enforcement quality and other natural resources. water quality. Water Act of 1899.
with DNR.
St. Louis County North St. Louis County Fond du Lac Reservation U.S. Army BWSR DNR Waters
Planning and Development Soil and Water Office of Water Protection Corps of Engineers 394 S. Lake Ave. Ste 403 Duluth Metro
Northland Office Bldg Conservation District (SWCD) 1720 Big Lake Rd. 1554 Hwy. 2, Ste 2 Duluth, MN 55802 1568 Hwy. 2
307 1st St. S. Northland Office Bldg Cloquet, MN 55720 Two Harbors, MN 55616 Phone: 218-723-4923 Two Harbors, MN 55616
Virginia, MN 55792 307 1st St. S., Ste 114 Phone: 218-878-8022 218-834-6630 Fax: 218-723-4794 Phone: 218-834-1440
Phone: 218-749-0633 Virginia, MN 55792 Fax: 218-879-4854 Fax: 218-834-6639
800-450-9777 Phone: 218-742-9505
Rest of St. Louis County
Fax: 218-749-0620 Fax: 218-742-9515 7979 Hwy. 37
Eveleth, MN 55734
www.nslswcd.org Phone: 218-744-7450
Fax: 218-744-7451
South St. Louis County
Soil and Water
Conservation District (SWCD)
215 N. 1st Ave. E.
Duluth, MN 55802
Phone: 218-723-4867
Fax: 218-723-4731
Characteristics
Shrub carr wetlands occur on organic soils (peat/muck) as
well as on the mineral soils of a floodplain. These wetlands
are waterlogged much of the growing season and often
Water Flood Erosion covered with as much as six inches of water. The shrub
Habitat carr soil is typically saturated to the surface and may have
Quality Control Control as much as six inches of standing water after spring snow-
melt and heavy rainfall events.
Vegetation Sequencing
Shrub carr wetlands plant communities are dominated by tall, deciduous Prior to any draining, filling or excavating in a wetland,
shrubs less than 20 feet in height and with a width of less than 6 inches such proposed impacts to nonexempt wetlands must undergo
as willows and red-osier dogwood. The ground layer generally includes ferns, a process known as sequencing. Sequencing is a step-
sedges, and grasses. by-step process that must be followed for clearly defined
projects that intend to impact wetlands and reviewed to as-
Submergent and floating – vegetation requiring complete immersion, and sess the efforts made by the applicant to follow these prin-
are rooted in the bottom or free floating with majority of the leaves floating on ciples: avoidance, minimization, reduction or elimination of
the surface are found in this wetland; impacts over time, and replacement. Therefore, a Local
Emergent – rooted vegetation where most of the plant material is above the Government Unit (LGU) may not consider or approve a
water surface; water levels must fluctuate for proper growth and seed germi- wetland replacement plan unless the LGU finds that the
nation (usually during drawdown in late summer); applicant has demonstrated the activity impacting the wet-
lands has complied with all of the following principals in
Herbs and forbs – broad-leaved plants that typically grow either in the shal-
ascending order:
low water edges of wetlands, or ponds, and streams;
Shrub – woody vegetation that is less than 20 feet tall with single or multiple 1. Avoiding Impacts
stems; species can be broad-leaved deciduous, or broad-leaved evergreen; The first priority is to avoid impact to a wetland. If a
Tree – woody vegetation that dominates forested wetlands and is greater than project can be redesigned or relocated to eliminate
20 feet tall. any wetland impact, you must select this option.
2. Minimization
If St. Louis County determines that wetland im
pacts are unavoidable, you must then demonstrate
Shrubs
cal characteristics of the wetland are restored Diverting water: preventing the flow of water into a wetland by removing wa-
within six months from the start of the activity. ter upstream, lowering lake levels, or lowering groundwater tables;
An example would be the construction of a tem- Clearing: removing vegetation by digging or scraping;
bond would need to be provided to the county wetland vegetation and animals to survive (i.e., converting a wetland to a lake
storing the wetland to pre-project conditions. Diverting or withholding sediment: trapping sediment through the construc-
tion of dams, channelization or other such projects that inhibit the regeneration
Over Time
Shading: placing pile supported platforms or bridges over wetlands, causing
reduced or eliminated by managing the project Conducting activities in adjacent areas: disrupting the interactions between
in a manner that preserves remaining wetland wetlands and adjacent land areas, or indirectly impacting wetlands through
functions and values. The county must require activities at adjoining sites.
St. Louis County Soil & Water Fond Du Lac U.S. Army State of Minnesota State of Minnesota
Planning and Development Conservation District Reservation Corps of Board of Water & Soil Department of Natural
North St. Louis Office of Water Protection Engineers Resources (BWSR) Resources (DNR)
Waters Division
or
South St. Louis
Local administers of the Minnesota Provides technical, educational, and Administers wetland regulations on all Regulates deposition of fill or dredge State Administration of the Minnesota Regulates Public Waters Permits for all
Wetland Conservation Act. Provides financial resources to land occupiers in lands on the Fond du Lac Reservation material in waters of the U.S. or adjacent Wetland Conservation Act work within public water wetlands of types
plan and site reviews for wetland order to implement practices and projects and provides technical and educational wetlands through section 404 of the Clean 3, 4 and 5 that are 10 or more acres in size
determinations, delineations, banking and that preserve, protect, and enhance water resources to help protect and enhance Water Act and section 10 of the Rivers or 2.5 acres in incorporated areas.
replacement. Coordinates enforcement quality and other natural resources. water quality. Water Act of 1899.
with DNR.
St. Louis County North St. Louis County Fond du Lac Reservation U.S. Army BWSR DNR Waters
Planning and Development Soil and Water Office of Water Protection Corps of Engineers 394 S. Lake Ave. Ste 403 Duluth Metro
Northland Office Bldg Conservation District (SWCD) 1720 Big Lake Rd. 1554 Hwy. 2, Ste 2 Duluth, MN 55802 1568 Hwy. 2
307 1st St. S. Northland Office Bldg Cloquet, MN 55720 Two Harbors, MN 55616 Phone: 218-723-4923 Two Harbors, MN 55616
Virginia, MN 55792 307 1st St. S., Ste 114 Phone: 218-878-8022 218-834-6630 Fax: 218-723-4794 Phone: 218-834-1440
Phone: 218-749-0633 Virginia, MN 55792 Fax: 218-879-4854 Fax: 218-834-6639
800-450-9777 Phone: 218-742-9505
Rest of St. Louis County
Fax: 218-749-0620 Fax: 218-742-9515 7979 Hwy. 37
Eveleth, MN 55734
www.nslswcd.org Phone: 218-744-7450
Fax: 218-744-7451
South St. Louis County
Soil and Water
Conservation District (SWCD)
215 N. 1st Ave. E.
Duluth, MN 55802
Phone: 218-723-4867
Fax: 218-723-4731
Characteristics
Hardwood-coniferous swamp wetlands are forested wet-
lands dominated by mature conifers and/or lowland hard-
Water Flood Erosion wood trees. They are usually associated with ancient lake
Habitat basins and former riverine oxbows. These swamps are
Quality Control Control
distinguished by whether the dominant trees are decidu-
ous, hardwood or coniferous.
The soil in hardwood-coniferous swamp wetlands is water-
Vegetation logged at least to within a few inches of the surface during
Hardwood-coniferous swamp wetland vegetation includes tamarack, white ce- the growing season and is often covered with as much
dar, black spruce, balsam fir, red maple, and black ash. Northern evergreen as one foot of water. These wetlands occur mostly along
swamps usually have a thick ground covering of mosses. Deciduous swamps sluggish streams, on old riverine oxbows, on floodplains,
frequently support beds of duckweeds, smartweeds, and other herbs. on flat uplands, and in very shallow lake basins.
Submergent and floating – vegetation requiring complete immersion, and are rooted
Sequencing
in the bottom or free floating with majority of the leaves floating on the surface;
3. Rectification Excavating: dredging and removing soil and vegetation from a wetland;
There may be times that a wetland impact is Diverting water: preventing the flow of water into a wetland by removing wa-
not possible to avoid, but the impact either is ter upstream, lowering lake levels, or lowering groundwater tables;
within six months from the start of the activity. wetland vegetation and animals to survive (i.e., converting a wetland to a lake
porary road through a wetland that is needed Diverting or withholding sediment: trapping sediment through the construc-
for a short term project. Once the project is tion of dams, channelization or other such projects that inhibit the regeneration
completed, the road is removed. A performance of wetlands in natural areas of deposition, such as deltas;
bond would need to be provided to the county Shading: placing pile supported platforms or bridges over wetlands, causing
4. Reduction or Elimination of Impacts wetlands and adjacent land areas, or indirectly impacting wetlands through
St. Louis County Soil & Water Fond Du Lac U.S. Army State of Minnesota State of Minnesota
Planning and Development Conservation District Reservation Corps of Board of Water & Soil Department of Natural
North St. Louis Office of Water Protection Engineers Resources (BWSR) Resources (DNR)
Waters Division
or
South St. Louis
Local administers of the Minnesota Provides technical, educational, and Administers wetland regulations on all Regulates deposition of fill or dredge State Administration of the Minnesota Regulates Public Waters Permits for all
Wetland Conservation Act. Provides financial resources to land occupiers in lands on the Fond du Lac Reservation material in waters of the U.S. or adjacent Wetland Conservation Act work within public water wetlands of types
plan and site reviews for wetland order to implement practices and projects and provides technical and educational wetlands through section 404 of the Clean 3, 4 and 5 that are 10 or more acres in size
determinations, delineations, banking and that preserve, protect, and enhance water resources to help protect and enhance Water Act and section 10 of the Rivers or 2.5 acres in incorporated areas.
replacement. Coordinates enforcement quality and other natural resources. water quality. Water Act of 1899.
with DNR.
St. Louis County North St. Louis County Fond du Lac Reservation U.S. Army BWSR DNR Waters
Planning and Development Soil and Water Office of Water Protection Corps of Engineers 394 S. Lake Ave. Ste 403 Duluth Metro
Northland Office Bldg Conservation District (SWCD) 1720 Big Lake Rd. 1554 Hwy. 2, Ste 2 Duluth, MN 55802 1568 Hwy. 2
307 1st St. S. Northland Office Bldg Cloquet, MN 55720 Two Harbors, MN 55616 Phone: 218-723-4923 Two Harbors, MN 55616
Virginia, MN 55792 307 1st St. S., Ste 114 Phone: 218-878-8022 218-834-6630 Fax: 218-723-4794 Phone: 218-834-1440
Phone: 218-749-0633 Virginia, MN 55792 Fax: 218-879-4854 Fax: 218-834-6639
800-450-9777 Phone: 218-742-9505
Rest of St. Louis County
Fax: 218-749-0620 Fax: 218-742-9515 7979 Hwy. 37
Eveleth, MN 55734
www.nslswcd.org Phone: 218-744-7450
Fax: 218-744-7451
South St. Louis County
Soil and Water
Conservation District (SWCD)
215 N. 1st Ave. E.
Duluth, MN 55802
Phone: 218-723-4867
Fax: 218-723-4731
Characteristics
Bogs are one of the most distinctive kinds of wetlands,
Water Flood Erosion and are characterized by a growth of evergreen trees and
Habitat
Quality Control Control shrubs and a floor covered by a thick carpet of sphagnum
moss. Bogs form in very wet places. Some have consider-
able amounts of open water surrounded by floating boggy
vegetation; in others, vegetation may have completely
filled a lake.
Vegetation
Bog wetlands soil is usually waterlogged and supports
Open bog vegetation is woody or herbaceous or both. Typical plants are heath shrubs,
a spongy covering of mosses. This type occurs mostly
sphagnum moss, and sedges. In the north, leatherleaf, labrador tea, cranberries, carex,
and cottongrass are often present. Although scattered, black spruce and tamarack also
in shallow basins, on flat uplands, and along sluggish
occur in open bog wetlands, but their growth is stunted. In coniferous bog wetlands, the streams.
plant communities are similar except with mature trees of black spruce and tamarack
dominating the area. Sequencing
Submergent and floating – vegetation requiring complete immersion, and are rooted Prior to any draining, filling or excavating in a wetland,
in the bottom or free floating with majority of the leaves floating on the surface; proposed impacts to nonexempt wetlands must undergo
Emergent – rooted vegetation where most of the plant material is above the water sur-
a process known as sequencing. Sequencing is a step-
face; water levels must fluctuate for proper growth and seed germination (usually during by-step process that must be followed for clearly defined
drawdown in late summer); projects that intend to impact wetlands and reviewed to as-
sess the efforts made by the applicant to follow these prin-
Herbs and forbs – broad-leaved plants that typically grow either in the shallow water
edges of wetlands, or ponds, and streams; ciples: avoidance, minimization, reduction or elimination of
impacts over time, and replacement. Therefore, a Local
Shrub – woody vegetation that is less than 20 feet tall with single or multiple stems; Government Unit (LGU) may not consider or approve a
species can be broad-leaved deciduous, or broad-leaved evergreen;
wetland replacement plan unless the LGU finds that the
Tree – woody vegetation that dominate forested wetlands and is greater than 20 feet applicant has demonstrated the activity impacting the wet-
tall. lands has complied with all of the following principals in
ascending order:
1. Avoiding Impacts
The first priority is to avoid impact to a wetland. If a
project can be redesigned or relocated to eliminate
Trees
3. Rectification Excavating: dredging and removing soil and vegetation from a wetland;
There may be times that a wetland impact is Diverting water: preventing the flow of water into a wetland by removing wa-
not possible to avoid, but the impact either is ter upstream, lowering lake levels, or lowering groundwater tables;
within six months from the start of the activity. wetland vegetation and animals to survive (i.e., converting a wetland to a lake
porary road through a wetland that is needed Diverting or withholding sediment: trapping sediment through the construc-
for a short term project. Once the project is tion of dams, channelization or other such projects that inhibit the regeneration
completed, the road is removed. A performance of wetlands in natural areas of deposition, such as deltas;
bond would need to be provided to the county Shading: placing pile supported platforms or bridges over wetlands, causing
4. Reduction o r Elimination of Im- wetlands and adjacent land areas, or indirectly impacting wetlands through
St. Louis County Soil & Water Fond Du Lac U.S. Army State of Minnesota State of Minnesota
Planning and Development Conservation District Reservation Corps of Board of Water & Soil Department of Natural
North St. Louis Office of Water Protection Engineers Resources (BWSR) Resources (DNR)
Waters Division
or
South St. Louis
Local administers of the Minnesota Provides technical, educational, and Administers wetland regulations on all Regulates deposition of fill or dredge State Administration of the Minnesota Regulates Public Waters Permits for all
Wetland Conservation Act. Provides financial resources to land occupiers in lands on the Fond du Lac Reservation material in waters of the U.S. or adjacent Wetland Conservation Act work within public water wetlands of types
plan and site reviews for wetland order to implement practices and projects and provides technical and educational wetlands through section 404 of the Clean 3, 4 and 5 that are 10 or more acres in size
determinations, delineations, banking and that preserve, protect, and enhance water resources to help protect and enhance Water Act and section 10 of the Rivers or 2.5 acres in incorporated areas.
replacement. Coordinates enforcement quality and other natural resources. water quality. Water Act of 1899.
with DNR.
St. Louis County North St. Louis County Fond du Lac Reservation U.S. Army BWSR DNR Waters
Planning and Development Soil and Water Office of Water Protection Corps of Engineers 394 S. Lake Ave. Ste 403 Duluth Metro
Northland Office Bldg Conservation District (SWCD) 1720 Big Lake Rd. 1554 Hwy. 2, Ste 2 Duluth, MN 55802 1568 Hwy. 2
307 1st St. S. Northland Office Bldg Cloquet, MN 55720 Two Harbors, MN 55616 Phone: 218-723-4923 Two Harbors, MN 55616
Virginia, MN 55792 307 1st St. S., Ste 114 Phone: 218-878-8022 218-834-6630 Fax: 218-723-4794 Phone: 218-834-1440
Phone: 218-749-0633 Virginia, MN 55792 Fax: 218-879-4854 Fax: 218-834-6639
800-450-9777 Phone: 218-742-9505
Rest of St. Louis County
Fax: 218-749-0620 Fax: 218-742-9515 7979 Hwy. 37
Eveleth, MN 55734
www.nslswcd.org Phone: 218-744-7450
Fax: 218-744-7451
South St. Louis County
Soil and Water
Conservation District (SWCD)
215 N. 1st Ave. E.
Duluth, MN 55802
Phone: 218-723-4867
Fax: 218-723-4731