Ramsey Resident - 2004 - March/April

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6 PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST IDENTITY THEFT As identity theft continues to be a concern for all of us, there is one precaution that we can take to protect ourselves from becoming a victim while also helping to preserve the environment. The theft of one's identity often occurs when people dispose of materials that contain personal information. One simple, preventative measure that can be tal(en is to use a paper shredder. Personal shredders are an inexpensive way to combat identity theft. Additionally, the shredded paper can be included with your curbside recycling. This not only helps to protect you from identity theft, but also may reduce the waste that is disposed of through the garbage. It's a win-win situation for you and the environment! Items such as billing statements, banl( statements, and junk mail such as credit card applications are just a few items that can be shredded and recycled. It's simple, just feed the materials into the shredder and then empty the contents into either a clear plastic bag or a paper bag. When the bag is full, either tie it shut (clear plastic bags) or staple it shut (paper bag) to prevent the shredded paper from blowing allover and place it in the recycling bin along with the cans, newsprint, plastics, etc. If using a paper bag, make sure that you label the bag as shredded paper so that the driver knows that the material in the bag is recyclable. Remember, recycling is easy and a great way to l(eep Ramsey beautiful. All paper products, such as newsprint, magazines, and phone bool(s can go in one bag and all acceptable containers can go directly into the recycling bin! For more information about Ramsey's recycling program, please contact Chris Anderson at 763- 433-9905. LOCAL WATERSHED ORGANIZATION IS P ART OF NEW NATURAL RESOURCES WEBSITE www.AnokaNaturaIResources.com A new website is available to provide technical assistance to Anol(a County residents and local governments. The site, AnokaNaturaIResources.com, is coordinated by the Anoka Conservation District. A portion of this site is dedicated to and supported by the Lower Rum River Watershed Management Organization (LRRWMO). The LRRWMO [Anoka, Ramsey, and portions of Coon Rapids and Andover] provides monitoring and management of streams, rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Projects that may impact water resources usually require a permit from the watershed organization. The website features information and interactive tools to assist both laypersons and professionals with natural resources management. Some of the site s features are: Interactive Mapping Tool A GIS-based (geographic information system) mapping tool that allows users to view multiple layers of information simultaneously. Map layers available include aerial photos, section lines, land cover, soils, wetlands, watersheds, and environmental monitoring sites. Resolution is sufficient to zoom-in on individual lots. A high-speed Internet connection is recommended. Wetland Conservation Act Info The Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) regulates filling and draining of wetlands, and has implications for digging ponds or building in wet areas. This portion of the site guides users through the WCA process. Habitat Protection Guidance The website has information on how to protect or improve wildlife habitat, whether you have a small backyard, acreage, or work at the community- level. This is also your linl( to financial assistance programs. Shoreline Erosion Guidance Information, services, and financial assistance are available for lal(e or stream shore property owners who want to control erosion or enhance shoreline habitat. Environmental Monitoring Database Data collected at over 85 Anoka County sites including lakes, streams, rivers, and groundwater is soon to be added to the website. Watershed Organization Information Seven Watershed Districts and Watershed Management Organizations cover Anoka County. Each is charged with local management of water resources, including lal(es, streams, and groundwater and some have permitting authorities. Information about each of these organizations, and work they do, is available on the website as well as a map of jurisdictional boundaries. Tree Sale Order Forms The Anoka Cconservation District has an annual tree and shrub sale. Ordering information is available, as well as a guide to choosing species and planting. It s easy to lnake a buck. It s a lot tougher to lnake a difference.