Workshop Item - Rebecca Haug, Water Resources Manager
Title
Introduction to the Coon Creek and Rice Creek Watershed Districts
Background
Watershed districts are local, special-purpose units of government that work to solve and prevent water-related problems. The boundaries of each district follow those of a natural watershed and consist of land in which all water flows to one outlet. The districts are usually named after that watershed.
Some of the roles of the watershed districts are to:
• Conduct water quality surveys of lakes and streams within the district;
• Monitor groundwater levels;
• Manage drainage systems;
• Regulate, conserve and control the use of water within the district;
• Provide for wildlife and enhance recreational opportunities as a benefit of projects to improve water quality and provide flood protection;
• Establish, record and maintain hydrological data;
• Approve culvert size and placement in all roads of the district; and
• Other projects related to meeting the purposes of the district.
The City of Blaine is divided by the Coon Creek and Rice Creek Watershed Districts. The city works collaboratively with both districts. Nicholas Tomczik, District Manager for Rice Creek Watershed District and Tim Kelly, District Manager for Coon Creek Watershed District will be giving an introduction of their respective districts and providing an informational overview about the ways their watershed districts collaborate on projects and permitting.
Attachment List
Watershed Boundary Map