Agenda - Council Work Session - 02/23/2021

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During Plan development, the LRRWMO and city staff concurred that the current performance standards appropriately balance environmental protection with community development needs. The LRRWMO performance standards are generally aligned with the MPCA's NPDES construction stormwater general permit to further promote efficiency. The extent to which the LRRWMO may implement projects and programs to pursue its goals is limited by the availability of funding and organizational capacity. The LRRWMO is funded by public dollars collected by its member cities and through grants from government agencies (which are also ultimately taxpayer - funded). The LRRWMO seeks spend its funds in a responsible manner that considers the relative benefits, per dollar, of its actions. The benefits of effective water and natural resource management actions are difficult to quantify — especially when achieved in the form of pollution prevention as is the focus of the LRRWMO permitting program. During Plan development, both the TAC and CAC cited funding limitations as barriers to implementing desirable resource protection projects and programs. Grant funding and BWSR's recently implemented watershed -based implementation funding (WBIF) may provide additional resources to achieve the LRRWMO goals. In addition, the LRRWMO leverages member city and partner staff, as appropriate, in collaborate actions. The LRRWMO continues to review its accomplishments and expenses to evaluate the value of its projects and programs, using best professional judgment and available data. Public education and engagement are important pathways to protect water and natural resources. Pollution prevention and other behaviors practiced by businesses and residents can cumulatively mitigate negative impacts to resources, limiting the need for expensive restoration action. Through education and engagement, the LRRWMO and its partners can empower local advocates for natural resource stewardship in their neighborhoods and communities. During Plan development, the TAC and CAC cited the need for increased education regarding specific environmental issues, including, but not limited to: • Chloride and salt application • Groundwater conservation • Buffers and shoreline management • Drinking water quality and well testing The CAC noted the opportunity for increased outreach to schools and youth groups to increase community capacity. The ACD also noted the importance of consistent and coordinated messaging to promote resident action. The LRRWMO's education and engagement efforts are limited by a lack of staff. Therefore, the LRRWMO performs its education and engagement duties primarily through its member cities and the ACD. The LRRWMO also maintains a website containing meeting minutes, contact information, and reports and 3-9