The Minneola Project
Over the past 20 years, Minneola Township in Goodhue County has experienced uncontrolled flooding events. These floods have caused extensive damage to private property, public roads, and even loss of life. Storing stormwater higher in the watershed will reduce the amount and intensity of these extreme rain events. Ultimately lowering the volume and rate of storm event flows will cause less damage and improve safety. Just as important are the water quality benefits that will accrue and reduce sedimentation
and improve the health of the Zumbro River.
With a grant from the Clean Water Fund, Goodhue County Soil and Water Conservation District is partnering with Minneola Township and landowners within the watershed to install water impoundment structures in the uplands to reduce flooding and prevent soil erosion. The eight impoundment structures will be installed in a small sub watershed to the Zumbro River. The project will treat 198 acres of the 2,500 acre sub watershed. These new projects, along with 3 existing structures will address 14% of the water and sediment runoff in the sub watershed.
Nicole Clapp
(c) $3,000,000 the first year and $3,000,000 the second year are for nonpoint source pollution reduction and restoration grants to watershed districts, watershed management organizations, counties, and soil and water conservation districts for grants in addition to grants available under paragraphs (a) and (b) to keep water on the land and to protect, enhance, and restore water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams, and to protect groundwater and drinking water. The projects must be of long-lasting public benefit, include a local match, and be consistent with TMDL implementation plans or local water management plans. Up to five percent may be used for administering the grants (2010 - Clean Water Assistance)
Fifteen impoundment structures were constructed controlling 123 acre drainage area. One large structure could not be built due to engineering soil stability. Minneola Township provided $10,000 cash match to reduce landowner share of costs. Total CWF grant funds used were $102,683.13