ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET

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2 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET Note to reviewers: The Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) provides information about a project that may have the potential for significant environmental effects. This EAW was prepared by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), acting as the Responsible Governmental Unit (RGU), to determine whether an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) should be prepared. The project proposer supplied reasonably accessible data for, but did not complete the final worksheet. Comments on the EAW must be submitted to the MPCA during the 30-day comment period which begins with notice of the availability of the EAW in the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board (EQB) EQB Monitor. Comments on the EAW should address the accuracy and completeness of information, potential impacts that are reasonably expected to occur that warrant further investigation, and the need for an EIS. A copy of the EAW may be obtained from the MPCA by calling An electronic version of the completed EAW is available at the MPCA website at 1. Project Title: Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project 2. Proposer: City of Lake Elmo 3. RGU: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Contact Person Bruce Messelt Contact Person Nancy Drach and Title City Administrator and Title Planner Principal Address 3800 Laverne Avenue North Address 520 Lafayette Road North Lake Elmo, Minnesota St. Paul, Minnesota Phone Phone Fax Fax bruce.messelt@lakeelmo.org nancy.drach@state.mn.us 4. Reason for EAW Preparation: EIS Scoping Mandatory EAW X Citizen Petition RGU Discretion Proposer Volunteered If EAW or EIS is mandatory give EQB rule category subpart number and name: Minn. R , subp. 18.A. Wastewater Collection 5. Project Location: County Washington City/Twp Lake Elmo Section 36 Township T 29 N Range 21 W GPS Coordinates: N W Tax Parcel Number , , , p-ear2-21a TDD (for hearing and speech impaired only): Printed on recycled paper containing 30% fibers from paper recycled by consumers

3 Tables, Figures, and Appendices attached to the EAW: Figure 1 State Map with Location Figure 2 County Map with Location Figure 3 Aerial Site Map Figure 4 U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5 Minute Map Figure 5 National Wetlands Inventory Map Figure 6 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Natural Heritage Information Database Response Letter dated April 7, 2011 Figure 7 Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) State Historical Preservation Office (SHPO) Response with database retrieval, dated March 16, 2011 Figure 8 Soil Boring Log Figure 9 City of Lake Elmo Well PFC Detections Map Figure 10 Lake Elmo and Oakdale Special Well Construction Area 6. Description: a. Provide a project summary of 50 words or less to be published in the EQB Monitor. The city of Lake Elmo (or City) is proposing to extend trunk gravity sanitary sewer with an average design flow of 1.92 million gallons per day (mgd) of wastewater from the City s forcemain. The trunk sanitary sewer will connect to the proposed forcemain at a point located 2,400 feet south of 10 th Street on Lake Elmo Avenue. The gravity sewer will extend east approximately 2,600 feet, then south 2,500 feet, and west 1,500 feet where it will connect to an existing Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) meter station located at Hudson Boulevard. The wastewater collected will ultimately reach the MCES Eagles Point Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) located in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. b. Give a complete description of the proposed project and related new construction. Attach additional sheets as necessary. Emphasize construction, operation methods and features that will cause physical manipulation of the environment or will produce wastes. Include modifications to existing equipment or industrial processes and significant demolition, removal or remodeling of existing structures. Indicate the timing and duration of construction activities. The project is located in the southeast quadrant (Section 36) of the City, which is located in Washington County, Minnesota (Figures 1 and 2). The project will be installed consistent with the City s Comprehensive Plan, with the purpose of providing municipal sewer service for future development of the City within the I-94 to 10 th Street corridor. The project consists of the construction of approximately 2,600 linear feet of 27-inch gravity sewer and 4,000 linear feet of 30-inch gravity sewer (Figure 3). The project, when completed, will initially receive and convey wastewater discharge from the Lake Elmo Village (Village) Municipal Urban Service Area (MUSA) forcemain running from the Village area along Lake Elmo Avenue to the project connection point. However, the project will also provide municipal service for future development within the immediate service area, and will ultimately serve a significant portion of the southern MUSA for the city of Lake Elmo, along the I-94 to 10 th Street Corridor. The City previously completed a discretionary EAW for the Village forcemain project along Lake Elmo Avenue, and an Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) was completed for the Village Area Master Plan covering the entire Village MUSA. Since the discretionary EAW, the City has proposed changes to the original sewer design that also increases design flow by an additional 1.02 mgd in the lower portion of the original project, located in Section 36 of the City. This EAW is for the City s proposed changes in the lower portion of the original project. Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 2 Worksheet

4 The project will begin along Lake Elmo Avenue at a point approximately 2,400 feet south of 10 th Street, with the connection of the Village forcemain (Figure 4). Two thousand, six hundred linear feet of 27- inch gravity sewer will extend east approximately 2,600 feet, followed by 2,500 of 30-inch gravity sewer going south for approximately 2,500 feet, then west for approximately 1,500 feet. The project will be installed at a maximum depth of 40 feet, and will be constructed with an open trench. At that point, near the intersection of Hudson Boulevard and Lake Elmo, the gravity sewer will connect and discharge into a MCES meter station, with the wastewater ultimately reaching the MCES Eagles Point WWTF. The 27-inch pipe segment will have a capacity of 6,500 residential equivalent units (REU), and the 30-inch pipe segment will have a capacity of 8,600 REUs. A flow rate of 274 gallons per day per REU was used for wastewater flow calculations. No changes to the City s Comprehensive Plan are being requested or contemplated because of this project. Construction is anticipated to begin sometime in 2011 and dependent on completion of the EAW process, and is anticipated to extend into the 2012 construction season. Construction will involve clearing and grubbing, grading, excavating, trenching, utility installation, backfilling, compaction, and re-vegetation. Equipment to be used includes standard construction equipment such as backhoes, trucks, graders, compactors, bobcats, cranes, and loaders, etc. Temporary erosion and sedimentation controls will be utilized throughout the construction. c. Explain the project purpose; if the project will be carried out by a governmental unit, explain the need for the project and identify its beneficiaries. The proposed project is being completed to provide sanitary sewer service to accommodate future growth for the City as well as the existing neighborhoods within the City limits, as identified in the City s Comprehensive Plan. d. Are future stages of this development including development on any other property planned or likely to happen? Yes No e. Is this project a subsequent stage of an earlier project? Yes No If yes, briefly describe the past development, timeline and any past environmental review. The City has proposed changes to a portion of a sanitary sewer project covered under a discretionary EAW prepared by the City in Project Magnitude Data Total Project Area Length (miles) 1.25 Number of Residential Units: Unattached Attached Maximum Units Per Building: Commercial/Industrial/Institutional Building Area (gross floor space): Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 3 Worksheet

5 Indicate area of specific uses (in square feet): Not Applicable Office Manufacturing Retail Other Industrial Warehouse Institutional Light Industrial Agricultural Other Commercial (specify) Building height If over 2 stories, compare to heights of nearby buildings 8. Permits and approvals required. List all known local, state and federal permits, approvals and financial assistance for the project. Include modifications of any existing permits, governmental review of plans, and all direct and indirect forms of public financial assistance including bond guarantees, Tax Increment Financing and infrastructure. All of these final decisions are prohibited until all appropriate environmental review has been completed. See Minn. R Unit of Government Type of Application Status MPCA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination To be submitted System (NPDES)/State Disposal System (SDS) General Stormwater Construction Activity Permit MPCA Sanitary Sewer Extension Permit To be submitted Metropolitan Council Connection Permit To be submitted Environmental Services Washington County Right-of-Way/Utility Permit To be submitted Valley Branch Watershed Rules and Regulations Permit(s) (for To be submitted District Stormwater) DNR Temporary Water Appropriations Permit (for construction) To be submitted 9. Land use. Describe current and recent past land use and development on the site and on adjacent lands. Discuss project compatibility with adjacent and nearby land uses. Indicate whether any potential conflicts involve environmental matters. Identify any potential environmental hazards due to past site uses, such as soil contamination or abandoned storage tanks, or proximity to nearby hazardous liquid or gas pipelines. Recent past and current land use in the surrounding area has been agricultural, wetlands, commercial space, residential, federal highway, county road, and residential streets. A residential neighborhood and golf course are located north of the northern portion of the project. A wetland is located immediately below the upper right boundary of the project. Lake Elmo Avenue is located to the west of the project, and Interstate 94 is located south of the project. The proposed locations for the project will be aligned mostly through open, undeveloped fields. The properties are privately owned, and permanent utility easements will be acquired to facilitate construction of the project. The open fields are currently used for agriculture and commercial uses, however, according to the City s Comprehensive Plan, future commercial and residential development is planned for these areas. A review of the MPCA What s In My Neighborhood found no contaminated sites on or immediately adjacent to the gravity sewer construction route. Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 4 Worksheet

6 10. Cover Types. Estimate the acreage of the site with each of the following cover types before and after development: Before After Before After Types 1-8 wetlands Lawn/landscaping Wooded/forest Impervious Surfaces Brush/grassland Stormwater pond Cropland Other (describe) TOTAL Fish, Wildlife, and Ecologically Sensitive Resources. a. Identify fish and wildlife resources and habitats on or near the site and describe how they would be affected by the project. Describe any measures to be taken to minimize or avoid impacts. A review of the DNR website was completed for endangered and threatened species. Minnesota s Federally Listed Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species County Distribution List showed that Washington County is within the known or historic range of the Bald Eagle, but no known nesting sites are in the immediate area. The review also indicated that various mussel species such as the Higgins eye pearly mussel, sheepnose mussel, spectaclecase, and winged mapleleaf mussel are either candidates or endangered within Washington County. However, the habitats for the prior mentioned mussels are predominately within the St. Croix River watersheds; because of the location of the project, the impacts to mussel species are not likely to occur. Temporary impacts on wildlife will include the disruptive effects of construction, including excavation, stockpiling of soils and materials, noise, potential erosion and sedimentation, and vehicle movement. Habitat and individual animals may be destroyed by the actual excavation or placement of stockpiled earth or bedding. Some small species may be forced to leave their territories within the proposed project area and compete with established species in nearby areas. Larger species may be forced to relocate to portions of their territories that are not impacted. Seasonal activities, such as nesting or mating, may be disrupted or curtailed, depending upon the season of construction and the species. Habitat disturbed during construction will be restored to pre-existing contours and re-vegetated. b. Are any state (endangered or threatened) species, rare plant communities or other sensitive ecological resources on or near the site? Yes No Describe any measures that will be taken to minimize or avoid adverse impacts. Provide the license agreement number (LA- ) and/or Division of Ecological Resources contact number (ERDB # ) from which the data were obtained and attach the response letter from the DNR Division of Ecological Resources. Indicate if any additional survey work has been conducted within the site and describe the results. The DNR Natural Heritage and Nongame Research Program staff was contacted regarding the potential presence of threatened or endangered species, as well as other rare or sensitive biological resources in the vicinity of the project. As stated in a letter dated April 7, 2011 (Figure 6), there are Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 5 Worksheet

7 no known occurrences of rare features in the area. The DNR noted that locations of the gray wolf (Canis lupus), federally-listed as threatened and state-listed as special concern, and the Canada lunx (Lynx canadensis), federally-listed as threatened, are not currently tracked in the Natural Heritage Information System, and indicated that, as such, the Natural Heritage review does not address these species. 12. Physical Impacts on Water Resources. Will the project involve the physical or hydrologic alteration (dredging, filling, stream diversion, outfall structure, diking, and impoundment) of any surface waters such as a lake, pond, wetland, stream or drainage ditch? Yes No Special measures will be taken to protect any adjacent wetlands from erosion and sedimentation during and after construction while vegetation is being established. Installation of high flow silt fences and biorolls will be installed prior to construction and maintained throughout construction until turf has been established. The City is working with the Valley Branch Watershed District to determine if the boundaries of project excavation have the potential to encroach on the buffer area of the wetland located below the upper right portion of the project. Additional mitigation requirements, if applicable, will be addressed through the required Valley Branch Watershed District permit. An NPDES/SDS General Construction Stormwater Permit (Stormwater Permit) for construction activities (as required by the MPCA) and a Valley Branch Watershed District permit will be obtained prior to construction. As part of the Stormwater Permit, temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control plans will be prepared for approval. In addition, Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans will be submitted by the contractor for approval. All approved plans will be implemented prior to commencement of construction and will be maintained until all construction has been completed and turf has been established. The plans will address vehicle tracking of sediment, inspection of erosion control measures and time frames in which the erosion control measures will be implemented. 13. Water Use. Will the project involve installation or abandonment of any water wells, connection to or changes in any public water supply or appropriation of any ground or surface water (including dewatering)? Yes No If yes, as applicable, give location and purpose of any new wells; public supply affected, changes to be made, and water quantities to be used; the source, duration, quantity and purpose of any appropriations; and unique well numbers and DNR appropriation permit numbers, if known. Identify any existing and new wells on the site map. If there are no wells known on site, explain methodology used to determine. No groundwater wells will be installed or abandoned within the boundaries of the project. If a well is discovered, the City will ensure the well is closed in accordance with Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) requirements. A review of the MDH County Well Index found that there a listing of wells in the lower left portion of the project construction area that have already been abandoned. It is anticipated that there will be dewatering associated with this project. The project will require a DNR General Permit for Temporary Water Appropriations (Appropriation Permit) if the withdrawal rate is greater than 10,000 gallons per day or 50 million gallons per year. All dewatering must follow the Appropriation Permit s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan requirements. If dewatering does occur, it is not anticipated to impact area wells. Impacts to adjacent water features, such as wetlands or lakes, are expected to be temporary in nature, and would occur only during active dewatering. Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 6 Worksheet

8 14. Water-related land use management districts. Does any part of the project involve a shoreland zoning district, a delineated 100-year flood plain, or a state or federally designated wild or scenic river land use district? Yes No 15. Water Surface Use. Will the project change the number or type of watercraft on any water body? Yes No 16. Erosion and Sedimentation. Give the acreage to be graded or excavated and the cubic yards of soil to be moved: acres; 250,000 cubic yards. Describe any steep slopes or highly erodible soils and identify them on the site map. Describe any erosion and sedimentation control measures to be used during and after project construction. The proposed project will require movement of approximately 250,000 cubic yards of soil that will be stockpiled near the trench, which will then be used for backfilling the trench. The proposed corridor will be within existing county or city rights-of-way or acquired permanent easements, approximately 100 feet wide and encompassing acres. Extra care shall be given to prevent erosion and sedimentation of slopes during and after construction. Once construction is completed in these areas, permanent erosion control measures will be implemented in accordance with permit requirements. Since the project will disturb more than one acre of land, application for coverage under the stormwater permit will be submitted to the MPCA prior to starting earthwork on the site. The contract documents for the project will require the contractor to install and maintain best management practices (BMPs) until final restoration of the project is complete and the Notice of Termination had been filed with the MPCA. During construction, the contractor is expected to use temporary erosion control devices such as tree protection fence, perimeter silt fence, construction entrances, construction phasing, and timely stabilization of disturbed surfaces. No new impervious surface will be created as a result of this project. The MPCA, the Valley Branch Watershed District, and the city of Lake Elmo will have final approval of all details pertaining to erosion control procedures. Because the project will be monitored through the entire construction process, the adverse effects from erosion and sedimentation should be minimized. 17. Water Quality Surface-water Runoff. a. Compare the quantity and quality of site runoff before and after the project. Describe permanent controls to manage or treat runoff. Describe any storm-water pollution prevention plans. After project construction, the quality and quantity of runoff will remain unchanged since the proposed sanitary sewer pipe will be buried. No new impervious area will be added as a result of this project. Runoff rates will be unaffected because the project corridor will be restored to its original condition. Runoff during construction would be limited to times of precipitation. The BMPs already discussed will be installed to manage this runoff and a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan will be prepared prior to construction activities. Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 7 Worksheet

9 b. Identify routes and receiving water bodies for runoff from the site; include major downstream water bodies as well as the immediate receiving waters. Estimate impact runoff on the quality of receiving waters. The south portion of the project near Hudson Boulevard is within the Rest Area Pond subwatershed divide. All drainage within the project corridor will ultimately reach the St. Croix River. As previously discussed, BMPs will be administered routinely during construction activities to minimize any impacts to receiving water bodies. In addition, a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan will be prepared prior to construction activities. 18. Water Quality Wastewater. a. Describe sources, composition and quantities of all sanitary, municipal and industrial wastewater produced or treated at the site. There is no sanitary, municipal, or industrial wastewater produced or treated at the site. The project is to collect, then convey wastewater that will ultimately be conveyed to the MCES Eagles Point WWTF in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. Ultimately, the 27-inch and 30-inch gravity sanitary sewers will receive peak flows of 5.38 mgd and average daily flows of 1.92 mgd of wastewater from existing or future residential neighborhoods and business districts that will be transported to the MCES collector system. The wastewater would be in the range of normal domestic strength sanitary sewage. b. Describe waste treatment methods or pollution prevention efforts and give estimates of composition after treatment. Identify receiving waters, including major downstream water bodies (identifying any impaired waters), and estimate the discharge impact on the quality of receiving waters. If the project involves on-site sewage systems, discuss the suitability of site conditions for such systems. The proposed new service area will transport the wastewater through the proposed trunk sanitary system to the MCES collector system. From there, it will flow to the Eagles Point WWTF in Cottage Grove, Minnesota to be treated. The treated wastewater is discharged to the Mississippi River at levels regulated by the NPDES/SDS Permit. There will be no on-site treatment of any wastes. c. If wastes will be discharged into a publicly owned treatment facility, identify the facility, describe any pretreatment provisions and discuss the facility s ability to handle the volume and composition of wastes, identifying any improvements necessary. The MCES Eagles Point WWTF was constructed in 2002 and has a capacity of 10.0 mgd. The plant was designed to handle wastewater flows for South Washington County through the year The Eagles Point WWTF currently has capacity to handle the proposed project flows; however, the MCES will most likely have to consider expansion to the Eagles Point facility in the future to accommodate increased flows from all of South Washington County. Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 8 Worksheet

10 19. Geologic hazards and soil conditions. a. Approximate depth (in feet) to Ground water: see below minimum; see below average. Bedrock: 85 minimum; over 85 feet average. Describe any of the following geologic site hazards to ground water and also identify them on the site map: sinkholes, shallow limestone formations or karst conditions. Describe measures to avoid or minimize environmental problems due to any of these hazards. Soil borings taken at depths of the planned pipe installation (ranging from 23 feet down to 40 feet) did not indicate the presence of groundwater. Information regarding the average depth of 85 feet to bedrock was obtained from the USGS National Map Viewer. A review of wells within and surrounding the project construction area from the MDH County Well Index, along with a review of generalized groundwater contours and well locations found on a map on the Valley Branch Watershed District website, indicate that groundwater is likely to be a minimum of 45 to 50 feet deep, below the depths of the planned pipe installation. A small portion of the proposed project has an adjacent wetland with groundwater at or near the surface at least part of the year. There are no known geological site hazards on the site including sink holes, shallow limestone formations, abandoned wells, or karst conditions. b. Describe the soils on the site, giving Natural Resources Conservation Service classifications, if known. Discuss soil texture and potential for ground-water contamination from wastes or chemicals spread or spilled onto the soils. Discuss any mitigation measures to prevent such contamination. The majority of the site is composed of silty sands and clayey sands. Figure 8 shows the soil borings taken along the proposed corridor. The soil types are well drained. In order to minimize risks of contaminating soils during construction, construction activities will be monitored by an inspector and the contractor will be required to take measures to reduce the potential for spills. The storage and handling of fuels and fuel-containing machinery shall be kept over impervious surfaces, where possible, that are capable of containing spills until cleanup can be completed. Any other potentially hazardous fluids or chemicals should also be stored or handled in a manner to minimize risk of release onto the ground surface. A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan for the project shall address proposed site-specific BMPs and methods for preventing contamination from construction activities such as fueling equipment, equipment fluid maintenance, use of chemicals, and bituminous materials. Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 9 Worksheet

11 20. Solid Wastes, Hazardous Wastes, Storage Tanks. a. Describe types, amounts and compositions of solid or hazardous wastes, including solid animal manure, sludge and ash, produced during construction and operation. Identify method and location of disposal. For projects generating municipal solid waste, indicate if there is a source separation plan; describe how the project will be modified for recycling. If hazardous waste is generated, indicate if there is a hazardous waste minimization plan and routine hazardous waste reduction assessments. During construction, minor amounts of solid construction wastes will be generated. This waste will be collected and hauled off site to be placed in a landfill by an approved waste hauler. All bituminous material will be hauled away by the contractor to be recycled. Excess excavated materials not suitable for backfill, and other waste materials shall be disposed of in accordance with local regulatory requirements. Watertight conveyance shall be provided for liquid, semi-liquid, or saturated materials to prevent liquid loss or bleeding along transport routes. Once construction is complete, no waste will be produced. b. Identify any toxic or hazardous materials to be used or present at the site and identify measures to be used to prevent them from contaminating ground water. If the use of toxic or hazardous materials will lead to a regulated waste, discharge or emission, discuss any alternatives considered to minimize or eliminate the waste, discharge or emission. Any spills must be contained to minimize potential contamination to surrounding areas. Equipment and vehicles utilizing gasoline diesel fuel, antifreeze, and oil will be used at the project site. Storage tanks of fuel may be temporarily located at the site during construction. Fueling of vehicles and equipment will be conducted in a contained area, away from sensitive areas. No hazardous materials are known to have been stored or disposed of on the property. In the past, most of the project area was considered rural/agricultural. During normal farming practices, chemicals have been added for weed and pest control. These chemicals have a short life and minimal carryover from year to year, so there should be no hazards from them. c. Indicate the number, location, size and use of any above or below ground tanks to store petroleum products or other materials, except water. Describe any emergency response containment plans. No known above or below ground storage tanks are along the project corridor. 21. Traffic. Parking spaces added: 0 Existing spaces (if project involves expansion): 0 Estimated total average daily traffic generated: 0 Estimated maximum peak hour traffic generated and time of occurrence: 0 Indicate source of trip generation rates used in the estimates. The majority of the construction work will occur within open fields and undeveloped properties. There will be little disturbance of the adjacent roadways. No public roadways will be impacted due to the Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 10 Worksheet

12 construction of the proposed project, and no new roadways will be constructed. The regional transportation system will not be impacted by the proposed project and all roadways will be restored to their original condition after construction. Traffic increases will be minimal, generated only by the construction activities including worker commutes and equipment/material deliveries. Some construction activity will take place along Washington County and Lake Elmo roads and rights-of-ways and may require minor temporary road closures and/or delays. Permits will be obtained from all road authorities that may potentially be impacted by the work. The project includes a directional bore utility crossing of Lake Elmo Avenue and will require a utility crossing permit from Washington County. Should a detour route be necessary for any construction activities, it will be established such that vehicular traffic can be re-routed around the project area. 22. Vehicle-related Air Emissions. Estimate the effect of the project s traffic generation on air quality, including carbon monoxide levels. Discuss the effect of traffic improvements or other mitigation measures on air quality impacts. No permanent increase in traffic would result from the construction of the proposed project. There would be a temporary increase in traffic resulting from construction equipment during construction of the project. Any long-term impact to the air quality in the proposed project area should be negligible. Future traffic in the vicinity of the project will increase with the construction of additional urban developments made possible by the extension of the proposed gravity trunk sanitary sewer. 23. Stationary Source Air Emissions. Describe the type, sources, quantities and compositions of any emissions from stationary sources of air emissions such as boilers, exhaust stacks or fugitive dust sources. Include any hazardous air pollutants (consult EAW Guidelines for a listing), any greenhouse gases (such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxides), and ozone-depleting chemicals (chlorofluorocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons or sulfur hexafluoride). Also describe any proposed pollution prevention techniques and proposed air pollution control devices. Describe the impacts on air quality. No stationary sources of air emissions are proposed. 24. Odors, noise and dust. Will the project generate odors, noise or dust during construction or during operation? Yes No If yes, describe sources, characteristics, duration, quantities or intensity and any proposed measures to mitigate adverse impacts. Also identify locations of nearby sensitive receptors and estimate impacts on them. Discuss potential impacts on human health or quality of life. (Note: fugitive dust generated by operations may be discussed at item 23 instead of here.) No significant sources of odors are anticipated with the proposed project. To minimize noise impacts to the surrounding areas during construction, all work shall be done between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays, including starting and warming up equipment, loading and unloading equipment, and material delivery operations. Work outside of these hours and on holidays is permitted only with prior written authorization by the city engineer. Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 11 Worksheet

13 During construction of the proposed project, fugitive dust is a potential air quality impact. The contractor is required to take special care in providing and maintaining dust control operations appropriate for the proximity and geographic location of the site to residential homes and other nearby developed and active facilities. Impacts from dust will be mitigated by sweeping and watering of haul roads and construction sites. Digging, backfilling, boring, and directional drilling will take place for the limited duration needed to complete construction. These activities will border single family homes. 25. Nearby resources. Are any of the following resources on or in proximity to the site? a. Archaeological, historical, or architectural resources? Yes No b. Prime or unique farmlands or land within an agricultural preserve? Yes No c. Designated parks, recreation areas, or trails? Yes No d. Scenic views and vistas? Yes No e. Other unique resources? Yes No If yes, describe the resource and identify any project-related impacts on the resources. Describe any measures to minimize or avoid adverse impacts. Archaeological. A cultural review was requested from the State Historical Preservation Office (SHPO) of the Minnesota Historical Society for the sections surrounding the project area. The SHPO response (see attached Figure 7) indicated that one archaeological site is located in the surrounding sections of the proposed project. The Horseshoe Lake site is located approximately one mile from the project corridor. History/Architecture. The SHPO response (see attached Figure 7) indicated that a number of historical/architecture sites are located in the surrounding sections with four sites located in close proximity to the proposed project. However, none of the sites are directly adjacent to the project corridor, and the construction would, therefore, not be expected to impact the sites. 26. Visual impacts. Will the project create adverse visual impacts during construction or operation? Such as glare from intense lights, lights visible in wilderness areas and large visible plumes from cooling towers or exhaust stacks? Yes No Temporary visual impacts are expected during construction including various construction equipment, stockpiling of dirt and materials at the site. No permanent visual impacts are anticipated after construction of the project is complete. 27. Compatibility with plans and land use regulations. Is the project subject to an adopted local comprehensive plan, land use plan or regulation, or other applicable land use, water, or resource management plan of a local, regional, state or federal agency? Yes No If yes, describe the plan, discuss its compatibility with the project and explain how any conflicts will be resolved. If no, explain. The proposed gravity trunk sanitary sewer has been planned and is included in the City s Comprehensive Plan. Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 12 Worksheet

14 28. Impact on infrastructure and public services. Will new or expanded utilities, roads, other infrastructure or public services be required to serve the project? Yes No If yes, describe the new or additional infrastructure or services needed. The proposed project is an expansion of wastewater collection service in the area. Ultimately, the 27-inch and 30-inch sanitary sewer main will provide peak flows of 5.38 mgd and average daily flows of 1.92 mgd of wastewater from proposed or future residential neighborhoods and business districts that will be transported to the MCES collector system. As stated in Section 18, the Eagles Point WWTF currently has capacity to handle the proposed project flows; however, the MCES may need to expand the Eagles Point facility in the future to accommodate increased flows from all of South Washington County. 29. Cumulative potential effects. Minn. R , subp. 7, item B requires that the RGU consider the cumulative potential effects of related or anticipated future projects when determining the need for an environmental impact statement. Identify any past, present or reasonably foreseeable future projects that may interact with the project described in this EAW in such a way as to cause cumulative potential effects. (Such future projects would be those that are actually planned or for which a basis of expectation has been laid.) Describe the nature of the cumulative potential effects and summarize any other available information relevant to determining whether there is potential for significant environmental effects due to these cumulative effects. The proposed project will provide municipal sewer service to the immediate adjacent properties and serve as the trunk facility for serving future growth and development as contemplated by the City s Comprehensive Plan. Reasonably foreseeable future projects would most likely include new residential and commercial developments together with supporting infrastructure projects. The population growth will result in increased traffic, air pollution, stormwater runoff, and generation of solid waste. The development and growth in the area will be guided by the City s Comprehensive Plan, and potential environmental impacts from future planned development will be mitigated through enforcement of local, state, and federal ordinances and regulations. Individual development projects may be subject to environmental review and the preparation of project-specific EAWs or an AUAR. Any sanitary sewer extension to MCES Eagles Point WWTF is subject to permitting and review by the MPCA. The MCES Eagles Point WWTF currently has capacity to handle the proposed project flows; however, the MCES may need to expand the Eagles Point WWTF in the future to accommodate increased flows from all of South Washington County. 30. Other Potential Environmental Impacts. If the project may cause any adverse environmental impacts not addressed by items 1 to 28, identify and discuss them here, along with any proposed mitigation. The MDH and the MPCA have previously tested for contaminates in the nearby groundwater. It has been discovered that portions of the City (see attached Figure 9 and Figure 10) have a number of existing privately owned water wells that contain various levels of the PFCs (Perfluorochemicals ). Any dewatering to facilitate construction activities will require consultation with the MDH and MPCA to ensure the further spread of contamination or human exposure is monitored and addressed in an appropriate manner. Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 13 Worksheet

15 31. Summary of issues. List any impacts and issues identified above that may require further investigation before the project is begun. Discuss any alternatives or mitigative measures that have been or may be considered for these impacts and issues, including those that have been or may be ordered as permit conditions. The City must receive the above noted permits and approvals prior to proceeding with construction. Issues identified in this EAW that may require additional investigation include the following: The City will need to complete its review, along with the Valley Branch Watershed District, of the wetland located below the upper right boundary of the project, to determine if the construction would encroach on the buffer area of the wetland, and if special measures for construction will need to be included in the Watershed District permit and approvals. Detailed temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control plans must be prepared in accordance with the NPDES/SDS General Stormwater Permit for Construction Activities prior to any construction. RGU CERTIFICATION I hereby certify that: The information contained in this document is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. The EAW describes the complete project; there are no other projects, stages, or components other than those described in this document, which are related to the project as connected actions or phased actions, as defined at Minn. R , subps. 9b and 60, respectively. Copies of this EAW are being sent to the entire EQB distribution list. Name and Title of Signer: Craig Affeldt, Supervisor, Environmental Review Unit St. Paul Office Regional Division Date: The format of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet was prepared by the staff of the Environmental Quality Board at the Minnesota Department of Administration, Office of Geographic and Demographic Analysis. For additional information, worksheets or for EAW Guidelines, contact: Environmental Quality Board, 658 Cedar Street, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55155, , or at their website Lake Elmo Trunk Gravity Sanitary Sewer Project Environmental Assessment Lake Elmo, Washington County, Minnesota 14 Worksheet

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19 X W q G X W o G X W q G X W i G X W i G 34 X W s G X W o G R21W T29N. R20W + T28N 3 2 # $ b "! # K:\gis\LAKEELMO\PROJECTS\South of 10th Gravity Sewer\Mar 2011\Figure 2.mxd Date: March 2011 GRAVITY SANITARY SEWER $ b "! 1 6 ² Miles FIGURE NO. 3

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21 Figure 5: National Wetland Inventory Map Mar 8, 2011 User Remarks: This map is for general reference only. The US Fish and Wildlife Service is not responsible for the accuracy or currentness of the base data shown on this map. All wetlands related data should be used in accordance with the layer metadata found on the Wetlands Mapper web site.

22 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Division of Ecological and Water Resources, Box Lafayette Road Figure 6 St. Paul, Minnesota Phone: (651) lisa.joyal@state.mn.us April 7, 2011 Correspondence # ERDB Mr. Chad Isakson TKDA, Inc. 444 Cedar Street, Suite 1500 St. Paul, MN RE: Natural Heritage Review of the proposed Lake Elmo Avenue Infrastructure Improvements; T29N R21W Section 36; Washington County Dear Mr. Isakson, As requested, the Minnesota Natural Heritage Information System (NHIS) has been queried to determine if any rare species or other significant natural features are known to occur within an approximate one-mile radius of the proposed project. Based on this query, there are no known occurrences of rare features in the area searched. The Natural Heritage Information System, a collection of databases that contains information about Minnesota s rare natural features, is maintained by the Division of Ecological and Water Resources, Department of Natural Resources. The NHIS is continually updated as new information becomes available, and is the most complete source of data on Minnesota's rare or otherwise significant species, native plant communities, and other natural features. However, the NHIS is not an exhaustive inventory and thus does not represent all of the occurrences of rare features within the state. Therefore, ecologically significant features for which we have no records may exist within the project area. For environmental review purposes, the results of this Natural Heritage Review are valid for one year; the results are only valid for the project location (noted above) and project description provided on the NHIS Data Request Form. Please contact me if project details change or if an updated review is needed. Please note that locations of the gray wolf (Canis lupus), federally-listed as threatened and state-listed as special concern, and the Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis), federally-listed as threatened, are not currently tracked in the NHIS. As such, the Natural Heritage Review does not address these species. Furthermore, the Natural Heritage Review does not constitute review or approval by the Department of Natural Resources as a whole. Instead, it identifies issues regarding known occurrences of rare features and potential effects to these rare features. Additional rare features for which we have no data may be present in the project area, or there may be other natural resource concerns associated with the proposed project. For these concerns, please contact your DNR Regional Environmental Assessment Ecologist (contact information available at Please be aware that additional site assessments or review may be required. Thank you for consulting us on this matter, and for your interest in preserving Minnesota's rare natural resources. An invoice will be mailed to you under separate cover. Sincerely, Lisa Joyal Natural Heritage Review Coordinator AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

23 Figure 7 Chad J. Isakson From: Sent: To: Subject: Attachments: Cinadr, Thomas [Thomas.Cinadr@MNHS.ORG] Wednesday, March 16, :38 AM Chad J. Isakson RE: Data Base Review - City of Lake Elmo Historic.rtf; Archaeology.rtf THIS IS NOT A PROJECT CLEARANCE. This message simply reports the results of the cultural resources database search you requested. The database search produced results for only previously known archaeological sites and historic properties. Please read the note below carefully. Archaeological sites and historic properties were identified in a search of the Minnesota Archaeological Inventory and Historic Structures Inventory for the search area requested. Reports containing the results of the search are attached. The result of this database search provides a listing of recorded archaeological sites and historic architectural properties that are included in the current SHPO databases. Because the majority of archaeological sites in the state and many historic architectural properties have not been recorded, important sites or structures may exist within the search area and may be affected by development projects within that area. Additional research, including field survey, may be necessary to adequately assess the area s potential to contain historic properties. If you require a comprehensive assessment of a project s potential to impact archaeological sites or historic architectural properties, you may need to hire a qualified archaeologist and/or historian. If you need assistance with a project review, please contact Kelly Gragg-Johnson in Review and or by at kelly.graggjohnson@mnhs.org. The Minnesota SHPO Survey Manuals and Database Metadata and Contractor Lists can be found at SHPO research hours are 8:00 AM 4:00 PM Tuesday-Friday. The Office is closed on Mondays. Tom Cinadr Survey and Information Management Coordinator 1

24 Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office Minnesota Historical Society 345 Kellogg Blvd. West St. Paul, MN From: Chad J. Isakson Sent: Friday, March 04, :13 AM To: Cinadr, Thomas Subject: Data Base Review - City of Lake Elmo Hi Tom, Per my voic , I am requesting a historical data base review for completion of an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW). An exhibit of the project area showing Township/Range/Section and a 1 mile project buffer area is attached for your reference. The following is a description of the area that will require a review: City of Lake Elmo Washington County Township: T29N, T28N Range: R21W, R20W Sections: See exhibit Please contact me with any questions you may have regarding this request. Thanks, Chad Chad Isakson LEED AP Graduate Engineer TKDA 444 Cedar Street, Suite 1500, Saint Paul, MN (651) dir (651) fax Expert resources from a single source for over 100 years. 2

25 Archaeological Site Locations Site Number Site Name Twp. Range Sec. Quarter Sections Acres Phase Site Description Tradition Context Reports NR CEF DOE County: Washington 21WAo Horseshoe Lake SE 0 AS Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Page 1 of 1

26 History/Architecture Inventory PROPERTY NAME ADDRESS Twp Range Sec Quarters USGS Report NRHP CEF DOE Inventory Number COUNTY: Washington CITY/TOWNSHIP: Afton house Hudson WA-AFC-029 CITY/TOWNSHIP: Lake Elmo post office Hudson Blvd SW-SE-SE Lake Elmo WA-LEC-002 house NW corner U.S. Hwy. 12 & Co. Rd SE-SE-SE Lake Elmo WA-LEC-004 CITY/TOWNSHIP: West Lakeland Twp. Rentz School off U.S. Hwy NW-SW-SE Hudson WA-WLK-003 Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Page 1 of 1

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45 Lake Elmo/Oakdale Special Well and Boring Construction Area Map - E of 2 3/16/2011 9:00 AM Minnesota Department of Health Well Management Lake Elmo/Oakdale Special Well and Boring Construction Area Map Return to >Lake Elmo/Oakdale