Agenda - Council - 03/10/2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Aquifers across the metro area are not all connected, though. Groundwater does not flow all the way from Anoka County to Dakota County and vice versa. The region can be roughly divided into six aquifer areas or subregions that have relatively similar aquifer characteristics. Considering groundwater through this subregional aquifer approach can help organize the Council's recommendations and decisions about water supply plan requirements and research investments — including the location, scope and timing of different activities. The Council has supported the development of subregional work groups that have focused on water supply limitations in those areas. Groundwater limitations have been and continue to be a main focus of these work groups. As the permitting agency for water withdrawals, the Department of Natural Resources is a key partner for the Council. The Council and DNR work closely on water supply issues, including the development and review of water supply plans and actions, as well as on planning for any designated groundwater management areas in the region. Policy on Sustainable Water Supplies: The Council shall support and plan for the sustainable use of water sources that focuses on the implications of increasing groundwater use including impacts to surface waters, wetlands, and ecological areas while ensuring that supplies of potable water are sufficient for the region's current population and projected growth. Implementation Strategies: • Collaborate with agency partners in developing and implementing Groundwater Management Areas, wellhead protection plans, review of water appropriation permits, and aquifer recharge projects. • Facilitate discussions on water supply issues that transcend community boundaries, through subregional work groups and on an ad hoc basis as needed. • In partnership with subregional work groups and relevant agencies, identify desired groundwater levels and other indicators for those subregional areas. • Provide technical assistance to local governments and other partners on water supply issues. • Promote water supply resiliency by identifying and pursuing options to increase surface water use, when economically feasible. Planning for Regional Growth The Council is responsible for providing direction on the planning for and management of our water resources in support of the orderly and economical growth and development of the region while taking into consideration the interrelationships of land use, growth patterns, transportation, water resources protection, and other regional services. With a growing population, more business and industry, and a changing environment, the long-range outlook for clean water is challenging. Adequate access to high quality water supplies, proper treatment and disposal of stormwater, and sustainable wastewater treatment options all need to be considered as we plan for growth in the region. Serving the Urban Area The Council's wastewater system, built and modified to serve regional growth and development, currently provides wastewater collection and treatment services to over 2.7 million people in 108 17