Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 05/08/2003

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permeability also increases the risk for potential contamination of ~oundwster resoUrces. In order to mitigate this risk, best management practices (BMPs) and community education programs will be implemented. Extensive use of herbicides, pesticides, and remitters on residential and punic lawns, and agricultural fields is discouraged in the City of Ramsey, as stated Ln the City's 2001. Compreher~ive ['lan. Implementing community education and awarene~ss programs to discourage the above stated activities, a~ well as to inform on household and business chemical usage and hazardous waste storage' and disposal will help reduce the potential for groundwater contamination by these types of substances. The appropriate use' of native vegetation will also reduce the need for herbicides, pesticides and fertilizer throughout the Town Center. Infiltration of stonnwater under carefully managed conditions is essential for recharging groundwater. Infiltration through soil also removes nutrients and other potential pollutants from surface water, pretreating and maintaining the quality of the water. Potential groundwater contaminants from stormwater runoff associated with land uses similar to the proposed Town Center land uses include nitrates, pesticides, organic compounds, and heavy metals. The potential for contamination from these substances is greatly reduced when stormwater runoff is pre-treated pr/or to in_filtration and BMPs are Lmplemented. Pretreatment methods vary, but include the use of permeable mater/als to · promote infiltration and pollutant removal by soil, vegetation to filter surface water, sealing to remove solids and pollutants associated with them, and preventative measures such as limiting the storage of chemicals and homeowner education on chemical use. Several manuals for design, installation and maintenance of BM_Ps are available to guide- the City. Citizen and staff education will also help implement protective practices. The use of these types of practices increases wildlife habitat and public green space while reducing the risk of groundwater contamination. Several manuals are available to guide actual installation, use and operation/maintenance of chosen BMPs. Item 20 Mitigation Element. To decrease the amount of solid waste generated with.in the City, Kamsey maintains the following policies as-stated in its 2001. Comprehensive Plan - · Work with the Anoka County Integrated Waste Management Department to develop and implement programs that contribute to waste reduction, resource recovery, recycling and 1/m/ted landfilling; · Continue to support curbside z:ecycling of reusable waste materials through educational events, promotional events, and volunteer efforts; · Research grants and funding programs through federal, state, and local organizations that support the "Three R's" (reduce, reuse, and recycle); and · Continue to pursue and support research efforts in innovative techniques that enhance the environment, provide alternative means of energy, and reduce-the waste stream. D- 16- 25