HomeMy WebLinkAboutBoard of Commissioners – Supporting Documents Compiled – 01/29/20192.1 Draft CB Minutes for 1.22.19
2.2 County Bills~Warrants
2.3-2.4 Tobacco & Pawnbrokers License
3.0 Mahube Otwa Grant Fact Sheet
3.0 Mahube Otwa Homeless Prevention Resolution
4.0 Strong Teens Data for OT Board
4.0 Strong Teens Lesson Overview
5.0 PRAP Draft Report 1 24 19 - SWCDs & County
6.0 Hiring Request - Inspector- Land & Resources
6.0 Hiring Request- Assistant Veterans Service Officer
6.0 Reclassification Request- Database Developer
8.0 Four County MOU Overview - Intensive Services for SED Children & Families
9.0 Auditor-Treasurer Agenda Items
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
SUPPORTING DOCUMENT PACKET
January 29, 2019
MINUTES OF THE
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Government Services Center, Commissioners’ Room
515 W. Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN
January 22, 2019
9:00 a.m.
Call to Order
The Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners convened at 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 22, 2019, at the
Government Services Center in Fergus Falls, MN, with Commissioners Doug Huebsch, Chair; Lee Rogness,
Vice-Chair; Wayne Johnson, John Lindquist and Betty Murphy present.
Approval of Agenda
Chairman Huebsch called for approval of the Board Agenda. Motion by Johnson, second by Rogness and
unanimously carried to approve the Board of Commissioners Agenda of January 22, 2019, with the following
addition:
Modify the Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Schedule
New York Mills County Building
Consent Agenda
Motion by Rogness, second by Lindquist and unanimously carried to approve Consent Agenda items as
follows:
1. January 8, 2019, Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Minutes
2. Warrants/Bills for January 22, 2019 (Exhibit A)
3. Human Services & Public Health Bills & Claims for January 22, 2019 (Exhibit A)
4. Human Services Contract Renewals
5. Waiver of the Exhibitions and Shows Ordinance for the OTC ON ICE Event
February 8 - 9, 2019
6. Final Payment to AAA Striping Service for C.P. 18:TM
7. Approve SW Hauler’s License – City of Fergus Falls & Ballard Sanitation
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Waterfowl & Habitat Easements
USFWS Supervisory Realty Specialist Stacy Salvevold appeared before the Board and requested
certification of five waterfowl management easements and three habitat easements. Documentation was
previously submitted regarding the request. After County Board approval, the easement requests will be
considered by the State Land Exchange Board. The owners continue to be responsible for maintenance and
taxes on the properties. Habitat land must remain in grass and wetlands and the USFWS is subject to any
restrictions on the property that were in place at the time of acquiring the easement. After questions and
consideration, a motion was offered by Johnson, seconded by Lindquist and unanimously carried to approve
certification for the USFWS to secure the following waterfowl and habitat easements:
Klinnert, Michael: J. – Wetland Easement
T. 136 N., R.42 W., 5th P.M.
Section 24, N½NE¼
Leitch, Terry W. – Habitat Protection Easement
T. 132 N., R. 42W., 5th P.M.
Section 10, Parts of the SW¼SE¼ and Government Lot 2,
Section 11, Parts of Government Lots 7 and 8, all to be determined by a survey
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 2
Moske, Gene E. – Wetland Easement
T. 131 N, R. 38W, 5th P.M.
Government Lot 3 and Government Lot 4, Section 25.
Government Lot 1 and Government Lot 2, Section 26 as described in Exhibit B
Norrgard, Rayment A., et al – Habitat Protection Easement
T. 132 N, R. 42 W, 5th P.M.
Section 33, that part of the SW¼SW¼ as delineated on a plat designated Raymond A. Norrgard, et al. Tracts
(905G,1) bearing the date of December 21, 2018, on file in the Office of the Regional Director, Region 3,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, more particularly described in Exhibit C.
Norrgard, Raymond A. – Habitat Protection Easement
T. 132 N, R. 42 W, 5th P.M.
Section 33, that part of the NE ¼ SW ¼ and that part of Government Lot Four as delineated on a plat
designated Raymond A. Norrgard Tract (904G), bearing the date of December 21, 2018, on file in the Office
of the Regional Director, Region 3, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, more particularly described in Exhibit D.
Scottland Family, LLLP – Wetland Easement
T. 132N, R. 44 W, 5th P.M.
Section 2, NW¼ and N½SW¼
Lee B. Skold Revocable Trust – Wetland Easement
Legal Description as described in Exhibit E
Motion by Johnson, second by Lindquist with Rogness abstaining, to approve certification for the USFWS to
secure the following waterfowl management easement:
LaWayne Rogness Revocable Living Trust – Wetland Easement
Legal Description as described in Exhibit F
Legislative Priorities
Administrator John Dinsmore presented the Otter Tail County 2019 Legislative Recommendations handout
focusing on Economic Development, Health and Human Services and Transportation and Trails. Motion by
Johnson, second by Rogness and unanimously carried to approve a revised 2019 Legislative
Recommendations handout. Legislative Consultant Sarah Psick will facilitate meetings during County Day
at the Capitol on February 13, 2019.
Maintenance Worker – New Position
Motion by Lindquist, second by Rogness and unanimously carried to approve filling a .75 FTE Maintenance
Worker 1 position as recommended by the Facilities Operations Manager.
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 3
Employees’ Committee
On behalf of the Employees’ Committee, Katie Black requested purchase and installation of an ice machine
in the lunchroom at the courthouse. Motion by Rogness, second by Lindquist and unanimously carried to
approve purchase and installation of an ice machine at the County Courthouse, at an approximate cost of
$5,424.00, subject to employee’s raising one-half of the total cost with Facilities Operations paying for the
remainder of the purchase.
DONATIONS TO OTTER TAIL COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES
Otter Tail County Resolution No. 2019 - 08
Upon a motion made by Johnson, seconded by Murphy and unanimously carried, the following resolution
was adopted:
WHEREAS, community members, service organizations, businesses and Church groups, offer to donate
items or gift cards to Otter Tail County Human Services to assist in meeting the needs of people served by
Human Services programs, and;
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statute 465.03 requires a county to accept gifts by resolution; and;
WHEREAS, the donations received though-out the year from community members, service organizations,
businesses and Church groups will be for the sole purpose of assisting people receiving services from Otter
Tail County Human Services to meet needs that are otherwise not covered, and;
WHEREAS, acceptance of the items or gift cards in accordance with the donor’s terms is in the best interest
of the County of Otter Tail.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners does accept
the above-described funds as donated throughout the year from community members, service organizations,
businesses and Church groups and extends its grateful appreciation.
Adopted at Fergus Falls, MN this 22nd day of January 2019
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Dated: _________________________
By: __________________________________ Attest: _________________________
Douglas A. Huebsch, Board Chair John W. Dinsmore, Clerk
Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Task Force
The proposed budget for AIS education/awareness was presented. Motion by Johnson, second by Murphy
and unanimously carried to approve the AIS Task Force budget proposal for AIS prevention education and
awareness dated January 14, 2019, in the amount of $34,610.00.
AIS Decontamination Units
The MN Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has two portable decontamination units originally
purchased by Otter Tail County that are not being used. Chris LeClair, Land & Resource Director and
Bernie Steeves, AIS Task Force Chair, requested approval to take back one decontamination unit from the
DNR and operate it as a County pilot project. The proposal would be to place the unit on the east side of
Otter Tail lake and staff it with the seasonal AIS Inspectors. Lengthy discussion took place regarding the
number of boat accesses in Otter Tail County, how to determine the best place to put the unit, staffing and
State laws. Motion by Rogness, second by Johnson and unanimously carried to support and staff the
proposed decontamination pilot project as presented.
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 4
Closed to the Public
At 10:13 a.m., Chair Huebsch declared the Board of Commissioners meeting closed to the public to discuss
matters regarding sale of County property located at 1174 Western Ave, Fergus Falls, MN. The closed
session is authorized under M.S. 13D.05, Subd. 3(c)(1). Present were all five seated Commissioners,
Attorney Michelle Eldien, Administrator John Dinsmore, Auditor-Treasurer Wayne Stein, Facilities Managers
Terry Hoff and Doug Cannell, Communication and External Relations Director Nick Leonard, Internal
Services and HR Director Nicole Hansen, and Board Secretary.
Recess & Reconvene
At 10:40 a.m., upon completion of the closed session, Chair Huebsch declared the meeting of the Otter Tail
County Board of Commissioners recessed for a short break. The meeting was reconvened at 10:45 a.m.
Former Chemical Addiction Recovery Enterprise (C.A.R.E.) Building
Motion by Rogness, second by Johnson and unanimously carried to encourage County Officials to continue
to pursue options related to the County owned building at 1174 Western Avenue in Fergus Falls, MN.
Registered Land Survey No. 21
Motion by Johnson, second by Lindquist and unanimously carried to authorize the appropriate County
Official’s signatures to execute Registered Land Survey No. 21 as presented by Minnesota Land Surveyor
Micah Radach.
Lakeland Mental Health Center (LMHC) Service Agreement
Motion by Johnson, second by Rogness and unanimously carried to authorize the appropriate County
Officials’ signatures to execute a Purchase of Services Agreement between Otter Tail County and LMHC,
Inc, for evaluation services for court ordered assessments. The agreement is effective for calendar year
2019.
Phelps Mill Country Presentation
Phelps Mill Country Treasurer David Iverson discussed the possibility of adding a craft beer and wine tasting
event to the Phelps Mill Festival. Public Works Director Rick West indicated that this idea has been
discussed with the Public Works Committee. During discussions, it was recognized that the County Park
Ordinance would need to be revised/updated to accommodate the event. The park is rented for other events
such as weddings and family reunions which would also need to be addressed in a comprehensive review
of the current ordinance. Commissioners requested that this topic be added to the next Board Agenda for
further discussion with a goal of informing Phelps Mill Country within 60 days.
Payment Approval
Motion by Johnson, second by Lindquist and unanimously carried to approve payment to Perham Health, in
the amount of $2,515.80, for cost incurred under the provision of M.S. 609.35 for Case No. 18034179.
Forgiveness of Penalty and Interest
Motion by Rogness, second by Lindquist and unanimously carried to approve the request of Legacy 57
Properties, LLC for the abatement of the following penalties and interest as the reason for abatement is
consistent with the County’s guidelines:
Parcel Penalty Interest
Parcel 76-000-99-0349-000
$65.23 $5.49
Parcel 76-000-99-0350-000
$28.83 $2.42
Parcel 76-000-99-0351-000
$27.73 $2.33
Total $121.79 $10.24
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 5
SPONSORING AGENCY
Otter Tail County Resolution No. 2019 - 09
Upon a motion made by Murphy, seconded by Rogness and unanimously carried, the following resolution
was adopted:
BE IT RESOLVED THAT: Otter Tail County agrees to act as sponsoring agency for a "Safe Routes to School"
project identified as Henning's Light Up the Night-Parking Lot Project seeking Greater Minnesota Safe
Routes to School funding and has reviewed and approved the project as proposed. Sponsorship includes a
willingness to secure and guarantee the local share of costs associated with this project and responsibility
for seeing this project through to its completion, with compliance of all applicable laws, rules and regulations.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: Charles Grotte, P.E., County Engineer, is hereby authorized to act as
agent on behalf of this sponsoring agency.
Adopted at Fergus Falls, MN this 22nd day of January 2019
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Dated: _________________________
By: __________________________________ Attest: _________________________
Douglas A. Huebsch, Board Chair John W. Dinsmore, Clerk
Drainage Systems
Ditch #70:
Ditch Inspector Kevin Fellbaum hired a camera contractor to view an area of tile in Ditch 70 that was no
longer functioning at sufficient capacity after a 2016 repair. It was determined that there could be portions
of the tile that are severely crushed and restricting flow. Motion by Lindquist, second by Murphy and
unanimously carried to award the repair project of 850 ft. of 8-inch dual wall tile to Weets Drainage and
Excavating, LLC, at an estimated cost of $9,317.50, to restore efficient flow to the Ditch #70 system.
Ditch #21:
Motion by Rogness, second by Lindquist and unanimously to authorize the following work in Ditch 21 as
recommended by the Ditch Inspector:
Property owner Justin Moe will remove trees along the Ditch 21 corridor shown in red on the map submitted,
clean out the open channel and install culvert crossings to allow for access to fields. The expense for this
work will be paid by Mr. Moe as he is the sole benefactor of the crossings. The Ditch Inspector will work with
the contractor to ensure proper size and placement of the culvert crossings.
The channel downstream of Mr. Moe’s property needs to be repaired (about 700 ft.) by mechanical cleaning
and an area further downstream (1,700 ft.) will be sprayed for vegetation as part of the yearly spraying
program to remove overgrowth. This work is indicated in yellow and green of the map submitted with the
supporting documents and cost of this work will be covered by the applicable ditch fund.
2019 Ditch Assessments:
Motion by Rogness, second by Murphy and unanimously carried to approve the 2019 Ditch Assessments as
submitted by the Ditch Inspector.
Orders for Redetermination of Benefits:
County Attorney Michelle Eldien finalized the Findings and Order for Redetermination of Benefits in the
matter of Ditch #50 and Ditch #64 as previously authorized by the County Board.
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 6
Public Information Meetings:
Motion by Rogness, second by Lindquist and unanimously carried to schedule the following public
information meetings:
County Ditch Purpose Date & Time
Ditch #12 Redetermination of Benefits March 25, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. (location TBD)
Ditch #45 Redetermination of Benefits April 1, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. (location TBD)
Ditch #20 Redetermination of Benefits April 15, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. (location TBD)
Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Schedule
Motion by Johnson, second by Lindquist and unanimously carried to cancel the February 26, 2019, Board
meeting and change the March 5, 2019, Board meeting to begin at 12:00 p.m.
Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI)
Motion by Rogness, second by Johnson and unanimously carried to authorize Commissioners’ attendance
at the AURI 2019 Forum March 27 & 28, 2019, at the Mariott West, Mpls, MN.
5G Cellular Technology
Commissioners discussed the upcoming 5G cellular service which requires more towers or cellular
equipment stations than the current technology. They requested that this be considered during the long-
range planning process. Administrator John Dinsmore will facilitate research on the issue and bring
recommendations to the appropriate committee.
Proposed Child Care Building – New York Mills
Nick Leonard, Communications and External Relations Director, reported that the Community Development
Agency (CDA) will begin meeting and discuss the current childcare initiative. Motion by Rogness, second
by Johnson and unanimously carried to recommend that the new CDA, in partnership with the OTC Housing
and Redevelopment Authority (HRA), allocate up to $100,000 for the redevelopment of the building at
109 S. Walker in New York Mills for the creation of childcare pods.
Lease Agreement
Motion by Lindquist, second by Johnson and unanimously carried to authorize County Officials to draft a
formal lease agreement between the County of Otter Tail and the New York Mills Police Department for the
Police Department space utilized at the New York Mills County Office building.
Motion by Johnson, second by Rogness and unanimously carried to rent a 36’ x 40’ storage space in the
New York Mills County Office building to the NYM Cultural Center for $100.00/month as presented by the
Communications and External Relations Director.
Adjournment
At 12:16 p.m., Chairman Huebsch declared the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners meeting
adjourned. The next Board meeting is scheduled at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, at the
Government Services Center in Fergus Falls, MN.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Dated:
By: Attest:
Douglas A, Huebsch, Board Chair John Dinsmore, Clerk
CB/kd
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit A, Page 1
WARRANTS APPROVE ON 01/22/2019
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit A, Page 2
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit A, Page 3
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit A, Page 4
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit A, Page 5
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit A, Page 6
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit A, Page 7
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit A, Page 8
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit B, Page 1
Moske, Gene E.
E1/2SE1/4, Section 23, excepting therefrom that part of the Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of
Section 23 described as follows:
Beginning at the east quarter corner of said Section 13: thence North 89 degrees 55 minutes 39 seconds West,
assumed bearing, along the north line of said Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter, 1296.93 feet to the
west Line of said Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter; thence South 01 degrees 07 minutes 26 seconds
East, along said west line, 1306.66 feet to the centerline of State Highway No. 235; thence northeasterly, along
said centerline and along a non-tangential curve concave to the northwest, radius 3819.72 feet, central angle 06
degrees 31 minutes 35 seconds, 435.09 feet, the chord of said curve bears North 84 degrees 28 minutes 24
seconds East 434.86 feet; thence North 03 degrees 23 minutes 27 seconds West, non-tangent to last said curve,
503.05 feet; thence North 82 degrees 52 minutes 06 seconds East 446.67 feet; thence South 12 degrees 30
minutes 06 seconds East 452.85 feet to said center-line of State Highway No. 235; thence northeasterly, along
said centerline and along a non-tangential curve concave to the northwest, radius 3819.72 feet, central angle 05
degrees 35 minutes 27 seconds, 372.72 feet, the chord of said curve bears North 70 degrees 32 minutes 35
seconds East 372.57 feet to the east line of said Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter; thence North 01
degrees '21 minutes 41 seconds West, along said east line, 1023.56 feet to the point of beginning.
Also except that part of the Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter described as follows:
Commencing at the east quarter corner of said Section 23; thence North 89 degrees 55 minutes 39 seconds
West, assumed bearing, along the north line of said Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter, 1296.93 feet
to the west line of said Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter; thence South 01 degrees 07 minutes 26
seconds East, along said west line, 1306.66 feet to the centerline of State Highway No. 235: thence
northeasterly, along said centerline and along a non-tangential curve concave to the northwest, radius 3819.72
feet, central angle 06 degrees 31 minutes 35 seconds, 435.09 feet, the chord of said curve bears North 84
degrees 28 minutes 24 seconds East 434.86 feet to the point of beginning of the land 10 be described: thence
North 03 degrees 23 minutes 27 seconds West, non-tangent to last said curve. 503.05 feet; thence North 82
degrees 52 minutes 06 seconds East 446.67 feet; thence South 12 degrees 30 minutes 06 seconds East 452.85
feet to said centerline of State Highway No. 235: thence southwesterly, along said centerline and along a non-
tangential curve concave to the northwest, radius 3819.72 feet, central angle 07 degrees 52 minutes 18
seconds, 524.78 feet, the chord of said curve bears South 77 degrees 16 minutes 28 seconds West 524.37 feet
to the point of beginning.
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit C, Page 1
Norrgard, Raymond A., et al:
COMMENCING at an iron pipe at the southwest corner of said Southwest Quarter Southwest Quarter (SW1/4
SW1/4); thence N.00°33’51”W. (Otter Tail County Coordinate System bearings and distances), along the west
line of said Southwest Quarter Southwest Quarter (SW1/4 SW1/4), 718.04 feet to a 5/8 inch by 20 inch iron rod
with a marked aluminum cap (FWS Iron Monument) on the north right-of-way line of Rose View Drive and the
POINT OF BEGINNING; thence N.76°03’10”E., along said north right-of-way line, 427.57 feet to a 1 inch diameter
by 30 inch long aluminum post with a marked aluminum cap (FWS Aluminum Monument); thence N.89°49’41”E.,
along said north right-of-way line, 800.84 feet to an FWS Aluminum Monument; thence N.71°39’49”E., 116.14
feet to an FWS Aluminum Monument on the east line of said Southwest Quarter Southwest Quarter (SW1/4
SW1/4); thence N.00°19’27”W., along said east line, 466.70 feet to an FWS Aluminum Monument at the
northeast corner of said Southwest Quarter Southwest Quarter (SW1/4 SW1/4); thence N.89°43’25”W., along
the north line of said Southwest Quarter Southwest Quarter (SW1/4 SW1/4), 1329.47 feet to an iron pipe with
a plastic cap marked “RLS 42296” at the northwest corner of said Southwest Quarter Southwest Quarter (SW1/4
SW1/4); thence S.00°33’51”E., along the west line of said Southwest Quarter Southwest Quarter (SW1/4 SW1/4),
615.13 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING, containing 15.93 acres.
And,
COMMENCING at an iron pipe at the southwest corner of said Southwest Quarter Southwest Quarter (SW1/4
SW1/4); thence S.89°47’33”E., along the south line of said Southwest Quarter Southwest Quarter (SW1/4
SW1/4), 33.00 feet to an FWS Aluminum Monument on the east right-of-way line of 245th Avenue and the POINT
OF BEGINNING; thence continuing S.89°47’33”E., along said south line, 1007.58 feet to an iron pipe; thence
N.00°13’12”E., 219.36 feet to an iron pipe; thence N.61°40’08”E., 281.87 feet to an FWS Aluminum Monument
on the west right-of-way line of Rose View Drive; thence N.01°50’55”E., along said west right-of-way line, 388.60
feet to an FWS Iron Monument; thence N.44°09’42”W., 27.78 feet to an FWS Iron Monument on the south right-
of-way line of Rose View Drive; thence S.89°49’41”W., along said south right-of-way line, 866.65 feet to an FWS
Aluminum Monument; thence S.76°03’10”W., along said south right-of-way line, 333.88 feet to an FWS Iron
Monument; thence S.40°21’52”W., 100.22 feet to an FWS Iron Monument on the east right-of-way line of 245th
Avenue; thence S.00°33’51”E., along said east right-of-way line, 598.39 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING,
containing 19.88 acres.
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit D, Page 1
Norrgard, Raymond A.:
COMMENCING at an iron pipe at the southwest corner of the Southwest Quarter (SW1/4) of said section thirty-
three (33); thence S.89°47’33”E. (Otter Tail County Coordinate System bearings and distances), along the south
line of said Southwest Quarter (SW1/4), 1323.87 feet to the southwest corner of said Government Lot Four (4);
thence N.00°19’27”W., along the west line of said Government Lot Four (4), 795.60 feet to the centerline of Rose
View Drive; thence N.89°49’41”E., along said centerline, 17.44 feet; thence S.89°58’47”E., 33.02 feet to a 1 inch
diameter by 30 inch long aluminum post with a marked aluminum cap (FWS Aluminum Monument) on the west
right-of-way line of Rose View Drive and the POINT OF BEGINNING; thence S.01°50’55”W., along said west right-
of-way line, 68.66 feet to a 5/8 inch by 20 inch iron rod with a marked aluminum cap (FWS Iron Monument) on
the north line of an ingress/egress easement; thence S.76°13’38”E., along said north line, 399.36 feet to an FWS
Aluminum Monument; thence N.89°54’42”E., along said north line, 339.73 feet to an FWS Iron Monument;
thence N.00°05’18”W., 278.65 feet to an iron pipe; thence N.04°02’11”W., 557.21 feet to an iron pipe with a
plastic cap marked “RLS 13620/17825” (Anderson Monument); thence N.89°47’11”W., 497.61 feet to an
Anderson Monument; thence S.08°55’20”W., 681.43 feet to an Anderson Monument; thence N.89°58’47”W.,
82.45 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING, containing 11.16 acres.
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit E, Page 1
Lee B. Skold Revocable Trust:
Government Lot 1, the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 and the NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 35, and the W 1/2 of the
NW 1/4 of Section 36, all in Township 132 North, Range 38 West;
EXCEPT that part of the NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4, Section 35, Township 132 North, Range 38 West, described as
follows: Commencing at the northwest corner of said NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4; thence on an assumed bearing of
South 00 degrees 38 minutes 33 seconds East along the west line of said NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 a distance of
326.77 feet to the point of beginning of the land to be described; thence North 89 degrees 03 minutes 41
seconds East 1333.03 feet to the east line of said NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4; thence South 00 degrees 37 minutes 59
seconds East along said east line 1012.44 feet to the southeast corner of said NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4; thence
South 89 degrees 14 minutes 16 seconds West 1332.85 feet to the southwest corner of said NE 1/4 of the SE
1/4; thence North 00 degrees 38 minutes 33 seconds West along the West line of said NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 a
distance of 1008.33 feet to the point of beginning, Otter Tail County, Minnesota TOGETHER WITH a 24 foot
wide easement for ingress, egress and utility purposes over, under and across that part of the N 1/2 of the SE
1/4, Section 35, Township 132 North, Range 38 West, with the centerline of such 24-foot easement described
as follows:
Commencing at the northwest corner of the NE 1/4 of said SE 1/4; thence on an assumed bearing of South 00
degrees 38 minutes 33 seconds East along the west line of said NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 a distance of 326.77 feet;
thence North 89 degrees 03 minutes 41 seconds East 70.81 feet to the point of beginning of the centerline to
be described; thence South 03 degrees 58 minutes 53 seconds East 599.70 feet; thence southwesterly along a
tangential curve concave to the west, radius 513.89 feet, central angle 48 degrees 46 minutes 50 seconds,
437.52 feet to the center of County Road No. 65 and said centerline there terminating. The sidelines of said
easement are to be prolonged or shortened to terminate on the north line of the afore-described EXCEPTION
parcel, Otter Tail County, Minnesota
OTC Board of Commissioners’ Minutes
January 22, 2019
Exhibit F, Page 1
LaWayne Rogness Revocable Living Trust:
The SE1/4 of Section 22, Township 132 North, Range 43 West, Otter Tail County, Minnesota, EXCEPT That part
of the NE1/4 of the SE1/4 of Section 22, Township 132 North, Range 43 West, Otter Tail County, Minnesota,
described as follows: Commencing at the East Quarter Section Corner of said Section 22; thence South 00
degrees 03 minutes 46 seconds East (assumed bearing) along the East line of said Section 22 distance of 494.12
feet to the point of beginning; thence continuing South 00 degrees 03 minutes 46 seconds East along said East
line a distance of 358.21 feet; thence South 85 degrees 14 minutes 43 seconds West a distance of 562.02 feet;
thence North 00 degrees 03 minutes 46 seconds West a distance of 418.38 feet; thence South 88 degrees 36
minutes 40 seconds East a distance of 560.32 feet to the point of beginning. Containing 5.00 acres. SUBJECT TO
an easement for County Road Number 25 along the East line thereof. ALSO SUBJECT TO any other easements or
restrictions of record.
AND, EXCEPT That part of the NE1/4 of SE1/4 of Section 22, Township 132 North, Range 43 West, Otter Tail
County, Minnesota, described as follows:
Beginning at the East Quarter Section Corner of said Section 22; thence South 00 degrees 03 minutes 46 seconds
East (assumed bearing) along the East line of said Section 22 a distance of 419.12 feet; thence North 88 degrees
36 minutes 40 seconds West a distance of 560.32 feet; thence North 00 degrees 03 minutes 46 seconds West a
distance of 65 feet more or less to the shoreline of a non-meandered lake; thence Northerly along the shoreline
of said lake a distance of 360 feet more or less to its intersection with the East-West Quarter Section line of said
Section 22; thence South 89 degrees 14 minutes 23 seconds East along said East-West Quarter Section line a
distance of 563 feet more or less to the point of beginning. Containing 5.19 acres, more or less. SUBJECT TO an
Easement for County Road Number 25 over and across the East 50 feet thereof. ALSO SUBJECT TO any other
Easements or Restrictions of record together with all hereditaments and appurtenances belonging thereto.
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES1/24/2019
csteinba
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Y
D
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Otter Tail County Auditor
Audit List for Board Page 1
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2:32:55PM
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
Road And Bridge Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
10-304-000-0000-6565 AP 39.13 PROPANE Fuels - Diesel N
10-304-000-0000-6572 AP 53.20 SUPPLIES Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
50-000-000-0000-6978 AP 2,200.00 ACCT 1664500 AG PLASTIC ROUTE 2126025 Ag Plastic Expenses N
01-122-000-0000-6406 AP 749.00 A2RJVV5AA0WI1P LASERJET PRO 1G4Q-HHGP-M41T Office Supplies N
01-250-000-0000-6369 450.88 A2RJVV5AA0WI1P TONER 17T1-Y911-CV6J Miscellaneous Charges N
01-250-000-0000-6369 269.00 A2RJVV5AA0WI1P COLOR PRINTER 1QRQ-QLG7-NP6X Miscellaneous Charges N
50-000-000-0000-6848 18.49 A237J9EKC4AWX GLASS JARS 1XLY-3T4G-FMQW Public Education N
50-000-000-0000-6290 12.43 ACCT 160002035 1601765717 Contracted Services N
50-390-000-0000-6290 11.33 ACCT 160002035 1601765717 Contracted Services.N
50-399-000-0000-6290 32.06 ACCT 160002035 1601765717 Contracted Services.N
50-000-000-0120-6278 1,505.00 HENNING LANDFILL SURVEY 16491 Engineering & Hydrological Testing N
50-000-000-0130-6278 2,330.00 NORTHEAST LADNFILL SURVEY 16492 Engineering & Hydrological Testing N
10-303-000-0000-6330 113.68 MILEAGE Mileage N
10-303-000-0000-6331 94.83 LODGING Meals And Lodging N
01-205-000-0000-6273 DTG 2,000.00 AUTOPSY O ROSENBERG 11/5/18 AR012470 Coroner Expense N
14522 A-OX WELDING SUPPLY CO INC.
92.3314522
7588 ALEX RUBBISH & RECYCLING
2,200.007588
14386 AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES, INC
1,487.3714386
13620 AMERIPRIDE SERVICES INC
55.8213620
223 ANDERSON LAND SURVEYING INC
3,835.00223
5517 ANDERSON/RYAN
208.515517
5244 ANOKA CO TREASURY OFFICE
2,000.005244
30171 ASSOCIATION OF MN COUNTIES
Page 2Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
2 Transactions
1 Transactions
4 Transactions
3 Transactions
2 Transactions
2 Transactions
1 Transactions
A-OX WELDING SUPPLY CO INC.
ALEX RUBBISH & RECYCLING
AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES, INC
AMERIPRIDE SERVICES INC
ANDERSON LAND SURVEYING INC
ANDERSON/RYAN
ANOKA CO TREASURY OFFICE
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
Solid Waste Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
50-000-000-0000-6242 65.00 2019 SWAA WINTER TRAINING 1/29/19 Registration Fees N
FJESTAD/ZACH11964
01-013-000-0000-6262 AP 180.00 56-P7-04-001142 URBANEK DEC2018 Public Defender Y
01-250-000-0000-6677 390.00 ACCT 109402 BATTERY PACK 1570744 Office Furniture And Equipment-Minor N
50-000-000-0150-6291 AP 340.00 ACCT 4965 ROLLOFF DEC2018 Contract Transportation N
10-304-000-0000-6572 4,347.44 TIRES Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
22-622-000-0000-6369 200.00 PER DIEM 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 32.48 MILEAGE 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 50.00 REGISTRATION 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
01-149-000-0000-6354 AP 5,484.55 CLAIM 18PC1485 REPAIRS 35E8A47E Insurance Claims N
10-304-000-0000-6306 1,525.00 TOWING Repair/Maint. Equip N
10-302-000-0000-6210 54.00 PO BOX FEE Postage & Postage Meter N
02-225-000-0000-6369 2,100.00 MN0560000 CARRY PERMITS 56000059 Miscellaneous Charges N
65.0030171
15262 AVERY, ATTORNEY AT LAW/JILL
180.0015262
7086 AXON ENTERPRISE, INC
390.007086
16 BALLARD SANITATION INC
340.0016
15349 BAUER BUILT INC
4,347.4415349
11455 BERGQUIST/RICHARD
282.4811455
31803 BEYER BODY SHOP INC
7,009.5531803
2704 BOWMAN/RONALD
54.002704
1425 BUREAU OF CRIM APPREHENSION
Page 3Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
3 Transactions
2 Transactions
1 Transactions
ASSOCIATION OF MN COUNTIES
AVERY, ATTORNEY AT LAW/JILL
AXON ENTERPRISE, INC
BALLARD SANITATION INC
BAUER BUILT INC
BERGQUIST/RICHARD
BEYER BODY SHOP INC
BOWMAN/RONALD
Otter Tail County Auditor
General Fund Dedicated Accounts COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
01-112-000-0000-6526 134.99 STEEL TOE BOOTS 1/22/19 Uniforms N
10-302-000-0000-6514 28,711.86 SALT Salt N
10-304-000-0000-6306 68.45 SERVICE Repair/Maint. Equip N
01-201-000-0000-6491 104.02 EMSOTTERTAILSMN SPIT HOODS 1901031 General Supplies N
01-112-102-0000-6572 1,850.00 HIGH BUILD EPOXY FLOOR LEVEL 2609 Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-149-000-0000-6369 93.50 UNIT 19729 INSTALL GPS 4560 Miscellaneous Charges N
01-201-000-0000-6304 46.75 FIXED SPOTLIGHT/BRACKET 4567 Repair And Maintenance N
01-031-000-0000-6406 8.26 ACCT 2189988076 RED PAPER 434866 Office Supplies N
01-041-000-0000-6406 119.96 ACCT 2189988030 STORAGE BOXES 434858 Office Supplies N
01-101-000-0000-6406 45.47 ACCT 2189988140 SUPPLIES 434823 Office Supplies N
01-112-000-0000-6406 15.25 ACCT 2189988050 SUPPLIES 434727 Office Supplies N
01-112-000-0000-6406 5.21 ACCT 2189988050 SUPPLIES 434970 Office Supplies N
01-201-000-0000-6406 129.86 ACCT 2189988555 SUPPLIES 434744 Office Supplies N
01-201-000-0000-6406 44.01 ACCT 2189988555 SUPPLIES 434864 Office Supplies N
01-601-000-0000-6406 22.28 ACCT 2189988760 CARD STOCK 434707 Office Supplies N
01-601-000-0000-6406 49.20 ACCT 28363 FOLDERS 434826 Office Supplies N
2,100.001425
2595 CANNELL/DOUG
134.992595
8027 CARGILL INCORPORATED
28,711.868027
8930 CERTIFIED AUTO REPAIR
68.458930
9688 CLEAN PLUS INC
104.029688
13987 COATINGS UNLIMITED
1,850.0013987
9087 CODE 4 SERVICES, INC
140.259087
32603 COOPERS TECHNOLOGY GROUP
Page 4Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
2 Transactions
BUREAU OF CRIM APPREHENSION
CANNELL/DOUG
CARGILL INCORPORATED
CERTIFIED AUTO REPAIR
CLEAN PLUS INC
COATINGS UNLIMITED
CODE 4 SERVICES, INC
Otter Tail County Auditor
DAKOTA COUNTY AUDITOR-TREASURER'S OFFICE
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
General Revenue Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
01-091-000-0000-6276 104.22 ACCT O004 N CASHMAN 1/8/19 2951 Professional Services N
01-002-000-0000-6241 16,099.75 2019 MEMBERSHIP DUES 1/29/19 Membership Dues N
50-399-000-0000-6290 AP 179.37 ACCT 223 TIPPING FEES DEC 2018 DEC2018 Contracted Services.N
22-622-000-0000-6369 200.00 PER DIEM 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 17.40 MILEAGE 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 50.00 REGISTRATION 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
10-304-000-0000-6253 AP 204.75 WASTE DISPOSAL Garbage N
10-304-000-0000-6306 AP 28.00 TIRE REPAIR Repair/Maint. Equip N
50-000-000-0150-6290 AP 525.00 SNOW REMOVAL 27711 Contracted Services.Y
01-250-000-0000-6369 670.00 CAULKING WINDOW @ JAIL 4820 Miscellaneous Charges Y
439.5032603
6919 COUNTRY INN & SUITES FERGUS FALLS
104.226919
13723
16,099.7513723
14946 DEM-CON MATERIALS RECOVERY LLC
179.3714946
15245 DENBROOK/GARY
267.4015245
1261 DENZEL'S REGION WASTE INC
204.751261
33013 DICK'S STANDARD
28.0033013
941 EGGE CONSTRUCTION INC
525.00941
3414 ELLENSON CAULKING CO
670.003414
6309 ENVIROTECH SERVICES INC
Page 5Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
9 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
3 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
DAKOTA COUNTY AUDITOR-TREASURER'S OFFICE
COOPERS TECHNOLOGY GROUP
COUNTRY INN & SUITES FERGUS FALLS
DEM-CON MATERIALS RECOVERY LLC
DENBROOK/GARY
DENZEL'S REGION WASTE INC
DICK'S STANDARD
EGGE CONSTRUCTION INC
ELLENSON CAULKING CO
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
Road And Bridge Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
10-302-000-0000-6516 AP 10,131.89 MELTDOWN APEX Magnesium Chloride N
01-112-108-0000-6572 5.49 ACCT 13040 SLIDE TERMINAL 734813 Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
10-304-000-0000-6300 450.00 SERVICE Building And Grounds Maintenance N
10-301-000-0000-6240 AP 665.60 WINTER DRIVING TIPS Publishing & Advertising N
01-149-000-0000-6354 880.36 WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT 16409 Insurance Claims Y
01-201-000-0000-6491 118.40 ACCT 5290418 HEARTSTART KEY 011697844 General Supplies N
01-013-000-0000-6262 AP 2,120.76 CHIPS/CIVIL CASES 2018 1/29/19 Public Defender Y
10-302-000-0000-6331 10.38 MEALS Meals And Lodging N
01-112-000-0000-6275 50.00 ACCT MN01166 2019 OPERATOR FEE 9001251 Fiber Locating Service N
01-112-000-0000-6572 89.92 ACCT 813640729 SUPPLIES 9052246338 Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
10,131.896309
373 FARNAM'S GENUINE PARTS INC
5.49373
2153 FERGUS POWER PUMP INC
450.002153
14517 FORUM COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY
665.6014517
6890 FRANK'S AUTO BODY SHOP OF PERHAM
880.366890
392 GALLS LLC
118.40392
14915 GEIS/BRIAN
2,120.7614915
8560 GOERDT/STEPHEN
10.388560
5089 GOPHER STATE ONE CALL
50.005089
52564 GRAINGER INC
Page 6Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
ENVIROTECH SERVICES INC
FARNAM'S GENUINE PARTS INC
FERGUS POWER PUMP INC
FORUM COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY
FRANK'S AUTO BODY SHOP OF PERHAM
GALLS LLC
GEIS/BRIAN
GOERDT/STEPHEN
GOPHER STATE ONE CALL
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
General Revenue Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
01-112-000-0000-6572 12.10 ACCT 813640729 SUPPLIES 9055959697 Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-112-000-0000-6572 31.40 ACCT 813640729 ELBOWS 9056262588 Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-041-000-0000-6342 354.00 AGREE 025-1114829-000 24118604 Service Agreements N
01-042-000-0000-6342 118.02 AGREE 025-1114829-000 24118604 Service Agreements N
01-043-000-0000-6342 88.23 AGREE 003-0995471-000 24118604 Service Agreements N
01-063-000-0000-6342 588.62 AGREE 025-1114829-000 24118604 Service Agreements N
10-304-000-0000-6526 194.99 SHOES Uniforms N
10-304-000-0000-6572 418.55 SUPPLIES Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-201-000-0000-6241 190.00 2019 DUES - ID 02147327 0044678 Membership Dues N
01-041-000-0000-6406 63.52 ACCT C103279 SUPPLIES 2361002 Office Supplies N
50-390-000-0000-6426 8.00 EMBROIDER ITEMS 89328 Clothing Allowance N
50-399-000-0000-6426 16.00 EMBROIDER ITEMS 89328 Clothing Allowance N
22-622-000-0000-6369 200.00 PER DIEM 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 220.40 MILEAGE 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 50.00 REGISTRATION 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
133.4252564
13522 GREATAMERICA FINANCIAL SVCS
1,148.8713522
2656 HAUGRUD/BRUCE M
194.992656
3372 HOTSY EQUIPMENT OF MN
418.553372
15539 IACP
190.0015539
38100 INNOVATIVE OFFICE SOLUTIONS
63.5238100
39324 JK SPORTS
24.0039324
11456 JOHNSON/MICHAEL
Page 7Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
3 Transactions
4 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
2 Transactions
GRAINGER INC
GREATAMERICA FINANCIAL SVCS
HAUGRUD/BRUCE M
HOTSY EQUIPMENT OF MN
IACP
INNOVATIVE OFFICE SOLUTIONS
JK SPORTS
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
County Ditch Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
01-013-000-0000-6262 AP 7.50 56-PR-10-950 T TORELL 1930260 Public Defender Y
01-013-000-0000-6262 AP 1,500.00 56-PR-18-3232 J HUNT 1930361 Public Defender Y
01-013-000-0000-6262 AP 340.00 56-PR-11-2714 E LOUSHINE 1930362 Public Defender Y
01-013-000-0000-6262 AP 20.00 56-PR-13-1236 J SLEEN 1930363 Public Defender Y
01-013-000-0000-6262 AP 2,170.00 56-PR-18-2719 W WESTPHALL 1930365 Public Defender Y
01-013-000-0000-6262 AP 2,300.00 56-PR-18-3232 J HUNT 1931204 Public Defender Y
01-013-000-0000-6262 AP 60.00 56-PR-10-950 T TORELL 1931205 Public Defender Y
01-013-000-0000-6262 AP 1,010.00 56-PR-18-2719 W WESTPHALL 1931207 Public Defender Y
01-149-000-0000-6354 AP 429.73 WINDSHIELD REPAIR REIMBURSE 12/28/18 Insurance Claims N
50-000-000-0130-6306 2,293.00 BACKHOE REPAIRS 1/18/19 125989 Repair/Maint. Equip Y
10-304-000-0000-6572 635.74 SUPPLIES Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 528.19 JENSEN, ANDREW A 09/13/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 121.18 NESS, CATEY E 10/12/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 84.13 ALLEN, STACY M 10/26/18 Service Agreements 6
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 5.86 ALLEN, STACY M 10/26/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 77.71 LINDEMYER, STEVEN B 11/05/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 30.99 STEINHOFER, CAMERON D 11/11/18 Service Agreements 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 493.94 STEINHOFER, CAMERON D 11/11/18 Service Agreements 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 60.03 STEINHOFER, CAMERON D 11/12/18 Service Agreements 6
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 19.68 WELLE, CHRISTOPHER J 11/14/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 23.68 ALLEN, STACY M 11/14/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 12.00 LINDEMYER, STEVEN B 11/21/18 Service Agreements 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 56.39 LINDEMYER, STEVEN B 11/21/18 Service Agreements 6
470.4011456
10408 JONES LAW OFFICE
7,407.5010408
999999000 KERAN/KATIE
429.73999999000
15540 KG FABRICATION
2,293.0015540
1002 KIMBALL MIDWEST
635.741002
79 LAKE REGION HEALTHCARE
Page 8Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
3 Transactions
8 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
JOHNSON/MICHAEL
JONES LAW OFFICE
KERAN/KATIE
KG FABRICATION
KIMBALL MIDWEST
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
General Revenue Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 12.59 LINDEMYER, STEVEN B 11/21/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 56.39 KARCH, JACOB L 11/6/18 Service Agreements 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 22.48 BOYCE, IAN V 11/8/18 Service Agreements 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 30.99 BOYCE, IAN V 11/8/18 Service Agreements 6
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 153.84 BOYCE, IAN V 11/8/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 333.56 BOYCE, IAN V 11/8/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 325.19 DAHL, TYLER C 8/9/18 Service Agreements 6
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 30.99 DAHL, TYLER C 8/9/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6432 AP 5.87 DAHL, TYLER C 8/9/18 Medical Incarcerated 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 40.11 JENSEN, ANDREW A 9/13/18 Service Agreements 6
01-250-000-0000-6342 AP 46.62 JENSEN, ANDREW A 9/13/18 Service Agreements 6
01-013-000-0000-6276 AP 2,622.00 SERVICES FOR OTTER TAIL COURT 1/2/19 Professional Services 6
10-304-000-0000-6251 AP 1,874.24 PROPANE Gas And Oil - Utility N
10-304-000-0000-6406 AP 39.94 SUPPLIES Office Supplies N
50-000-000-0110-6565 434.08 ACCT 009080 LP GAS COMMERCIAL 27131 Fuels N
50-399-000-0000-6291 500.00 CARDBOARD 1/16/19 72782 Contract Transportation N
50-399-000-0000-6291 550.00 TIN 1/14/19 72786 Contract Transportation N
50-399-000-0000-6291 500.00 CARDBOARD 1/22/19 72790 Contract Transportation N
50-399-000-0000-6291 550.00 PAPER 1/23/19 72796 Contract Transportation N
50-000-000-0000-6848 119.50 ACCT 23-52F1 BOMBER JACKETS 0272960-IN Public Education N
50-000-000-0170-6426 54.95 ACCT 23-52F1 BOMBER JACKETS 0272960-IN Uniforms N
50-399-000-0000-6426 219.80 ACCT 23-52F1 BOMBER JACKETS 0272960-IN Clothing Allowance N
01-112-000-0000-6526 33.00 1/4 ZIP FLEECE/EMBROIDERY 18931 Uniforms N
2,572.4179
25146 LAKELAND MENTAL HEALTH CENTER
2,622.0025146
10350 LAKES AREA COOPERATIVE
2,348.2610350
81 LARRY OTT INC TRUCK SERVICE
2,100.0081
41638 LOCATORS & SUPPLIES INC
394.2541638
6934 LONG WEEKEND SPORTSWEAR
Page 9Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
23 Transactions
1 Transactions
3 Transactions
4 Transactions
3 Transactions
LAKE REGION HEALTHCARE
LAKELAND MENTAL HEALTH CENTER
LAKES AREA COOPERATIVE
LARRY OTT INC TRUCK SERVICE
LOCATORS & SUPPLIES INC
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
General Revenue Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
01-122-000-0000-6342 285.33 ACCT 35700038 CN 500-0450685 375394665 Service Agreements N
01-201-000-0000-6340 689.12 ACCT 35700038 CN 500-0397774 375394764 Office Equipment Rental & Maint.N
01-042-000-0000-6241 600.00 2019 DUES 1/29/19 Membership Dues N
10-304-000-0000-6306 AP 260.00 SERVICE Repair/Maint. Equip N
10-304-000-0000-6306 6,658.17 REPAIR Repair/Maint. Equip N
01-044-000-0000-6304 38.15 ACCT 2607 OIL CHANGE 707835 Repair And Maintenance N
02-225-000-0000-6369 120.00 ACCT 042250 PERMITS TO AQUIRE 180880 Miscellaneous Charges N
01-031-000-0000-6369 AP 20.00 ACCT 1143 SHREDDING SERVICES 401304 Miscellaneous Charges N
01-091-000-0000-6342 AP 20.00 ACCT 1143 SHREDDING SERVICES 401303 Service Agreements N
01-201-000-0000-6342 AP 25.00 ACCT 1159 SHREDDING SERVICES 401307 Service Agreements N
10-304-000-0000-6572 AP 40.88 PARTS Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
33.006934
36132 MARCO INC ST LOUIS
974.4536132
523 MDRA
600.00523
14290 MIDWEST LIFT WORKS
260.0014290
15003 MIDWEST MACHINERY CO - ELBOW LAKE
6,658.1715003
42863 MINNESOTA MOTOR COMPANY
38.1542863
563 MINNESOTA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION
120.00563
7661 MINNKOTA ENVIRO SERVICES INC
65.007661
2036 NAPA CENTRAL MN
40.882036
Page 10Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
1 Transactions
2 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
3 Transactions
1 Transactions
LONG WEEKEND SPORTSWEAR
MARCO INC ST LOUIS
MDRA
MIDWEST LIFT WORKS
MIDWEST MACHINERY CO - ELBOW LAKE
MINNESOTA MOTOR COMPANY
MINNESOTA SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION
MINNKOTA ENVIRO SERVICES INC
NAPA CENTRAL MN
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
General Revenue Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
01-601-000-0000-6243 32.00 SUBSCRIPTION RENEWAL 1/29/19 Subscriptions N
50-000-000-0000-6848 AP 250.00 VINING CANISTER 2018 201807 Public Education N
50-000-000-0000-6848 AP 250.00 CLITHERALL CANISTER 2018 201808 Public Education N
10-304-000-0000-6572 447.41 PARTS Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-112-101-0000-6342 250.00 CLNOTTCH SERVICE 34741 Service Agreements N
01-112-108-0000-6342 250.00 CLNOTTGSB520 SERVICE 34742 Service Agreements N
01-112-104-0000-6342 250.00 CLNOTTGSB SERVICE 34743 Service Agreements N
50-000-000-0000-6848 AP 250.00 DUNVILLA CANISTER 2018 201806 Public Education N
10-304-000-0000-6572 AP 49.26 PARTS Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-041-000-0000-6406 77.43 ACCT 71778830 SUPPLIES 257841608001 Office Supplies N
01-043-000-0000-6406 48.34 ACCT 71778830 SUPPLIES 257841608001 Office Supplies N
50-000-000-0000-6848 AP 250.00 ELIZABETH CANISTER 2018 201809 Public Education N
13242 NEW YORK MILLS DISPATCH
32.0013242
11423 NIDAROS 4-H
500.0011423
6006 NORTHERN SAFETY TECHNOLOGY INC
447.416006
14257 NORTHLAND FIRE PROTECTION
750.0014257
15541 NORWEGIAN GROVE 4-H
250.0015541
10104 NUSS TRUCK & EQUIPMENT
49.2610104
51120 OFFICE DEPOT
125.7751120
14511 OSCAR TRONDJHEM 4-H
250.0014511
5686 OTIS ELEVATOR CO
Page 11Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
1 Transactions
2 Transactions
1 Transactions
3 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
2 Transactions
1 Transactions
NEW YORK MILLS DISPATCH
NIDAROS 4-H
NORTHERN SAFETY TECHNOLOGY INC
NORTHLAND FIRE PROTECTION
NORWEGIAN GROVE 4-H
NUSS TRUCK & EQUIPMENT
OFFICE DEPOT
OSCAR TRONDJHEM 4-H
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
General Revenue Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
01-112-106-0000-6342 534.99 ACCT 284651 CN CLF05630 CLF05630219 Service Agreements N
50-000-000-0120-6379 DTF 40.00 ACCT O2416 HEB B VACCINE 504 Miscellaneous Charges N
01-201-000-0000-6304 152.67 UNIT 1610 INSTALL TIRES 113144 Repair And Maintenance N
50-000-000-0120-6278 30.00 ACCT 10-102837 ANAYLTICAL 19100243704 Engineering & Hydrological Testing N
50-000-000-0130-6278 90.00 ACCT 10-102837 ANALYTICAL 19100243707 Engineering & Hydrological Testing N
50-000-000-0000-6848 250.00 HOME & CABIN SHOW BOOTH RENTAL 1/29/19 Public Education N
01-205-000-0000-6273 AP 335.00 BODY TRANSPORT M FEMLING 20181172 Coroner Expense 6
01-205-000-0000-6273 AP 335.00 BODY TRANSPORT S SHUMSKY 20181193 Coroner Expense 6
50-399-000-0000-6426 150.00 STEEL TOE BOOTS 1/14/19 Clothing Allowance N
01-201-000-0000-6433 475.00 ASSESSMENT SAZAMA 1/15/19 19-112 Special Medical 6
10-302-000-0000-6331 11.00 MEAL Meals And Lodging N
534.995686
115 OTTER TAIL CO PUBLIC HEALTH
40.00115
49008 OTTER TAIL TIRE
152.6749008
6259 PACE ANALYTICAL SERVICES INC
120.006259
45338 PERHAM AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
250.0045338
2951 PERHAM AREA EMS
670.002951
2665 PETTERSON/LANETTE
150.002665
13134 PHILLIPPI/DR JAY
475.0013134
11059 PRESTON/JASON
11.0011059
Page 12Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
2 Transactions
1 Transactions
2 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
OTIS ELEVATOR CO
OTTER TAIL CO PUBLIC HEALTH
OTTER TAIL TIRE
PACE ANALYTICAL SERVICES INC
PERHAM AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
PERHAM AREA EMS
PETTERSON/LANETTE
PHILLIPPI/DR JAY
PRESTON/JASON
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
Solid Waste Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
50-000-000-0120-6565 240.47 ACCT 988529 DIESEL 1/9/19 88042876 Fuels N
50-000-000-0120-6565 83.16 ACCT 988529 FUEL 1/9/19 88042877 Fuels N
01-002-000-0000-6818 3,000.00 GOV AFFAIRS JAN 2019 2019-001 Board Contingency N
10-304-000-0000-6572 795.47 PARTS Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-112-000-0000-6572 AP 405.73 ACCT 0313001 MOWER REPAIR W28701 Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-112-000-0000-6572 AP 12.35 ACCT 0313001 WELDING W28977 Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-205-000-0000-6273 AP 150.00 BODY TRANSPORT B TALLARICO 201719 Coroner Expense 6
10-304-000-0000-6306 10,452.72 REPAIRS Repair/Maint. Equip N
01-002-000-0000-6818 AP 1,560.91 LONG RANGE STRATEGIC PLANNING 11025.00-13 Board Contingency N
01-112-108-0000-6485 61.30 ACCT 00224002 HEPA FILTER BAGS 824262-1 Custodian Supplies N
01-112-101-0000-6485 54.24 ACCT 00224000 GRIPIT HOLDER 824832 Custodian Supplies N
01-112-101-0000-6485 264.33 ACCT 00224000 SUPPLIES 824858 Custodian Supplies N
01-112-108-0000-6485 160.65 ACCT 00224002 VOLTREET 824860 Custodian Supplies N
01-112-108-0000-6485 227.67 ACCT 00224002 SUPPLIES 824861 Custodian Supplies N
10-304-000-0000-6572 70.16 SUPPLIES Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
45475 PRO AG FARMERS CO OP
323.6345475
15407 PSICK CAPITOL SOLUTIONS INC
3,000.0015407
13862 QUALITY CHAIN CORP
795.4713862
9166 RDO EQUIPMENT CO
418.089166
675 RINGDAHL AMBULANCE INC
150.00675
1819 RUFFRIDGE-JOHNSON EQUIP CO INC
10,452.721819
6321 SRF CONSULTING GROUP INC
1,560.916321
48183 STEINS INC
Page 13Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
2 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
2 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
PRO AG FARMERS CO OP
PSICK CAPITOL SOLUTIONS INC
QUALITY CHAIN CORP
RDO EQUIPMENT CO
RINGDAHL AMBULANCE INC
RUFFRIDGE-JOHNSON EQUIP CO INC
SRF CONSULTING GROUP INC
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
Road And Bridge Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
01-091-000-0000-6455 AP 1,286.39 ACCT 1000520140 NOV 2018 839347925-1 Reference Books & Literature N
13-012-000-0000-6455 896.27 ACCT 1000551281 LIBRARY PLAN 839621021 Reference Books & Literature N
10-304-000-0000-6566 AP 4,644.00 PARTS Cutting Edges N
10-304-000-0000-6572 AP 282.15 BATTERY Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
10-304-000-0000-6572 AP 3,156.90 PARTS Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
01-201-000-0000-6304 492.48 ACCT 568303 TIRES 3542765 Repair And Maintenance N
01-201-000-0000-6304 67.20 UNIT 1808 OIL CHANGE 13607 Repair And Maintenance N
01-122-000-0000-6406 102.90 ACCT 7490 BOX FOLDERS 1100773 Office Supplies N
01-122-000-0000-6369 971.45 ACCT 7490 ORDINANCE BOOKS 433383 Miscellaneous Charges N
01-250-000-0000-6406 317.85 ACCT 7449 NCR RECEIPT FORMS 433476 Office Supplies N
50-000-000-0170-6300 132.53 REPLACE CIRCUIT BOARD 58881 Building And Grounds Maintenance N
10-302-000-0000-6306 AP 1,731.04 SERVICE Repair/Maint. Equip N
10-304-000-0000-6572 34.25 PARTS Repair And Maintenance Supplies N
838.3548183
183 THOMSON REUTERS - WEST
2,182.66183
9693 TOWMASTER
8,083.059693
11064 US AUTOFORCE
492.4811064
3592 VAUGHN AUTO & MARINE CO
67.203592
51002 VICTOR LUNDEEN COMPANY
1,392.2051002
5045 VIKING GARAGE DOOR COMPANY INC
132.535045
15472 VINCO, INC
1,731.0415472
52574 WADENA HIDE & FUR COMPANY
Page 14Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
6 Transactions
2 Transactions
3 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
3 Transactions
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
STEINS INC
THOMSON REUTERS - WEST
TOWMASTER
US AUTOFORCE
VAUGHN AUTO & MARINE CO
VICTOR LUNDEEN COMPANY
VIKING GARAGE DOOR COMPANY INC
VINCO, INC
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES
Account/Formula
2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
Road And Bridge Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
50-000-000-0170-6853 6,184.39 ACCT 3-85099-73002 0001682-0010-3 MSW BY PASSED EXPENSE LANDFILL N
22-622-000-0000-6369 AP 100.00 PER DIEM 2/21/18 1/29/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 AP 39.24 MILEAGE 2/21/18 1/29/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 200.00 PER DIEM 1/17/19 1/29/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 69.60 MILEAGE 1/17/19 1/29/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 50.00 REGISTRATION 1/17/19 1/29/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0617-6369 AP 400.00 PER DIEM 2018 - DITCH 17 1/29/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0617-6369 AP 55.60 MILEAGE 2018 - DITCH 17 1/29/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0617-6369 AP 13.20 MEALS 2018 - DITCH 17 1/29/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 200.00 PER DIEM 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
22-622-000-0000-6369 50.00 REGISTRATION 1/17/19 Miscellaneous Charges Y
34.2552574
2278 WASTE MANAGEMENT
6,184.392278
15542 WERNER/JACK
927.6415542
13863 WIEBE/JEFFREY JON
250.0013863
164,668.93
Page 15Audit List for Board
Account/Formula Description Rpt Invoice #Warrant DescriptionVendorName 1099
Paid On Bhf #Accr Amount On Behalf of NameNo.Service Dates
1 Transactions
1 Transactions
8 Transactions
2 Transactions
Final Total ............102 Vendors 197 Transactions
WADENA HIDE & FUR COMPANY
WASTE MANAGEMENT
WERNER/JACK
WIEBE/JEFFREY JON
Otter Tail County Auditor
COMMISSIONER'S VOUCHERS ENTRIES 2:32:55PM1/24/2019
csteinba
County Ditch Fund
Copyright 2010-2018 Integrated Financial Systems
Page 16Audit List for Board
Otter Tail County Auditor
Amount
60,395.10 General Revenue Fund 1
2,220.00 General Fund Dedicated Accounts 2
78,295.08 Road And Bridge Fund 10
896.27 Law Library Fund 13
2,197.92 County Ditch Fund 22
20,664.56 Solid Waste Fund 50
164,668.93
NameFundRecap by Fund
All Funds Total Approved by,. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page | 1
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
1. Approve the issuance of a 2019 Tobacco License to Dennis Nosbish dba Denny’s Food – N-
Sport Shop located in Henning, MN.
2. Approve the issuance of a 2019 Pawnbrokers License to Wayne Marvin Nickolauson dba A-1
Wayne’s Pawn and Second Hand located at 125 E Lincoln, Fergus Falls, MN.
MAHUBE-OTWA COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP, INC.
FHPAP ADVISORY COMMITTEE
FHPAP GRANT APPLICATION INPUT FOR July 1, 2019 – June 30, 2021
PROJECT OVERIEW
Mahube-Otwa Community Action Partnership, Inc. is an existing Family Homeless Prevention
and Assistance (FHPAP) grantee, serving Mahnomen, Hubbard, Becker, Otter Tail and Wadena Counties in
Northwest, and West Central Minnesota. Mahube-Otwa has a diverse and active Family Homeless Prevention
and Assistance Advisory Committee. Our FHPAP Advisory Committee is made up of community partners from
all of our services counties and they oversee the program from a local perspective. A formerly homeless person
also serves on the FHPAP Advisory Committee.
Mahube-Otwa spends 10% of our FHPAP budget on Administration, 50% of our FHPAP budget
on Support Services and 40% of our FHPAP budget on Direct Services. Our FHPAP direct services are
targeted to any individual or family that meets the income criteria of 200% or below of the Federal
Poverty Income Guidelines.
We assist with the following services:
First month’s rent
Stabilization rent (past due rent)
Rent Deposits
Past due mortgage payments
Multiple months of rental assistance
Utility assistance
Transportation (car repair)
From July 1, 2017 through mid-December 2019 (grant goes through June 30, 2019) we have served:
215 households served with prevention assistance (to prevent homelessness)
144 homeless households served (find and obtain housing)
11 households served with Short/Medium term assistance
5 households received assistance with transportation (vehicle repairs)
13 households received utility assistance
Mahube-Otwa has a housing caseworker that is housed in each of our county offices. The
housing caseworkers provide case management to FHPAP households. We also provide or refer
clients to financial literacy, employment assistance, health care, mental health treatment and
substance abuse counseling. Mahube-Otwa is a Coordinated Entry Access Point. Our staff are trained
to complete VI-SPDATS with homeless households which is an assessment tool to determine what
type of housing would be the best match. The highest score would be permanent supportive housing.
$725,000 TOTAL APPLICATION REQUEST
STRONG TEENS DATA: 4/5/2018 – 1/10/2019
DATA:
There were 3 twelve week sessions between 4/5/18 – 1/31/2019
Total # of Referrals (from 4/5/18 - 01/08/19) 36
Number of Referrals from OTC Probation 31
Number of Referrals from OTC CPS 5
Number of Referrals that started ST group 27
Number of Referrals that failed to start ST group 4
Number of Referrals that were discharged early for not attending 5
Number of graduations 10
Number projected to graduate in the next 4 weeks 1
Pre test scores/Post test scores:
1. Pre:16/20
Post: 19/20
2. Pre: 15/20
Post: 20/20
3. Pre: 19/20
Post: 20/20
4. Pre: 20/20
Post: 20/20
5. Pre: 18/20
Post: 20/20
6. Pre: 16/20
Post: 16/20
7. Pre: 15/20
Post: 20/20
8. Pre: 15/20
Post: 17/20
9. Pre: 20/20
Post: 20/20
10. Pre: 18/20
Post: 16/20
STRONG TEENS DATA: 4/5/2018 – 1/10/2019
GRADUATE TESTIMONIES:
o On graduation day this teen reported that he learned how to take other people’s feelings into
consideration and reported he learned more on what it means to “empathize with another
person.”
o On graduation this teen reported that she learned more about her own emotions and why it’s
important to understand where your emotions are coming from and why.
o On graduation day this teen reported that he learned what it truly means to listen to people and
how this plays an important role in all relationships.
o On graduation day this teen reported he learned what thinking traps were and admitted that he
falls into many thinking traps on a daily basis.
o On graduation day this teen reported that he no longer physically attacks his sister. He uses his
coping skills to avoid conflict with sister and will reach out to his parents for help when needed.
He also understands the importance of thinking traps and identifies when he is triggered by a
peer or sibling and is able to refrain from verbal or physical confrontation when triggered. He
reported that he is going to miss this class and has learned a lot and actually looked forward to
coming to Strong Teens Group.
o On graduation day this teen reported she has learned to be non-reactive in difficult situations
where there is conflict. She demonstrated this several times in group. More specifically when a
peer took her chair in group she was completely non-reactive and did not say anything and sat in
another chair.
o On graduation day this teen reported that he understood the importance of recognizing your
own thinking traps.
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Graduates Improved score Same score Decreased score
POST TEST SCORE RESULTS
# Graduates Improved scores Same score Decreased score
STRONG TEENS: LESSON OVERVIEW
Level II Performance Review
Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management Department,
West Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District
&
East Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District
Local Government Unit Review
Draft Report
January 24, 2019
Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources
520 Lafayette Road East
St. Paul, MN 55155
651-296-0768
www.bwsr.state.mn.us
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
This page was intentionally left blank.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD iii
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Table of Contents
Report Summary ........................................................................................................................................................................... iv
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Findings .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
General Conclusions ..................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Recommendations ....................................................................................................................................................................... 20
LGU Comments and BWSR Responses ......................................................................................................................................... 21
Appendix A. Plan Accomplishments ............................................................................................................................................ 24
Appendix B. Performance Standards ........................................................................................................................................... 41
Appendix C. Summary of Survey Results ..................................................................................................................................... 44
Appendix D. Wetland Condervation Act Implementation .......................................................................................................... 57
Appendix E. LGU Comment Letters …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..….62
Appendix F. Program Data…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..….67
This report has been prepared for the Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management Department, the West
Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District and the East Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District by
the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) in partial fulfillment of the requirements of Minnesota
Statutes, Chapter 103B.102, Subd.3.
Prepared by Dale Krystosek (dale.krystosek@state.mn.us; 218-820-9381).
BWSR is reducing printing and mailing costs by using the Internet to distribute reports and information to wider
audiences. This report is available in alternative formats upon request.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD iv
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
PRAP Level II
Report Summary
Otter Tail County, West Otter Tail SWCD
and East Otter Tail SWCD
What is a PRAP
Performance Review?
The Board of Water and
Soil Resources supports
Minnesota’s counties,
watershed districts and
soil and water
conservation districts
that deliver water and
related land resource
management projects
and programs. In 2007
the Board set up a
program (PRAP) to
systematically review
the performance of
these local units of
government to ensure
their effective operation.
Each year BWSR staff
conduct routine reviews
of several of these local
conservation delivery
entities. This document
reports the results of
one of those reviews.
Key Findings and Conclusions
The Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management Department, the West Otter
Tail Soil and Water Conservation District and the East Otter Tail SWCD have fostered
a good working relationship that serves the three agencies well. For the most part,
their partners believe all three local government agencies are doing good work and
are good to work with.
We commend Otter Tail County and the West Otter Tail SWCD and East Otter Tail
SWCD for their participation in three One Watershed, One Plans (1W1P) and
leadership in development of another 1W1P, and the reorientation of its local water
plan to specific problems and priorities for the county’s waterbodies.
The partners who responded to the PRAP survey provided good marks in their
judgement of the performance of the Otter Tail County Land and Resource
Department, as well as of the two SWCDs.
Resource Outcomes
The Otter Tail Local Water Management Plan does not currently include targets or
objectives for resource outcomes. We anticipate targets and objectives will be
developed as part of Comprehensive Watershed Management Plans through the
1W1P program.
Commendations:
• Otter Tail County Land and Resource Department is commended for
meeting 8 of 13 high performance standards for counties.
• The West Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District is commended for
meeting 6 of 14 high performance standards for SWCDs.
• The East Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District is commended for
meeting 6 of 14 high performance standards for SWCDs.
Recommendations:
Joint Recommendation 1: Continue using the major or minor watershed scale for
plan organization for development of Comprehensive Watershed Management
Plans (CWMP) through the 1W1P Program.
Joint Recommendation 2: Continue using Prioritized, Targeted and Measureable
criteria for Goals and Objectives in the new CWMPs.
Joint Recommendation 3: Structure website information to report progress and
trends made in achieving resource outcome goals.
Joint Recommendation 4: Revisit membership of the Water Plan Technical Advisory
Task Force to ensure that agency representation is adequate and schedule sufficient
meetings to efficiently develop CWMPs through the 1W1P Program.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD v
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Joint Recommendation 5: Address action items and consider adding high
performance standards to improve organizational performance.
Action Items:
Otter Tail County Land and Resource Department has one action items which
should be addressed in the next 18 months.
◼ Otter Tail County Land and Resource Department should post BWSR Grant
Reports on its website.
West Otter Tail SWCD has one action items which should be addressed in the next
18 months.
◼ The West Otter Tail SWCD should develop a data practices policy and
update it every 5 years.
East Otter Tail SWCD has one action items which should be addressed in the next
18 months.
◼ The East Otter Tail SWCD should develop a data practices policy and update
it every 5 years.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
1
Introduction
This is an information document prepared by the staff
of the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) for
both the Otter Tail County Land and Resource
Management Department (LRMD), the West Otter Tail
Soil and Water Conservation District (WOTSWCD) and
the East Otter Tail SWCD (EOTSWCD) It reports the
results of a routine performance review of these
organizations’ water management plan
implementation and overall organizational
effectiveness in delivery of land and water
conservation projects and programs. BWSR has
conducted and reported a joint review of both entities
because they both use the same local water
management plan to guide their respective activities.
The findings and recommendations are intended to
give both local government units (LGUs) constructive
feedback they can use to enhance their joint and
individual delivery of conservation services.
For this review, BWSR has analyzed the LGUs’ reported
accomplishments of their management plan action
items, determined each organizations’ compliance
with BWSR’s Level I and II performance standards, and
surveyed members of the organizations and their
partner organizations.
This review is neither a financial audit nor investigation
and it does not replace or supersede other types of
governmental review of local government unit
operations.
While the performance review reported herein has
been conducted under the authority granted to BWSR
by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103B.102, this is a staff
report and has not been reviewed or approved by the
BWSR board members.
What is PRAP?
PRAP is an acronym for BWSR’s Performance
Review and Assistance Program. Authorized by the
2007 Minnesota legislature, the PRAP purpose is to
support local delivery of land conservation and
water management by periodically reviewing and
assessing the performance of local units of
government that deliver those services. These
include soil and water conservation districts,
watershed districts, watershed management
organizations, and the local water management
functions of counties.
BWSR has developed four levels of review, from
routine to specialized, depending on the program
mandates and the needs of the local governmental
unit. A Level I review annually tabulates all local
governmental units’ compliance with basic
planning and reporting requirements. In Level II,
conducted by BWSR once every ten years for each
local government unit, the focus is on the degree
to which the organization is accomplishing its
water management plan. A Level II review includes
determination of compliance with BWSR’s Level I
and II statewide performance standards, a
tabulation of progress on planned goals and
objectives, a survey of board or water plan task
force members and staff of the factors affecting
plan implementation, a survey of LGU partners
about their impressions of working with the LGU,
and a BWSR staff report to the organization with
findings, conclusions and recommendations.
BWSR’s actions in Levels III and IV include elements
of Levels I and II and then emphasize assistance to
address the local governmental unit’s specific
needs.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
2
Findings
This section describes what BWSR learned about the
performance of the Otter Tail Land and Resource
Management Department, the West Otter Tail SWCD
and the East Otter Tail SWCD. The following
information was taken from the Otter Tail County
Comprehensive Water Plan.
Background
“Otter Tail County is located in west‐central Minnesota
amid the sandy glacial outwash plain with gently
rolling hills. Along the northwestern and southeastern
edges lie steeper hills and bluffs. The majority of the
county’s 1,048 lakes are formed in the sandy areas.
The Pelican and Otter Tail Rivers flow to the west in the
Red River Watershed, then north to Hudson Bay. The
Leaf River starts north of Henning and flows to the Red
Eye River and out the eastern edge to the Upper
Mississippi River, while the Pomme de Terre and
Chippewa Rivers headwater in the southwest corner
and flow to the Minnesota River. Both the Upper
Mississippi and the Minnesota Rivers end up in the Gulf
of Mexico. The continental divide runs along the major
basin boundaries. The City of Fergus Falls is the county
seat. The population in Otter Tail County between 1990
and 2000 has increased by 12.7%. The number of
households has risen 16.2%, from 19,510 in 1990 to
22,671 in 2000. A greater than 40% increase in
population is predicted throughout the county.
Development is occurring mainly around the lakes and
greater than 50% growth is predicted in Perham,
Pelican Rapids, Otter Tail and New York Mills.
Agriculture, in the form of cultivated land is the
dominant land use within the county. In the past
twenty years, cultivated land has decreased and
grasslands have doubled. The county acreage includes
12% water and 4.7% wetlands classification.
Otter Tail County’s Local Water Management Plan
(LWMP) is implemented by the Soil and Water
Conservation Districts. Due to the size of the county, it
is split into the East and West Otter Tail SWCD.
Currently, the administration of the LWMP is the
responsibility of East Otter Tail Office Manager, with
support from the West Otter Tail District Manager. The
original LWMP was formally adopted on October 10,
1990. The responsible government unit for
implementation of the original plan was the Land and
Resource Management Department.
Two plan revisions have been implemented since then.
This third revision will be implemented by August 31,
2009.
Plan Purpose
The purpose of this LWMP is to identify existing and
potential problems and opportunities for protection,
management and development of water resources and
related land resources in Otter Tail County. Pursuant to
the requirements of Minn. Stat. 103B.311, the five
requirements of this plan are as follows:
1. The plan must cover the entire county.
2. The plan must address problems in the context of
watershed units and groundwater systems.
3. The plan must be based upon principals of sound
hydrologic management of water, effective
environmental protection, and efficient management.
4. The plan must be consistent with local water
management plans prepared by counties and
watershed management organizations wholly or
partially within a single watershed unit or ground
water system.
5. The plan will be effective for a ten year period until
August 31, 2019; with the Goals, Objectives & Action
Items amended by August 31, 2014.
Changing development patterns and economic growth
will eventually create more pressure on natural
resources and impact agricultural, water resources and
recreational needs of Otter Tail County residents.
Description of Priority Concerns
Following a series of two public participation meetings
in Otter Tail County, priority concerns were established.
These meetings were facilitated with both a survey of
perceived threatened resources and problems within
the county and an active participation process to
address these problems. From this process,
Development Pressure was identified as the over‐
reaching issue for Otter Tail County. Based on this
premise, the following priority concerns were
identified:
1. Surface Water Quality Issues
a. Water Quality Issues
i. Targeting the restoration and protection of
surface water by using tools like lake
assessments, MPCA WRAPS, and other
assessment tools to prioritize water quality
projects.
ii. Continuing to support shoreline specialist
position.
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iii. Support and implement watershed based
assessments and plans developed.
iv. Support surface water quality monitoring
efforts.
Drainage water management
b. Regulatory Issues
i. Lake re‐classification, Alternative shoreland
rules, Agricultural rules, Support state‐wide
process, Agriculture advisory task force
ii. Otter Tail County Shoreland Buffer Initiative
iii. Sanitation Code
2. Groundwater Issues:
a. Quality Issues:
i. Elevated nitrate concentration in drinking
water, public and private.
ii. Educational efforts for ag producers
(Programs and workshops)
iii. Irrigation management, tools for irrigators
and weather data
iv. Nutrient management
v. Reductions in CRP acres
vi. Septics
vii. Ag BMPS
b. Quantity Issues:
i. Pumping to other watersheds, Ethanol
plants, increased demand for irrigation water
i. Impacts of increased tile drainage.
These issues will be the focus in the
establishment of goals, objectives and
strategies for implementation.
A. IDENTIFICATION OF PRIORITY CONCERNS
The priority concerns of the residents of Otter Tail
County have been well documented through a survey
process and two public meetings conducted for that
purpose. Each of these concerns will be addressed at
length in this chapter, with emphasis on surface and
groundwater resources. These two resources were
identified by survey as the most threatened.
Otter Tail County is comprised of three major basins,
which affects surface water flow. The majority of the
county lies within the Red River Basin. The edge of this
basin is the continental divide. Land within this basin
flows, essentially, to the south and west within Otter
Tail County, then north to Hudson Bay. There are five
watersheds within this basin that cross the county
borders. The largest of these is the Otter Tail River
watershed. This is the area containing the majority of
lakes and development within the county. The others
have minimal area within the county boundary and are
the Buffalo, Red, Boise De Sioux, and Mustinka. Of
these watersheds, the Buffalo‐Red, Bois de Sioux, and
the uppermost portion of the Cormorant Lakes are
governed by a watershed district. Both quality and
quantity of water is regulated by these districts and
long‐range plans have been completed to provide for
this.
The Mississippi River Basin covers the whole eastern
border of the county. About 25% of the water in Otter
Tail County flows through the Long Prairie, Redeye and
Crow Wing watersheds into the Mississippi basin, then
south to the Gulf of Mexico. This basin is less densely
populated and is comprised of numerous wetlands.
The south central land within Otter Tail County drains
to the Minnesota River and is a part of the basin of
that name. Two watersheds, the Pomme De Terre and
the Chippewa River, originate here. This area
represents about 15% of the county and the water
flows south, eventually entering the Mississippi River
also.
Minor watersheds (lakesheds) lie within each major
watershed. These watersheds, or drainage areas, flow
to the lowest spot within the boundary, then out to
another lakeshed. This area is usually a lake or
waterway. Preservation of our water resources is a
function of land use throughout the county.
Basin plans are available for the following watersheds
and will be considered for common goals and action
items:
- Minnesota Red River Basin Water Quality Plan
(adopted 1999)
• Bois De Sioux Watershed Plan Update
(adopted 2003)
• Otter Tail River Watershed Basin Plan (adopted
2003)
• Buffalo–Red River Watershed District
Watershed Management Plan (update in
process)
• Upper Mississippi River Basin (adopted 2003)
• Minnesota River Basin (adopted 2001)
• Pomme De Terre River Watershed
Implementation Plan (adopted 2002)
Groundwater flows in a similar manner, but
underground where it cannot be seen. Direction of flow
of groundwater and surface water are not always
related. Groundwater can flow across the “continental
divide” because the flow beneath the surface is not
influenced by land forms on the surface. Groundwater
sources, aquifer sizes and movement have been
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“mapped” by the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) through the completion of a Regional
Hydrogeologic Assessment in 2002.
The following sections will address the five priority
concerns in Otter Tail County.
ASSESSMENT OF PRIORITY CONCERNS ‐
DEVELOPMENT PRESSURES
Development pressures are the overreaching issues in
Otter Tail County. It was the consensus of the task
force that all issues of concern in the County are linked
to development pressures and the need for tools to
manage them. During the public input process,
development and the pressures on the lakes created by
development were the number one concern of
residents of Otter Tail County. Comments included
concerns regarding urban development in rural areas;
large dwellings on small, nonconforming lakeshore
lots; loss of both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife
habitat; effects of development in sensitive areas; and
the need to regulate development county‐wide.
The population in Otter Tail County between 1990 and
2000 has increased by 12.7%. The number of
households has risen 16.2%, from 19,510 in 1990 to
22,671 in 2000. Development is occurring mainly
around the 1,048 lakes that exist in the county.
Population trends derived by the Minnesota State
Census Bureau give the predicted growth out to 2030.
According to the website, the adjusted 2000
population of Otter Tail County is 55,762.
The predicted growth by 2030 is a greater than 40%
increase in population throughout the county. Greater
than 50% growth is predicted in Perham, Pelican
Rapids, Otter Tail and New York Mills cities – along
with the partial bordering cities of Wadena and
Rothsay. Three cities are predicted to have negative
growth: Vining, Urbank, and Erhard. Nine townships
surrounding these three cities and outside the lakes
area are also predicted to have negative growth. The
23 townships with expectations of more than 50%
increase in population are located in the lakes area, a
prediction of the future use of this resource within the
County. The lakes provide resources to both residents
and seasonal people. Of the greater than 60,000
parcels in Otter Tail County, 24% are seasonal, non‐
homestead. These property owners provide 22% of the
gross property taxes. Based on the USDA 2008
cropland Data Layer for Otter Tail County, cultivated
land, deciduous forest, water and grassland are the
major land uses in Otter Tail County. There is some
variation by watershed.
1. Surface Water Issues
The surface water issues being faced include general
water quality and regulatory issues.
a) Water Quality
Lake Water Quality Assessment Program, or LAP
studies, is conducted by the MPCA to assess the overall
condition of a lake. The MPCA works closely with lake
associations, collecting lake data, watershed and
historic information. Fourteen lakes have completed
this program in Otter Tail County. These lakes include:
Big Pine, Clitherall, Dead, East Battle, Stuart, Six, Long
(at Vergas), Marion, Pelican, Rush, and Wall. Wall was
completed in 1987, and re‐analyzed in 1996 for trends.
Education involving LAP studies should be presented to
lake associations with encouragement to apply to the
program. Lake Lida and Star were completed in 2000
and Lake Seven in 2006.
Otter Tail County rivers and streams are important for
recreation, transportation, and as a source of clean
water for many plants and animals...including humans!
Testing on the Otter Tail and Red River in Otter Tail
County has been conducted by Minnesota State
University, Moorhead. Parameters tested include:
Temperature, pH, Turbidity, Total Solids, Total
Nitrates, Dissolved Oxygen, and Biological Oxygen
Demand. This data has been compiled since 1992.
Trends in this data should be charted and analyzed.
Taking an in‐depth look at the immediate watershed
of the lake, noting potential contaminant sources, and
devising a systematic plan to alter land use to benefit
the water resource for protection or water restoration
purposes is one of the actions of this process. The other
is involving the landowners in the process. Providing
guidance is an important part of Otter Tail County’s
Local Water Management Plan. Mapping for Lake
Management Plans is provided by the Otter Tail County
GIS Department. Light Detecting and Ranging, or LiDAR
is a remote sensing technology that uses laser scanning
to collect height or elevation data. This mapping is to
be completed in 2009 and will provide accurate
contour data for these assessments. Known lake
associations with completed management plans
include Little McDonald, Kerbs and Paul Lake
improvement District, Lida Lake Property
Owners Association, Star Lake, Big Pine Lake, Marion
Lake and Dead Lake Association. The LWMP utilizes
input from management plans when planning
implementation strategies.
LiDAR or Light Detection and Ranging will continue to
be utilized to prioritize and target high priority
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projects. Several LiDAR tools are currently available
including the International Water Institute’s Water
Quality Decision Support Application (WQDSA), Stream
Power Index rankings in the South Branch of the
Buffalo-Red River Watershed District, and NRCS LiDAR
tools which allow all staff to develop LiDAR and Stream
Power Index maps. These resources will be used to
target and prioritize the best possible projects.
Impaired Waters / Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)
The MPCA has determined that an impaired water
body is one that does not meet water quality
monitoring standards and designated uses because of
pollutants, pollution or unknown causes. When a water
body is determined to be impaired, it is placed on
303(d) impaired waters list. This list is updated by the
MPCA every two years as required by the Clean Water
Act. It is based on water quality information in the
STORET database, subject to a public comment period
and submitted to the EPA for approval.
Water bodies included in this list will result in a TMDL
study and implementation plan. There are four phases
in the process of addressing impaired waters:
1. Water quality monitoring and assessment which
involves the data collection necessary to determine if a
water is impaired and if a TMDL is necessary;
2. TMDL study development which distributes the
pollutant load contributions to the different sources
involved (point and non‐point) within the Watershed;
3. TMDL implementation plan involves the
development of strategies and identifies management
practices that need to be implemented to assure water
quality goals are met; and
4. Effectiveness monitoring and adaptive
management. Once the implementation phase has
begun, the MPCA monitors the water quality for
improvements.
Within Otter Tail County there are four river reaches
that are impaired. The impairments include low
dissolved oxygen, turbidity, mercury in fish tissue and
fish bio assessments. TMDL plans have been completed
and approved by the MPCA for the mercury in fish
tissue in the Pomme de Terre River. The turbidity in the
Lower Otter Tail River at the outlet of Judicial Ditch #2
is on target for completion in 2009. The formation of a
stakeholder group will include Otter Tail County even
though the impairment is at the county line. JD‐2 is
located in the county and is a likely contributor to the
turbidity in that reach of the River. The target start for
the fish bio assessments on that reach is set to begin in
2010 with a 2013 completion date. The last reach with
a known impairment is the Otter Tail River between
Rice and Mud Lakes with an identified low dissolved
oxygen stressor and the assessment is scheduled for
2010 for completion in 2013.
Wetlands/Wildlife Habitat
Habitat destruction is occurring in Otter Tail County.
The land less desirable for agricultural use, such as
wooded or wet areas, is being sold for dwelling sites
and recreational land use. This breaking up of land
destroys habitat for numerous types of wildlife and
waterfowl. Filling of wetlands for farming or
development depletes the areas of the county for
groundwater recharge, flood and sediment control.
These areas are important for holding water during
times of heavy rains and runoff. They also provide
habitat for waterfowl, frogs, turtles and other wetland
animals. According to the National Wetland Inventory,
there are about 66,387 acres of wetland in Otter Tail
County.
The Otter Tail River watershed has the largest area of
wetland. It also makes up the largest area of the
county. The Red Eye River Watershed is located on the
eastern quarter of the county and is made up of many
long, narrow wet areas. Due to documented
development pressures within the designated
shoreland areas, priority is given to preserving the
wetlands within 1000 feet of a lake or 300 feet of a
river. In order to effectively restore the highest priority
wetlands, Otter Tail County joined with the BWSR, DU,
USFWS, NRCS, DNR, PF and other groups/agencies to
map the areas of drained wetlands in the western third
of the county. This is the area chosen due to the
geology and the location on the edges of the north
central hardwood forest area.
Restoration of wetlands that have been drained
provides the best opportunity of producing a wetland
that functions as habitat, filtration and storage.
b) Regulatory Issues
The discussion during public input centered on the
existing regulations within the shoreland area. The
need for an overall long‐range plan, coupled with new
shoreland rules and better enforcement of the existing
shoreland regulations was a high priority among the
attendees. Lake Re‐classification for preservation of
sensitive areas, support of the new alternative
shoreland rules, and agricultural rules within the
shoreland area were brought forward as actions. A
comprehensive plan will need to be completed to
better address these issues on a county‐wide basis.
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Shoreland Regulations Local governments (counties,
cities, towns) are responsible for the implementation,
administration and enforcement of shoreland
management standards through their planning and
zoning controls. These controls affect shoreland
property owners and the use and development of
shoreland areas. The Department of Natural Resources
is currently in the rulemaking process to revise the
shoreland management standards. The shoreland rules
were last revised in 1989. The goal is to have workable
standards that reflect key resource values and science
and are adaptable to a variety of local issues and
needs.
Lakes in Otter Tail County make up about 12 percent of
the total land area, or 169,162 acres. Wetlands
comprise 66,388 acres or 4.7 percent. Development
within the 1000 feet of lakes, and 300 feet of rivers, as
shown in Figure Ten, is regulated by the Shoreland
Management Ordinance of Otter Tail County. Land use
is regulated within this area with regards to
preservation of the water resources. Annual building
site permits throughout the county for the past five
years have ranged from 590 in 2008 to a high of 906 in
2004 – all occurring within this shoreland area. There
has been a steady decline in permits over the past six
years.
c) Surface Water Quantity
Minnesota Statutes, Section 103G.005, subdivision 14
defines “ordinary high water level” (OHWL) as:
- An elevation delineating the HIGHEST water level,
that has been maintained for a sufficient period of time
to leave evidence upon the landscape, commonly the
point where the natural vegetation changes from
predominantly aquatic to predominantly terrestrial; for
watercourses, the OHWL is the elevation of the top of
the bank of the channel; and for reservoirs and
flowages, the OHWL is the operating elevation of the
normal summer pool. The OHWL has been established
on many but not all lakes in Otter Tail County.
Alterations in aquatic vegetation, addition or removal
of sediment, or any “work” completed below the
OHWL of lakes requires a permit from the MN DNR.
Lake Level Minnesota is a citizen volunteer program set
up by the DNR. Citizens monitor lake levels and send
the information to the DNR area hydrologist. More
volunteers are needed in this area.
Several high water issues have occurred within the
county. Impacts of high water on public roads and
structures can cause hardship to the general public.
When a lake has no or limited outlet for the water, it
can rise up on the banks and cause erosion of sediment
into the lake. In many cases, it works to lower the level
to the OHW – as long as no impact is felt by
downstream landowners. No DNR permit is required
for this type of change. Occasionally, the water level
needs to be dropped below the OHW; such as
Hovland Lake 56‐1014. MN Rules 6115.0221, subp.2
states this can be done under certain conditions.
2. Groundwater Issues:
a) Groundwater Quality
One of the Priority Concerns of the residents of Otter
Tail County is groundwater contamination. This
concern was discussed at length at the public meetings
and issues relevant to groundwater included concerns
regarding abandoned wells, failing septic systems,
agriculture contamination, potential for well
contamination, education, effects of land use,
hazardous waste dumping, and the natural / artificial
contamination from arsenic. In this section
precipitation, soils, groundwater (hydrogeology and
wells), and surface water will be discussed regarding
their interrelationship with each other and their ability
to protect from vs. contributions to groundwater
contamination.
Nitrates, Arsenic
Utilizing well data from approximately 1600 well
locations, land use, landforms, soils, and depth to
water table aquifer, the Minnesota Department of
Health (MDH) developed a Nitrate‐Nitrogen
Probability map for Otter Tail County. This map clearly
marks the areas within Otter Tail County that are
susceptible to contamination from nitrates and other
water soluble contaminants.
Source water Protection / Wellhead Protection
A Source Water Assessment is a document produced by
MDH staff intended to provide basic information to
public water suppliers and the general public
regarding: 1) where their drinking water comes from,
and 2) the degree to which it may be impacted by
potential sources of contamination.
Wellhead protection is a method developed by the
MDH to prevent well contamination by effectively
managing potential contaminant sources in all or a
portion of a well’s recharge area. This area, as shown
in Figure Twenty‐two, is known as the wellhead
protection area. Source water protection uses this
concept when water is used from a surficial source,
instead of a well. This could include a lake, river or
reservoir.
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The MDH is systematically requiring a wellhead
protection plan in all public water supply sources in
Minnesota. In Otter Tail County, the Cities of Parkers
Prairie and Perham have completed and approved
wellhead protection plans. Wellhead protection areas
have been designated for Otter Tail Nursing Home,
Underwood, Pelican Rapids, Dalton, and Battle Lake.
Nutrient management, public education and inventory
of SSTS and underground tanks are high priorities
within these plans.
b) Quantity Issues
Irrigation in Otter Tail County has increased since the
early ‘90s. See Table K for DNR Water Appropriation
Permits by watershed and use. Since the 2001 plan,
water appropriation permits have increased by 17,401
million gallons per year (MGY) and the actual reported
use has increased by 8,455 MGY. This amount is
without taking into account the new ethanol plant that
went into use in 2008. Irrigation has increased by
31,487 acres since the last update and occurs on more
than twice the acreage within the Otter Tail River
Watershed than the rest of the county. Monitoring
these trends will help identify potential water‐saving
strategies.
Precipitation
The total annual precipitation averages 26.3 inches per
year. Of this, 17.6 inches, or about 67 percent, usually
falls in May through September. The growing season
for most crops falls within this period. The Otter Tail
County Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD)
and the National Weather Service (NWS) both monitor
precipitation throughout Otter Tail County.
OTTER TAIL COUNTY OVERALL PRIORITY:
DEVELOPMENT PRESSURES
Surface Water Priority Issues:
Water Quality Goal: Otter Tail County will maintain
or improve the quality of the surface waters within
their boundaries.
Water Quality Objectives:
1. Target and Prioritize: Target and prioritize surface
water quality issues using tools and resources such as
individual lake assessments, MPCA
WRAPS, IWI- Water Quality Decisions Support
Application (WQDSA), Lidar, and Stream Power Index
to develop measurable goals and outcomes.
2. Lake Association Support: Support lake associations
and the Otter Tail County
COLA to protect and preserve the lakes and lakeshed
environment. Continue with the advancements of the
Lake Assessments to develop lake trends and possible
concerns.
3. Stormwater/Drainage Management: Offer
education and incentive programs aimed at mitigating
the effects of overland runoff on the surface waters of
Otter Tail County, utilizing available regulations if
necessary.
4. Wetlands/Wildlife Habitat: Identify and protect
wetland and wildlife habitat areas located within Otter
Tail County.
5. Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification Program:
Educate and certify producers within the MAWQCP
Target Areas.
6. Soil Health Initiative: Educate and inform Ag
producers about the value and benefit of soil health.
7. Drainage Water Management: Promote drainage
water management where applicable within Otter Tail
County.
8. LiDAR: Utilize the best available watershed
modelling resources to prioritize, target and measure
project and practice success.
9. Central MN On-Farm Nitrogen Management
Program: Conduct basal stalk nitrate testing and
replicated strip trials to promote BMP implementation
for nutrient stewardship.
10. Lakescaping: landscaping shoreline areas using
methods that help improve and protect water quality
and wildlife habitat
11. Irrigation: Promote BMP for irrigators county-wide
by offering beneficial data and programs.
12. State Cost Share: Address high priority wind,
water, and water quality issues within the county by
providing financial assistance to landowners.
13. Agriculture: Address and target water quality, and
erosion issues on agricultural land.
14. Erosion: Target and prioritize high priority erosion
sites and provide technical and financial assistance to
landowners to address erosion problems.
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Regulatory Issues Goal: Develop regulations,
education and incentives to ensure orderly
development with minimal impacts to sensitive areas
to preserve Otter Tail County’s natural resources.
Regulatory Issues Objectives:
1. Otter Tail County Buffer Initiative: Assist
landowners and the county to move in the direction of
100% compliance with state and direction of 100%
compliance with state and county shoreland rules.
2. Sensitive areas: Develop a model to identify areas
sensitive to intensive development throughout Otter
Tail County.
3. Agriculture: Support the Agriculture Advisory Task
Force and their recommendations to the Otter Tail
County Board regarding regulation of agriculture
practices.
4. Sub‐surface Sewage Treatment: Promote county‐
wide Sub‐surface Sewage Treatment System
compliance through systematic inspection, education
and regulation.
5. Aquatic Invasive Species: Promote the importance
of controlling aquatic invasive species.
Groundwater Priority Issues:
Groundwater Quality Goal: Otter Tail County will
protect the existing groundwater quality for drinking
water purposes.
Groundwater Quality Objectives:
1. Source water Protection: Otter Tail County will
participate in the preservation of the quality of the
drinking water supply resources.
2. DNR Observation Well Monitoring: Measuring
static water levels in a network of observation wells
across the county.
3. Private Well Monitoring Network: Continue to
support private well monitoring efforts to determine
quality of drinking water.
4. Irrigation: Promote BMP for irrigators county-wide
by offering beneficial data and programs.
5. State Cost Share: Address high priority wind, water,
and water quality issues within the county by providing
financial assistance to landowners.
6. Agriculture: Address and target water quality, and
erosion issues on agricultural land.
Groundwater Quantity Goal: Otter Tail County will
work to maintain the existing adequate volumes of
groundwater for the use of the constituents.
Groundwater Quality Objectives:
1. Preservation of Aquifer volume: Preserve the
adequacy of the groundwater volume through
education, incentive and regulation.
Findings Part 1: Planning
The findings in this section describe the local water
plan action items assigned to the Land and Resource
Department and the SWCDs and the accomplishments
to date for each organization.
The county and SWCDs are jointly responsible for
accomplishing the steps necessary to address these
concerns.
As part of this review, county and SWCD staff prepared
a table (See Appendix A) listing the accomplishments
to-date for each of the action items for which they are
responsible. The table contains a progress rating
applied by BWSR to each item indicating whether it
has been completed or its target was met, whether
progress has been made and work is continuing, or
whether it was dropped or not started yet.
According to these ratings, the county and SWCD are
both making good progress on their assigned action
items. The county and SWCDs have made progress on
95 of their 99 action items (96 percent). The County
and SWCDs have completed 28 of their action items,
67 are ongoing and 4 items have not been started.
A full description of the goals, objectives, action items,
accomplishments and next steps is contained in
Appendix A, pages 24-40.
Findings Part 2: Performance Standards
BWSR has developed a set of performance standards
that describe both basic and high performance best
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management practices related to the overall operation
of the organization. These standards are different
depending on the type of LGU. Nevertheless, each set
of standards addresses four areas of operation:
administration, planning, execution, and
communication/coordination. The basic standards
describe practices that are either legally required or
fundamental to county or SWCD operations. The high
performance standards describe practices that reflect
a high level of performance. While all local
government water management entities should be
meeting the basic standards, only the more ambitious
ones will meet many high performance standards.
Compliance with performance standards for Otter Tail
County and the SWCDs are contained in Appendix B,
pages 41-43.
Each year for the Level I PRAP review, BWSR tracks all
of Minnesota’s water management LGUs’ compliance
with a few of the basic standards. The results of this
statewide review are reported in a publically
accessible database on the BWSR website.
For this Level II review, the county reports compliance
with 8 of 9 basic standards. The county reported
accomplishing 8 of 13 high performance standards.
West Otter Tail SWCD - The SWCD reports compliance
with 16 of 17 basic standards, and 6 of 14 high
performance standards. The basic SWCD standard that
is not met is: the SWCD should develop a data
practices policy and update it every 5 years.
East Otter Tail SWCD - The SWCD reports compliance
with 16 of 17 basic standards, and 6 of 14 high
performance standards. The basic SWCD standard that
is not met is: the SWCD should develop a data
practices policy and update it every 5 years.
Findings Part 3: Internal and External Surveys
Parts 3 and 4 of this performance assessment are
based on responses to an on-line survey of both LGUs’
staff and board or water plan implementation
committee members and of their partner
organizations. The board and staff answered different
survey questions than the partners. The survey
questions are designed to elicit information about LGU
successes and difficulties in implementing plan goals
and objectives and assessing the extent and quality of
partnerships with other related organizations. A
compilation of all survey results is in Appendix C, pages
44-56.
Resource Outcomes
The Otter Tail Local Water Management Plan does
not currently include targets or objectives for
resource outcomes, however they are being
developed as part of the 1W1P efforts. Because this
review focused on the Otter Tail County Plan,
resource outcomes are not reported in this review
of plan accomplishments.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 10
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Internal: LGU Self-Assessment
Otter Tail County Self-Assessment - A total of 6 board
members and staff of the Otter Tail County Land and
Resource Management Department were invited to
take the online survey, and 3 submitted responses, a
50% response rate.
Survey participants were asked which programs or
projects they consider to be particularly successful in
the past few years. The county staff and board
members mentioned septic system point of sale
update requirement and aquatic invasive species (AIS),
Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) and One Watershed,
One Plan (1W1P).
When asked for reasons for success with the
programs, one survey participant listed knowledgeable
staff, updated technology (online permitting) and
cooperation from the County Board, contractors and
the public.
When asked to list projects and programs that have
been difficult to implement, the county mentioned the
septic system abatement program was terminated.
A county survey participant stated the abatement
program was ceased when the County started
requiring septic system updates at point of sale or
property owner transfer.
The county listed good working relationships with the
SWCD, DNR, and MPCA.
The survey also asked participants to identify
organizations with whom they would like to
collaborate with more often. One survey participant
listed DNR and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The County and SWCD staff and boards also identified
ways to improve the effectiveness of their respective
organizations. The county survey participants
mentioned continue to train staff, educate the public
and providers. Keep up with technology. Maintain our
longstanding working relationships with partners,
public and providers.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 11
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
West Otter Tail SWCD (WOTSWCD) Self-Assessment -
For the WOTSWCD, 10 supervisors and staff were
invited to take the survey and 7 responded, a 70%
response rate.
Survey participants were asked which programs or
projects they consider to be particularly successful in
the past few years.
The SWCD supervisors and staff who responded
mentioned:
• Clean Water Fund Grants for buffer
implementation and structural water quality
practices, assisting landowners with the CREP
program, and working with the Pomme De
Terre River Association on clean water fund
grant projects. Also assisting landowners
through the State Cost Share Program.
• Buffer compliance. CREP, tree plantings.
• Otter Tail County Buffer Initiative, Erosion
Control Projects, Seed Program and Seeding,
No-till Drill rental, CRP and Conservation
Easements, County Ag Inspector.
• MN Buffer Law-Buffer Implementation State
Cost Share Farm Bill Programs.
• Buffer Program.
• Structures and terraces have been installed.
Reasons for success of these programs included:
• Persistent effort, money, and good
relationships with landowners.
• Our partnerships with the watershed districts
and our county board were important in these
efforts. Also landowner willingness.
• Staff teamwork.
• Funding and agencies working together.
• Staff--Board, County and SWCD.
One person stated, for OTC Buffers - The SWCD's and
the County had the foresight to address the required
buffers in the shoreland ordinance prior to the state's
buffer initiative. The approach was to take a phased
approach through the county and educate landowners
regarding the requirement before enforcing. This has
been a huge success. Erosion Control - The SWCD has
seen an increase in the willingness of landowners to
install erosion control practices in their fields. The
success of this program is also due to the increased
funds the SWCD has for cost share. Some of these
funds have come through the Pomme de Terre River
Association, the County and other watersheds. Seed
Program - The SWCD has had a successful seed sales
program and seeding. The SWCD strives to be a one-
stop shop for landowners to accomplish all of their
conservation goals. The SWCD still maintains and
provides landowners with a list of all vendors in the
area. No-till Drill Rental - Having 2 drills available to
landowners has increased the amount of acres planted
with our drills. CRP and Easements - The SWCD
partners with Pheasants Forever to employ a full time
Farm Bill Biologist. This position works sole on CRP and
has increased the enrollment when the program has
been available. Easements programs have been
successful in the county when available. County Ag
Inspector - Since taking on this responsibility the SWCD
has built a relationship with the Townships and has
reestablished the local process of enforcement which
requires first contact be the local township official. The
SWCD takes over if nothing is completed and legal
action needs to be pursued.
For programs that were difficult to implement, the
West Otter Tail SWCD respondents listed:
• CREP, MAWQCP, and Field Windbreaks. These
programs have had their moments but have
been inconsistent.
• CREP program
• Shoreline restorations and stabilization,
Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification
Program, District Tree Program, Soil
Health/Cover Crops.
• Tree sales, CREP
Reasons given for these difficulties include
• CREP has been hard to sell to landowners.
MAWQCP has been another one hard to sell
with a lot of paper work and time for
landowners and little compensation. It would
be nice if we could cost share shelterbelts.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 12
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
• Lack of landowner interest in CREP program.
• Shoreline - The county shoreline specialists are
located in the East Otter Tail office and this can
cause some confusion with landowners and
among staff when trying to complete projects.
The West Otter Tail SWCD indicated strong
relationships with FSA, NRSC, DNR, USFWS, SWCDs,
BWSR, Watershed Districts, PDT Watershed Assoc.,
Pheasants Forever, FF Fish and Game Club, Otter Tail
County Land and Resources, MN Land Trust.
The survey asked participants to identify organizations
with whom they would like to collaborate with more
often. The West Otter Tail SWCD listed local Lake
Associations, DNR, MPCA, Otter Tail County Coalition
of Lake Associations, Local farm groups (Farm Bureau,
corn and soybean growers, etc.), and Local sportsman's
groups.
The West Otter Tail SWCD staff and board also
identified ways to improve the effectiveness of their
respective organizations. The SWCD survey
participants made the following comments:
• I think we need to continue to educate the
public on what we do and how we do it. I think
we need to put our name and what we do in
most locations possible such as newspapers,
signs, flyers in buildings, radio stations, and
billboards. Building relationships with people
to continue to have a good name and staying
persistent.
• Continue to strengthen our partnerships
through working with other
organizations/agencies. We have a strong
relationship with our County Board of
Commissioners as well as an active SWCD
board that both take what we do seriously.
• Public outreach and telling our story is the key
to success for any business. This could include
field days and tours for landowners interested
in specific programs we offer, attending
community events, etc. - Developing new
partnerships with organizations, business,
cities, lake associations, etc. that have the
same goal/mission of conservation even if they
seem out of the ordinary at first glance. -
Increased success in receiving competitive
grants. The SWCD utilizes all the tools
available to prioritize, target and measure
however the Otter Tail Watershed has now
pollution reduction goals set or impairments
due to sediment and nutrients.
• Additional education, enhance our website.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 13
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
East Otter Tail SWCD (EOTSWCD) Self-Assessment -
For the EOTSWCD, 13 supervisors and staff were
invited to take the survey and 12 responded, a 92%
response rate.
Survey participants were asked which programs or
projects they consider to be particularly successful in
the past few years. The East Otter Tail SWCD
supervisors and staff who responded mentioned:
• Identifying Best Management Practices and
Barriers to Adoption AIG. Shoreline
restorations on sensitive lakeshore property.
Board Retreats to clarify SWCD priorities Buffer
implementation.
• Shoreline Program, Tree Program, Guided Stalk
Sampling Program, and Irrigation Scheduling.
• Irrigation scheduler program, shoreline
restoration program, nutrient management
program, custom seeding/planting program,
and our tree sales program.
• Contracting service for Wadena SWCD.
Irrigation management. Shoreline restoration.
Crop nutrient management.
• Outreach and Education.
• Tree sales and the shoreline program.
• MAWQCP.
Reasons for success cited included:
• Using staff training and knowledge to their
fullest capabilities. Building trust and respect
with landowners. Listening to needs and
interests before implementing. Having staff
with training and capability.
• Working with clients to achieve a common
goal.
• Excellent District management and staff.
• Great staff, good vision, partnerships with
other agencies, willingness to try new things,
building partnerships with cooperators, and a
board that is onboard with our work.
• Our relationship with the people in our county
goes a long way towards building our
programs. We are known to the people we
work with as being knowledgeable and willing
to help, and the word of mouth from the
people we work with helps us get new projects.
• Our relationships with our producers,
lakeshore owners, and landowners.
• Staff with communicating with each other and
a high knowledge of their programs.
• Trusting landowners Staff able to make
landowners understand programs.
One person stated, Relationship the staff form with the
landowners and partners. The people on-the-ground
talking with landowner about their property, having
good communication, adequate training, and follow-
through. Sufficient funding also made these programs
successful - to have a successful program, you need to
have adequate funding.
For programs that were difficult to implement for the
East Otter Tail SWCD, respondents made the following
comments:
• Our Urban BMPs program, Tree Sales, Seed
Sales and Custom Seeding Nitrate Clinics.
• DNR Observation Wells.
• Rain gauge network program, no-till drill rental
program.
• Tree program and seeding program.
• The Irrigation Scheduling Program is what we
were known for in the past but has been pretty
stagnant over the past few years.
• Easements.
• Cover crops seem to be slow to adopt.
Reasons given for these difficulties included
• Demand has typically been small and the
amount of effort needed to increase these
programs is directed elsewhere.
• Time and funding.
• The rain gauge network program hasn't had
any lead staff since the previous employee quit
in 2014.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 14
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
• Workload for these programs is driven a lot by
federal programs, which have lagged a little in
recent years with signups causing a cutback in
the need for these services.
• I think the increase in technology has been
difficult to keep up with. Producers are always
looking for the next best thing that can help
them manage their water and increase their
yields and this program hasn't changed much
in the past 25 years.
• Not many landowners would like a perpetual
easement on their property.
• Unfamiliarity with how they work in our area.
The East Otter Tail SWCD indicated strong
relationships with WOTSWCD, Becker SWCD, Wadena
SWCD, Otter Tail County (Land and Resource), Otter
Tail County COLA, Lake Associations, CMIC, other ag
organizations, Minnesota Department of Ag and NRCS,
DNR, BWSR, NRCS.
The survey asked participants to identify organizations
with whom they would like to collaborate with more
often. The East Otter Tail SWCD listed Ag Commodity
Groups, Otter Tail County Land & Resource Dept.,
COLA, Minnesota Native Landscapes, BWSR,
Minnesota Deer Hunters, Pheasants Forever, University
of Minnesota Extension, MDH, farming organizations,
and cities.
The East Otter Tail SWCD staff and board also
identified ways to improve the effectiveness of their
organization. The survey participants mentioned:
• Meeting with local landowners in different
resource groups and determining what they
are interested in implementing, much like the
Identifying Best Management Practices and
Barriers to Adoption AIG. Using other social
avenues to determine interest, applicability,
and practicality in other areas of SWCD work.
• Continue making relationships with customers,
producers, and private industry groups.
• I think that improving communication between
board members, manager, and staff would
increase our effectiveness in accomplishing our
plan goals and objectives.
• I think we are doing pretty well now.
• Continue to build on current partnerships, and
create more.
• Better communication between management
and staff. A lot of the time we don't even know
what grants our office is applying for, and it's
hard to know our goals when it's not
communicated to us.
• Build better relationships with the University of
Minnesota Extension offices and agents.
• Reach out to them with the OT WRAPS, nitrate
projects, urban stormwater projects.
Full survey responses are in Appendix C, pages 44-56.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 15
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Findings Part 4: Partners’ Assessment
Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management
Department Partners Survey: The County provided a
list of 18 partners to take the survey, and 12
responded (67%). These partners reported interacting
with the County between a few times (17%) several
times a year (17%), monthly (25%) and almost every
week (42%). 92% of the survey participants said they
thought that this amount of interaction was about
right and 8% said it was not enough. Regarding their
assessment of the county in five operational areas, the
partners gave strong to acceptable marks, with most
reporting good or strong performance for
communication, quality of work and relationships with
customers, and follow-through, meeting deadlines.
Forty two percent of the participants reported the
quality of their organization’s working relationship
with the county as powerful and 33% as strong, while
25% rated it good, but could be better.
Full survey responses are in Appendix C, pages 44-56.
Performance
Area
Otter Tail Co. Partner Ratings (percent)
Strong Good Accep
t-able Poor Don’t
Know
Communi-
cation 50% 25% 25% 0% 0%
Quality of
Work
50% 25% 16.7% 0% 8.3%
Customer
Relations
50% 16.7% 25% 0% 8.3%
Initiative
50% 16.7% 33.3% 0% 0%
Timelines/
Follow
through
58.3% 25% 16.7% 0% 0%
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 16
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
West Otter Tail SWCD Partners Survey: For the West
Otter Tail SWCD, 21 partners were invited and 16
(73%) responded. These partners reported a wide
range of interaction with the SWCD over the past 3
years, 6% reported a few times, 18.7% reported
several times a year, 43.7% said monthly, 12.5% said
almost every week and 18.7% indicated daily
interaction. About 7% of these participants indicated
that the amount of interaction they had with the
SWCD was not enough, and over 93% indicated the
amount of interaction was about right.
These partners also assessed their interactions with
the SWCD in five operational areas. The partners’
rating of the district’s work in the operational areas
was generally strong to acceptable. About 44% of the
partners rated the district’s communications as strong,
25% as good and 31% said it was acceptable. 50% of
the partners thought the district’s quality of work was
strong, 38% good and 12.5% didn’t know.
Relationships with customers were judged to be
generally good or better by 80%, however 18.8% didn’t
know. Over 87% rated the SWCD’s initiative as strong
or good, with 6.3% calling it acceptable and 6.3%
didn’t know. For timelines and meeting deadlines, the
partners thought the district performance was strong
(63%), good (19%), acceptable (6%) or didn’t know
(12.5%).
The partners’ overall rating of the quality of their
working relationship with the district was powerful
(46.7%) with 40% rating it strong, 13.3% rated it as
good. No one rated their working relationship poor.
One of the respondents commented that WOT SWCD
has great employees and a driven work ethic to put
conservation on the landscape while working with the
best interest of the farmer/landowner. Fantastic
Partner!
Another partner commented WOTSWCD has taught me
how to do my job better.
Performance
Area
West OT SWCD Partner Ratings (percent)
Strong Good Accept
-able Poor Don’t
Know
Communi-
cation 43.8% 25% 31.3% 0% 0%
Quality of
Work 50% 37.5% 0% 0% 12.5%
Customer
Relations 62.5% 18.8% 0% 0% 18.8%
Initiative 62.5% 25% 6.3% 0% 6.3%
Timelines/
Follow
through
62.5% 18.8% 6.3% 0% 12.5%
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 17
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
East Otter Tail SWCD Partners Survey: For the
EOTSWCD, 65 partners were invited and 32 (49%)
responded. These partners reported a wide range of
interaction with the SWCD over the past 3 years:
17.2% reported a few times, 48.3% reported several
times a year, 3.5% said monthly, 24.1% almost every
week and 6.9% indicated daily interaction. Seventy
nine percent of these participants indicated that the
amount of interaction they had with the SWCD was
about right while 14% said it was not enough, there is
more potential for us to do more together and 2
people (7%) said too much, they depend on us for
work they should be doing themselves.
These partners also assessed their interactions with
the SWCD in five operational areas. The partners’
rating of the district’s work in the operational areas
was very positive. All of the partners who participated
in the survey rated the district’s communications as
strong.
Over 65% of the partners participating in the survey
thought the district’s quality of work was strong.
Relationships with customers were judged to be strong
by 55%. Over 58% of the partner survey participants
rated the SWCD’s initiative as strong. For timelines and
meeting deadlines, the partners thought the district
performance was strong (52%), good (28%) or
acceptable (20%).
The partners’ overall rating of the quality of their
working relationship with the district was powerful
(41%), strong 38%, good, but could be better (14%),
while 2 people said it acceptable, but a struggle at
times.
One of the respondents commented that our
partnership made the project the best possible for the
farming clients and they hired very talented staff to
carry out the project. Another partner commented
East Otter Tail is an exemplary SWCD.
Full survey responses are in Appendix C, pages 44-56.
Performance
Area
East OT SWCD Partner Ratings (percent)
Strong Good Accep
table
Poor Don’t
Know
Communi-
cation
55.2% 17.2% 24.1% 3.5% 0%
Quality of
Work
65.5% 20.7% 10.3% 3.5% 0%
Customer
Relations
55.2% 27.6% 13.8% 0% 3.5%
Initiative 58.6% 24.1% 10.3% 3.5% 3.5%
Timelines/
Follow
through
51.7% 27.6% 20.7% 0% 0%
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
18
General Conclusions
The Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management
Department and the West Otter Tail SWCD and East
Otter Tail SWCD have fostered a strong working
relationship that serves all agencies well. This
performance assessment has confirmed their effective
administration of local water management and land
conservation programs and projects. For the most
part, their partners believe the three agencies are
doing good work and are good to work with.
Continuing conservation challenges require building
stronger and some new working relationships among
partners, but there is a strong base to build upon for
future local water management in Otter Tail County.
With the upcoming revision of the comprehensive
local water plan through the One Watershed, One Plan
effort, there will be an opportunity for Otter Tail
County and East and West Otter Tail SWCDs to
reorient the local water plan to specific problems and
priorities for the county’s waterbodies.
The partners who responded to the PRAP survey
provided strong to very good marks in their judgement
of the performance of the 3 local government units.
Wetland Conservation Act Implementation
Beginning in 2017, local government unit (LGU)
compliance with the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA)
was added to the PRAP Level II assessments. In 1991,
the Legislature passed the Wetland Conservation Act
(WCA) in order to achieve a no-net loss in the quantity,
quality, and biological diversity of Minnesota’s
wetlands. In doing so, they designated certain
implementation responsibilities to local government
units (LGUs) and soil and water conservation districts
(SWCDs) with the Board of Water and Soil Resources
(BWSR) to provide oversight. One oversight
mechanism is an administrative review of how LGUs
and SWCDs are carrying out their responsibilities.
BWSR uses the administrative review process to
evaluate LGU and SWCD performance related to their
responsibilities under the WCA. The review is
intended to determine if an LGU or SWCD is fulfilling
their responsibilities under WCA and to provide
recommendations for improvement as applicable.
The BWSR Wetland Specialist assigned to assist Otter
Tail County conducted an evaluation of LGU
performance in carrying out the responsibilities as
described in Minnesota Rules 8420.
Data for WCA program review was collected via direct
interview(s) with staff, a review of an appropriate
number and type of project files, a review of existing
documentation on file (i.e. annual
reporting/resolutions), and through prior BWSR staff
experience/interaction with the LGU or SWCD. In
some cases, a project site review may be necessary.
Generally, interviews, project file reviews and site
visits were done with two BWSR staff on agreed upon
dates.
A review of implementation of the Wetland
Conservation Act found that Otter Tail County and East
and West Otter Tail SWCDs are implementing the
program in compliance with Minnesota Rule 8420. A
copy of the WCA report is located in Appendix D.
Commendations
Commendations are based on compliance with BWSR’s
high performance standards (see Findings, Part 2 and
Appendix B, pages 41-43. These practices reflect
above average operational effectiveness and level of
effort.
Otter Tail County Land and Resource Department is
commended for:
◼ Water quality trend data is used for short and
long range plan priorities
◼ Certified wetland delineator is on staff
◼ Water quality trends are tracked for priority
water bodies
◼ Communication piece sent within the last 12
months
◼ Obtained stakeholder input within the last 5
years
◼ Partnerships: liaison with SWCDs and
cooperative projects/tasks done
◼ County local water plan on county website
◼ Water management ordinances on county
website
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 19
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
West Otter Tail SWCD is commended for:
◼ Job approval authorities are reviewed and
reported annually
◼ Staff training: orientation and continuing
education plan and record is kept for each
staff member
◼ Website contains additional content beyond
minimum required
◼ Obtained stakeholder input in the last 5 years
◼ Partnerships: cooperative projects/tasks with
neighboring districts, counties, watershed
districts, non-governmental organizations
◼ Coordination with County Board by
supervisors or staff
East Otter Tail SWCD is commended for:
◼ Job approval authorities are reviewed and
reported annually
◼ Staff training: orientation and continuing
education plan and record is kept for each
staff member
◼ Website contains additional content beyond
minimum required
◼ Obtained stakeholder input in the last 5 years
◼ Partnerships: cooperative projects/tasks with
neighboring districts, counties, watershed
districts, non-governmental organizations
◼ Coordination with County Board by
supervisors or staff
Action Items
Action items are based on the LGU’s compliance with
BWSR’s basic practice performance standards (see
Findings, Part 2 and Appendix B pages 41-43). LGU’s
are given an Action Item in this section to address lack
of compliance with one or more basic standards.
Otter Tail County Land and Resource Department has
one action items which should be addressed in the
next 18 months.
◼ Otter Tail County Land and Resource
Department should post BWSR Grant Reports
on its website.
West Otter Tail SWCD has one action items which
should be addressed in the next 18 months.
◼ The West Otter Tail SWCD should develop a
data practices policy and update it every 5
years.
East Otter Tail SWCD has one action items which
should be addressed in the next 18 months.
◼ The East Otter Tail SWCD should develop a
data practices policy and update it every 5
years.
BWSR recommends that these action items be
addressed and completed within 18 months.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 20
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Recommendations
This section contains recommendations offered by
BWSR to the Otter Tail County Land and Resource
Management Department Board and staff and to the
supervisors and staff of the West Otter Tail SWCD and
the supervisors and staff of the East Otter Tail SWCD.
The intention of these recommendations is to enhance
both organizations’ delivery of effective water and
related land resource management and service to the
residents of the Otter Tail County. BWSR financial
assistance may be available to support the
implementation of some of these recommendations.
See BWSR website for more information:
http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/PRAP/How_to_apply.pdf
Joint Recommendation 1: Continue using the major
or minor watershed scale for plan organization.
As Otter Tail County and the 2 SWCDs continue
participation in the development of three 1W1Ps
(Buffalo-Red River, Mustinka/Bois de Sioux and Pomme
de Terre) and leadership of the Red Eye River
Watershed 1W1P, they should identify priority
concerns by major or minor watershed, and action
items should also be carefully targeted to differing
watershed priorities.
Joint Recommendation 2: Continue using Prioritized,
Targeted and Measureable criteria for Goals and
Objectives in the next water management plan.
The LGU staff should continue using PTMApp to
measure and then target efforts to address the priority
concerns in each watershed.
Joint Recommendation 3: Structure website
information to report progress and trends made in
achieving resource outcome goals.
Efforts should be made to share water resource
progress and trend information in easy to understand
and easy to access formats on the websites.
Significant water quality monitoring efforts have taken
place in Otter Tail County, and the results should be
made accessible to the public.
Joint Recommendation 4: Revisit membership of the
Water Plan Technical Advisory Task Force to ensure
that agency representation is adequate and schedule
sufficient meetings to efficiently develop CWMPs
through the 1W1P Program.
This recommendation recognizes the importance of
keeping the water plan advisory task force engaged in
both the watershed planning and implementation
phases. The county should ensure that all local, state
and federal agencies involved in water management
have the opportunity to participate in this group. Some
counties call task force meetings quarterly, however,
at a minimum, an annual meeting would allow staff to
communicate accomplishments in implementation of
the plan for the past year and help prioritize projects
for the coming year.
Joint Recommendation 5: Address action items and
consider adding high performance standards to
improve organizational performance.
The LGUs should address the action items within the
next 18 months. The LGUs should also consider
selecting a few of the organizational high performance
standards they do not currently meet, and select
several to implement over the next few years.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
21
LGU Comments and
BWSR Responses
The Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management
Department and East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter
Tail SWCD were invited to comment on the findings,
conclusions and joint recommendations in the draft
version of this report. The entire comment letters can
be found in Appendix E of this report.
Otter Tail County Comment Letter
Otter Tail County Comment 1: Otter Tail County Land
& Resource Department should post BWSR Grant
Reports on its website.
Otter Tail County launched its new website in the fall of
2019 which gives our department greater control over
what is on the department website. This information
will be added to the website in the first quarter of 2019
and updated annually.
BWSR Response: BWSR appreciates the commitment
to implement this recommendation.
Otter Tail County Comment 2: Execution and
Coordination Recommendations: Review of the files
identified inconsistencies of application processing,
or opportunities for administrative improvement.
Discussions between Mr. Hofstad and department staff
have been ongoing since the evaluation in December
and the department will be implementing all of these
improvements.
BWSR Response: Thank you for addressing this
recommendation.
Otter Tail County Comment 3: Violation and
Complaint Resolution Recommendation: Review of
the two files identified three areas in need of
improving, including:
• TEP delineation data sheets for violation sites
documenting the presence and extent of
wetlands impacted;
• Extension of Restoration Orders must be done
in writing by the DNR Conservation Officer;
and,
• Restoration of wetland violations including
“natural regeneration of wetland vegetation”
must include restoration via planning if
natural regeneration is not sufficient.
These suggestions will be implemented in 2019 and in
the future.
BWSR Response: BWSR appreciates the commitment
to implement this recommendation.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 22
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
West Otter Tail SWCD Comment Letter
West Otter Tail SWCD Comment 1: The West Otter
Tail Soil and Water Conservation Board and
Management agree on the following 4 joint
recommendations:
Joint Recommendation 1: Continue using the major or
minor watershed scale for plan organization for
development of Comprehensive Watershed
Management Plans (CWMP) through the 1W1P
Program.
Joint Recommendation 2: Continue using Prioritized,
Targeted and Measureable criteria for Goals and
Objectives in the new CWMPs.
Joint Recommendation 3: Structure website
information to report progress and trends made in
achieving resource outcome goals.
Joint Recommendation 4: Revisit membership of the
Water Plan Technical Advisory Task Force to ensure
that agency representation is adequate and schedule
sufficient meetings to efficiently develop CWMPs through
the 1W1P Program.
BWSR Response: BWSR appreciates the West Otter
Tail SWCD’s commitment to implement these
recommendations.
West Otter Tail SWCD Comment 2: The West Otter
Tail Soil and Water Conservation District Board and
Management agree on the following action item:
The West Otter Tail SWCD should develop a data practices
policy and update it every 5 years.
BWSR Response: BWSR appreciates the West Otter
Tail SWCD’s commitment to address this action item.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 23
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
East Otter Tail SWCD Comment Letter
East Otter Tail SWCD Comment 1: Joint
Recommendation 1: Continue using the major or
minor watershed scale for plan organization.
The SWCD’s and the county are currently in the process
of working in 4 of our major watersheds on 1W1P
planning processes. These Comprehensive Watershed
Management Plans will be the basis for our targeted
work and will likely differ due to the characteristics and
land use in each individual watershed.
BWSR Response: BWSR appreciates the East Otter Tail
SWCD’s commitment to implement this
recommendation.
East Otter Tail SWCD Comment 2: Joint
Recommendation 2: Continue using Prioritized,
Targeted and Measureable criteria for Goals and
Objectives in the next water management plan.
The EOT SWCD is currently in the midst of working with
our partners to develop the PTMapp in the all or the
watersheds in Otter Tail and Becker Counties. The
PTMapp is nearly finished for all or our watersheds and
this will be tool to help us develop targeted and
measurable priorities within our water management
plans and our daily work with landowners in the
county.
BWSR Response: BWSR appreciates the East Otter Tail
SWCD’s commitment to implement this
recommendation using the PTM approach.
East Otter Tail SWCD Comment 3: Joint
Recommendation 3: Structure website information to
report progress and trends made in achieving
resource outcome goals.
The EOT SWCD recently went through the process of
updating our website. We have made it more of a
priority to make sure information is current and up to
date. On our new website there is a watershed tab, in
which we plan to do more updating on a watershed
basis.
BWSR Response: We acknowledge the recent efforts
of the East Otter Tail SWCD to improve website
information including watershed planning progress.
East Otter Tail SWCD Comment 4: Joint
Recommendation 4: Revisit membership of the Water
Plan Technical Advisory Task Force to ensure that
agency representation is adequate and schedule
sufficient meetings to efficiently develop CWMPs
through the 1W1P Program.
As the 1W1P planning process continues to happen,
each of these watersheds will have an advisory
committee that will include all of the agency partners
along with a citizen component.
BWSR Response: BWSR appreciates the East Otter Tail
SWCD’s commitment to actively encourage the
participation of citizens and agency representatives in
the watershed planning process.
East Otter Tail SWCD Comment 5: Joint
Recommendation 5: Address action items and
consider adding high performance standards to
improve organizational performance.
The EOT SWCD will revisit the high-performance
standards at our annual board/staff retreat and
consider adding those standards at that time.
BWSR Response: BWSR appreciates the East Otter Tail
SWCD’s commitment to implement this
recommendation.
East Otter Tail SWCD Comment 6: The East Otter Tail
SWCD should develop a data practices policy and
update it every 5 years.
The EOT SWCD staff will develop a data practices
policy that will be reviewed and adopted by the board
within the next 18 months.
BWSR Response: BWSR appreciates the East Otter Tail
SWCD’s commitment to address this action item
within the next 18 months.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
24
Appendix A. Plan Accomplishments
LGU Name: Otter Tail County Date of This Assessment:
Type of Management Plan: Comprehensive Local Water Management Plan January 2019
Date of Last Plan Revision:
Color of Lead Agency
MPCA WOTSWCD County (LRM/GIS) COLA LWMP Task force None listed DNR MDA NRCS
GOAL. Otter Tail County will maintain or improve the quality of the surface waters within their boundaries.
Page III-1 of Mgmt. Plan
Objective 1: Target and Prioritize: Target and prioritize surface water quality issues using tools and resources such as
individual lake assessments, MPCA WRAPS, IWI- Water Quality Decisions Support Application (WQDSA), Lidar, and Stream
Power Index to develop measurable goals and outcomes:
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Participate in the development of
TMDLs as determined by the 303(d)
listing of impaired waters (Otter Tail River
from Rice Lake to Mud Lake for
dissolved oxygen and West Spirit Lake
for Total Phosphorus). Provide BMP
information to the Chippewa and Pomme
de Terre watershed projects for
implementation practices on impairments
downstream of Otter Tail County. The
Otter Tail County Board, SWCD and/or
LWMP will attend meetings and provide
input in the writing of TMDLs.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Chippewa River TMDL was completed
June, 2017. Pomme de Terre TMDL
was completed August, 2015. Otter
Tail River Watershed TMDL initiated.
Redeye TMDL completed 2017. Round
2 TMDL for the Pomme de Terre
TMDL initiated.
Ongoing Continue to
implement/assist with
the Otter Tail River
TMDL. Provide
additional information
as needed to help the
Pomme de Terre
TMDL. Continue to
assist MPCA with the
on-going 10-year
cycle.
b. Develop and implement a method to
determine the existence of additional
impaired waters.
2010-2019 - None above MPCA 10-year
assessment cycle. Not
Started
Assist MPCA with
their 10-year cycle
assessments
c. Work with the MPCA on the
Development of a TMDL for
Nutrient/Eutrophication and Biological
Indicators (Total Phosphorus) for West
Spirit Lake.
2010 2016- 2019 MPCA 10-year cycle started 2016,
West Spirit will be part of the final
watershed TMDL.
Ongoing Part of the Otter Tail
WRAPS/10-year
cycle effort in
progress
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 25
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d. Review monitoring assessments by
Chippewa and Pomme de Terre
watershed organizations to determine
effectiveness of BMPs.
2010-2012 2010-2012 Completed
e. Pursue Surface Water Assessment
grants and investigate the feasibility of
high school students completing surface
water monitoring.
2010-2019 - Not
Started
f. MPCA Watershed restoration and
protection Strategies (WRAPS):
Protection Strategies – Assist with
monitoring efforts, development of
implementation plans and
implementation activities in the following
watersheds: Buffalo-Red River, Pomme
de Terre, Bois de Sioux, Chippewa,
Ottertail, Mustinka, Red Eye, Crow Wing,
and Long Prairie
2014-2019 2013-2019 WRAPS completed for Pomme de
Terre (2013), Chippewa, Buffalo
(2016), Red River (2017), Redeye
(2016), Crow Wing (2015), Long
Prairie (2017), and Mustinka (2016).
The Bois de Sioux is in final comment
period and Otter Tail started
monitoring and assessment. Pomme
de Terre starting round two of WRAPS
Ongoing Continue to assist
with Otter Tail and
Pomme de Terre.
Assist as needed as
other watersheds
begin round two of
the WRAPS.
g. Water Quality Monitoring: Monitoring
efforts including but not limited to
MPCA’s watershed monitoring program,
COLA’s lake monitoring program and
volunteer citizen stream monitoring
program.
2014-2019 2014-2019 Over 60 lakes are monitored by COLA,
volunteer monitoring Ongoing Continue to provide
support for MPCA
and COLA
h. Utilize Lake Assessments to prioritize
target BMPs at the lakeshed level and
measure the success of implemented
practices over a longer timeframe.
2014-2019 2014-2019 Lake Assessments used in CWF
applications and further targeting of
BMP implementation. Spot checks
measure longevity of BMPs, with
ongoing lake water quality monitoring.
Ongoing Continue using
assessments for
grants. Add new
tools, such as
PTMApp. Re-assess
to determine changes
in trends.
Objective 2: Lake Association Support: Support lake associations and the Otter Tail County COLA to protect and preserve
the lakes and lakeshed environment. Continue with the advancements of the Lake Assessments to develop lake trends and
possible concerns.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Continue to support Shoreland
Specialist position at EOTSWCD to
provide the lake associations with an
advocate and advisory contact.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Position funded every year. Average
29 shoreline projects funded a year.
Provided cost share for projects
totaling over $381,000.
Ongoing Continue to support a
shoreland specialist
position
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 26
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b. Continue annual workshops through
the Otter Tail COLA, teaching lakeshore
property owners lakescaping BMPs.
2009-2019 2009-2019 3 workshops provided to date, moved
from annual to biennial workshops Ongoing Continue to offer
lakeshore workshops
c. Provide mailings to smaller lakes in
Otter Tail County to promote pro-active
Development and land use within their
lakesheds. Notify lake associations of
training available through MN Waters
2009-2019 2009-2019 Development/Land use information
sent in COLA newsletters and
notifications through septic inspections
Ongoing Reach out to smaller
lake communities,
especially for
impaired lakes
d. Work with Otter Tail COLA and MPCA
to add 5-10 lakes per year to their
monitoring program. Ensure all data is
entered into MPCA STORET system.
Fund monitoring on smaller lakes as
available.
2009-2019 2009-2019 About 15 lakes added to the RMB
Labs monitoring program. County
provided $30,000 in 2018 for additional
lake monitoring
Completed Continue to add lakes
to the monitoring
program as possible,
most major lakes in
the county already
monitored.
e. Continue connection with stakeholders
such as BWSR, MDA, MDH, MPCA,
DNR, LIDs, and Watershed Districts;
completing studies in Otter Tail County
and list available data sources on Otter
Tail County’s website.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Regular meetings with state agencies
through various projects. Relationships
strengthened through continued
interaction.
Ongoing As websites are
update, ensure links
are still active.
Continue to build
relationships with
state agencies.
f. Set-up and participate in existing
environmental education programs for
youth such as the Envirothon,
conservation days, lake management
curriculum, ag-in-the-classroom,
conservation camps for kids (pheasants
forever), prairie wetlands center
programs, FFA, 4-H.
2009-2019 2009-2019 EOTSWCD, WOTSWCD participate in
envirothon, conservation days, lake
management workshops, ag-in-the
classroom, conservation camps, prairie
wetlands center programs, and
COLA/AIS train the teacher program.
Work with other organizations, such as
FFA and 4-H.
Ongoing Continue to
participate in
environmental
education programs.
g. Pursue funding sources for display
media to be made available to area
restaurants encouraging Best
Management Practices for city, lakes,
agriculture and residential property.
Identify need for phosphorus free
fertilizer and present facts to property
owners.
2009-2019
even years
AIS coasters and other display media
developed to encourage BMPs and
AIS prevention.
Ongoing Continue to partner
with others for
education and
outreach.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 27
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h. Work with Otter Tail County Lake
Associations to complete and implement
Lake Assessments and Lake
Management Plans. Completed Lake
Assessments help to determine areas of
the lake to focus on and help to
incorporate beneficial projects into the
Lake Management Plan.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Over 60 Lake assessments completed.
Several lake management plans
completed by Freshwater Society and
Initiative Foundation
Continue to promote
lake assessments and
management plans.
i. Update information brochure listing
agencies and organizations responsible
for available information with person,
phone number, and web page.
2014 2014-2019 Worked with COLA to create
‘Lakeshore Guidebook’ documents.
Brochures and other documents
available on COLA, SWCDs, County’s
websites.
Ongoing Continue to update as
necessary.
j. Support the completion of aquatic
vegetation mapping on priority lakes in
Otter Tail County (52 lakes completed to
date). Re-assess for changes after
completion.
2009-2019 No vegetative management plans
completed after original 52, due to
time/money constraints
Completed
k. Maintain Local Water Management
Update on county web site.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Available on county and SWCD
websites Ongoing Continue to make
available online
l. Hold annual water plan meeting with
presentation of accomplishments and
work plan for upcoming year.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Task Force meets yearly Ongoing Transition Task Force
into 1W1P and citizen
committees
m. Continue to conduct Lake
Assessments on lakes in Otter Tail
County to gain and assess valuable data
about the lake and target areas of
concern, lake trends, and possible lake
projects. Twenty one lakes in Otter Tail
County have completed Lake
Assessments and thirty-eighty lakes are
currently working to complete their Lake
Assessment
2014-2019 2014-2019 60 lake assessments completed Completed Update assessments
with additional
monitoring/information
as needed and as
information becomes
outdated
Objective 3: Stormwater / Drainage Management: Offer education and incentive programs aimed at mitigating the effects of
overland runoff on the surface waters of Otter Tail County, utilizing available regulations if necessary.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 28
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
a. Coordinate with the Bois de Sioux
Watershed District to increase water
storage through water retention
structures and non-structures, and other
temporary and permanent structures in
the Mustinka and Bois de Sioux
watershed.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Several wetland restoration and water
retention structures created, including
the large Redpath project
Ongoing Continue to target
water retention
through future 1W1P
activities.
b. Coordinate with the Buffalo-Red River
Watershed District to increase water
storage through water retention
structures and other temporary and
permanent structures within the
watershed.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Several wetland restorations created in
the watershed Ongoing Continue to targeted
water retention
through future 1W1P
activities
c. Support DNR and local government
efforts in establishing and/or maintaining
lake levels at appropriate elevations,
creating outlets and discharge conditions
with regard to water quality and quantity
issues pursuant to MN Rules 6115.0221.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Completed for Little McDonald, Paul,
Kerbs, Devils, and Little Devils Lakes,
North Turtle, South Turtle, Jewett and
many others.
Ongoing Provide additional
input as needed for
lakes with high water
levels
d. Provide incentive funding for high
priority buffer strips where appropriate
along water courses and basins.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Otter Tail County buffer initiative and
State buffer law implemented,
including incentive funding for buffers
Ongoing Continue to enforce
buffer law and
provide incentive
funding as applicable.
e. Enforce existing lakeshore buffer
regulations on new developments.
Provide buffer incentives for existing
lakeshore owners through DNR
Shoreland Initiative Grant.
2009-2019 2009-2019 DNR shoreland grants no longer
available. Land & Resource counties to
enforce shoreland and buffer rules.
Completed/
Ongoing
Continue to enforce
shoreland and buffer
rules.
f. Enforce existing required buffer area
between rivers / streams / lakes and Ag
fields and existing requirement for
vegetation on steep slopes and bluffs.
2009-2019 2014-2019 Otter Tail County buffer initiative and
State Buffer Law implemented. Ongoing Continue monitoring
and enforcement of
regulations
g. Reward existing BMPs through the
Conservation Security Program in
eligible watersheds as funding allows.
2009-2019 2009-2019 355 CSP contracts awarded since
2009 for East and West Otter Tail. Ongoing Continue to support
USDA
h. Pursue funding for perpetual
easements on developments around
sensitive areas.
2009-2019 2009-2019 RIM and CREP available for priority
areas. Land in the Perham Wellhead
Protection Area permanently
protected.
Ongoing Continue to offer RIM
and CREP
Objective 4: Wetlands / Wildlife Habitat: Identify and protect wetland and wildlife habitat areas located within Otter Tail
County.
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Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Enhance existing and new wetland
restoration and buffers programs such as
CRP, WHIP,WLI, RIMWR and USFWS.
Promote wetlands within the shoreland
and groundwater recharge areas.
2009-2019 2009-2019 CRP acres RIM through Pheasants
Forever programs. In addition,
pollinator plantings, CSP, EQIP, WRP,
wetland banking have all contributed to
wetland preservation/restoration.
Ongoing Continue to protect
and restore wetlands
as funding becomes
available
b. Restore 1000 - 2000 acres of wetland
and wildlife habitat annually.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Through the various programs
mentioned above an estimated 2000-
3000acres of wetland and wildlife
habitat are restored annually
Ongoing Continue to restore
habitat as interest
and funding allows
c. Participate in the Local Technical
Teams for the Minnesota Prairie
Conservation Plan
2014-2019 2014-2017 WOTSWCD participated, local
technical teams disbanded in 2017 Completed
d. Prioritize and target wetland and
grassland restorations in the core,
corridor, and complexes identified in
Otter Tail County
2014-2019 2014-2019 Use the Prairie Conservation Plan to
prioritize permanent protection and
restorations
Ongoing Continue to prioritize
using the Prairie
Conservation Plan
with RIM, CREP, and
other available
funding
e. Enroll approximately 200 – 300 acres
of perpetual easement annually
2014-2019 2014-2019 Approximately 2,800 acres enrolled
since 2009 Ongoing Continue to utilize
funding sources, such
as CREP, to promote
perpetual easements.
f. Inspect a percentage of conservation
easements annually
2014-2019 2014-2019 So inspected. Ongoing Continue to inspect
easements as time
and funding allow
g. Promote and educate landowners
about pollinator plantings throughout
Otter Tail County
2014-2019 2014-2019 Education events include booths,
workshops, and other events.
Pollinator plantings encouraged
through CSP, EQIP, other incentive
programs
Ongoing Continue to promote
and educate
landowners on
pollinator planting
opportunities.
Objective 5: Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification Program: Educate and certify producers within the MAWQCP Target
Area.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Educate landowners and producers on
the value of the MAWQCP
2014-2017 2014-2017 1 producer certified during the pilot.
Several other producers started, not
certified. Full program implementation
began after 2017.
Complete Continue to promote
the MAWQCP
program throughout
Otter Tail County
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 30
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b. Restore 1000 - 2000 acres of wetland
and wildlife habitat annually.
2014-2017 2014-2017 Area certification specialist hired in
EOT. Habitat created through pollinator
plantings, CSP, EQIP, WRP, wetland
banking programs.
Ongoing Continue to promote
wetland and wildlife
habitat restoration as
funding and interest
allows.
Objective 6: Soil Health Initiative: Educate and inform ag producers about the value and benefits of soil health.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Educate landowners and producers
about the importance of soil health and
the benefits to their farm operation.
2014-2019 2014-2019 3 soil health test plots created.
Education through workshops and
rainfall simulations. Partnered with
NRCS for outreach
Ongoing Continue to promote
through test plots and
workshops. Partner
with NRCS.
b. Develop local soil health test plots for
experimental and educational purposes
2014-2019 2014-2019 3 test plots created, 2 in WOT, 1 in
EOT, with a producer field day Ongoing Continue to create
test plots and offer
field days as possible
Objective 7: Drainage Water Management: Promote drainage water management where applicable within Otter Tail County.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Educate and inform landowners and
producers about the importance of
drainage water management
2014-2019 2014-2019 Partnered with Buffalo-Red Watershed
District to promote Drainage Water
Management
Ongoing Continue to
implement where
applicable and
practical
Objective 8: LiDAR: Utilize the best available resources to prioritize, target and measure project and practice location and
success.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Prioritize and target high profile
projects and practices using the best
available resources
2014-2019 2014-2019 LIDAR completed for the county.
Stream Power Index, Hydrologic
conditioning and PTMApp completed
for all watershed in the county.
Ongoing Continue to prioritize
and target practices
using the best
technology, including
PTMApp.
Objective 9: Central MN On-Farm Nitrogen Management Program- Conduct basal stalk nitrate testing and replicated strip
trials to promote BMP implementation for nutrient stewardship
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 31
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
a. Work with producers in a five county
area to conduct guided basal stalk testing
in corn acres.
2014-2019 2014-2018 5 years, did it. Funding from MDA no
longer available Complete
b. Use the results collected to educate
farmers on the environmental benefits,
water resource protection, and how the
program helps lead producers to make
farm level management changes that are
more profitable to the grower.
2014-2019 2014-2018 5 years, did it. Funding from MDA no
longer available. Complete
Objective 10: Lakescaping- landscaping shoreline areas using methods that help improve and protect water quality and
wildlife habitat
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Install buffer zones and rain gardens of
native vegetation along lakeshores
2014-2019 2014-2019 10-20 shoreline buffers installed yearly
by SWCD staff. Many landowners
install buffers without cost share
Ongoing Continue to provide
cost share as
available.
b. Educate lakeshore owners on best
management practices to enhance public
knowledge
2014-2019 2014-2019 Education included presentations at
events, tours, social media, outreach
through fairs, and county/SWCD
websites
Ongoing Continue to work with
COLA and lake
associations to
educate landowners
on BMPs
Objective 11: Irrigation: Promote BMP for irrigators county-wide by offering beneficial data and programs.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Collect information vital to agricultural
production by monitoring our four weather
stations, installing additional weather
stations, and uploading information to an
irrigation checkbook program.
Ongoing Ongoing 12 weather stations available across a
5 county area. Weather stations are
synced and available on NDAWN.
Ongoing Continue to support
the weather stations
as needed
b. Promote the irrigation scheduler
program (ISP) to give farmers a second
opinion on the soil moisture status of a
given field.
Ongoing Ongoing Irrigation Management Assistance tool
available for use by irrigators. Average
81 fields per year, 812 fields total since
2009
Ongoing Continue to offer and
support irrigation
scheduling
c. Educate farmers on BMP for irrigation
management by hosting irrigation
workshops throughout Otter Tail County
and surrounding counties.
Ongoing Ongoing Workshop hosted yearly by EOT for
irrigation news and information. Ongoing Continue to offer a
yearly workshop
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 32
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d. Work to convert high pressure irrigation
systems to low pressure through a clean
water grant application that allows
EOTSWCD to provide cost share to
county producers.
Ongoing Ongoing 19 systems converted with cost share
totaling over $190,000. Most systems
by interested landowners converted to
low pressure. Funding for low pressure
systems no longer available
Complete Few high pressure
systems remain in the
county
Objective 12: State Cost Share: Address high priority wind, water, and water quality issues within the county by providing
financial assistance to landowners
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Assist landowners addressing high
priority wind, water and water quality
issues within the county.
Ongoing Ongoing Over $750,000 spent on cost share for
BMPs to reduce wind and water
erosion. SWCDs and County have
hired new staff to increase capacity and
install greater and more beneficial
BMPs. Used matching district funds for
projects 2009-present.
Ongoing Continue to offer cost
share for landowners
Objective 13: Agriculture: Address and target water quality and erosion issues on agricultural land.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Identify and contact landowners with
inactive Ag Waste Pits about sealing pits
Ongoing Ongoing Some accomplished through EQIP and
through the PdTRA. Average 1-2 ag
waste pits sealed yearly. Recent feedlot
inspections with the MPCA feedlot
officer.
Ongoing Continue to contact
landowners and seal
waste pits as needed.
b. Assist landowners with nutrient and
pest management activities
Ongoing Ongoing Average 40 plots a year for Guided
Stalk Sampling (2011 -2017), funding
ended in 2017. Average 7 Nutrient
Management Initiative plots per year
(2012-2018), recent years include 9-16
plots. Additional nutrient management
activities through EQIP and CSP.
Ongoing Continue to assist
landowners with
nutrient and pest
management through
NMI and other
activities as feasible.
Objective 14: Erosion: Target and prioritize high priority erosion sites and provide technical and financial assistance to
landowners to address erosion problems
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Target and prioritize high priority
erosion sites using the best available
resources
Ongoing Ongoing Completed PTMApp for all watersheds
in the county. Could have done more if
funded by BWSR.
Ongoing Use PTMApp and
1W1P to refine
priorities and target
erosion sites
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 33
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
b. Pursue funding to assist with erosion
control practices within all watersheds of
Otter Tail County
Ongoing Ongoing Applied for many competitive funds
from BWSR, including 1W1P.Could
have done more if funded by BWSR
Ongoing Continue to apply for
funding as needed.
Prioritize erosion from
non-competitive funds
c. Design and install high priority erosion
control practices
Ongoing Ongoing Over $750,000 spent on cost share for
BMPs to reduce wind and water
erosion. SWCDs and County have
hired new staff to increase capacity and
install greater and more beneficial
BMPs. Could have done more if funded
by BWSR
Ongoing Continue to
implement BMPs as
funding and staff time
allows.
d. All measurable outcomes will be
recorded in BWSRs Elink
Ongoing Ongoing Is Required and completed on-time Ongoing Will continue to
provide outcomes in
eLINK.
GOAL. Regulatory Issues Goals: Develop regulations, education and incentives to ensure orderly development with
minimal impacts to sensitive areas to preserve Otter Tail County's natural resources.
Page III-4 of Mgmt. Plan
Objective 1: Sensitive Areas: Develop a model to identify areas sensitive to intensive development throughout Otter Tail
County.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Explore available sensitivity models
being utilized by other counties and work
with LRM, Eagle Lake Township and
Dead Lake to determine feasibility of use
as a lake districting
pilot project, for potential use in county-
wide land use planning.
2009-2013 Dropped
b. Develop Lake Districting county-wide to
protect sensitive areas from degradation
due to overdevelopment.
2009-2019 Dropped
c. Request DNR re-classification of 203
lakes in Otter Tail County. Adopt and
implement reclassification of lakes 150
acres or less in size from General or
Recreational Development
to Natural Environment Shoreline.
2009 2009 Several lakes reclassified in the county Complete
d. Participate in and support state-wide
process of shoreland rulemaking and
support adoption of new rules when
approved by the State.
2009-2010 Ongoing Participate in planning model
ordinance. Used model ordinance to
update the county shoreland ordinance
Ongoing Continue to support
rule making and rule
updates
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 34
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
e. Educate the decision makers of Otter
Tail County by pursuing funding to bring
training to the decision makers locally.
2009-2010 Ongoing
Objective 2: Agriculture: Support the Agriculture Advisory Task Force and their recommendations to the Otter Tail County
Board regarding regulation of agricultural practices.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Actively participate as a member of
the Ag Advisory Task Force. Support the
recommendation of the need for a long-
range county comprehensive plan and
investigate the obstacles preventing it
from happening.
2010-2012 2010-2012 Attended meetings as requested, no
meetings held in several years Complete
b. Support county delegation for feedlots
by informing the County Board of the
program, and the feasibility of one
designated feedlot officer and technical
support staff to complete inventory
through MPCA feedlot program, and
administer the program.
2009-2012 2009, 2013-
2015
SWCDs supported and informed
county board about the benefits and
issues with feedlot delegation. County
Board has not supported accepting
delegation
Completed/
Dropped
Support future efforts
to adopt feedlot
delegation
c. Support the adoption of the agriculture
rules included in the new State
Shoreland
Rules.
2010-2011 2010-2011 Supported new rules as they became
apparent Complete
Objective 3: Subsurface Sewage Treatment: Promote county‐wide Sub‐Surface Sewage Treatment System compliance
through systematic inspection, education and regulation.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Continue systematic Sub-surface
Sewage Treatment System(SSTS)
inspection around the shorelines of Otter
Tail County Lakes. Target lakes identified
in Section II:
2009-2019 2009-2019 Required point of sale inspections per
current state recommendations Complete
b. Support the county adoption of the new
SSTS rules in 2010, requiring system
certification every three years.
2010-2011 2010-2011 Required at point-of-sale per current
state recommendations. Recertification
not required unless applying for a
county permit
Complete Continue to support
future SSTS rule
changes
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 35
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
c. Utilize Extension products to develop
maintenance fact sheet to be issued with
800- plus compliance letters on SSTS.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Extension products used to develop
fact sheet and issued with compliance
letters
Complete
d. Facilitate land-owners meetings to
encourage cluster systems with
maintenance agreements in sensitive
areas, moving the disposal site away from
inadequate soils.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Ongoing Will work with cluster
systems as
opportunities or
issues arise
e. Continue low interest loan program for
failing septic systems. Prioritize sensitive
areas such as high water table, wellhead
protection area, excessively sandy or
heavy soils.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Provide an average of 6 loans per year
for septic upgrades. 2018 included
loans totaling almost $58,000.
Ongoing Continue to offer the
low interest loan
program for failing
septic systems.
Objective 4: Otter Tail County Buffer Initiative: Assist landowners and the county to move in the direction of 100%
compliance with the state and county shoreland ordinance.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Identify areas of concern and create a
database of potential non-compliance
parcels. Maintain and continually update
database
2014-2022 Timeline moved up due to state buffer
law. Complete BWSR database
updated continually
b. Phase 1 – Mail a letter, factsheet, and
map to landowners with potential
noncompliant parcels informing them of
the state and county ordinance and
programs available to assist
2014-2016 Timeline moved up due to state buffer
law. 1,100 letters mailed to potential
noncompliant parcels.
Complete
c. Phase 2 – Landowners who did not
respond or install a buffer will receive a
second letter informing them that they are
out of compliance and a 50ft buffer is
required along all county lakes, rivers,
and streams.
2017-2019 Timeline moved up due to state buffer
law. 1,100 letters mailed to potential
noncompliant parcels.
Complete
d. Phase 3 – Landowners who did not
respond or install a buffer will receive a
third letter informing them that they are
out of compliance and a 50ft buffer is
required along all county lakes, rivers and
streams. There will be a deadline to
voluntarily install the required buffer.
2020-2022 Timeline moved up due to state buffer
law. 400 letters mailed to potential
noncompliant parcels.
Complete Continue to monitor
noncompliant parcels
and report to LGU for
enforcement
Objective 5: Aquatic Invasive Species: Promote the importance of controlling aquatic invasive species.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 36
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Educate the public about the significant
impact aquatic invasive species can have
on the water resources of Otter Tail
County
2014-2019 2014-2019 Watercraft inspectors at over 100 lakes
to educate boaters. Train the teachers
program sponsored by COLA, Other
outreach materials created, including
videos.
Ongoing Continue to educate
public about AIS
b. Continue to support the Otter Tail
County Aquatic Invasive Species
Taskforce
2014-2019 2014-2019 Supported the task force and all the
varied actions they promoted Ongoing Continue to support
the Otter Tail AIS
Task Force
GOAL. Groundwater Quality Goal: Otter Tail County will protect the existing groundwater quality for drinking water
purposes.
Page III-4 of Mgmt. Plan
Objective 1: Source water Protection: Otter Tail County will participate in the preservation of the quality of the drinking
water supply resources.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Participate on wellhead/source water
protection teams during the development
and implementation of Wellhead
Protection Plans.
2009-2019 Reviewed 9 Wellhead Protection Plans
and participated in the Perham, Fergus
Falls, and Battle Lake wellhead
protection teams
Ongoing Continue to review
WHP plans and
participate in
wellhead protection
teams as requested.
b. Identify Wellhead Protection Areas on
a County GIS map layer.
2009-2019 Layers made available on GIS Completed
c. Conduct four Nitrate testing clinics
(Otter Tail, New York Mills, Fergus Falls,
and Perham) per year through MDA and
cooperative efforts with lake associations
and communities.
2009-2019 More than 4 completed annually:
Perham & New York Mills schools,
WOT clinic, EOT clinic, Women’s
health day and others as requested.
Ongoing Continue to offer
nitrate testing clinics
and offer the service
in the EOT office
d. As part of the Nitrate testing clinics,
distribute handouts to inform landowners
of potential causes of contamination from
arsenic, whether artificial or natural and
available testing for groundwater.
2009-2019 Brochures available as part of the
nitrate clinics and in the EOT office.
MDA township testing information
distributed.
Ongoing Continue to provide
brochure information
e. Encourage the DNR to work with the
local unit of government to incorporate
conservation practices with irrigation
permits within sensitive groundwater
areas.
2009-2019 Irrigation permits reviewed and
commented as noticed by MNDNR Ongoing Continue to comment
as needed
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 37
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
f. Coordinate groundwater monitoring
results throughout the county and
request MDH presentation of information
every two years to the LWMP task force
and county board per the sand plain
agreement with MDH.
2009-2019 MDA updates provided on groundwater
monitoring, including the pesticide
testing program
Ongoing Continue to
coordinate
groundwater
monitoring efforts.
g. Cost-share up to 75% toward sealing
of abandoned wells. Prioritize wellhead
protection, groundwater recharge, and
other sensitive areas for funding.
2009-2019 112 wells sealed since 2009. Cost
share at 50%. Additionally, one well
sealing grant to seal 98 wells near
Otter Tail Lake completed.
Ongoing Continue to offer cost
share for well sealing
h. Continue low interest loan program for
failing SSTS. Prioritize sensitive areas
such as high water table, wellhead
protection area, excessively sandy or
heavy soils.
2019-2019 Provide an average of 6 loans per year
for septic upgrades. 2018 included
loans totaling almost $58,000.
Ongoing Continue to offer low
interest loans for
failing SSTS
i. Promote education of the general
public on chemical/fertilizer use and
BMPs through EOTSWCD,WOTSWCD
and Extension newsletters, and articles in
the local
2009-2019 Promoted through EOTSWCD social
media and at lake association and
COLA meetings for the general public.
Ongoing Continue to provide
education and
outreach about BMPs
for chemical /fertilizer
use
j. Develop and implement 20 Nutrient
Management Plans annually to prevent
over application of livestock and
commercial fertilizer.
2009-2019 # of Nutrient Management Plans per
year Ongoing Continue to develop
nutrient management
plans based on
funding availability
with the NRCS
Objective 2: DNR Observation Well Monitoring-Measuring static water levels in a network of observation wells across the
county.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Assist the DNR to monitor observation
wells to provide information on aquifer
health and recharge, and model long term
trends.
2014-2019 2014-2019 WOTSWCD, County are monitoring
OBwells Ongoing Continue to monitor
obwells as
appropriate
b. Determine the impact of pumping on
aquifers and resolve well interference
conflicts.
2014-2019 Assist DNR as requested, no requests
to help received Ongoing SWCD will comment if
asked
Objective 3: Private Well Monitoring Network- Continue to support private well monitoring efforts to determine quality of
drinking water.
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 38
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Determine current nitrate-n
concentrations in private wells.
2011-2019 Township Testing program completed
by MDA, central sand plans long-term
monitoring on-going
Ongoing Continue to work with
MDA to track nitrate
levels in private wells
b. Determine nitrate-n trends. 2014-2019 Township Testing program completed
by MDA Ongoing Continue to work with
MDA to track nitrate
levels in private wells
Objective 4: Irrigation: Promote BMP for irrigators county-wide by offering beneficial data and programs.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Collect information vital to agricultural
production by monitoring our four
weather stations, installing additional
weather stations, and uploading
information to an irrigation checkbook
program.
2014-2019 2014-2019 12 weather stations available across a
5 county area. Weather stations are
synced and available on NDAWN.
Ongoing Weather Stations to
be maintained by
NDAWN, more
weather stations
possible.
b. Promote the irrigation scheduler
program (ISP) to give farmers a second
opinion on the soil moisture status of a
given field.
2014-2019 2009-2019 Average 88 fields per year, 442 fields
since 2014. Ongoing Continue to offer ISP
c. Educate farmers on BMP for irrigation
management by hosting irrigation
workshops throughout Otter Tail County
and surrounding counties.
2014-2019 2014-2019 Irrigation workshop continued for 7
years. At least 10 meetings with 80-
110 participants
Completed EOTSWCD will
continue to offer an
irrigation workshop
d. Work to convert high pressure
irrigation systems to low pressure
through a clean water grant application
that allows EOTSWCD to provide cost
share to county producers.
2014-2019 2014-2019 2 separate grants completed. 19
systems upgraded with cost share
totaling over $190,000.
Completed
Objective 12: State Cost Share: Address high priority wind, water, and water quality issues within the county by providing
financial assistance to landowners
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 39
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
a. Assist landowners addressing high
priority wind, water and water quality
issues within the county.
Ongoing Ongoing Over $750,000 spent on cost share for
BMPs to reduce wind and water
erosion. SWCDs and County have
hired new staff to increase capacity and
install greater and more beneficial
BMPs.
Ongoing Continue to offer cost
share for landowners
to address wind and
water issues
Objective 13: Agriculture: Address and target water quality and erosion issues on agricultural land.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Identify and contact landowners with
inactive Ag Waste Pits about sealing pits
Ongoing Ongoing Some accomplished through EQIP and
through the PdTRA. Average 1-2 ag
waste pits sealed yearly. Recent feedlot
inspections with the MPCA feedlot
officer.
Ongoing Continue to contact
landowners and seal
waste pits as needed.
b. Assist landowners with nutrient and
pest management activities
Ongoing Ongoing Average 40 plots a year for Guided
Stalk Sampling (2011 -2017), funding
ended in 2017. Average 7 Nutrient
Management Initiative plots per year
(2012-2018), recent years include 9-16
plots. Additional nutrient management
activities through EQIP and CSP
Ongoing Continue to assist
landowners with
nutrient and pest
management through
NMI and other
activities as feasible
GOAL. Groundwater Quantity Goal: Otter Tail County will work to maintain the existing adequate volumes of groundwater
for the use of the constituents.
Page III-9 of Mgmt. Plan
Objective 1: Preservation of Aquifer Volume: Preserve the adequacy of the groundwater volume through education,
incentive and regulation.
Planned Actions or Activities Proposed
Timeframe
Actual
Timeframe Accomplishments to Date Progress
Rating Next Steps
a. Address the Otter Tail County
Commissioners and the East and West
Otter Tail SWCD Boards resolutions to
prevent movement of groundwater from
within the boundaries of the county to
other major watersheds
2009-2019 2009-2019 Educated and informed Boards about
groundwater movement, resulted in a
county resolution to prevent movement
from major watersheds
Completed Continue to monitor
any changes that
may move
groundwater out of
the watershed
boundary
b. Investigate and comment on future
proposed ethanol plants for volume of
surface and/or groundwater needed and
the capacity of the aquifer or surface
water system.
2009-2019 2009-2019 One ethanol plant built in the county Completed no future plans to
build
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 40
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
c. Work with irrigators within the county
on utilizing BMPs to reduce the irrigation
needs.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Offered the irrigation scheduler
program and used AIG funds to learn
about farmer’s needs and interests
(Identifying Best Management
Practices and Barriers to Adoption)
Ongoing Continue to offer the
irrigation scheduler
program and promote
other water use
BMPs, including soil
health and
chemigation.
d. Develop a program to educate the
public and support the sustainability of
the aquifer resources in Otter Tail
County.
2009-2019 2009-2019 Several programs exist to support
education, including irrigation
scheduling, irrigation workshops,
geological atlas, and geological
surveys
Ongoing Continue to educate
and support
education programs.
MPCA WOTSWCD County (LRM/GIS) COLA LWMP Task force None listed DNR MDA NRCS
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
41
Appendix B. Performance Standards
Otter Tail County
◼I Annual Compliance
II
YES NO
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
X
◼X
N/A
◼X
X
X
◼X
◼X
X
X
X
◼X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Water quality data collected to track outcomes for each priority
concern II
II
II
Water quality trends tracked for priority water bodies
Obtain stakeholder input: within last 5 yrs
Partnerships: liaison with SWCDs/WDs and cooperative
projects/tasks done
II
I
Communication Target Audience:Facebook Friends, Twitter
COUNTY LOCAL WATER MANAGEMENT PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Performance Standard Level of Review Rating
LGU Name:
Yes, No,
or Value
Performance AreaBWSR Staff Review &
Assessment (1/10 yrs)
I
Basic practice or statutory requirement
High Performance standard
(see instructions for explanation of standards)
eLINK Grant Report(s): submitted on time
Drainage authority buffer strip report submitted on timeAdmin
PlanningI
Metro counties: groundwater plan up-to-date I
II
I
II
Track progress for I & E objectives in Plan
Public drainage records: meet modernization guidelines
Local water mgmt plan: current
Water quality trend data used for short- and long-range plan
priorities
IBiennial Budget Request submitted on-time
Certified wetland delineator on staff or retainer II
WCA decisions and determinations are made in
conformance with WCA requirements.II
County has resolution assuming WCA responsibilities and
delegation resolutions (if needed).
County has knowledgable and trained staff to manage WCA
program or secured a qualified delegate.
II
II
ExecutionWCA TEP reviews and recommendations are appropriately
coordinated.II
Prioritized, Targeted & Measureable criteria are used for Goals
& Objectives in local water management plan as appropriate.
Communication piece sent within last 12 months: indicate target
audience below II
II
II
Communication & CoordinationWater management ordinances on county website
BWSR grant report(s) posted on website
IICounty local water plan on county website
II
II
Annual report to water plan advisory committee on plan progress
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 42
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
West Otter Tail SWCD
◼I Annual Compliance
II
YES NO
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼N/A
X
X
X
X
◼X
◼X
X
X
◼X
◼
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
X
X
◼X
X
X
X
X
X
X
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
$271,611 $315,263 $541,676 $500,924 $562,284 $373,131 $424,355 $847,729 $836,995 $909,996
TOTAL = $5,583,964
WCA TEP member contributes to TEP reviews, findings &
recommendations II
II
II
WCA decisions and determinations are made in conformance with all
WCA requirements (If WCA LGU)
WCA TEP reviews/recommendations appropriately coordinated(if LGU)ExecutionII
II see below
II
II
II
(see instructions for explanation of standards)
SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Performance Standard Level of Review Rating
Performance AreaLGU Name:
BWSR Staff Review &
Assessment (1/10 yrs)
Yes, No,
or ValueHigh Performance standard
Basic practice or Statutory requirement
II
AdministrationFinancial statement: annual, on-time and complete
Staff training: orientation and cont. ed. plan/record for each staff member
Personnel policy: exists and reviewed/updated within last 5 yrs
Job approval authorities: reviewed and reported annually
Board training: orientation & cont. ed. plan and record for each board
member
Technical professional appointed and serving on WCA TEP
SWCD has an adopting resolution assuming WCA responsibilities and
appropriate decision delegation resolutions as warranted (If WCA LGU)
Financial audit: completed as required by statute (see guidance) or as per
BWSR correspondence
eLINK Grant Report(s) submitted on-time
Data practices policy: exists and reviewed/updated within last 5 yrs
II
II
II
Operational guidelines and policies exist and are current
II
Prioritized, Targeted and Measureable criteria are used for Goals and
Objectives in the local water management plan as appropriate.
II
II
Annual Plan of Work: based on comp plan, strategic priorities
I
Biennial Budget Request submitted on time I
II
I
I
I
II
II
II
II
Annual report communicates progress on water plan goals
Website contains all required content elements
Months of operating funds in reserve II
Track progress on I & E objectives in Plan II
I
Certified wetland delineator: on staff or retainer
WCA TEP member is knowledgeable/trained in WCA technical aspects
II
II
II
II
Website contains additional content beyond minimum required
Obtain stakeholder input: within last 5 yrs
Outcome trends monitored and reported for key resources
Comprehensive Plan: updated within 5 yrs or current resolution adopting
unexpired county LWM plan
Are state grant funds spent in high priority problem areas
Communication & CoordinationTotal expenditures per year (over past 10 yrs)
Partnerships: cooperative projects/tasks with neighboring districts, counties,
watershed districts, non-governmental organizations
Coordination with County Board by supervisors or staff
Replacement and restoration orders are prepared in conformance with
WCA rules and requirements.Planning
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 43
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources • www.bwsr.state.mn.us
East Otter Tail SWCD
◼I Annual Compliance
II
YES NO
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼N/A
X
X
X
X
◼X
◼X
X
X
◼X
◼
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
◼X
X
X
◼X
X
X
X
X
X
X
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
$516,807 $486,588 $475,862 $657,667 $621,571 $367,318 $414,774 $1,142,102 $1,115,897 $1,340,751
TOTAL = $7,139,337
WCA TEP member contributes to TEP reviews, findings &
recommendations II
II
II
WCA decisions and determinations are made in conformance with all
WCA requirements (If WCA LGU)
WCA TEP reviews/recommendations appropriately coordinated(if LGU)ExecutionII
II see below
II
II
II
(see instructions for explanation of standards)
SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Performance Standard Level of Review Rating
Performance AreaLGU Name:
BWSR Staff Review &
Assessment (1/10 yrs)
Yes, No,
or ValueHigh Performance standard
Basic practice or Statutory requirement
II
AdministrationFinancial statement: annual, on-time and complete
Staff training: orientation and cont. ed. plan/record for each staff member
Personnel policy: exists and reviewed/updated within last 5 yrs
Job approval authorities: reviewed and reported annually
Board training: orientation & cont. ed. plan and record for each board
member
Technical professional appointed and serving on WCA TEP
SWCD has an adopting resolution assuming WCA responsibilities and
appropriate decision delegation resolutions as warranted (If WCA LGU)
Financial audit: completed as required by statute (see guidance) or as per
BWSR correspondence
eLINK Grant Report(s) submitted on-time
Data practices policy: exists and reviewed/updated within last 5 yrs
II
II
II
Operational guidelines and policies exist and are current
II
Prioritized, Targeted and Measureable criteria are used for Goals and
Objectives in the local water management plan as appropriate.
II
II
Annual Plan of Work: based on comp plan, strategic priorities
I
Biennial Budget Request submitted on time I
II
I
I
I
II
II
II
II
Annual report communicates progress on water plan goals
Website contains all required content elements
Months of operating funds in reserve II
Track progress on I & E objectives in Plan II
I
Certified wetland delineator: on staff or retainer
WCA TEP member is knowledgeable/trained in WCA technical aspects
II
II
II
II
Website contains additional content beyond minimum required
Obtain stakeholder input: within last 5 yrs
Outcome trends monitored and reported for key resources
Comprehensive Plan: updated within 5 yrs or current resolution adopting
unexpired county LWM plan
Are state grant funds spent in high priority problem areas
Communication & CoordinationTotal expenditures per year (over past 10 yrs)
Partnerships: cooperative projects/tasks with neighboring districts, counties,
watershed districts, non-governmental organizations
Coordination with County Board by supervisors or staff
Replacement and restoration orders are prepared in conformance with
WCA rules and requirements.Planning
PRAP Level II Report: Otter Tail County, East Otter Tail SWCD and West Otter Tail SWCD 44
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Appendix C. Summary of Survey Results
Survey Overview:
The survey was developed by BWSR staff for the purpose of identifying information about the local government
units’ performance from both board members and staff and from the units’ partner organizations. The West
Otter Tail SWCD, East Otter Tail SWCD and Land and Resource Management staff identified, at BWSR’s request,
their current board members, staff and the partner organizations with whom they have an on-going working
relationship. BWSR staff invited those people to take the on-line survey and their responses were received and
analyzed by BWSR staff. Board members and staff answered a different set of survey questions than the partners.
The identity of the survey respondents is unknown to both BWSR and the LGUs.
In this case, 6 board members and staff, and 18 partner organization representatives, were invited to take the
survey for Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management Department. 3 board members/staff responded, a
50% response rate and 12 partners responded (67%).
For the West Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District, 10 supervisors and staff were invited to take the
survey, 7 responded, a 70% response rate. Twenty one SWCD partners were invited and 16 (73%) responded.
Thirteen East Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District supervisors and staff were invited to take the survey,
and 12 responded, a 92% response rate. Sixty five SWCD partners were invited and 33 (51%) responded.
Both sets of responses are summarized below. Some responses were edited for clarity or brevity.
Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management Department Board and Staff
Questions and Responses
How often does your organization use your current management plan to guide decisions about what you do?
(response percent)
Always 50.0%
Usually 50.0%
Seldom 0.0%
Never 0.0%
Additional Comments:
• Being new to Management within the office I am not familiar with the long range management plan. I
can only assume it incorporates all of the ordinances, policies and rules that we have been enforcing for
years which are in place to protect the water resources of Otter Tail County.
List your organization’s most successful programs and projects during the past 3-5 years.
Septic system point of sale update requirement and AIS, WCA, 1W1P.
What helped make these projects and programs successful?
Knowledgeable staff, updated technology (online permitting) and cooperation from the County Board,
contractors and the public.
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During the past 3-5 years, which of your organization’s programs or projects have shown little progress or
been on hold?
The septic system abatement program was terminated.
List the reasons why the organization has had difficulty with these projects and programs.
Abatement program was ceased when the County started requiring septic system updates at point of sale or
property owner transfer.
Regarding the various organizations and agencies with which you could cooperate on projects or programs…
List the ones with which you work well already
SWCD, DNR, MPCA
List the ones with which better collaboration would benefit your organization
ACOE, DNR
If you don’t know much about your organization’s working relationships with partners, enter “I don’t know”
What steps could your organization take to increase your effectiveness in accomplishing your plan goals and
objectives?
Continue to train staff, educate the public and providers. Keep up with technology. Maintain our longstanding
working relationships with partners, public and providers.
How long have you been with the organization? (response percent)
Less than 5 years 0.0%
5 to 10 years 0.0%
More than 15 years 100.0%
Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management Department Partner Questions and
Responses
Question: How often have you interacted with this organization during the past two to three years? Select the
response closest to your experience. (response percent)
Not at all 0.0%
A few times 16.7%
Several times a year 16.7%
Monthly 25.0%
Almost every week 41.7%
Daily 0.0%
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If you chose not all, when was the last time you interacted with the organization? No comments
Is the amount of work you do in partnership with this organization… (percent)
Not enough, there is potential for us to do more together 8.3%
About right 91.7%
Too much, they depend on us for work they should be doing themselves 0.0%
Too much, we depend on them for work we should be doing ourselves or with
others
0.0%
Other (Please explain):
• We did a soils training with the county but have plans in 2019 to partner on homeowner and realtor
training.
Based on your experience, please rate the efforts of the subject organization in the following areas:
Performance Characteristic
Rating (percent of responses)
Strong Good Acceptable Poor I don’t
know
Communication (they keep us informed; we know their activities;
they seek our input) 50% 25% 25% 0% 0%
Quality of work (they have good projects and programs; good
service delivery) 50% 25% 16.7% 0% 8.3%
Relationships with Customers (they work well with landowners
and clients) 50% 16.7% 25% 0% 8.3%
Initiative (they are willing to take on new projects, try new ideas)
50% 16.7% 33.3% 0% 0%
Timelines/Follow-through (they are reliable and meet deadlines)
58.3% 25% 16.7% 0% 0%
How is your working relationship with this organization? (percent)
Powerful, we are more effective working together 41.7%
Strong, we work well together most of the time 33.3%
Good, but it could be better 25.0%
Acceptable, but a struggle at times 0.0%
Poor, there are almost always difficulties 0.0%
Non-existent, we don’t work with this organization 0.0%
Do you have additional thoughts about how the "subject" organization could be more effective?
• No responses
How long have you been with the organization? (response percent)
Less than 5 years 16.7%
5 to 10 years 33.3%
More than 15 years 50.0%
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West Otter Tail SWCD Supervisor and Staff Questions and Responses
How often does your organization use your current management plan to guide decisions about what you do?
(response percent)
Always 42.9%
Usually 57.1%
Seldom 0.0%
Never 0.0%
Additional Comments:
• I give what I think is my best plan for the programs I am in charge of to the team. If the team think that's
a good plan we will use that if someone can come up with something different that we think would be
better we will use that. We work well together and I noticed a lot of what has been done in the past has
worked well.
List your organization’s most successful programs and projects during the past 3-5 years.
I am fairly new but we were the pilot for a volunteer buffer program which lead to the buffer law. We are
currently 99% compliant. I think we have been successful with this law because our proactive approach sending
out letters and meeting with landowners on sites if requested. Last summer we were the first to get the first
CREP wetland restoration site in the state. Again we took an active approach sending out letters landowners
that could enroll their land into 1 of the CREP eligible practices. We are lucky to have good landowners that are
willing to put conservation on the ground. We currently have a consistent tree, and native grass and flowers
programming. Each summer we put hundreds of acres into Native grass and flowers and have had multiple tree
plantings.
Clean Water Fund Grants for buffer implementation and structural water quality practices, assisting landowners
with the CREP program, and working with the Pomme De Terre River Association on clean water fund grant
projects. Also assisting landowners through the State Cost Share Program.
Buffer compliance. CREP utilization. Tree plantings.
Otter Tail County Buffer Initiative, Erosion Control Projects, Seed Program and Seeding, No-till Drill rental, CRP
and Conservation Easements, County Ag Inspector.
MN Buffer Law-Buffer Implementation State Cost Share Farm Bill Programs.
Buffer Program.
Numbers of structures and terraces have been installed.
Getting farmers and landowners to adopt requirements with the buffer law. Continuing with a successful tree
program. Partnership programs with other soil and water districts.
What helped make these projects and programs successful?
I think it's been a combination of persistent effort, money available, and good relationships with landowners
that have made this possible. We do our very best to build relationships and continue to strive to have a good
name throughout the community. A littler extra effort goes a long ways and that's what we have been doing
and will continue to do.
Our partnerships with the watershed districts and our county board were important in these efforts. Also
landowner willingness to engage in these practices was important. Meeting with landowners on site has helped
with getting conservation cost share projects on the ground through the State Cost Share Program.
Staff teamwork.
OTC Buffers - The SWCD's and the County had the foresight to address the required buffers in the shoreland
ordinance prior to the state's buffer initiative. The approach was to take a phased approach through the county
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and educate landowners regarding the requirement before enforcing. This has been a huge success. Erosion
Control - The SWCD has seen an increase in the willingness of landowners to install erosion control practices in
their fields. The success of this program is also due to the increased funds the SWCD has for cost share. Some of
these funds have come through the Pomme de Terre River Association, the County and other watersheds. Seed
Program - The SWCD has had a successful seed sales program and seeding. The SWCD strives to be a one-stop
shop for landowners to accomplish all of their conservation goals. The SWCD still maintains and provides
landowners with a list of all vendors in the area. No-till Drill Rental - Having 2 drills available to landowners has
increased the amount of acres planted with our drills. CRP and Easements - The SWCD partners with Pheasants
Forever to employ a full time Farm Bill Biologist. This position works sole on CRP and has increased the
enrollment when the program has been available. Easements programs have been successful in the county
when available. County Ag Inspector - Since taking on this responsibility the SWCD has built a relationship with
the Townships and has reestablished the local process of enforcement which requires first contact be the local
township official. The SWCD takes over if nothing is completed and legal action needs to be pursued.
Funding and agencies working together.
Staff--Board, County and SWCD.
Informational meetings and good communication.
During the past 3-5 years, which of your organization’s programs or projects have shown little progress or
been on hold?
CREP, MAWQCP, and Field Windbreaks. These programs have had their moments but have been inconsistent
and not where they should be.
CREP program
Unknown
Shoreline restorations and stabilization, Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification Program, District Tree
Program, Soil Health/Cover Crops.
Tree sales, CREP
None that I can think of.
List the reasons why the organization has had difficulty with these projects and programs.
CREP has been hard to sell to landowners with average money to landowners for a permanent easement. Also
the requirements to be eligible has handcuffed us with the ability to talk to certain landowners. MAWQCP has
been another one hard to sell with a lot of paper work and time for landowners and little compensation. It
would be nice if we could cost share shelterbelts and field windbreaks.
Lack of landowner interest in the CREP program.
Unknown.
Shoreline - The county shoreline specialists are located in the East Otter Tail office and this can cause some
confusion with landowners and among staff when trying to complete projects. MAWQCP - The program has
been slow to catch on with landowners in the county and existing staff have not been able to dedicate the
amount of time needed to make this program successful. The SWCD still works with landowners on the
certification program. District Tree Program - The district tree sales have stayed about average. The noticeable
change is in the total number and size of tree planting which has been decreasing over the years. Soil
Health/Cover Crops - Landowner interest has been minimal, limited growing season, and staff expertise.
Tree sales are program driven CREP is a perpetual easement which deters landowners.
Regarding the various organizations and agencies with which you could cooperate on projects or programs…
List the ones with which you work well already
PF, FSA, NRSC, DNR, USFWS, Neighboring SWCDs, PDTRA, and BWSR, Watershed Districts.
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PDT Watershed Assoc., Buffalo Red River Watershed District, Pheasants Forever, FF Fish and Game Club,
USFWS, Otter Tail County Land and Resources
FSA, NRCS, County.
MN Land Trust, USFWS Private lands, MN DNR (Wildlife, Fisheries, Waters) Pheasants Forever (State and Local
Chapters), Otter Tail County (Land and Resource, Highway Department, Ditch Authority, Commissioners), East
Otter Tail SWCD, Area 1 Technical Service Area, Pomme de Terre River Association, Neighboring SWCDs, Buffalo
Red River Watershed, NRCS, FSA, BWSR, MASWCD.
FSA, NRCS, Land and Resource, Pheasants Forever.
Land and Resource Management.
County Board.
List the ones with which better collaboration would benefit your organization
Local Lake associations.
Coalition of Lake Associations.
DNR, MPCA
Otter Tail County Coalition of Lake Associations, Local farm groups (Farm Bureau, corn and soybean growers, etc.), Local
sportsman's groups, Lake Associations.
MPCA
If you don’t know much about your organization’s working relationships with partners, enter “I don’t know”
I don't know- we work well with many.
What steps could your organization take to increase your effectiveness in accomplishing your plan goals and
objectives?
I think we need to continue to educate the public on what we do and how we do it. I think we need to put our
name and what we do in most locations possible such as newspapers, signs, flyers in buildings, radio stations,
and billboards. Building relationships with people to continue to have a good name and staying persistent.
Continue to strengthen our partnerships through working with other organizations/agencies. We have a strong
relationship with our County Board of Commissioners as well as an active SWCD board that both take what we
do seriously.
None
Public outreach and telling our story is the key to success for any business. This could include field days and
tours for landowners interested in specific programs we offer, attending community events, etc. - Developing
new partnerships with organizations, business, cities, lake associations, etc. that have the same goal/mission of
conservation even if they seem out of the ordinary at first glance. - Increased success in receiving competitive
grants. The SWCD utilizes all the tools available to prioritize, target and measure however the Otter Tail
Watershed has now pollution reduction goals set or impairments due to sediment and nutrients.
Additional education, enhance our website.
We have an excellent staff so I feel much gets accomplished.
How long have you been with the organization? (response percent)
Less than 5 years 42.9%
5 to 15 years 14.2%
More than 15 years 42.9%
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West Otter Tail SWCD Partner Organization Questions and Responses
Question: How often have you interacted with this organization during the past two to three years? Select the
response closest to your experience. (response percent)
Not at all 0.0%
A few times 6.3%
Several times a year 18.8%
Monthly 43.8%
Almost every week 12.5%
Daily 18.8%
Comments:
• None.
Is the amount of work you do in partnership with this organization… (percent)
Not enough, there is potential for us to do more together 6.3%
About right 93.7%
Too much, they depend on us for work they should be doing for themselves 0.0%
Too much, we depend on them for work we should be doing ourselves or with
others
0.0%
Based on your experience working with them, please rate the organization in the following areas:
Performance Characteristic Rating (percent of responses)
Strong Good Acceptable Poor I don’t
know
Communication (they keep us informed; we know their activities;
they seek our input) 43.8% 25.0% 31.3% 0.0% 0.0%
Quality of work (they have good projects and programs; good
service delivery) 50.0% 37.5% 0.0% 0.0% 12.5%
Relationships with Customers (they work well with landowners
and clients) 62.5% 18.8% 0.0% 0.0% 18.8%
Initiative (they are willing to take on new projects, try new ideas)
62.5% 25.0% 6.3% 0.0% 6.3%
Timelines/Follow-through (they are reliable and meet deadlines)
62.5% 18.8% 6.3% 0.0% 12.5%
How is your working relationship with this organization? (percent)
Powerful, we are more effective working together 46.7%
Strong, we work well together most of the time 40.0%
Good, but it could be better 13.3%
Acceptable, but a struggle at times 0.0%
Poor, there are almost always difficulties 0.0%
Non-existent, we don’t work with this organization 0.0%
Comments from Partners about their working relationship with the West Otter Tail SWCD.
• WOT SWCD has great employees and a driven work ethic to put conservation on the landscape while
working with the best interest of the farmer/landowner. Fantastic Partner!
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• We really haven't partnered on any specific projects lately. I think that since our Area was forced to
expand to include all of what used to be Area 1 and Area 2 and we now have 3 separate BWSR BC areas
within what is now Area 1, we don't cross paths all that often anymore. Prior to that expansion, we saw
their staff much more regularly and always did (and still do) get along quite well.
• Staff at West Otter Tail SWCD are very effective at their positions. Brad Mergens has gained my respect. I
am always happy to work with this SWCD.
• WOTSWCD has taught me how to do my job better.
Do you have additional thought about how the “subject” organization could be more effective?
I think they do a tremendous amount of work for the manpower and funding that they have all because their
employees are dedicated and extremely hard working. They care about the land and water of Otter Tail County.
I think the "large" Area 1 issue has been talked to death.
No. The SWCD is doing an excellent job in all aspects of conservation delivery in my opinion.
WOT SWCD has a strong staff that work well together and enjoy the work that they do. We work well together
and trust each other's judgement and direction. To be more effective I encourage them to look towards
conservation in the future, try to anticipate your needs and strengthen partnerships.
WOT SWCD is the front runner for conservation. They are the SWCD that others strive to be.
How long have you been with your current organization? (response percent)
Less than 5 years 31.3%
5 to 15 years 37.5%
More than 15 years 31.3%
East Otter Tail SWCD Supervisor and Staff Questions and Responses
How often does your organization use your current management plan to guide decisions about what you do?
(response percent)
Always 50.0%
Usually 50.0%
Seldom 0.0%
Never 0.0%
Additional Comments:
• At our annual strategic planning session we use the Water Plan for the basis for our discussions. The
Water Plan also drives all of our competitive grant applications.
• I don't know, it's not something we talk about when we make decisions as an office.
List your organization’s most successful programs and projects during the past 3-5 years.
Identifying Best Management Practices and Barriers to Adoption AIG. Shoreline restorations on sensitive
lakeshore property Board Retreats to clarify SWCD priorities Buffer implementation.
Shoreline Program, Tree Program, Guided Stalk Sampling Program, and Irrigation Scheduling.
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I believe my organization's most successful programs (from my experience) are the: irrigation scheduler
program, shoreline restoration program, nutrient management program, custom seeding/planting program,
and our tree sales program.
Contracting service for Wadena SWCD. Irrigation management. Shoreline restoration. Crop nutrient
management. These are just the ones that come quickly to mind.
Shoreland Program, Irrigation Program, & Outreach and Education.
I think the most successful programs include tree sales and the shoreline program. We still have large numbers
of trees being bought and planted in the county, and more and more people are putting in shoreline projects.
The Tree Program, the Irrigation Scheduling Program, and the Shoreline Program
Irrigation scheduler, shoreline program, MAWQCP.
Shoreland, Custom Seeding, Tree Program.
What helped make these projects and programs successful?
Using staff training and knowledge to their fullest capabilities. Building trust and respect with landowners
Listening to needs and interests before implementing Having staff with the training and capability to complete
the assigned tasks.
Working with clients to achieve a common goal.
What helps make these programs successful is the relationship the staff form with the landowners and partners.
The people on-the-ground talking with landowner about their property, having good communication, adequate
training, and follow-through. Sufficient funding also made these programs successful - to have a successful
program, you need to have adequate funding.
Excellent District management and staff.
Great staff, good vision, partnerships with other agencies, willingness to try new things, building partnerships
with cooperators, and a board that is onboard with our work.
Our relationship with the people in our county goes a long way towards building our programs. We are known
to the people we work with as being knowledgeable and willing to help, and the word of mouth from the people
we work with helps us get new projects.
Our relationships with our producers, lakeshore owners, and landowners.
Staff with communicating with each other and a high knowledge of their programs.
Trusting landowners Staff able to make landowners understand programs.
During the past 3-5 years, which of your organization’s programs or projects have shown little progress or
been on hold?
Our Urban BMPs program has shown little progress or use. These programs have not been updated or increased
in staff time, although they do still receive steady use by landowners: Tree Sales Seed Sales and Custom Seeding
Nitrate Clinics.
DNR Observation Wells.
The programs that have shown little progress or have been on hold is the rain gauge network program, where
landowners send in precipitation records and we forward them to the state climatology department. Another
program that has been difficult to work with is our no-till drill rental program.
None come to mind.
Tree program and seeding program.
The Irrigation Scheduling Program is what we were known for in the past but has been pretty stagnant over the
past few years.
Easements.
Cover crops seem to be slow to adopt.
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List the reasons why the organization has had difficulty with these projects and programs.
The demand has typically been small and the amount of effort needed to increase these programs is directed
elsewhere. I wouldn't say any of these programs are struggling, they just haven't been upgraded like some of
our other programs recently have.
Time and funding.
The rain gauge network program hasn't had any lead staff since the previous employee quit in 2014. It's a floating,
neglected program with few landowner participants now. It has been brought up several times throughout the years in
staff retreats, but still hasn't really gone anywhere - we did consider dropping the rain gauge network program all
together, but that hasn't gone anywhere either. With the no-till drill rental program, we realize it's a program we should
keep but I believe it needs to be revamped. The drill gets rented out during our busiest time of the season (spring/early
summer) where often the admin and manager are the only ones left in the office. It's a rental so landowners don't treat it
as well as if it were their own, minor malfunctions aren't reported to the SWCD until it turns into a big malfunction and
then the drill is being repaired for a week. I think we should hire a seasonal position to directly deal with the drill and keep
it maintained to better serve the landowners of OT County, or do custom seeding only - no renting it out.
Workload for these programs is driven a lot by federal programs, which have lagged a little in recent years with
signups causing a cutback in the need for these services.
I think the increase in technology has been difficult to keep up with. Producers are always looking for the next
best thing that can help them manage their water and increase their yields and this program hasn't changed
much in the past 25 years.
Not many landowners would like a perpetual easement on their property.
Unfamiliarity with how they work in our area.
Regarding the various organizations and agencies with which you could cooperate on projects or programs…
List the ones with which you work well already
WOTSWCD, Becker SWCD, Wadena SWCD, Otter Tail County (Land and Resource), Otter Tail County COLA, Lake
Associations, CMIC, other ag organizations.
Minnesota Department of Ag and NRCS.
MDA, DNR, BWSR, NRCS, CCM
MDA , university, other districts, county
West Otter Tail SWCD, Otter Tail County, Wadena SWCD, Becker SWCD, MDA, BWSR, Otter Tail COLA and
various lake associations.
NRCS, BWSR
NRCS, FSA, DNR
West OT SWCD, OT County, BWSR, MDA, lake associations/COLA, Wadena SWCD, Becker SWCD
List the ones with which better collaboration would benefit your organization
MPCA, MNDNR, MDH, local sportsmen's clubs, local co-ops and agronomists, cities
Ag Commodity Groups
Otter Tail County Land & Resource Dept., COLA, Minnesota Native Landscapes
BWSR
Minnesota Deer Hunters, Pheasants Forever, (the hook and bullet groups).
University of Minnesota Extension
MDH, farming organizations, cities.
N/A
If you don’t know much about your organization’s working relationships with partners, enter “I don’t know”
I don't know.
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What steps could your organization take to increase your effectiveness in accomplishing your plan goals and
objectives?
Meeting with local landowners in different resource groups and determining what they are interested in
implementing, much like the Identifying Best Management Practices and Barriers to Adoption AIG. Using other
social avenues to determine interest, applicability, and practicality in other areas of SWCD work.
Continue making relationships with customers, producers, and private industry groups.
I think that improving communication between board members, manager, and staff would increase our
effectiveness in accomplishing our plan goals and objectives.
I think we are doing pretty well now.
Continue to build on current partnerships, and create more.
Better communication between management and staff. A lot of the time we don't even know what grants our
office is applying for, and it's hard to know our goals when it's not communicated to us.
Build better relationships with the University of Minnesota Extension offices and agents.
Reach out to them with the OT WRAPS, nitrate projects, urban stormwater projects.
How long have you been with the organization? (response percent)
Less than 5 years 55.6%
5 to 15 years 33.3%
More than 15 years 11.1%
East Otter Tail SWCD Partner Organization Questions and Responses
Question: How often have you interacted with this organization during the past two to three years? Select the
response closest to your experience. (response percent)
Not at all 0.0%
A few times 17.2%
Several times a year 48.3%
Monthly 3.5%
Almost every week 24.1%
Daily 6.9%
Comments:
• None
Is the amount of work you do in partnership with this organization… (percent)
Not enough, there is potential for us to do more together 13.8%
About right 79.3%
Too much, they depend on us for work they should be doing for themselves 6.9%
Too much, we depend on them for work we should be doing ourselves or with
others
0.0%
Comments:
• We work together to further the education of area residents regarding AIS issues and conservation. It's the
Coalition of Otter Tail Lakes Association. We partnered on three different workshops.
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Based on your experience working with them, please rate the organization in the following areas:
Performance Characteristic Rating (percent of responses)
Strong Good Accept
able
Poor I don’t
know
Communication (they keep us informed; we know their activities;
they seek our input)
55.2% 17.2% 24.1% 3.5% 0%
Quality of work (they have good projects and programs; good service
delivery)
65.5% 20.7% 10.3% 3.5% 0%
Relationships with Customers (they work well with landowners and
clients)
55.2% 27.6% 13.8% 0% 3.5%
Initiative (they are willing to take on new projects, try new ideas)
58.6% 24.1% 10.3% 3.5% 3.5%
Timelines/Follow-through (they are reliable and meet deadlines)
51.7% 27.6% 20.7% 0% 0%
How is your working relationship with this organization? (percent)
Powerful, we are more effective working together 41.4%
Strong, we work well together most of the time 37.9%
Good, but it could be better 13.8%
Acceptable, but a struggle at times 6.9%
Poor, there are almost always difficulties 0.0%
Non-existent, we don’t work with this organization 0.0%
Comments from Partners about their working relationship with the East Otter Tail SWCD.
• Our partnership made the project the best possible for the farming clients and they hired very talented
staff to carry out the project.
• East Otter Tail is an exemplary SWCD.
• Excellent relationship
Do you have additional thought about how the “subject” organization could be more effective?
They do a great job for what we need. They come to our school one day a year and speak to each of my earth
science classes about their projects and water related issues and then they help the MN Dept. of Ag do nitrate
water testing for about 300 samples that the kids bring in.
We have an excellent line of communications and work together.
Again, we partner on issues that are similar or close. The EOTSWCD's staff is simply excellent on each workshop
we have worked on together. Further, I have had a "Awards Program" for the Otter Tail Lakes Association and
EOTSWCD has assisted me in those efforts. Whether that be Darren or his other staff. It's been an excellent
relationship and EOTSWCD is well respected. Jerry Horgen EdD
No.
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My relationship began with the district in 2005. In that time we have worked on numerous projects together.
The district manager has the ability to think forward, adapt, and is willing to innovate. This district is also guided
by a supportive board. Adapting to changing resource concerns and funding mechanisms is a very difficult task
for sometimes stagnant SWCD office staff. This is NOT the case at the East Otter Tail SWCD. From the Manager
down through the staff adaptability their ability to adapt is strong. I work with many SWCDs across the state of
MN. I would rank this one in the top five. What is especially impressive is the work they are able to get done
with so few on staff. A pleasure to work with.
Get the employees working more as a team and not as individual units. There is a significant amount of
personality clashing among the employees and complaints appear to go unheard when employees mention it to
management and supervisors.
At times there has been a delay between contact and action, but overall we have a good partnership.
They do a great job for what we need. They come to our school one day a year and speak to each of my earth
science classes about their projects and water related issues and then they help the MN Dept. of Ag do nitrate
water testing for about 300 samples that the kids bring in.
How long have you been with your current organization? (response percent)
Less than 5 years 27.6%
5 to 15 years 34.5%
More than 15 years 37.9%
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Appendix D. Wetland Conservation Act
Wetland Conservation Act Administrative Review Report
Report Prepared for: Otter Tail County
Report Date: January 23, 2019
Prepared by: Steve Hofstad, BWSR Wetland Specialist
1732 North Tower Road,
Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
218-846-8423
Introduction
In 1991, the Legislature passed the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) in order to achieve a no-net loss in the
quantity, quality, and biological diversity of Minnesota’s wetlands. In doing so, they designated certain
implementation responsibilities to local government units (LGUs) and soil and water conservation districts
(SWCDs) with the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) to provide oversight. One oversight mechanism is an
administrative review of how LGUs and SWCDs are carrying out their responsibilities.
BWSR uses the administrative review process to evaluate LGU and SWCD performance related to their
responsibilities under the WCA Rules, Chapter 8420. The review is intended to determine if an LGU or SWCD is
fulfilling their responsibilities under WCA and to provide recommendations for improvement as applicable.
This review has been conducted in conjunction with the PRAP process, a summary of which is provided in the
overall PRAP report.
Methods
Data for this report was collected via direct interview(s) with staff, a review of an appropriate number and type of
project files, a review of existing documentation on file (i.e. annual reporting/resolutions), and through prior
BWSR staff experience/interaction with the LGU or SWCD. In some cases, a project site review may be necessary.
Generally, interviews, project file reviews and site visits were done with two BWSR staff on agreed upon dates.
Specific Methods
Otter Tail County is a large county with diverse landscapes and natural resources. Also, there are two SWCDs in
Otter Tail County that actively participate in WCA administration. To that end, BWSR Wetland Specialists Steve
Hofstad (lead) and John Hansel (assisting) interviewed the following LGU and SWCD staff on December 12, 2018;
Kyle Westergard, Otter Tail County Brad Mergens, WOT SWCD Manager
Tyler Marthaler, Otter Tail County Darren Newville, EOT SWCD Manager
Chris LeClair, Otter Tail County
The resolution of WCA adoption by the County, and County delegation of LGU authority to staff were all reviewed
and discussed. Copies of all resolutions were given to BWSR staff during the review. The WCA Performance
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Standard Review Questionnaires for LGU and SWCD staff were completed and twelve project files were reviewed
including two of each application/decision type (wetland boundary and type, no loss, exemption, replacement
plan, bank plan and enforcement. No field visits were conducted given the time of year the review was
completed.
Compliance with Performance Standards are ranked from “Does not meet minimum requirements”, “Meets
minimum requirements but needs improvement”, to “Effectively implementing the program”. The rankings are
coupled with timelines and recommendations provided to assure future compliance, or recommendations are to
improve and strengthen WCA program implementation.
WCA Report Summary and Recommendations
A. Administration
Otter Tail County is the LGU for all areas except incorporated cities within the County. Administration and
implementation of WCA benefits greatly from the extensive experience, and tenure, of county and SWCD staff.
There are few LGUs in Minnesota that compare to the years of experience claimed by the Otter Tail Technical
Evaluation Panel (TEP). The LGU excels at using the TEP process, emphasizing the relationship building aspect of
consistent TEP meetings and conversations. Specific performance standards are described below.
WCA Performance Standard 1- County has an adopting resolution assuming WCA responsibilities and appropriate
decision resolutions as warranted.
The LGU provided a copy of the original resolution (dated January 4, 1994) of Otter Tail County adopting the
permanent rules for WCA. This document demonstrates that Otter Tail County accepts the assumption of WCA as
required by 8400.0200, Subpart 2. A. This is effectively implementing the WCA program.
Delegation of WCA
Per the 1994 resolution, the Otter Tail County Department of Land & Resource Management (LRM) was assigned
the responsibility of “enforcing the Permanent Rules”, however this was not explicitly described in the resolution,
but rather a letter to BWSR accompanying the resolution. Following the 2009 WCA Rule revision, a formal
resolution was passed delegating the decision authority to staff of LRM. This is shown via the November 24, 2009
resolution No. 2009-57, sufficiently meeting 8420.0200, Subpart 2, C. This is effectively implementing the WCA
program.
Appeals
The 2009-57 resolution retained a local appeal process. The 2011 statute change (MS 103G.2242) allowing staff
decisions to be appealed to BWSR caused Otter Tail County to revise their 2009-57 resolution. Thus, resolution
No. 2015-01 eliminated the local appeal process and considers staff decisions final if not appealed to BWSR. This
is effectively implementing the WCA program.
WCA Performance Standard 2 - LGU has a knowledgeable and trained staff member that manages the WCA
program and/or has secured a qualified delegate.
Otter Tail County has recently realized a change in WCA administrators. Kyle Westergard had been administering
WCA for over twenty years until he was selected as the Assistant Director of LRM. Tyler Marthaler was hired as
the new WCA Administrator in August 2018. The WCA review spans the tenure of both staff, thus both were
considered for credentials. Both have attended several formal technical trainings including wetland delineation
(5-day course), further regional training on soils, vegetation and hydrology, as well as program trainings. Tyler is
also a Certified “in training” Wetland Delineator (#5178) and has practiced as a private wetland delineator prior to
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his work in the public sector. Both have also attended BWSR Academy sessions, although not consistently year to
year. Arguably, Kyle and Tyler are skillful at keeping up with changes to the WCA program on their own and
through conversations with BWSR Wetland Section staff during TEP meetings or phone calls. Kyle and Tyler
clearly have a good rapport with landowners and excel at coordinating with other agencies (local, state and
federal). This is effectively implementing the WCA program.
East and West Otter Tail SWCDs:
WCA Performance Standard 3- SWCD has Technical professional appointed and serving on WCA TEP
Both SWCDs provide experienced staff to fulfill these functions as Brad and Darren are both long-time SWCD staff
with over 20 years of experience with WCA. Further, their vast knowledge of water resources management
compliments TEP findings and WCA decisions. As with the LGU staff, Darren and Brad have excellent rapport with
landowners which makes WCA implementation much more effective. This is effectively implementing the WCA
program.
Involvement in Related Issues
BWSR inquired whether the LGU is involved in Watershed District (WD) project discussions through the “Project
Team” (PT) process outlined in the Red River Valley Mediation Agreement (1998). Staff do not attend PT
meetings unless wetland issues within the county are specifically identified by the watershed staff or consultant.
There are four One Watershed – One Plan (1W1P) efforts currently ongoing for watersheds within Otter Tail
County. Kyle attends these 1W1P meetings providing consistent representation for wetland and water resource
concerns.
WCA Administrative Recommendation: BWSR recommends proactive participation in WD and 1W1P
processes to ensure that WCA administration in Otter Tail County remains at the forefront of future plans
and projects.
B. Execution and Coordination
WCA Performance Standard 4- WCA decisions and determinations made in conformance with all WCA
requirements.
Despite a workload level far in excess to neighboring counties, review of the twelve project files showed strong
adherence to WCA Rules Chapter 8420.0255 and MN Statutes 15.99, although improvements are recommended.
Review of the files identified inconsistencies of application processing, or missing documentation that would have
strengthened the file. Examples of these shortcomings include a lack of receipt date (email receipt or date stamp)
for all applications, NOAs, TEP findings, completing the appeal process section of NODs, and TEP delineation data
sheets for violation sites. That said, Otter Tail County shows consistent improvement over time in using BWSR
forms to process WCA applications and document TEP findings and applicant (or consultant) conversations.
Notices of Application (NOAs) are often not used, even when required, and formal TEP Findings are often absent.
Most importantly, however, a Notice of Decision (NOD) was present in all but one file of the twelve reviewed.
BWSR Wetland Specialist Hofstad is willing to meet and discuss detailed comments for each of the WCA files
reviewed as this is a prime opportunity for administrative improvement. This meets minimum program
requirements but needs improvement.
Execution and Coordination Recommendations:
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1) Utilize the NOA process for applications that require it, and consider it for all applications. The NOA
process is especially critical for complicated or potentially controversial projects.
2) Both Notice of Application (NOA) and Notice of Decision (NOD) forms could include more description of
the projects. For example, relevant WCA history for a project should be included on NOA as should items
for the TEP to focus on. Specific findings, Rule citations, conditions of approval should be included in
NOD. Annotated NOA and NOD forms are attached to this report to be considered as reference material.
3) Consider using TEP Findings of Fact form more often. These forms are intended to document formal TEP
Findings and can be utilized to inform LGU decisions.
Record Retention
The LGU is required to retain a record of all WCA decisions for a minimum of ten years as per 8420.0200 Subpart
2, G. Otter Tail County retains records since the inception of WCA thus exceeding this requirement. This is
effectively implementing the WCA program.
WCA Performance Standard 5 – WCA TEP reviews and Recommendations are appropriately coordinated.
Otter Tail County holds two monthly TEP meetings, one with each SWCD (East and West) based on the established
SWCD boundary. The TEP process is utilized to the fullest extent. MN DNR and Corps of Engineer staff are often
present at these TEP meetings and site visits lending enhanced applicant service, and greater coordination
between local, state and federal wetland managers. If TEP meeting participation is limited, staff are invited to or
phone in or offer written comments as a last resort. BWSR recommends memorializing TEP discussions and
recommendations via Findings to aid in completing decision documents and providing future staff with
documentation once current staff leave or retire. This is effectively implementing the WCA program.
WCA Performance Standard 6 – Certified wetland delineator on staff or retainer.
This is an area of “high performance” by the County. Currently Tyler is listed as a certified wetland delineator and
continues to obtain continuing education credits as needed. This is beneficial and demonstrates a willingness to
keep up to date with the state of delineation science and practices. To further strengthen this standard, Tyler
could pursue a “professional” certification. The County is considered high performing in this area.
WCA Performance Standard 7 – Replacement and restoration orders are prepared in conformance with WCA.
Otter Tail County has dealt with several violations in the period of review ranging from lakeshore to agricultural
drainage violations. The SWCD staff have extensive practical experience which shows in the enforcement files
reviewed. Two enforcement cases were reviewed along with past BWSR Wetland Specialist involvement on other
cases. Restoration orders are well written, understandable and directed at obtaining pre-project conditions. Staff
are also extremely prompt at responding to potential violations, often within days of being notified. In addition,
TEP is involved to provide support and recommendations in difficult situations or technically complex cases. In
general, enforcement is handled via formal processes to prevent stalling of restoration and keep the process
moving forward. Staff have also demonstrated good communication with the landowner, DNR enforcement, TEP
and County staff to insure compliance. Certificates of Satisfactory restoration are also completed and in the file
successfully closing the case. The District does a very thorough job of enforcement investigation and completion.
However, improvements are suggested to further strengthen enforcement files in the event an appeal results.
This meets minimum program requirements but needs improvement.
Violation and Complaint Resolution Recommendation: Review of the two files identified three areas in
need of improvement including; 1) TEP delineation data sheets for violation sites documenting the
presence and extent of wetlands impacted, 2) extension of Restoration Orders must be done in writing by
the DNR Conservation Officer, and 3) restoration of wetland violations including “natural regeneration of
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wetland vegetation” must include restoration via planting if natural regeneration is not sufficient.
Additionally, BWSR recommends using the BWSR Enforcement Procedures Checklist (or activity log) as a
“work plan” for violations. The checklist/activity log is particularly useful during the busy summer season
when WCA workload is high.
WCA Performance Standard 8 – WCA TEP member is knowledgeable/trained in WCA technical aspects.
Although not “certified” as per Wetland Delineator Certification Program standards, both SWCD staff (Brad and
Darren) are knowledgeable in wetland science and delineations. See Performance Standards 3 & 7. This is
effectively implementing the WCA program.
WCA Performance Standard 9 – WCA TEP member contributes to TEP reviews, findings & recommendations.
Since the County is not the LGU for cities, each city technically administers WCA independently. The SWCD staff
are often the first to hear of (or see) projects occurring within city boundaries, so the TEP process is crucial in
these circumstances. The SWCD maintains an active role in line of communication between landowner, multiple
LGUs of varying WCA experience and TEP. They remain a critical “conduit” in the efficient implementation of WCA
in these situations. For County-wide WCA TEP scenarios, see additional details in Performance Standards 5 & 7.
This is effectively implementing the WCA program.
Additional BWSR Comments
During the interview with LGU and SWCD staff, BWSR inquired whether the County would consider administering
WCA for the cities within Otter Tail County – largely because the entire TEP (including County staff) meet with city
staff, property owners and contractors on a regular basis. The County staff agree the workload would not be
significantly altered, and would consider this arrangement if the cities were agreeable and the County Board
supports such a systematic change. BWSR supports this concept and will present this to the County Board during
the Final PRAP/WCA Review Report presentation on January 29, 2019.
CONCLUSIONS
BWSR commends Otter Tail County for effective administration of the Wetland Conservation Act. Although some
administrative and technical improvements can be implemented to further strengthen the program, Otter Tail
County is clearly a leader in WCA Administration in West Central Minnesota – and Minnesota as a whole.
Congratulations on a very positive WCA Review!
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Appendix E. Comment Letters
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Appendix F. Program Data
Time required to complete this review
West Otter Tail SWCD Staff: ? Hours
East Otter Tail SWCD Staff: 60 Hours
Otter Tail Planning Staff: 40 Hours
BWSR Staff: 95 Hours
Schedule of Level II Review
BWSR PRAP Performance Review Key Dates
• November 13, 2018: Initial meeting with Otter Tail County Land and Resource Management staff, West
Otter Tail SWCD staff and East Otter Tail SWCD staff.
• November 13, 2018: Initial meeting with West Otter Tail SWCD Board
• November 21, 2018: Initial meeting with East Otter Tail SWCD Board
• November 28, 2018: Survey of SWCD Supervisors, staff and partners
• November 28, 2018: Survey of County Board, staff and partners
• January 14, 2019: Presentation of Draft Report to West Otter Tail SWCD Board and staff
• January 16, 2019: Presentation of Draft Report to East Otter Tail SWCD Board and staff
• January 29, 2019: Presentation of Draft Report to Otter Tail County Board
• February, 2019: Date Transmittal of Final Report to LGUs
NOTE: BWSR uses review time as a surrogate for tracking total program costs. Time required for PRAP
performance reviews is aggregated and included in BWSR’s annual PRAP report to the Minnesota Legislature.
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
Between Grant, Pope, Otter Tail & Clay Counties
Region IV System of Care Grant to Provide
Collaborative Intensive Bridging Stabilization Services (CIBS)
To Children Experiencing Severe Emotional Disturbance
Fund Sources
BUDGET
SUMMARY
Year 1 Grant Year
10/01/18 to 09/30/19
BUDGET
SUMMARY
Year 2 Grant Year
10/01/19 to 09/30/20
BUDGET
SUMMARY
Year 3 Grant Year
10/01/20 to 09/30/21
SOC Grant Funds $ 92,250 $ 46,125 $ 46,125
Clay County (46%) $ 71,933 $ 164,591 $ 185,216
Otter Tail County (42%) $ 65,678 $ 150,279 $ 169,110
Pope County (8%) $ 12,511 $ 28,624 $ 32,212
Grant County (4%) $ 6,255 $ 14,312 $ 16,106
3rd Party Billing (Medicaid) TBD TBD TBD
Other: NA NA NA
Totals: $ 248,626 $ 403,931 $ 448,769
Services To Be Provided By Lakeland Mental Health Center and the Four County Consortium:
• Implement integrated mental health interventions that combine rigorous targeted case management and
intensive community-based therapeutic services with a brief residential treatment placement for children with
serious emotional disturbance.
• Lakeland Mental Health Center’s CIBS team will:
o Employ program personnel to conduct program activities.
o Program activities include providing individual therapy, family therapy, CTSS services, and targeted
case management services
o Provide outreach for the program and accept referrals for program services.
o Conduct telephone and in-person meetings with parents, placement facilities, the child and any other
collaborative partner involved with the family.
o Report quarterly on the outcomes of the program in terms of lengths of placement, recidivism,
successes experienced by families, and other measures identified by the consortium
o Communicate with the four-county consortium on services, outcomes, barriers, and funding issues.
Funding:
• The four-county consortium will receive $184,500 in grant funds during a three-year grant period.
• During the three-year grant period, the four county human service departments will utilize up to $916,826 of
budgeted out-of-home-placement funds to partially fund the services described above.
• Up to 120 children and their families, experiencing behavioral health disorders associated with severe
emotional disturbance (SED) and multiple out-of-home placements, will be served by two teams of mental
health professionals and practitioners providing intensive outreach treatment services.
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Tuesday, January 29, 2019
Agenda Items
Non-Consent Items
1. Motion by seconded by and unanimously carried, to establish the Redetermination of Benefits Public
Hearing for County Ditch 17 at (time) a.m./p.m. on (Day), (Month) (Date), 2019 at (Location).
2. Motion by seconded by and unanimously carried, to establish the Redetermination of Benefits Public
Hearing for County Ditch 52 at (time) a.m./p.m. on (Day), (Month) (Date), 2019 at (Location).
3. Motion by seconded by and unanimously carried, to approve interfund (Revenue to Ditch) transfers to
cover 12/31/2018 cash shortages in the ditch systems: