Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies (formerly "Regional Technical Assistance and Statewide Coordination")

Project Details by Fiscal Year
2024 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,650,000
2023 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,435,000
2022 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,440,000
2021 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,475,000
2020 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,478,815
2019 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,549,694
2018 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,567,393
2017 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,638,038
2016 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,624,000
2015 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,591,245
2014 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,750,000
2013 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,630,000
2012 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,630,000
2011 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,182,500
2010 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$689,000
Fund Source
Clean Water Fund
Status
In Progress
Start Date
July 2009
Activity Type
Analysis/Interpretation
Assessment/Evaluation
Education/Outreach/Engagement
Modeling
Planning
Preservation
Research
Restoration/Enhancement
Technical Assistance
Counties Affected
Statewide
Statewide
Project Overview

DNR regional clean water specialists and area hydrologists work with regional staff from other state agencies and with local partners to help identify the causes of pollution problems and determine the best strategies for fixing them. We collect and analyze stream channel stability and streambank erosion data to help identify root causes of certain water quality impairments in streams. We analyze stream flow, precipitation and climate data to evaluate and quantify changes in watershed hydrology and related impacts on flooding, stream stability and the health of plant, fish and other life in and around streams. We study lake hydrology to help address shoreland erosion and related impacts on habitat, recreation and infrastructure. Information from these studies helps point to enduring, multiple-benefit solutions to water quality and erosion problems.

About the Issue

Minnesota's state and local agencies work together to measure the health of the state's waters and to develop restoration plans for polluted waters and protection plans for healthy waters. In order to select the protection and restoration practices that will be the best investment for clean water, local resource managers need a robust understanding of how streams and lakes interact with the land that drains to them and how climate and land use impact water health. DNR specialists help bridge gaps in understanding watersheds and specialized aspects of stream and lake ecosystems.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2023, Ch. 40, Article 2, Section 5(d)
Appropriation Language

$2,150,000 the first year and $2,150,000 the second year are for developing targeted, science-based watershed restoration and protection strategies and for technical assistance for local governments.

2024 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,650,000
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

Stream data and related information: In FY24, DNR will continue contributing geomorphic survey and related data, analyses and reports in collaboration with the MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and local partners to aid stressor identification, watershed restoration and protection strategy (WRAPS) development, and Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan (CWMP) development and implementation under the One Watershed One Plan (1W1P) program. We anticipate completing and populating the statewide DNR geomorphology survey database built in FY23 to house and organize stream survey data and reports, and starting if not also completing an associated public webmap to expand access to this information. We will continue developing regional curves to help accelerate and validate stream analyses and design stream restoration projects.

Evaluation of hydrologic change (EHC): We will complete and publish the 25 EHC technical summaries nearly completed in FY23, making the full series (one technical summary for each of 47 major watersheds evaluated) discoverable and searchable in the MN Water Research Library. We plan to publish the statewide EHC meta-analysis completed in FY22 and anticipate completing and posters for at least 20 northwestern Minnesota watersheds begun in FY23 that integrate EHC findings with other information to communicate watershed health conditions, trends, potential impacts and management implications to local watershed managers in plain language and graphics.

All of the above types of information will continue to enhance watershed partners’ understanding of biological and water quality impairments, improve pollutant load calculations, and identify enduring multiple-benefit solutions that address root causes and promote watershed health and resilience (see Nonpoint Restoration and Protection).

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2021 First Special Session Ch. 1 Art. 2 Sec. 5(d)
Appropriation Language

$1900000 the first year and $1900000 the second year are for developing targeted science-based watershed restoration and protection strategies.

2023 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,435,000
Direct expenses
$1,216,245
Administration costs
$225,000
Number of full time equivalents funded
9.7
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

Stream data and related information: In FY23, DNR will continue contributing geomorphic survey and related data, analyses and reports in collaboration with the MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and local partners to aid stressor identification, watershed restoration and protection strategy (WRAPS) development, Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan (CWMP) development and implementation under the One Watershed One Plan (1W1P) program, and the development of regional curves. We will continue developing the statewide DNR geomorphology web map piloted in FY20 to house, organize and improve access to the above data and information. We will continue developing regional curves to help accelerate and validate stream analyses and design stream restoration projects.

Evaluation of hydrologic change (EHC): We will complete and publish DNR EHC technical summaries for all 47 of the watersheds evaluated in FY21. Staff will begin using the summaries to disseminate key findings to MPCA staff working on WRAPS updates, local 1W1P partnerships engaged in developing or implementing CWMPs, and other watershed partners.

Watershed posters: Staff will continue developing watershed posters and/or similar tools to help integrate EHC and stream geomorphology study findings with other information, identify key takeaways and communicate watersheds conditions and trends as well as potential impacts and management implications to local watershed managers, in plain language and graphics.

All of the above types of information will continue to help the MPCA and other watershed partners better understand biological and water quality impairments, improve pollutant load calculations, and identify enduring multiple-benefit solutions that address root causes and promote watershed health and resilience (see Nonpoint Restoration and Protection).

Measurable Outcome(s)

Stream data and information: Worked on 32 stream surveys (of which we completed 13) in 20 major watersheds. Worked on 12 geomorphology studies, summaries or reports (of which 6 we completed 6) in 6 major watersheds; 5 are intensive subwatershed stream sediment studies. Completed culvert inventories in several subwatersheds. Continued developing sediment rating and other regional curves to help practitioners better predict stream channel sediment loads, validate stream analyses, and help design restoration projects. Built a database to house, organize and improve practitioner and public access to stream survey data and reports, as part of the effort begun in FY21 to centralize and publicize this information.

Evaluation of hydrologic change (EHC): Completed 22 technical summaries and nearly completed the other 25 for 47 major watersheds evaluated in FY21. Published most of the completed summaries in the MN Water Research Library (publishing was temporarily stalled as the library moved to a new platform). Began using the summaries to disseminate key findings to watershed partners including MPCA staff working on WRAPS updates and local 1W1P partnerships developing or implementing watershed management plans. Started developing posters for at least 20 major watersheds in northwestern Minnesota, integrating EHC findings with other information to communicate watershed health conditions, trends, potential impacts and management implications to local watershed managers in plain language and graphics.

All of the above information products helped enhance watershed partners’ understanding of biological and water quality impairments, improve pollutant load calculations, and identify enduring multiple-benefit solutions that address root causes and promote watershed health and resilience.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2021 First Special Session Ch. 1 Art. 2 Sec. 5(d)
Appropriation Language

$1900000 the first year and $1900000 the second year are for developing targeted science-based watershed restoration and protection strategies.

2022 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,440,000
Direct expenses
$1,430,388
Administration costs
$200,647
Number of full time equivalents funded
11.9
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)
  • In FY22 DNR will continue contributing geomorphic survey data analyses and reports in collaboration with the MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and local partners to aid stressor identification watershed restoration and protection strategy (WRAPS) development and Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan development and implementation. We will further develop and populate the statewide DNR geomorphology survey data web map piloted in FY20.
  • In FY22 we will develop a template for DNR evaluation of hydrologic change (EHC) technical summaries. We will start and aim to finish producing summaries for all 47 watersheds for which we previously completed an EHC analysis. We will also complete and summarize a statewide meta-analysis and use the results to give statewide and regional context to the watershed-specific evaluations.
  • In FY22 we will complete a project to pilot the interpretation of DNR EHC data by field staff culminating in a graphically designed poster for at least four watersheds. Staff will use the posters to help communicate EHC results together with data from DNR stream geomorphology studies and other information. The posters will help staff use pictures and plain language to describe key facets of watershed health to local watershed planning groups.
  • In FY22 we will continue developing regional sediment rating curves to help accelerate and validate stream analyses and design stream restoration projects.
  • All of the above types of information help MPCA and other watershed partners better understand biological and water quality impairments, improve pollutant load calculations, and identify enduring multiple-benefit solutions that address root causes and promote watershed health and resilience.
Measurable Outcome(s)

Stream data and information: Worked on 29 stream surveys (of which we completed 14) in 22 major watersheds. Worked on 14 geomorphology studies, summaries or reports, summaries or reports (of which we completed 7) in 10 major watersheds. The latter 14 included 4 intensive subwatershed stream sediment studies and a catchment-scale sediment reduction plan based on one of these studies. Made significant progress on developing the statewide geomorphology web map piloted in FY20 to house, organize and improve access to the above types of data and information. Continued developing sediment rating and other regional curves to help practitioners better predict stream channel sediment loads for Minnesota streams, validate stream analyses, and help design stream restoration projects.

Evaluation of hydrologic change (EHC): Completed a template for EHC technical summaries and started compiling summaries for each of the 47 watersheds evaluated in FY21. Completed a statewide meta-analysis, the results of which are being incorporated into the watershed technical summaries to provide regional and statewide context.

Watershed posters: Completed a pilot project to help staff practice interpreting EHC results for watershed partners, resulting in posters for 4 watersheds and leading staff to start developing posters for 5 other watersheds, of which they completed 2. The posters help staff integrate EHC and stream geomorphology study findings with other information, identify key takeaways, and communicate watersheds conditions, trends, potential impacts and management implications to local watershed managers, in plain language and graphics.

All of the above data and information products continued to help the MPCA and other watershed partners better understand biological and water quality impairments, improve pollutant load calculations, and identify enduring multiple-benefit solutions that address root causes and promote watershed health and resilience.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2019 First Special Session Ch. 2 Art. 2 Sec. 6(d)
Appropriation Language

$1900000 the first year and $1900000 the second year are for developing targeted science-based watershed restoration and protection strategies.

2021 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,475,000
Direct expenses
$1,324,021
Administration costs
$179,580
Number of full time equivalents funded
12.6
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY21 DNR will continue contributing geomorphic survey data analyses and reports in collaboration with the MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and local partners primarily to aid stressor identification and watershed restoration and protection strategy (WRAPS) development. We will continue to populate the channel assessment web map developed in FY20. In FY21 we will complete a consistent repeatable evaluation of hydrologic change (EHC) for every major watershed that has the necessary streamflow gauge data (besides those piloted in FY20)?about 50 evaluations in all?and analyze the results statewide. In four (4) major watersheds we will pilot approaches to help staff interpret and effectively communicate EHC results to local partners especially those who are developing Comprehensive Watershed Management Plans. In FY21 we will continue developing regional sediment rating curves to help accelerate and validate stream analyses and design stream restoration projects.

Measurable Outcome(s)

Contributed stream geomorphology information for MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) WRAPS updates and local watershed planning and implementation: Worked on 38 stream surveys (completing 21 of these) in 16 major watersheds mostly for MPCA stream stressor identification. Worked on 16 stream geomorphology studies (completing three of these) in 11 major watersheds including eight intensive subwatershed stream sediment studies. Completed standardized evaluation of hydrologic change (EHC) analyses for 59 USGS streamflow gages in 41 major watersheds building on those completed in FY20 for a final total of 65 gages evaluated (every gage that had the necessary data) in 47 watersheds. Completed or worked on six EHC watershed summaries. Began a pilot project in four watersheds to help DNR hydrologists and clean water specialists practice interpreting and communicating EHC watershed analysis results to watersheds partners especially those engaged in local watershed planning. Continued developing regional rating curves to predict stream channel sediment loads for Minnesota streams validate stream analyses and help design stream restoration projects.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2019 First Special Session Ch. 2 Art. 2 Sec. 6(d)
Appropriation Language

$1900000 the first year and $1900000 the second year are for developing targeted science-based watershed restoration and protection strategies.

2020 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,478,815
Direct expenses
$1,291,321
Administration costs
$202,433
Number of full time equivalents funded
12.8
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY20 DNR will continue working with state and local partners in watersheds where the MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and local governments are developing or updating Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies (WRAPS). We will finish developing and start deploying new methods of analysis to streamline and enhance the hydrology and stream geomorphology information we contribute. Specifically we will evaluate hydrologic change for at least two major watersheds continue subwatershed-scale stream stability and sediment supply studies (important for addressing sediment impairments) in at least five major watersheds and communicate the findings to watershed partners. Faster progress is anticipated in future years as staff gain experience with the new methods. We will also continue to develop regional curves to speed up and validate stream analyses and to help design stream restoration projects.

Measurable Outcome(s)

Contributed stream geomorphology and connectivity information primarily for watersheds where the MPCA and local partners were developing or updating WRAPS: Conducted at least 41 stream surveys in 15 watersheds and started making the data available in a statewide web map and in story maps such as this one. Collected culvert inventory data in three (3) watersheds to be added to a statewide GIS layer. Completed at least 21 and worked on at least 16 more stream geomorphology analyses or reports in 20 watersheds. Seven (7) of these analyses are intensive subwatershed studies that distinguish stream sources from other sources of sediment in impaired streams to help partners identify catchments where upland restoration efforts stream restoration efforts or a combination will be most effective. Collaborated with MPCA and local partners on the above. MPCA and partners use the information to better understand biological and water quality impairments improve pollutant load calculations and help identify enduring multiple-benefit solutions that address root causes and promote watershed health and resilience. Completed a major project to standardize streamline and enhance DNR hydrology and stream geomorphology contributions: Finished developing a consistent repeatable method of evaluation to quantify the degree of hydrologic change in a watershed and related impacts to flooding channel-forming flows and biological community health. Staff piloted the evaluation in six (6) major watersheds. In five (5) other major watersheds staff applied a new consistent and repeatable process developed in FY19 to identify subwatersheds where an intensive study of stream stability and sediment supply would be most fruitful for discussion with local partners. Continued developing regional rating curves to predict stream channel sediment loads for Minnesota streams validate stream analyses and help design stream restoration projects.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2017 Regular Session Ch. 91 Art. 2 Sec. 6(d)
Appropriation Language

$1886000 the first year and $1886000 the second year are for developing targeted science-based watershed restoration and protection strategies.

2019 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,549,694
Direct expenses
$1,291,321
Administration costs
$202,433
Number of full time equivalents funded
12.5
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY19 DNR field staff will continue working with state and local partners in watersheds where Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies (WRAPS) are under way. DNR regional staff will continue to provide information and analysis that helps improve watershed assessments and identify effective and lasting restoration and protection strategies. Measurable outcomes will be similar to those for FY18.

Measurable Outcome(s)

• Contributed hydrology stream geomorphology and connectivity information for 47 watersheds where the MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and local partners were developing or updating WRAPS. Gathered and analyzed data for 39 of these—including but not limited to stream studies in 25 watersheds; streamflow precipitation climate and/or lake hydrology data for 28 watersheds; and culvert inventory data or analysis in at least 14 watersheds. Five of the stream studies are multi-year subwatershed-scale stream stability and sediment supply studies essential for addressing sediment impairments. MPCA and partners use this information in several parts of the WRAPS process especially stressor identification to better understand biological and water quality impairments improve pollutant load calculations and identify solutions.
• Used the above information to recommend enduring multiple-benefit solutions that address root causes and promote watershed health and resilience in 40 of the 47 watersheds noted above. (See Nonpoint Source Restoration and Protection.) Participated in WRAPS meetings in most of the watersheds and reviewed several draft WRAPS reports.
• Continued an effort begun in FY18 to streamline and enhance the hydrology and geomorphology information we contribute by developing consistent processes for evaluating hydrologic change at the major watershed scale and identifying subwatersheds where intensive stream stability and sediment supply studies would be worthwhile.
• Continued developing regional curves for Minnesota to enable certain stream characteristics to be inferred based on drainage area and ratings for similar streams. Regional curves are used to validate stream analyses and help design stream restoration projects. In FY19 this involved stream surveys ongoing coordination with the US Geological Survey on sediment sampling in streams and new collaborative work to develop data collection standards for regional streambank erosion curves.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2017 Regular Session Ch. 91 Art. 2 Sec. 6(d)
Appropriation Language

$1886000 the first year and $1886000 the second year are for developing targeted science-based watershed restoration and protection strategies.

2018 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,567,393
Direct expenses
$1,393,491
Administration costs
$220,382
Number of full time equivalents funded
15.3
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY18 the DNR will continue working with state and local partners in watersheds where the Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies (WRAPS) process is active. DNR regional staff will continue to provide information and analysis that helps improve watershed assessments and identify effective and lasting restoration and protection strategies. Measurable outcomes of this work will be similar to those stated for FY17.

Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY18 DNR field staff continued to provide information and analysis to state and local agencies to help identify pollution problems and develop lasting solutions. Staff gathered and analyzed data and information for 35 of the state’s 80 major watersheds including but not limited to 133 stream studies and 7 Total Maximum Daily Load studies. DNR staff synthesize and deliver this information to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and local government and community partners to help inform key stages of the WRAPS process – from sample site selection to stressor identification to identifying and targeting implementation strategies. For example the MPCA uses some of this information to help identify pollution sources and refine watershed models used to calculate pollutant loads. In the strategy development stage of the WRAPS process DNR staff use information they gathered and analyzed earlier to help partners identify multiple-benefit strategies that address the root causes of pollution problems. In FY18 they helped WRAPS partners identify these types of strategies in 47 watersheds.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2015 First Special Session Ch. 2 Art. 2 Sec. 6(d)
Appropriation Language

(d) $1940000 the first year and $1940000 the second year are for developing targeted science-based watershed restoration and protection strategies.

2017 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,638,038
Direct expenses
$1,450,406
Administration costs
$209,455
Number of full time equivalents funded
16.6
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY17 the DNR will continue working with state and local partners to provide information and analysis that helps improve watershed assessments and identify effective and lasting restoration and protection strategies. Numeric measures of this work will be similar to the outcomes stated for FY16.

Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY17 DNR regional staff continued to provide information and analysis to state and local agencies to identify pollution problems and develop clean water restoration and protection strategies. Staff gathered and analyzed data and information for 52 major watersheds. This included but was not limited to 175 stream studies in 33 watersheds and 5 Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) studies.

DNR staff synthesize and deliver this information to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and local government and community partners to help inform key stages of the WRAPS process – from sample site selection early in the process to stressor identification to identifying and targeting implementation strategies. For example the MPCA uses some of this information to help identify and locate sources of pollution and refine watershed models used to calculate pollutant loads.

When a watershed reaches the strategy development stage of the WRAPS process DNR regional staff use information they gathered and analyzed earlier in the process to help partners identify and develop multiple-benefit strategies that address the root causes of pollution problems. In FY17 they helped WRAPS partners identify these types of strategies in 40 watersheds.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2015 First Special Session Ch. 2 Art. 2 Sec. 6(d)
Appropriation Language

(d) $1940000 the first year and $1940000 the second year are for developing targeted science-based watershed restoration and protection strategies.

2016 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,624,000
Direct expenses
$1,708,915
Administration costs
$205,194
Number of full time equivalents funded
18.0
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY16 the DNR will continue to work with state and local partners providing information and analysis to identify pollution problems and develop clean water restoration and protection strategies. Work will be a continuation of the outcomes stated for FY15. We will continue to participate in multi-agency partnerships to improve the process of assessing watersheds and recommending watershed restoration and protection strategies. Finally we will participate in multi-agency review of state grants for Clean Water Funded work.

Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY16 DNR field staff continued to provide information and analysis to state and local agencies to identify pollution problems and develop clean water restoration and protection strategies. Staff gathered and analyzed data for 55 major watersheds. This included more than 200 studies involving field surveys and analysis of hydrology stream stability and/or culvert inventory data. It also included assistance with 23 Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) studies. The resulting information helps the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) identify and locate sources of pollution and develop and improve watershed models for calculating pollutant loads.

The information contributed by the DNR also helps provide a foundation for identifying and targeting restoration and protection strategies and actions. In FY16 DNR field staff helped state and local partners identify and develop restoration and protection strategies in 39 watersheds. Our participation helps teams identify strategies that target the root causes of pollution problems and provide multiple environmental benefits.

As in previous years DNR staff participated in the Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources’ multi-agency review of Clean Water Fund competitive grant proposals for water quality implementation projects by local governments and community partners.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2013 Ch. 137 Art. 2 Sec. 6(d)
Appropriation Language

$1850000 the first year and $1850000
the second year are for developing targeted
science-based watershed restoration and
protection strategies including regional
technical assistance for TMDL plans and
development of a watershed assessment tool
in cooperation with the commissioner of the
Pollution Control Agency. By January 15
2016 the commissioner shall submit a report
to the chairs and ranking minority members
of the senate and house of representatives
committees and divisions with jurisdiction
over environment and natural resources
policy and finance providing the outcomes
to lakes rivers streams and groundwater
achieved with this appropriation and
recommendations.

2015 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,591,245
Direct expenses
$1,414,231
Administration costs
$227,305
Number of full time equivalents funded
16.3
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY 15 the DNR will continue to work with state and local partners providing information and analysis to identify pollution problems and clean water restoration and protection strategies. Work will be a continuation of the outcomes stated for FY14. DNR staff will continue to participate in multi-agency partnerships to improve the process of assessing watersheds and recommending watershed restoration and protection strategies. Finally DNR staff will participate in multi-agency review of state grants for Clean Water Funded work.

Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY15 DNR hydrologists and clean water specialists provided information and analysis to local and state agencies to identify pollution problems and develop clean water restoration and protection strategies. The DNR’s data and expertise in stream and lake biology geomorphology and hydrology are instrumental in identifying and locating sources of pollution and developing watershed models for calculating pollutant loads. This provides a foundation for targeting water quality restoration and protection work.

We gathered and analyzed existing data for 57 to provide information that enhances our understanding of how water and pollutants move through watersheds. The data and analysis also provides a foundation for targeting restoration and protection efforts. This work included 161 stream geomorphology and hydrology field surveys. We also assisted with 18 TMDL studies.

The DNR participated with interagency teams to develop watershed restoration and protection strategies in 45 watersheds. Our participation helps teams identify strategies that target the root causes of pollution problems and provide clean water and other ecosystem benefits.

DNR staff also participated in multi-agency review of 100 state Clean Water Fund grant proposals for water quality projects that are administered by the Board of Water and Soil Resources.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2013 Ch. 137 Art. 2 Sec. 6(d)
Appropriation Language

$1850000 the first year and $1850000
the second year are for developing targeted
science-based watershed restoration and
protection strategies including regional
technical assistance for TMDL plans and
development of a watershed assessment tool
in cooperation with the commissioner of the
Pollution Control Agency. By January 15
2016 the commissioner shall submit a report
to the chairs and ranking minority members
of the senate and house of representatives
committees and divisions with jurisdiction
over environment and natural resources
policy and finance providing the outcomes
to lakes rivers streams and groundwater
achieved with this appropriation and
recommendations.

2014 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,750,000
Direct expenses
$1,287,551
Administration costs
$255,250
Number of full time equivalents funded
15.6
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY 14 DNR will continue to work with state and local partners providing information and analysis to identify pollution problems and develop clean water restoration and protection strategies. Work will be a continuation of the outcomes stated for FY13. DNR staff will continue to participate in multi-agency partnerships to improve the process of assessing watersheds and recommending watershed restoration and protection strategies. Finally DNR staff will participate in multi-agency review of applications for Clean Water Fund implementation grants.

Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY14 DNR staff provided information and analysis to local and state agencies to identify pollution problems and develop clean water restoration and protection strategies. DNR’s data and expertise in stream and lake biology geomorphology and hydrology are instrumental in identifying and locating sources of pollution and developing watershed models for calculating pollutant loads. This provides a foundation for targeting water quality restoration and protection work.

Field staff gathered and analyzed information in 34 watersheds and conducted 211 studies of stream geomorphology and hydrology plus a detailed study of proper culvert design for stream stability. This information results in improved models and enhanced understanding of how water and pollutants move through watersheds.

DNR participated with interagency teams to develop watershed restoration and protection strategies in 37 major watersheds and 30 TMDL studies not associated with a major watershed project. DNR’s participation results in strategies that target the root causes of pollution problems and provide clean water and other ecosystem benefits.

DNR staff also participated in multi-agency review of over 180 state Clean Water Fund grant proposals for water quality projects.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2011 First Special Session Ch. 6 Art. 2 Sec. 6(d)
Appropriation Language

$1730000 the first year and $1730000 the second year are for TMDL development and TMDL implementation plans for waters listed on the United States Environmental Protection Agency approved impaired waters list in accordance with Minnesota Statutes chapter 114D and for development of a watershed assessment tool.

2013 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,630,000
Direct expenses
$995,643
Administration costs
$176,930
Number of full time equivalents funded
11.0
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY 13 DNR will continue to work with state and local partners providing information and analysis to identify pollution problems and develop clean water restoration and protection strategies. This work includes the following tasks:
1)Gathering analyzing and sharing existing information. DNR has a wealth of information on stream flows water levels climatology fisheries habitats rare species watershed boundaries and more which is used in planning watershed assessments identifying pollution types and sources and developing watershed protection and restoration strategies that provide clean water and other ecological benefits.
2)Conducting technical watershed studies. This is generally field reconnaissance and collecting data about stream features (width depth bank erosion) that helps scientists develop computer models to predict pollution sources and amounts as well as inform findings about the causes of water impairments and the best approaches for watershed restoration. The stream measurements - known as stream geomorphology - are also being used in more detailed studies of sediment movement in watersheds and floodplain mapping and analysis.
3)Developing Major Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies. With agency and local partners DNR staff will participate in a process that uses model results data synthesis local input and professional knowledge to recommend protection and restoration options that will be implemented locally for a given major watershed.

DNR staff will also participate in multi-agency partnerships to continually improve the process of assessing watersheds and recommending watershed restoration and protection strategies. Finally DNR staff will participate in multi-agency review of state and federal grants for Clean Water work.

Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY13 DNR staff provided information and analysis to local and state agencies to identify pollution problems and develop clean water restoration and protection strategies. DNR’s data and expertise in stream and lake biology geomorphology and hydrology are instrumental in identifying and locating sources of pollution and developing watershed models for calculating pollutant loads. The result is a foundation for targeting of water quality restoration and protection work.

Field staff gathered and analyzed information in 30 watersheds and conducted 113 geomorphology studies plus a detailed study of proper culvert design for stream stability. This information results in improved models and enhanced understanding of how water and pollutants move through watersheds.

DNR participated with interagency teams to develop watershed restoration and protection strategies in 23 major watersheds and 17 TMDL studies not associated with a major watershed project. DNR’s participation results in strategies that target the root causes of pollution problems and provide clean water and other ecosystem benefits.

DNR staff also participated in multi-agency review of over 162 state Clean Water Fund grant proposals for water quality projects.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2011 First Special Session Ch. 6 Art. 2 Sec. 6(d)
Appropriation Language

$1730000 the first year and $1730000 the second year are for TMDL development and TMDL implementation plans for waters listed on the United States Environmental Protection Agency approved impaired waters list in accordance with Minnesota Statutes chapter 114D and for development of a watershed assessment tool.

2012 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,630,000
Direct expenses
$846,187
Administration costs
$337,915
Number of full time equivalents funded
9.0
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY 12 DNR will continue to partner with federal and state agencies as well as local communities to provide technical assistance to development of clean water restoration and protection strategies. This work includes the following tasks:
1) Gathering analyzing and sharing existing information. DNR has a wealth of information on stream flows water levels climatology fisheries habitats rare species watershed boundaries and more which is used in planning watershed assessments identifying pollution types and sources and developing watershed protection and restoration strategies that provide clean water and other ecological benefits.

2) Conducting technical watershed studies. This is generally field reconnaissance and collecting data about stream features (width depth bank erosion) that helps scientists develop computer models to predict pollution sources and amounts as well as inform findings about the causes of water impairments and the best approaches for watershed restoration. The stream measurements - known as stream geomorphology - are also being used in more detailed studies of sediment movement in watersheds.

3) Developing Major Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies. With agency and local partners DNR staff will participate in a process that uses model results data synthesis local input and professional knowledge to recommend protection and restoration options that will be implemented locally for a given major watershed.

DNR staff will also participate in multi-agency partnerships to continually improve the process of assessing watersheds and recommending watershed restoration and protection strategies.

Finally DNR staff will participate in multi-agency review of state and federal grants for Clean Water work.

Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY12 DNR staff provided information and analysis to local and state agencies to identify pollution problems and develop clean water restoration and protection strategies. DNR’s data and expertise in stream and lake biology geomorphology and hydrology are instrumental in identifying and locating sources of pollution and developing watershed models for calculating pollutant loads. The result is a foundation for targeting of water quality restoration and protection work.
Field staff gathered and analyzed information in 18 watersheds and conducted 30 geomorphology studies. This information results in improved models and enhanced understanding of how water and pollutants move through watersheds.

DNR participated with interagency teams to develop watershed restoration and protection strategies in 30 major watersheds and 36 TMDL studies not associated with a major watershed project. DNR’s participation results in strategies that target the root causes of pollution problems and provide clean water and other ecosystem benefits.

DNR staff also participated in multi-agency review of over 200 state Clean Water Fund grants for water quality projects.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2009 Ch. 172 Art. 2 Sec. 5(c)
Appropriation Language

$1050000 the first year and $1050000 the second year are for TMDL development and TMDL implementation plans for waters listed on the United States Environmental Protection Agency approved Impaired Waters List in accordance with Minnesota Statutes chapter 114D.

2011 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,182,500
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY11 DNR will work with state and local partners to provide technical assistance for development of clean water restoration and protection strategies.

The number of watershed strategies being developed are decreasing as MPCA has moved to larger scale watershed projects. However the quality and depth of the technical assistance will increase and will result in more detailed and prioritized plans.

Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY11 DNR provided technical assistance to 52 clean water strategy efforts. This assistance included participation in pollution studies focused on impaired lakes and river reaches as well as larger watershed-scale Major Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies. This technical assistance consisted of collaboration with state and local agencies in study and planning sessions designing and conducting field reconnaissance work on fish passage geomorphology stressor identification and Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) to review enhance or guide the design of watershed studies and restoration options.

DNR staff also participated in multi-agency review and evaluation of 184 grant proposals for 3 grant funding sources (Clean Water Partnership Nonpoint Source Grant and Clean Water Fund) and did technical reviews on 41 other clean water studies or plans.

Legal Citation / Subdivision
M.L. 2009 Ch. 172 Art. 2 Sec. 5(c)
Appropriation Language

$1050000 the first year and $1050000 the second year are for TMDL development and TMDL implementation plans for waters listed on the United States Environmental Protection Agency approved Impaired Waters List in accordance with Minnesota Statutes chapter 114D.

2010 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$689,000
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY10 DNR will work with state and local partners to provide technical assistance for development or implementation of clean water restoration and protection strategies.

Measurable Outcome(s)

In FY10 DNR provided technical assistance to 63 TMDL (Total Maxiumum Daily Load) or watershed planning efforts. This assistance included:
- work on over 20 technical studies by assisting in design and conducting field reconnaissance work on fish passage geomorphology stressor identification and Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) to review enhance or guide the design of TMDL studies and restoration options.
- review and evaluation of 50 Clean Water Partnership 122 Nonpoint Source Grant and 318 Clean Water Fund Grant proposals.

Project Manager
First Name
Barbara
Last Name
Weisman
Organization Name
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Street Address
500 Lafayette Road
City
Saint Paul
State
MN
Zip Code
55155
Phone
(651) 259-5147
Email
Barbara.Weisman@state.mn.us
Administered By
Administered by
Location

500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155

Phone
651-296-6157
Email the Agency