Notice of Availability of an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility

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1 Notice of Availability of an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Doc Type: Public Notice Public Comment Information EAW Public comment period begins: May 2, 2016 EAW Public comment period ends: June 1, 2016 Notice published in the EQB Monitor: May 2, 2016 Facility Specific Information Facility name and location: City of Morgan Stabilization Pond Facility PLS Location: Southwest quarter of Section 9, Township 111 North, Range 34 West Redwood County, MN Facility contact: John Graupman, Consultant Bolton & Menk 1960 Premier Drive Mankato, MN Phone: Fax: MPCA Contact Information MPCA EAW contact person: Nancy Drach, Planner Principal Resource Management and Assistance Division Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 520 Lafayette Road N. St. Paul, MN , Fax: MPCA Permit contact person: Ashley Wahl, Senior Permit Writer Municipal Division Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 504 Fairgrounds Road, Suite 200 Marshall, MN , Fax: General Information The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is distributing this Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) for a 30-day review and comment period pursuant to the Environmental Quality Board (EQB) rules. The MPCA uses the EAW and any comments received to evaluate the potential for significant environmental effects from the project and decide on the need for an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). An electronic version of the EAW is available on the MPCA Environmental Review webpage at If you would like a copy of the EAW or have any questions on the EAW contact the appropriate person(s) listed above. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)/State Disposal System will be going on public notice in the near future. Please contact the MPCA Permit contact person above. Description of Proposed Project The City of Morgan (City) proposes to construct a three (3) cell stabilization pond wastewater treatment facility (Pond WWTF) in the southwest quarter of Section 9, T111N, R34W, in Redwood County. The Pond WWTF will replace the City s existing mechanical wastewater treatment facility (Mechanical WWTF). The Pond WWTF will have an outfall pipe to discharge treated wastewater to Redwood County Ditch 109. The City will also construct a new lift station and forcemain to convey wastewater from the City to the Pond WWTF. The City designed the Pond WWTF to treat a design average wet weather flow of 260,000 gallons per day, 210 days of storage, and a controlled (seasonal-spring and or fall) discharge to Redwood County Ditch 109, the same receiving water as the Mechanical WWTF discharge. Once the new Pond WWTF is operation, the City will close the Mechanical WWTF. p-ear2-94a Available in alternative formats Page 1 of 2

2 Written comments on the EAW must be received by the MPCA EAW contact person within the comment period listed above. For information on how to comment on the (NPDES/SDS Permit, contact the MPCA Permit contact person listed above. NOTE: All comment letters are public documents and will be part of the official public record for this project. Need for an EIS The MPCA Commissioner will make a final decision on the need for an EIS after the end of the comment period Available in alternative formats Page 2 of 2

3 July 2013 version ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET This Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) form and EAW Guidelines are available at the Environmental Quality Board s website at: The EAW form provides information about a project that may have the potential for significant environmental effects. The EAW Guidelines provide additional detail and resources for completing the EAW form. Cumulative potential effects can either be addressed under each applicable EAW Item, or can be addresses collectively under EAW Item 19. Note to reviewers: Comments must be submitted to the RGU during the 30-day comment period following notice of the EAW in the EQB Monitor. Comments should address the accuracy and completeness of information, potential impacts that warrant further investigation and the need for an EIS. 1. Project Title: City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility 2. Proposer: City of Morgan 3. RGU: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Contact person: John Graupman Contact person: Nancy Drach Title: Consultant, Bolton & Menk Title: Planner Principal Address: 1960 Premier Drive Address: 520 Lafayette Road North City, State, ZIP: Mankato, MN City, State, ZIP: St. Paul, MN Phone: Phone: Fax: Fax: johngr@bolton-menk.com nancy.drach@state.mn.us 4. Reason for EAW Preparation: (check one) Required: oeis Scoping x Mandatory EAW Discretionary: o Citizen Petition o RGU Discretion o Proposer Initiated If EAW or EIS is mandatory give EQB rule category subpart number(s) and name(s): Minn. R , subp. 18(b) for expansion or reconstruction of an existing municipal or domestic wastewater treatment facility which results in an increase by 50 percent or more and by at least 200,000 gallons per day of its average wet weather flow capacity, or construction of a new municipal or domestic wastewater treatment facility with an average wet weather design flow capacity of 200,000 gallons per day or more, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency shall be the Responsible Governmental Unit ( RGU ). 5. Project Location: County: Redwood City/Township: Morgan PLS Location (¼, ¼, Section, Township, Range): Southwest ¼, Southwest ¼, Section 9, Township 111N, Range 34W Watershed (81 major watershed scale): 28. Minnesota River - Mankato GPS Coordinates: North, West p-ear1-04 TDD (for hearing and speech impaired only): Printed on recycled paper containing 30% fibers from paper recycled by consumers

4 At a minimum attach each of the following to the EAW: Figure 1. Map showing location of Pond WWTF Figure 2. Mechanical WWTF and Pond WWTF Site Layout Figure 3. Pond WWTF Location Soils Map Figure 4. Pond WWTF Treatment Schematic Figure 5. Pond WWTF Flood Emergency Management Agency Map Figure 6. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Information Figure 7. U.S. Fish and Wildlife National Wetlands Inventory Figure 8. Well Locations around Pond WWTF Figure 9. MPCA data What s in My Neighborhood Attachment 1. U.S. Department of Agriculture Farmland Conversion Impact Rating Attachment 2. September 25, 2015, Minnesota Historical Society, State Preservation Office Letter Regarding Pond WWTF Attachment 3. October 23, 2015, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources letter regarding Natural Heritage Review of Pond WWTF 6. Project Description: a. Provide the brief project summary to be published in the EQB Monitor, (approximately 50 words). The city of Morgan ( City ) proposes to construct a three (3)-cell stabilization pond wastewater treatment facility ( Pond WWTF ) in the southwest section of Section 9 in Redwood County. See Figure 1. The Pond WWTF will replace the City s existing mechanical wastewater treatment facility ( Mechanical WWTF ). The Pond WWTF will have an outfall pipe to discharge treated wastewater to Redwood County Ditch 109. The City will also construct a new lift station and forcemain to convey wastewater from the City to the Pond WWTF. The City designed the Pond WWTF to treat a design average wet weather flow ( AWWF ) of 260,000 gallons per day ( gpd ), 210 days of storage, and a controlled (seasonal spring and/or fall) discharge to Redwood County Ditch 109, the same receiving water as the Mechanical WWTF. Once the new Pond WWTF is operational, the City will close the Mechanical WWTF. After completion of the Pond WWTF, and within the next few years, the City will also reconstruct and/or upgrade the City s existing sanitary sewer collection system, watermain lines, and storm sewer collection system. The City has already completed, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture ( USDA ) - Rural Development Program reviewed, a federallyrequired environmental review report ( ER Report ) for the City s proposed reconstruction of the sanitary sewer, watermain, and storm systems. As a result, the MPCA is not conducting review now on the City s proposed activities previously evaluated in the ER Report. b. Give a complete description of the proposed project and related new construction, including infrastructure needs. If the project is an expansion include a description of the existing facility. Emphasize: 1) construction, operation methods and features that will cause physical manipulation of the environment or will produce wastes, 2) modifications to existing equipment or industrial processes, 3) significant demolition, removal or remodeling of existing structures, and 4) timing and duration of construction activities. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 2 Worksheet

5 Existing Mechanical WWTF The City s Mechanical WWTF is located in the northern half of Section 16 in Township 112 North, Range 34 West, in Redwood County. See Figure 2. The City constructed the Mechanical WWTF in 1954 and upgraded it in The Mechanical WWTF is an activated sludge plant consisting of a trickling filter solids contact process. The Mechanical WWTF includes a primary clarifier, aeration tank for solids contact, a final clarifier, and a chlorine contact basin with chlorination to disinfect the treated wastewater. The Mechanical WWTF also includes biosolids treatment equipment, including an aerobic digester and storage tank with one (1) year of storage capacity. Biosolids are land applied. The Mechanical WWTF has a design AWWF of 360,000 gpd, with a continuous discharge to a tile line that goes on to Redwood County Ditch 109. Redwood County Ditch 109 discharges to Wabasha Creek approximately nine (9) miles downstream. Wabasha Creek then discharges to the Minnesota River. Pond WWTF The City believes it necessary to construct the Pond WWTF to replace the Mechanical WWTF rather than do costly rehabilitation work on the Mechanical WWTF. Because of land limitations, the Pond WWTF location is north and west of the Mechanical WWTF, in the southwest corner of Section 9. See Figure 2. The Pond WWTF consists of constructing a three cell stabilization Pond WWTF with two (2) primary cells and one (1) secondary cell. The Pond WWTF s two primary cells are each 7.2 acres in size and have two (2) foot ( ) to six (6) operating depths. The secondary cell is 14.2 acres with a two (2) to 8.5 operating depth. The Pond WWTF will treat the City s wastewater by settling and removing the total suspended solids ( TSS ) and organic material, also known as five-day carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand ( CBOD 5 ). The solids, called biosolids, settle and remain at the bottom of the three (3) cells. Biosolids are only removed from active cells if they interfere with treatment capacity or capability. The Pond WWTF includes a new discharge outfall to Redwood County Ditch No. 109, the same receiving water body as the Mechanical WWTF s discharge, but upstream of the existing discharge point. The Pond WWTF s discharge will replace the Mechanical WWTF discharge. The City will then close the Mechanical WWTF and its discharge. Construction At approximately the same time the City is constructing the Pond WWTF, the City will also construct a new lift station at the Mechanical WWTF location, and install a new forcemain (underground sewer pipe) from the Mechanical WWTF location to the Pond WWTF location. This will connect and pump wastewater from the City to the Pond WWTF for treatment. See Figure 3. The City is also installing a backup generator at the Mechanical WWTF location to ensure continued pumping of wastewater to the Pond WWTF for treatment, in case of a power outage. The City will locate a transfer pump and control structure with valves adjacent to the two (2) primary cells to convey wastewater into either of the Pond WWTF s two (2) primary cells for treatment. See Figure 4. The City will locate a second control structure between the two (2) primary cells to transfer wastewater between the two (2) primary cells. The City will locate a third control structure between the primary cells and the secondary cell to convey wastewater from either of the two (2) primary cells into the Pond WWTF s secondary cell. This control structure will also include a pump for the transfer of the wastewater. The City is installing an aeration system in the secondary cell to aid in maintaining dissolved oxygen levels. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 3 Worksheet

6 The City will install a fourth control structure with control valves and a discharge outfall pipe to allow treated wastewater to flow from the secondary cell to Redwood County Ditch 109. In order for treated wastewater to flow for discharge to Redwood County Ditch 109, the City s WWTF operator must manually open the control valves. The City will discharge the treated wastewater on a seasonal basis, in early spring (March or April), and/or in late fall (October- November). Seasonal discharges typically occur over a period of time to maintain a steady discharge rate. The City will not discharge treated wastewater from May 1 through September 30. Construction Activities The City s Pond WWTF requires excavation and construction. The City will excavate and remove existing soils to create base areas for the Pond s three (3) cells. All three (3) cells will have a minimum separation of four (4 feet) between the bottom of each cell and the maximum groundwater elevation. After excavating soils to create the cell areas, the City or it s contractor will compact the soil floor of each cell, then cover the compacted floor with six (6) inch ( ) scarified soils, followed by another six (6) sand protection layer. At the same time, primary and secondary pond inlet structures are also installed, first by adding a geotextile base layer, a high density polyethylene ( HDPE ) line, and then covered with soil and sand layers. The City or its contractor will then place a concrete base layer to support the pipe inlet structures. The City will install synthetic liner, consisting of 100 milliliter ( ml ) high density HDPE, to line all three (3) cells. The City will also construct drain tiles under and around the cells, to keep groundwater rising up under the Pond WWTF s three (3) cells. The drain tiles will convey groundwater to either the cells or on to Redwood County Ditch 109. The City must monitor groundwater that is discharged to Redwood County Ditch 109. After the City constructs the Pond WWTF but before it can receive and treat wastewater, the City must test the integrity (leakage rate) of the three (3) cell liners. The City does this by piping water into each cell, placing barrels in each cell, and measuring the drop in depth in each cell. New wastewater pond systems in Minnesota must not lose more than 500 gallons of wastewater per acre per day. Once the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency ( MPCA ) has approved the Pond WWTF for use in treating wastewater, the City will route all wastewater for treatment and discharge at the Pond WWTF location. The City will discontinue wastewater treatment at the Mechanical WWTF, and permanently close the Mechanical WWTF. After completion of construction activities, the City backfills soil around the constructed areas, then grades and reseeds/revegetates the areas where appropriate. Future activities The City anticipates reconstruction/construction of the City s sanitary sewer collection system, watermain system, and stormwater system will begin sometime after completion of the Pond WWTF, possibly in late 2016 or later. As noted, the City completed an USDA-required ER Report for these activities. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 4 Worksheet

7 c. Project magnitude: Pond WWTF Total Project Acreage 40 Acres Linear project length NA Number and type of residential units 0 Commercial building area (in square feet) 0 Industrial building area (in square feet) 0 Institutional building area (in square feet) 0 Other uses specify (in square feet) 0 Structure height(s) 0 d. 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 purpose of the Pond WWTF is to provide improved wastewater treatment for the City. e. Are future stages of this development including development on any other property planned or likely to happen? o Yes x No See information in 6.b. If yes, briefly describe future stages, relationship to present project, timeline and plans for environmental review. f. Is this project a subsequent stage of an earlier project? o Yes x No If yes, briefly describe the past development, timeline and any past environmental review. The City s Mechanical WWTF was originally constructed in 1956 and upgraded in the late 1980s. 7. Cover Types: Estimate the acreage of the site with each of the following cover types before and after development: Before After Before After Wetlands 0 0 Lawn/landscaping 0 0 Deep water/streams 0 0 Impervious surface 0 0 Wooded/forest 0 0 Stormwater Pond 0 0 Brush/Grassland 0 0 Other (describe) 0 40 Cropland 40 0 TOTAL City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 5 Worksheet

8 8. Permits and Approvals Required: List all known local, state and federal permits, approvals, certifications 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 Minnesota Rules, Chapter Unit of Government Type of Application Status MPCA United States Department of Agriculture ( USDA ) Natural Resources Conservation Service ( NRCS ) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System ( NPDES )/State Disposal System ( SDS ) Permit Pond WWTF Facility Plan Pond WWTF Plans and Specifications NPDES/SDS General Construction Stormwater Permit Farmland Conversion Impact Rating Form City submitted Application, MPCA reviewing. City submitted, MPCA Reviewing. City Submitted, MPCA Reviewing. City application to be submitted. City Completed. See Attachment Redwood County Conditional Use Permit City submitted application. Rural Development Financial Assistance City submitted application. Cumulative potential effects may be considered and addressed in response to individual EAW Item Nos. 9-18, or the RGU can address all cumulative potential effects in response to EAW Item No. 19. If addressing cumulative effect under individual items, make sure to include information requested in EAW Item No Land Use: a. Describe: i. Existing land use of the site as well as areas adjacent to and near the site, including parks, trails, prime or unique farmlands. According to information the City provided about the Redwood County Comprehensive Plan, the USDA-NRCS considers the 40-acre Pond WWTF site to be prime farmland. Because the City is converting this farmland to another use, the City has completed a USDA-NRCS Farmland Conversion Impact Rating. See Attachment 1. Property Surrounding Pond WWTF The Redwood County Comprehensive Plan and Maps list the properties surrounding the Pond WWTF site as cultivated land and zoned as Agricultural. Redwood County requires the City to get a Conditional Use Permit for the Pond WWTF. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 6 Worksheet

9 ii. Plans. Describe planned land use as identified in comprehensive plan (if available) and any other applicable plan for land use, water, or resources management by a local, regional, state, or federal agency. According to the most recent Redwood County Comprehensive Plan available online ( page 77, the City is in an area that Redwood County has designated as a Small City Protection Zone - Urban Expansion District. The Pond WWTF is in an area that will continue to be an Agricultural Zone. Activities in an Agricultural Zone may be allowed through issuance of a conditional use permit, including siting and operating a WWTF. iii. Zoning, including special districts or overlays such as shoreland, floodplain, wild and scenic rivers, critical area, agricultural preserves, etc. The City provided Federal Emergency Management Agency ( FEMA ) floodplain data that indicates the Pond WWTF is not within a floodplain. See Figure 5. Based on MPCA s review of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources ( MDNR ) data on Wild and Scenic Rivers and Shoreland Areas, the Pond WWTF is not on or near wild and scenic rivers or shoreland. See Figure 6. b. Discuss the project s compatibility with nearby land uses, zoning, and plans listed in Item 9a above, concentrating on implications for environmental effects. The Pond WWTF is compatible with current and future land use as defined in the Redwood County s existing land use plan and future zoning maps. Redwood County requires the City to get a conditional use permit for the Pond WWTF. c. Identify measures incorporated into the proposed project to mitigate any potential incompatibility as discussed in Item 9b above. Not applicable. 10. Geology, Soils and Topography/Land Forms: a. Geology - Describe the geology underlying the project area and identify and map any susceptible geologic features such as sinkholes, shallow limestone formations, unconfined/shallow aquifers, or karst conditions. Discuss any limitations of these features for the project and any effects the project could have on these features. Identify any project designs or mitigation measures to address effects to geologic features. The local geology in the Pond WWTF area consists of a thick layer of clay with surface loams. According to the Minnesota Geological Survey, the underlying geology is composed of a granitic intrusion. According to the U.S. Geological Survey Groundwater Watch for Redwood County, the local aquifers are a Glacial Surficial Sand and/or Gravel, and a Glacial buried Sand and/or Gravel aquifer. The groundwater is high in the area (less than four (4) to ten (10) feet below grade). The Pond WWTF will incorporate liners in each cell to minimize seepage to groundwater. Also, the City or its contractor will install underdrain lines below the Pond WWTF cell liners to keep groundwater away from below the Pond WWTF cells. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 7 Worksheet

10 b. Soils and topography - Describe the soils on the site, giving NRCS (SCS) classifications and descriptions, including limitations of soils. Describe topography, any special site conditions relating to erosion potential, soil stability or other soils limitations, such as steep slopes, highly permeable soils. Provide estimated volume and acreage of soil excavation and/or grading. Discuss impacts from project activities (distinguish between construction and operational activities) related to soils and topography. Identify measures during and after project construction to address soil limitations including stabilization, soil corrections or other measures. Erosion/sedimentation control related to stormwater runoff should be addressed in response to Item 11.b.ii. The City reviewed the USDA-NRCS Web Soil Survey. This review indicates soils in the Pond WWTF area consist of 32.5% Canisteo clay loam, 18.4% Webster clay loam, 31.3% Okoboji silty clay loam, and 17.7% Normania loam. See Figure 3 for the Pond WWTF site and soils map. The Pond WWTF site has a downward slope to the west towards Redwood County Ditch 109. The City will construct dikes to surround the Pond WWTF s cells, above the surface of the cells. The City will construct dikes that have slopes three (3) to one (1) or shallower, and the dikes have erosion control liners. The City expects to excavate approximately 280,100 cubic yards of soil, with an embankment of 133,000 cubic yards. The City will ensure its contractors keep soils excavated during construction site via silt fencing. The City s contractors use excavated soils to create the dikes surrounding all three (3) Pond WWTF cells, and to backfill and cover areas, including where the City installs piping. After completion of the Pond WWTF, the City uses remaining excavated soils for landscaping, and then re-establishes turf and vegetation at the Pond WWTF. The Pond WWTF will create new impervious surface at the top of the dikes. Precipitation that falls onto the dikes around the three (3) cells will drain into the cells. As a result, the MPCA does not expect an increase in stormwater runoff from the Pond WWTF site. 11. Water Resources: a. Describe surface water and groundwater features on or near the site in a.i. and a.ii. below. i. Surface water - lakes, streams, wetlands, intermittent channels, and county/judicial ditches. Include any special designations such as public waters, trout stream/lake, wildlife lakes, migratory waterfowl feeding/resting lake, and outstanding resource value water. Include water quality impairments or special designations listed on the current MPCA 303d Impaired Waters List that are within 1 mile of the project. Include MDNR Public Waters Inventory number(s), if any. The Pond WWTF site is immediately east of Ranch Avenue, which runs north and south and is east of Redwood County Ditch 109. After completion of the Pond WWTF, treated wastewater will discharge to Redwood County Ditch 109. Redwood County Ditch 109 connects to Wabasha Creek which then goes on to the Minnesota River. Redwood County Ditch 109 has no listed impairment nor is it considered a MDNR-protected water. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 8 Worksheet

11 There are wetlands in the following areas: a freshwater emergent wetland in the southeast quarter of Section 16, west of the City; the northwest quarter of Section 16, southeast of the Pond WWTF site, and in the northeast quarter of Section 17, southwest of the Pond WWTF site. See Figure 7. The City s construction activities for the Pond WWTF will not occur in wetland areas. The City must ensure the contractor s work and indirect impacts (for example, runoff from the Pond WWTF construction activities) do not have the potential to reach the wetlands. The City must obtain the NPDES/SDS General Construction Stormwater Permit, which outlines requirements for best management practices ( BMPs ) to prevent construction stormwater runoff into waters of the state, including wetlands. ii. Groundwater aquifers, springs, seeps. Include: 1) depth to groundwater; 2) if project is within a MDH wellhead protection area; 3) identification of any onsite and/or nearby wells, including unique numbers and well logs if available. If there are no wells known on site or nearby, explain the methodology used to determine this. As noted, groundwater in the Pond WWTF area is seasonally high at four (4) to ten (10) feet below grade. The MPCA reviewed the Minnesota Department of Health ( MDH ) County Well Index ( CWI ). The MPCA found no wells on the Pond WWTF site. The MPCA also determined from the CWI, the Pond WWTF is not in an MDH wellhead protection area. See Figure 8. There are wells located within a one (1)-mile radius around the Pond WWTF. The Pond WWTF must have lined cells that meet an engineering guideline referred to as the Ten States Standards (pond cells will not exceed 500 gallons per acre per day) to protect groundwater. As a result, the City and the MPCA does not expect the Pond WWTF to negatively impact groundwater. See Figure 8. b. Describe effects from project activities on water resources and measures to minimize or mitigate the effects in Item b.i. through Item b.iv. below. i. Wastewater - For each of the following, describe the sources, quantities and composition of all sanitary, municipal/domestic and industrial wastewater produced or treated at the site. 1) If the wastewater discharge is to a publicly owned treatment facility, identify any pretreatment measures and the ability of the facility to handle the added water and waste loadings, including any effects on, or required expansion of, municipal wastewater infrastructure. The City s Pond WWTF is replacing the City s existing Mechanical WWTF. The Pond WWTF will treat and discharge the City s wastewater to Redwood County Ditch 109. The City designed the Pond WWTF to treat a 180-day AWWF of 260,000 gallons gpd and design CBOD 5 of 167 lb/day at AWWF. The two primary cells each have a six (6)- foot maximum operating depth, and total surface area of 14.4 acres at mean operating depth. The secondary cell has an 8.5 foot maximum operating depth, and 14.2-acre surface area at mean operating depth. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 9 Worksheet

12 2) If the wastewater discharge is to a subsurface sewage treatment systems (SSTS), describe the system used, the design flow, and suitability of site conditions for such a system. Not applicable. 3) If the wastewater discharge is to surface water, identify the wastewater treatment methods and identify discharge points and proposed effluent limitations to mitigate impacts. Discuss any effects to surface or groundwater from wastewater discharges. The Pond WWTF treats wastewater conveyed from the City by reducing the pathogenic bacterial content, reducing and settling solids. Stabilization ponds need to discharge during periods when receiving waters are free of ice, and water temperatures are adequate to minimize oxygen depletion in the receiving water. In Minnesota, these conditions generally occur during the spring and fall of the year. Before manually opening the discharge valve each time the City plans to discharge treated wastewater, the City must first conduct pre-sampling of the treated wastewater to determine if the treated wastewater discharge complies with the NPDES/SDS permit effluent limits. The Pond WWTF will discharge treated wastewater in a controlled manner to Redwood County Ditch 109. Redwood County Ditch 109 is listed in Minn. R. subp as a Class 7, 3C, 4A, 4B, 5, 6 water. Minn. R. pt , subp. 8 describes the classification of Class 7 waters: Limited resource value waters include surface waters of the state that have been subject to a use attainability analysis and have been found to have limited value as a water resource. Water quantities in these waters are intermittent or less than one cubic foot per second at the 7Q 10 flow as defined in part , subpart 3. These waters shall be protected so as to allow secondary body contact use, to preserve the groundwater for use as a potable water supply, and to protect aesthetic qualities of the water. It is the intent of the agency that very few waters be classified as limited resource value waters. The use attainability analysis must take into consideration those factors listed in Minnesota Statutes, section , subdivisions 2 and 3. The agency, in cooperation and agreement with the Department of Natural Resources with respect to determination of fisheries values and potential, shall use this information to determine the extent to which the waters of the state demonstrate that: A. the existing and potential faunal and floral communities are severely limited by natural conditions as exhibited by poor water quality characteristics, lack of habitat, or lack of water; B. the quality of the resource has been significantly altered by human activity and the effect is essentially irreversible; or C. there are limited recreational opportunities, such as fishing, swimming, wading, or boating, in and on the water resource. The conditions in items A and C or B and C must be established by the use attainability analysis before the waters can be classified as limited resource value waters. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 10 Worksheet

13 The other classifications of the Redwood County Ditch 109 are as follows: Class 3C industrial consumption Class 4 agriculture and wildlife Class 5- aesthetic enjoyment and navigation Class 6 other uses Wabasha Creek is downstream of Redwood County Ditch 109. Minn. R , subp. 5, A. (192) classifies Wabasha Creek as a 2C, water. Minn. R states that waters of the state specifically listed in Minn. R. pt are, in addition to those specific listings, such as Wabasha Creek, are also classified as a 3C, 4A, 4B, 5, 6 water. Minn. R , subp. 5, classifies the Minnesota River (downstream of Wabasha Creek) as 2B, 3B, 3C, 4A, 4B, 5, 6 water. Proposed NPDES/SDS Effluent Limits for Pond WWTF The MPCA requires the Pond WWTF to meet effluent limits proposed in NPDES/SDS permit MN The MPCA developed the Pond WWTF s NPDES/SDS permit effluent limits to be protective of the receiving waters. NPDES/SDS Permit MN Pond WWTF Proposed Effluent Limits Substance or Characteristic Milligrams per Liter ( mg/l ) Average ( Avg ) monthly Kilograms( kg )/day AVG monthly CBOD TSS Fecal Coliform (Geometric mean): 200 organisms/100 ml May through October ph (Range) (Standard Units) NA phosphorus 497 kg/year 12 month total* Salty Discharge Parameters** Interim Daily Maximum (mg/l): Final Daily Maximum Spring Discharge Period/Monthly Average: Final Daily Maximum Fall Discharge Period/Monthly Average: Bicarbonates (HCO 3) 1, / /300 Chloride 1, / /335 Total Dissolved Solids 3,660 1,214/870 1,211/867 Total Hardness 1, / /616 Specific Conductance - in µmhos/cm 6,318 1,854/1,274 1,849/1,271 *After completion of the Pond WWTF, phosphorus requirements, the City shall not discharge treated wastewater to Redwood County Ditch 109 from June through September of each year. **The NPDES/SDS permit includes a schedule that requires the City to attain final effluent limits for the Salty Discharge Parameters. Additional Monitoring Requirements for Discharge Pollutant or Pollutant Characteristic Mercury (Total plus Dissolved) and Total Suspended Solids Grab Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen ( TKN ), and Total Nitrogen (TN) Frequency 2 x Year (Spring and Fall Discharge) Plus 1 x year large volume sampling 2 x Year (Spring and Fall Discharge City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 11 Worksheet

14 Receiving Water Impairments Redwood County Ditch 109 and Wabasha Creek have no listed impairments. There are listed impairments for receiving waters further downstream. The MPCA has proposed effluent limits for the Pond WWTF and considers these limits to be protective of the downstream receiving waters. Downstream Receiving Water Impairments Minnesota River Dissolved Oxygen Mercury in Fish ( F ) Tissue Mercury in Water ( W ) Column Fecal Coliform Turbidity Polychlorinated Biphenyls ( PCB ) in Fish Tissue ( F ) PCBs in Water Column ( W ) Mississippi River Mercury in F Mercury in W Fecal Coliform TSS Total Maximum Daily Load ( TMDL ) Status The Lower Minnesota River Low Dissolved Oxygen TMDL was approved by the US. Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) in September MPCA is requiring mercury monitoring in accordance with MPCA Mercury Permitting Strategy. No TMDL has been started on these impairments. Five (5) of the impaired reaches are included in the draft Minnesota River Turbidity TMDL. A TMDL has not been started on four (4) of the impaired reaches. One (1) impaired reach is included in the South Metro Mississippi TMDL Turbidity Impairment. TMDLs are not underway for PCB impairments at this time. TMDLs are not underway for PCB impairments at this time. MPCA is requiring monitoring in accordance with MPCA Mercury Permitting Strategy. EPA approved the Upper Mississippi River Bacteria TMDL on November 20, The MPCA completed a draft South Metro Mississippi River TMDL Turbidity Impairment. Permit Consideration The MPCA has determined the proposed annual mass phosphorus limit, as a water quality based effluent limit ( WQBEL ) for Lake Pepin. Project will avoid a discharge during the summer months, therefore is considered to not contribute to exceedance of river eutrophication standards in the Minnesota River or to the low flow Dissolved Oxygen TMDL for the lower Minnesota River. The City will be required to monitor total and dissolved mercury, along with TSS associated with mercury. MPCA proposing effluent limit for Pond WWTF equivalent to existing Mechanical WWTF limit; this is a state discharge restriction. The Pond WWTF will not result in an increased discharge of fecal coliform. The NPDES/SDS Permit will require the Pond WWTF to meet a 45 mg/l TSS calendar month average limit, which is more restrictive than the TSS concentration established as a surrogate for 25 Nephelometric Turbidity Units ( NTU ) Turbidity WQ Standard. The MPCA has adopted Minnesota River Eutrophication Standards that have replaced the turbidity standard with new, regionally-based standards for total suspended solids. See note. * See note.* The City will be required to monitor total and dissolved mercury, along with TSS associated with mercury. The MPCA did not assign a waste load allocation ( WLA ) in this TMDL as it is not located within the TMDL area. The Pond WWTF s proposed TSS limit is for 45 milligrams per Liter ( mg/l ) calendar month average. The MPCA anticipated the Pond WWTF and built in reserve capacity in the TMDL for the Pond WWTF. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 12 Worksheet

15 PCBF Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid ( PFOS ) F PFOS W Pepin Lake Nutrient/Eutrophicati on Biological Indicators Mississippi River Mercury in Fish Tissue TMDLs are not underway for PCB impairments at this time. TMDLSs are not underway for PFOS impairments at this time. TMDLs are not underway for PFOS impairments at this time. EPA approved the site specific standard in January The MPCA has scheduled the draft Lake Pepin-Excess Nutrients TMDL to be completed in The MPCA will incorporate the site specific standard into Minn. R. when MPCA next revises Minn. R. Chapter MPCA is requiring monitoring in accordance with MPCA Mercury Permitting Strategy. See note.* See note.** See note.** The MPCA has determined the proposed annual mass phosphorus limit as a water quality-based effluent limit ( WQBEL ) for Lake Pepin. The Pond WWTF will not discharge during the summer period of June through September of each year, therefore the MPCA does not consider the Pond WWTF contributing to exceedances of river eutrophication standards in the Minnesota River or to the low flow Dissolved Oxygen TMDL for the lower Minnesota River. The MPCA requires the City to monitor total and dissolved mercury, along with TSS associated with Mercury. *PCBs are known as legacy pollutants PCBs have not been manufactured in the United States since the late 1970s. PCBs tend to persist in the environment for a long time. MPCA believes the Pond WWTF s discharge does not have PCBs, as there is no contributing source (industry) to the City. **PFOS are extremely persistent in the environment. MPCA believes the Pond WWTF s discharge does not have PFOS, as there is no direct contributing source (industry) to the City. ii. Stormwater - Describe the quantity and quality of stormwater runoff at the site prior to and post construction. Include the routes and receiving water bodies for runoff from the site (major downstream water bodies as well as the immediate receiving waters). Discuss any environmental effects from stormwater discharges. Describe stormwater pollution prevention plans including temporary and permanent runoff controls and potential BMP site locations to manage or treat stormwater runoff. Identify specific erosion control, sedimentation control or stabilization measures to address soil limitations during and after project construction. The Pond WWTF site consists of tilled farmland under a slope, and does not have a stormwater system. The Pond WWTF site currently drains to the west into Redwood County Ditch 109. The amount of precipitation runoff from the Pond WWTF site varies with rainfall intensity and cover crop but is typical of farmland in southern Minnesota. The City and its contractors must obtain MPCA General Construction Stormwater Permit coverage and prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan for construction of the Pond WWTF, as well as for the lift station, forcemain, and future work. The contractors must use BMPs as required in the MPCA General Construction Stormwater Permit, and use BMPS that are most appropriate for both the location and work. The City s proposed construction work at the Pond WWTF site includes, at a minimum, silt fencing along with an exterior stabilized berm to contain all needed materials on site until the City revegetates the dikes and disturbed areas outside the Pond WWTF site. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 13 Worksheet

16 iii. iv. The City is installing temporary sedimentation basins at the Pond WWTF site and temporarily grading the Pond WWTF site to drain stormwater runoff into the temporary sedimentation basins. After the completion of the Pond WWTF, the City will discharge the treated wastewater into Redwood County Ditch 109, at a location west of and parallel to Ranch Avenue. Ranch Avenue runs north and south, and is immediately west of the Pond WWTF site. The wastewater discharge pipe will run below and perpendicular to Ranch Avenue. The City s construction and installation of the wastewater discharge pipe will occur during periods of low ditch flow or the City s contractors will temporarily block and divert ditch flow. The City is installing riprap to prevent erosion where the wastewater discharge pipe outlets to Redwood County Ditch 109. The City will stabilize the slopes leading to Redwood County Ditch 109 immediately after construction and before removing ditch blocks. The City will use rock entrances to access the Pond WWTF site to decrease runoff. After the City completes construction of the Pond WWTF, the City anticipates less precipitation runoff at the Pond WWTF site, and the quality of precipitation runoff will be better than existing conditions. Water appropriation - Describe if the project proposes to appropriate surface or groundwater (including dewatering). Describe the source, quantity, duration, use and purpose of the water use and if a MDNR water appropriation permit is required. Describe any well abandonment. If connecting to an existing municipal water supply, identify the wells to be used as a water source and any effects on, or required expansion of, municipal water infrastructure. Discuss environmental effects from water appropriation, including an assessment of the water resources available for appropriation. Identify any measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate environmental effects from the water appropriation. The City does not expect a need to appropriate water for construction and operation of the Pond WWTF. When testing the Pond WWTF cell liners, the City may use its existing water source. Surface Waters a) Wetlands - Describe any anticipated physical effects or alterations to wetland features such as draining, filling, permanent inundation, dredging and vegetative removal. Discuss direct and indirect environmental effects from physical modification of wetlands, including the anticipated effects that any proposed wetland alterations may have to the host watershed. Identify measures to avoid (e.g., available alternatives that were considered), minimize, or mitigate environmental effects to wetlands. Discuss whether any required compensatory wetland mitigation for unavoidable wetland impacts will occur in the same minor or major watershed, and identify those probable locations. The MPCA reviewed the Pond WWTF area on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Area Wetland Mapper. The MPCA did not identify any wetlands on or near the Pond WWTF site, and believes no further wetland investigation and/or mitigation are necessary. See Figure 7. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 14 Worksheet

17 b) Other surface waters- Describe any anticipated physical effects or alterations to surface water features (lakes, streams, ponds, intermittent channels, county/judicial ditches) such as draining, filling, permanent inundation, dredging, diking, stream diversion, impoundment, aquatic plant removal and riparian alteration. Discuss direct and indirect environmental effects from physical modification of water features. Identify measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate environmental effects to surface water features, including in-water Best Management Practices that are proposed to avoid or minimize turbidity/sedimentation while physically altering the water features. Discuss how the project will change the number or type of watercraft on any water body, including current and projected watercraft usage. The City expects the Pond WWTF construction activities to occur close to but not in Redwood County Ditch 109. The City and its contractors must to use appropriate BMPs to prevent materials going to Redwood County Ditch 109. The pipe for the discharge of treated wastewater will outlet at Redwood County Ditch 109. The City will install riprap at the discharge pipe outlet. 12. Contamination/Hazardous Materials/Wastes: a. Pre-project site conditions - Describe existing contamination or potential environmental hazards on or in close proximity to the project site such as soil or ground water contamination, abandoned dumps, closed landfills, existing or abandoned storage tanks, and hazardous liquid or gas pipelines. Discuss any potential environmental effects from preproject site conditions that would be caused or exacerbated by project construction and operation. Identify measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects from existing contamination or potential environmental hazards. Include development of a Contingency Plan or Response Action Plan. The City and the MPCA did not find existing sources of contamination and/or hazardous waste at the Pond WWTF site. See Figure 9. The Pond WWTF site is currently farmland and has no other historical use. The City and the MPCA does not expect the Pond WWTF, during construction or operation, to generate hazardous wastes. The City must meet spill prevention and reporting requirements, including notification to the Minnesota State Duty Officer. The NPDES/SDS wastewater permit outlines the requirements for construction and operation of the Pond WWTF. b. Project related generation/storage of solid wastes - Describe solid wastes generated/stored during construction and/or operation of the project. Indicate method of disposal. Discuss potential environmental effects from solid waste handling, storage and disposal. Identify measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects from the generation/storage of solid waste including source reduction and recycling. The City and its contractors must manage and dispose of construction and demolition debris under Minnesota solid waste requirements. After the City closes the Mechanical WWTF, the Mechanical WWTF equipment and materials may be re-used or be disposed of under Minnesota solid waste requirements. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 15 Worksheet

18 c. Project related use/storage of hazardous materials - Describe chemicals/hazardous materials used/stored during construction and/or operation of the project including method of storage. Indicate the number, location and size of any above or below ground tanks to store petroleum or other materials. Discuss potential environmental effects from accidental spill or release of hazardous materials. Identify measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects from the use/storage of chemicals/hazardous materials including source reduction and recycling. Include development of a spill prevention plan. The City will not use hazardous materials during construction or operation of the Pond WWTF. d. Project related generation/storage of hazardous wastes - Describe hazardous wastes generated/stored during construction and/or operation of the project. Indicate method of disposal. Discuss potential environmental effects from hazardous waste handling, storage, and disposal. Identify measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects from the generation/storage of hazardous waste including source reduction and recycling. The City will not use or store hazardous materials during construction or operation of the Pond WWTF. 13. Fish, Wildlife, Plant Communities, and Sensitive Ecological Resources (rare features): a. Describe fish and wildlife resources as well as habitats and vegetation on or in near the site. The Pond WWTF site consists of tilled farmland under a slope. b. Describe rare features such as state-listed (endangered, threatened or special concern) species, native plant communities, Minnesota County Biological Survey Sites of Biodiversity Significance, and other sensitive ecological resources on or within close proximity to the site. Provide the license agreement number (LA- ) and/or correspondence number (ERDB ) from which the data were obtained and attach the Natural Heritage letter from the MDNR. Indicate if any additional habitat or species survey work has been conducted within the site and describe the results. The Pond WWTF site consists of tilled farmland under a slope. The Pond WWTF site is along the west side of Ranch Avenue, which is immediately east of Redwood County Ditch 109. The City requested and received a MDNR Natural Heritage Information System ( NHIS ) review of the Pond WWTF site. See Attachment 2. The MDNR letter, dated October 23, 2015, summarizes the MDNR s NHIS review of the Pond WWTF site found no known occurrences of rate features in the area searched. The MDNR letter notes that effective May 4, 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis) under the Endangered Species Act ( ESA ), and implemented an interim 4(d) rule. The northern ear bat is found throughout Minnesota. During the winter this species hibernates in caves and mines, and during its active season (approximately April October), it roosts underneath bark, in cavities, or in crevices of both live and dead trees. Activities that can impact this species include, but are not limited to disturbance of hibernacula, and destruction /degradation of habitat (including tree removal). The MDNR City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 16 Worksheet

19 letter also states that the NHIS does not contain any known occurrences of northern long-eared bat roosts or hibernacula within an approximate one-mile radius of the Pond WWTF site. c. Discuss how the identified fish, wildlife, plant communities, rare features and ecosystems may be affected by the project. Include a discussion on introduction and spread of invasive species from the project construction and operation. Separately discuss effects to known threatened and endangered species. The MDNR letter states it does not believe the construction of the Pond WWTF will adversely affect any known occurrence of rare features. d. Identify measures that will be taken to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects to fish, wildlife, plant communities, and sensitive ecological resources. The ESA prohibits taking of species, such as the northern long-eared bat, without a permit, unless the take is exempt under the interim 4(d) rule. The MDNR letter states that if the City believes construction of the Pond WWTF may adversely affect ( take ) the northern long-eared bat, the City shall determine whether the take is exempt under the interim 4(d) rule or if a Federal permit is required for the take. The MDNR letter also includes information for the City and its contractors to make that determination. 14. Historic Properties: Describe any historic structures, archeological sites, and/or traditional cultural properties on or in close proximity to the site. Include: 1) historic designations, 2) known artifact areas, and 3) architectural features. Attach letter received from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). Discuss any anticipated effects to historic properties during project construction and operation. Identify measures that will be taken to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects to historic properties. The City requested and received a Minnesota State Historical Society ( MSHS ) State Historic Preservation officer ( SHPO ) survey. The City has provided a September 25, 2015, letter from the MSHS Survey and Manager of Government Programs and Compliance, which indicates the results of the MSHS SHPO survey did not identify any properties listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places that would be affected by construction of the Pond WWTF. See Attachment Visual: Describe any scenic views or vistas on or near the project site. Describe any project related visual effects such as vapor plumes or glare from intense lights. Discuss the potential visual effects from the project. Identify any measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate visual effects. The Pond WWTF site consists of tilled farmland under a slope. The primary visual changes as a result of the Pond WWTF are the three cells with surrounding dikes rising above the ground surface. The City will also construct a five (5) foot high woven wire fencing around the Pond WWTF. The City s wastewater treatment activity occurring as a result of the Pond WWTF will not result in noticeable plumes or glare from intense lights. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 17 Worksheet

20 16. Air: a. Stationary source emissions - Describe the type, sources, quantities and compositions of any emissions from stationary sources such as boilers or exhaust stacks. Include any hazardous air pollutants, criteria pollutants, and any greenhouse gases. Discuss effects to air quality including any sensitive receptors, human health or applicable regulatory criteria. Include a discussion of any methods used assess the project s effect on air quality and the results of that assessment. Identify pollution control equipment and other measures that will be taken to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects from stationary source emissions. The City is installing a back-up generator by the lift station at the Mechanical WWTF site in order to ensure continued power in emergency situations to move wastewater from the City s sanitary sewer system through the lift station, through the forcemain and to the Pond WWTF. The City will only use the generator during power blackouts and therefore the MPCA expects it to have only short-term, temporary emissions. b. Vehicle emissions - Describe the effect of the project s traffic generation on air emissions. Discuss the project s vehicle-related emissions effect on air quality. Identify measures (e.g. traffic operational improvements, diesel idling minimization plan) that will be taken to minimize or mitigate vehicle-related emissions. The City expects a temporary increase in vehicle emissions during construction of the Pond WWTF due to the use of powered construction equipment, as well as the arrival and departure of construction worker vehicles. The work is required to meet applicable local seasonal or weight restrictions. While there may be a temporary, slight increase in traffic in the area due to construction, operation of the Pond WWTF will not permanently increase traffic to the site or in the area over existing levels. c. Dust and odors - Describe sources, characteristics, duration, quantities, and intensity of dust and odors generated during project construction and operation. (Fugitive dust may be discussed under item 16a). Discuss the effect of dust and odors in the vicinity of the project including nearby sensitive receptors and quality of life. Identify measures that will be taken to minimize or mitigate the effects of dust and odors. The City s construction of the Pond WWTF will result in dust and noise during construction. The City requires contractors to use measures during construction to cut dust and meet applicable County and/or City ordinances. Measures to mitigate dust emissions from construction activities include application of water to areas being actively graded, and avoidance of construction activities during periods of high winds. Extra dust controls may also include minimizing the amount of open graded areas, and watering regularly, particularly if there are areas that may have soils susceptible to wind erosions. Following completion of construction, the City s contractors will final grade, seed, and mulch the Pond WWTF areas. The Pond WWTF, once in operation, may have odors during spring and fall. Wastewater ponds freeze over in winter. In early spring, they thaw similar to lakes and wetlands in the area. When wastewater ponds are moving from an anaerobic (frozen) state to an aerobic state (thawed), odors may be released. If wastewater ponds release odors in the fall, it may mean the ponds are not as aerobic as expected due to too much cloudy or rainy weather during the summer, decaying mats or vegetation, or too much organic loading to the system. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 18 Worksheet

21 The Pond WWTF design, construction and operation will ensure the cells maintain aerobic conditions. Aerobic conditions lessen the likelihood of odors. The City s proper operation of the Pond WWTF includes, but is not limited to, aeration when needed in the secondary cell. The Pond WWTF site is one (1) mile north and west of the City and 0.6 miles from the nearest residence. Construction vehicles onsite can cause occasional odors from vehicle exhaust. When the City removes waste materials, such as biosolids at the Mechanical WWTF removed in preparation for the closing of the Mechanical WWTF, the removal of biosolids may result in transitory odors during removal. Such odors are limited in time and temporary in nature. 17. Noise: Describe sources, characteristics, duration, quantities, and intensity of noise generated during project construction and operation. Discuss the effect of noise in the vicinity of the project including 1) existing noise levels/sources in the area, 2) nearby sensitive receptors, 3) conformance to state noise standards, and 4) quality of life. Identify measures that will be taken to minimize or mitigate the effects of noise. The primary source of noise during Pond WWTF construction is from construction vehicles entering and leaving during construction, and during operation of heavy construction equipment. Although construction noise is an increase over existing conditions at the Pond WWTF, the noise is temporary and limited in duration and time. Noise from the operation of construction vehicles and equipment must remain below applicable local town and/or county noise ordinances. Another source of noise may come if the City has a power outage. If and when that occurs, the City will operate the emergency back-up generator to ensure continued conveyance of wastewater for treatment, and to prevent sewer backups. This source of noise is also temporary and limited in duration and time. The City does not expect more noise mitigation measures will be necessary. 18. Transportation: a. Describe traffic-related aspects of project construction and operation. Include: 1) existing and proposed additional parking spaces, 2) estimated total average daily traffic generated, 3) estimated maximum peak hour traffic generated and time of occurrence, 4) indicate source of trip generation rates used in the estimates, and 5) availability of transit and/or other alternative transportation modes. There will be a temporary increase in traffic at the Pond WWTF area over existing conditions as a result of construction vehicles and construction worker vehicles. The numbers of construction vehicles will vary dependent on the stages of construction. Construction vehicles and construction workers will only be during the period of Pond WWTF construction. Once operational, the typical amount of traffic will be one vehicle entering and leaving the Pond WWTF site per day. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 19 Worksheet

22 b. Discuss the effect on traffic congestion on affected roads and describe any traffic improvements necessary. The analysis must discuss the project s impact on the regional transportation system. If the peak hour traffic generated exceeds 250 vehicles or the total daily trips exceeds 2,500, a traffic impact study must be prepared as part of the EAW. Use the format and procedures described in the Minnesota Department of Transportation s Access Management Manual, Chapter 5 (available at: or a similar local guidance, The Pond WTTF will not permanently increase traffic on nearby roads used to access the Pond WWTF site. The City has not identified a need for traffic improvements during or post construction. c. Identify measures that will be taken to minimize or mitigate project related transportation effects. As the City s contractors construct and/or install components of the Pond WWTF, they must ensure that transportation into and out of the Pond WWTF construction areas follows federal, state, and local requirements, including seasonal and/or weight restrictions, as well as debris management and control. The City s contractors must also meet applicable federal, state, and local requirements during demolition and/or removal of all equipment and materials at the Pond WWTF site. 19. Cumulative Potential Effects: (Preparers can leave this item blank if cumulative potential effects are addressed under the applicable EAW Items) a. Describe the geographic scales and timeframes of the project related environmental effects that could combine with other environmental effects resulting in cumulative potential effects. The City and the MPCA did not identify additional cumulative effects resulting from construction and operation of the Pond WWTF. b. Describe any reasonably foreseeable future projects (for which a basis of expectation has been laid) that may interact with environmental effects of the proposed project within the geographic scales and timeframes identified The City and the MPCA did not identify other potential future projects at this time. The City s future work rehabilitation/replacement of sanitary sewer collection lines, water main, and stormwater system will begin after the Pond WWTF, has been previously identified and reviewed. c. Discuss 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. MPCA does not anticipate additional environmental impacts, other than those already discussed, as a result of reconstruction of the sanitary sewer, watermain, and storm sewer. Therefore, the MPCA does not anticipate potential significant environmental effects due to cumulative effects to result from future reconstruction of the sanitary sewer, watermain and storm sewer. City of Morgan Construction of Wastewater Stabilization Pond Facility Environmental Assessment Morgan, Redwood County, Minnesota 20 Worksheet

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24 ' Figure 1 Project Location Topographic Map City of Morgan, MN January, 2015 /"'-h \ - ' r<"s. -'-.,.>- --",. 2, =====::::::ifeet Source MnDNR, USGS '... r I '-.},..J 1

25 Figure 2. Existing WWTP and Project Site Layout

26 Figure 3. Project Soils Map City of Morgan Project Soils Map

27 Figure 4. Project Treatment Schematic I IJ.J ::, z: w, > <i: I :Tl: : :1 I: ' Ir I I I I I 'I' I I I I I I I i 1 I : I I I 1: I. : : I I I! I' I I I I :I'.1 J, '\, I I 1 r. [ SECONDARY POND WASTEWATER STABILIZATION PONDS PRIMARY POND NO. 1 PRIMARY POND NO. 2 CJ o I D re 201S I SJS BLH.JMG.BJS I "'"'"" MAN!CATO.MN 1\BOL TON & MENK. INC. Consulting Englneens a: Surveyors FAIRMONT.MN SLHPYEYE.MN SURNSV!llE.MN WlllMAR.MN CHASKA. MN RAMSEY. MN MA?lEWOOO. MN BAXTER, MN ROCHESTER. MN AMES. IA SPENCER. IA DES MOINES, IA FARGO.,'110 REV. I BY I DAH CITY OF MORGAN, MINNESOTA JMG I 11/9/ WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITIES IMPROVEMENTS SHEE'T (2.06

28 Figure 5. Project Location FEMA

29 Figure 6 - Minnesota DNR - Recreation Compass Project Location Lake/River National Forest National Wildlife Refuge Scientific & Natural Area State Water Trail State Forest State Park State Trail Water Access Wildlife Management Area Map Parameters (UTM Zone 15, NAD83) minx: maxx: miny: maxy: Contents , Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. All rights reserved.

30 Figure 7 U.S. Fish and Wildlife National Wetlands Inventory Map Morgan WWTP Project Mar 11, Project Location User Remarks: Wetlands 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.

31 Figure 8. Identified Wells around Project Location

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48 Figure 9. Morgan Project - MPCA Data.Morgan Project Location April 4, 2016 MPCA Sites Multiple Activities Air Feedlot Hazardous Waste Investigation and Cleanup Solid Waste Tanks and Leaks Water 1:38, mi km Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, USGS, Intermap, increment P Corp., NRCAN, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri (Thailand), MapmyIndia, OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

49 Attachment 1. Project USDA Farmland Conversion Impact Rating

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51 ATTACHMENT 2 11 Minnesota Historical Society Using the Power of History to Transform Lives PRESERVING SHARING CONNECTING STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE September 25, 2015 Mitchell Swanson Environmental Design Engineer Bolton & Menk, Inc Premier Drvie Mankato, MN RE: BMI Project No City of Morgan Infrastructure Improvements Demolition of water treatment plant and construction of wastewater treatment ponds Tlll R34 59, 15, 16, 21 & 22 Morgan, Redwood County SHPO Number: Dear Mr. Swanson: Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the above project. It has been reviewed pursuant to the responsibilities given the State Historic Preservation Officer by Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and implementing federal regulations at 36 CFR 800. Based on available information, we conclude that no properties listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places will be affected by this project. Please contact our Compliance Section at (651) if you have any questions regarding our review of this project. Sincerely, 'BdJZ()uf.ttjj- Sarah J. Beimers, Manager Government Programs and Compliance Minnesota Historical Society, 345 Kellogg Boulevard West, Saint Paul, Minnesota

52 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Division of Ecological and Water Resources, Box Lafayette Road ATTACHMENT 3 Phone: (651) St. Paul, Minnesota samantha.bump@state.mn.us October 23, 2015 Correspondence # ERDB Mr. Mitchell Swanson Bolton & Menk, Inc Premier Drive Mankato, MN RE: Natural Heritage Review of the proposed Morgan WWTF Improvements; T111N R34W Section 9; Redwood County Dear Mr. Swanson, 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. However, please note that the northern long eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis), a state listed species of special concern, is found throughout Minnesota. During the winter this species hibernates in caves and mines, and during the active season (approximately April October) it roosts underneath bark, in cavities, or in crevices of both live and dead trees. Activities that may impact this species include, but are not limited to, wind farm operation, any disturbance to hibernacula, and destruction/degradation of habitat (including tree removal). Effective May 4, 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) listed the northern long eared bat as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and implemented an interim 4(d) rule. The ESA prohibits take of this species without a permit unless the take is exempt under the interim 4(d) rule. If you believe that your project may adversely affect ( take ) the northern long eared bat, you should determine whether the take is exempt under the interim 4(d) rule or whether you need a Federal permit. To make this determination, please refer to the USFWS Key to the Interim 4(d) Rule available at Please note that the NHIS does not contain any known occurrences of northern long eared bat roosts or hibernacula within an approximate one mile radius of the proposed project. 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. 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 AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER