Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 12/01/2014

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Introduction About this Plan The Anoka Soil and Water Conservation District (Anoka Conservation District) has prepared this comprehensive plan in accordance with requirements of the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources. The plan must be filed with the U.S. Department of Agriculture for the district to receive assistance from the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The plan provides a framework for overall natural resource management priorities in Anoka County. Future annual work plans will be developed with specific tasks to address the priorities and goals within this Comprehensive Plan. The Anoka Conservation District Comprehensive Plan promotes inter -agency cooperation and coordination for the preservation and conservation of the natural resource base in Anoka County. The planning process was initiated with an online survey of stakeholders including local, state and federal agency staff and officials, the general public, conservation cooperators, and other natural resource professionals. 144 responses were received and their input was considered throughout the planning process. Anoka Conservation District Since its formation in 1946 by petition of Anoka County residents, Anoka Conservation District (ACD) has worked with public and private landowners to address natural resource management challenges. The focus has changed over the years from agricultural related problems to issues related primarily to urban development. Grassed waterways and shelterbelts have given way to greenway corridors, stream bank stabilization and rain gardens. Mission The mission of the Anoka Conservation District is to conserve and enhance the natural resources of Anoka County. We do this by: • conducting monitoring and analysis, • informing landowners and local government in natural resource management, and • leveraging technical and financial resources to promote natural resource stewardship practices. Guiding Principles • Focus on long-term resource sustainability. • Make informed and ethical decisions. • Promote cost-effective and efficient resource management. • Partner with both public and private sectors. • Retain highly qualified, knowledgeable staff. • Utilize technology to achieve efficiency. • Keep natural resources issues visible in Anoka County. • Respond to opportunities and changing needs. • Develop diverse programs, partners and funding sources. Anoka Conservation District Comprehensive Plan October 2014 page 1