Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 06/15/2015

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Chairperson Stodola stated that trying to get more rainwater to go back into the ground is the responsibility of those creating the infrastructure. Board Member Bentz mentioned rain gardens and pervious paver options. City Planner Anderson stated that the Lower Rum River WMO Third Generation Plan requires the first one inch of rainfall to be infiltrated on the site. Chairperson Stodola asked what types of buildings would have this requirement. City Planner Anderson replied that this has been a requirement for several years for development projects. A WMO review is triggered when there is a permit request for an acre or more of land disturbance. He stated that there are innovative techniques coming out that are geared towards promoting infiltration. Board Member Valentine stated management of this aspect of the issue is more manageable than slowing down the alarming growth in the use of ground water. Board Member Hiatt talked about what White Bear Lake is currently doing. He stated that they are promoting 60-gallon rain barrels and providing a chart indicating the current level of the lake. He stated that from an education standpoint they are offering alternatives and then keeping the issue in front of residents. City Planner Anderson stated that the City did partner with a couple of Anoka County communities within the last few years to promote a rain barrel and compost bin sale. The City could look at partnering again. He stated his preference to partner with an established program. Board Member Hiatt stated that he was not aware of the program but agreed with it wholeheartedly. City Planner Anderson stated that moving forward he could do a better job promoting the program through the City's newsletter. Board Member Hiatt asked if the rain barrel has the ability to link to an irrigation system. City Planner Anderson stated that it would probably not link to an in-ground system because there would not be enough pressure, but it could be used with a soaker hose or in the garden. Board Member Valentine stated they have used their rain barrel as a soaker system. Board Member Bentz stated that the compost bins were really popular. Board Member Bentz talked about the ideal weather we have been having but he still sees people watering every day or every other day. He stated that going from the rain sensors to soil moisture sensors on commercial lots would make a huge difference. Chairperson Stodola asked if the systems can be retrofitted. Environmental Policy Board/June 15, 2015 Page 7 of 9