Environmental Assessment for the Proposed Cannon River Park 115-Kv Substation and Transmission Line Project Dated October 2019

6A.

Request for Council Action

TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: Tim Murray, City Administrator Deanna Kuennen, C&ED Director FROM: Peter Waldock, AICP Planning Coordinator MEETING DATE: December 10, 2019 SUBJECT: Resolution 2019-241 Accept the Environmental Assessment and Approve a Conditional Use Permit for Construction of the Cannon River Park 115-kV Electric Transmission Line by Great River Energy and an Electric Substation by Steele Waseca Electric Cooperative

Background: With the construction of Absolute Air in the Northern Industrial Park, additional electric system capacity is needed. To address this need, Great River Energy and Steele Waseca Cooperative Electric are proposing a new overhead electric transmission line and new substation. This infrastructure improvement will add system capacity for the entire industrial park area benefiting Sage, Faribault Foods, Willow Creek Concrete Products and others in the area.

Great River Energy, supplier to Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric (SWCE), proposes to construct a new overhead 115-kilovolt (kV) transmission line to deliver electric power to a new Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric distribution substation to be built in the City of Faribault’s Northern Industrial Park.

The proposed project will be located in the City of Faribault’s Northern Industrial Park. The transmission line would originate at the existing Xcel Energy 115-kV transmission line running along Interstate 35. Two new switch structures, owned and installed by Xcel Energy, will allow the new line to connect to the existing Xcel Energy line. The new line will run approximately 2000-feet east, across Park Avenue, to the proposed SWCE Electrical Substation on the Absolute Air site.

At the Joint Committee meeting held on May 21, 2019, the City received a summary of the project and a request by Great River Energy to locally process the permit for this transmission line project. The Joint Council Committee agreed with the Staff recommendation that the permit be processed locally by the City for public hearings and environmental review.

Discussion: The approval process for this project requires a public hearing for the environmental assessment and conditional use permit. Under the statutes the City can conduct the public hearings and provide a local permitting process. Local approval streamlines the process and saves time in receiving state approval from the Public Utilities Commission.

The utilities have requested environmental review of the Project by several federal and state agencies. The status of those reviews is provided below.

United States Corps of Engineers (Corps) – The Corps of Engineers indicated that the placement of poles in upland locations is not within their jurisdiction (letter to Great River Energy dated 7-2-2019). If poles are to be placed in wetland areas, detailed construction plans will need to be submitted.

United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) – The USFWS indicated that there are no concerns in the Project area (email to Great River Energy dated 6-6-2019).

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) – The DNR indicated that they do not believe the project will negatively affect any known occurrences of rare features (letter to Great River Energy 7-29-2019)

Minnesota Department of Transportation (aviation issues) – The Faribault Municipal Airport is located 1-mile southwest of the project and an FAA 7460 filing is required once engineering is complete to confirm that pole heights will not interfere with the airport (email of 5/29/2019).

Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) – Great River Energy hired a consultant to conduct a Phase 1A Cultural Resources Assessment of the Project Area. No sites or structures were identified within the Project area. MHS concurred with the consultant’s assessment and concluded that there are no properties listed in the national or State Registers of Historic Places, and no known or suspected archaeological properties in the area that will be affected by this Project (letter to Great River Energy dated 6-21-2019).

The City sent a notice and project summary to surrounding owners in August seeking comments regarding the environmental review process. The City has published the notice of the Environmental Assessment in the EQB Monitor on October 28, 2019. Two comments were received by interested parties. Summarized below.

Douglas Jones of Wheeling Township, a SWCE Customer – Endorsed the project. See his email from November 2, 2019.

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) – The agency had no objections or concerns regarding this request. See letter dated November 7, 2019

The City published a notice of public hearing in the Faribault Daily News on November 19, 2019 and sent notices to surrounding owners on that date as well. No objections or concerns were received in this process.

Recommendation: Adopt Resolution 2019-241, Accept the Environmental Assessment and Approve a Conditional Use Permit for the Construction of the Cannon River Park 115-kV Electric Transmission Line by Great River Energy and an Electric Substation by Steele Waseca Electric Cooperative

Attachments: • Resolution 2019-241 • Environmental Assessment • Project Summary and Public Comments

[This space reserved for recorder’s stamp]

State of Minnesota County of Rice

CITY OF FARIBAULT

RESOLUTION #2019-241

ACCEPT THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND APPROVE A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE CANNON RIVER PARK 115-KV ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION LINE BY GREAT RIVER ENERGY AND AN ELECTRIC SUBSTATION BY STEELE WASECA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

WHEREAS, Great River Energy, wholesale electric supplier to Steele- Waseca Cooperative Electric, (Applicants) proposes to construct a new overhead 115-kilovolt (kV) transmission line to deliver electric power to a new Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric distribution substation to be built in the City of Faribault’s Northern Industrial Park. The subject site is legally described as follows:

Lot 1, Block 1, Northern Industrial Park Tenth Addition and Outlot A, Northern Industrial Park Eleventh Addition in the City of Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota ; and

WHEREAS, the transmission line will originate at the existing Xcel Energy 115-kV transmission line running along Interstate 35. Two new switch structures, owned and installed by Xcel Energy, will allow the new line to connect to the existing Xcel Energy line. The new line will run approximately 2000-feet east along the south side of Outlot A, of Northern Industrial Park Eleventh Addition, across Park Avenue, to the proposed Cannon River Substation at the east side of the Absolute Air property (Lot 1, Block 1, Northern Industrial Park tenth Addition); and

WHEREAS, City staff has completed a review of the application and environmental assessment report pertaining to said request a copy of which has been presented to the City Council; and

Resolution 2019-241 Page 2 of 5

WHEREAS, the City Council, on the 10th day of December, 2019 following proper notice, held a public hearing regarding the request, and upon the close of said public hearing, based upon the Environmental Assessment Report, and recommendations of City Staff made the following findings:

1. The conditional use will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, comfort, convenience or general welfare.

2. The conditional use will not be injurious to the use of other property in the vicinity and will promote the orderly development and improvement of surrounding property for uses permitted in the district.

3. The conditional use is designed in a manner that is compatible in appearance with the existing or intended character of the surrounding area.

4. The conditional use will not impose hazards on neighboring properties.

5. The conditional use will not diminish the value of neighboring properties.

6. The project will help provide essential electric utilities as part of the conditional use.

7. Development and operation of the conditional use will not create excessive additional requirements at public costs and will contribute to the economic welfare of the community.

8. Adequate measures have been or will be taken to minimize impacts on surrounding properties.

9. The conditional use will not result in the destruction, loss or damage of a natural, scenic, or historic feature of importance to the community.

10. The conditional use is consistent with the applicable policies and recommendations of the city’s Land Use Plan or other adopted land use studies.

11. The conditional use conforms to the applicable regulations of the zoning district in which it is located; and

Resolution 2019-241 Page 3 of 5

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FARIBAULT, MINNESOTA AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1: Incorporation of Recitals and Exhibits. The recitals set forth in this Resolution and the Exhibits attached hereto are incorporated into and made a part of this Resolution.

Section 2. Acceptance of the Environmental Assessment Report. The City Council hereby accepts the environmental assessment report in support of the project, attached as Exhibit A.

Section 3. Approval of the Conditional Use Permit. A conditional use permit for Great River Energy, and Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric, to construct a new overhead 115-kilovolt (kV) transmission line to deliver electric power to a new Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric distribution substation to be built in the City of Faribault’s Northern Industrial Park, shall be approved based on the findings listed in the above recitals and subject to the conditions of approval listed in Section 4 below.

Section 4. Conditions of Approval. A conditional use permit is hereby approved subject to conditions listed herein as authorized under City Ordinances and Minnesota Statutes that are deemed necessary to mitigate adverse impacts associated with the conditional use as follows:

1. Granting the Conditional Use Permit is for the plans as submitted with this application. 2. The Development Review Committee shall be authorized to approve plan revisions as may be needed to facilitate this development. 3. The Applicants shall acquire the necessary easements needed for construction and maintenance of the proposed transmission line and electric substation. 4. The Applicants shall comply with all applicable laws, rules and regulations as apply to the project. 5. This Conditional Use Permit shall expire one year from the date of this resolution unless an extension is requested by the Applicants prior to its expiration and then approved by the City Council.

Section 5. Compliance. The Applicants must comply with all applicable provisions of the City Code of Ordinances and State Statutes during construction and operation of the conditional use. Any violation of these provisions or any of the specified conditions shall be grounds Resolution 2019-241 Page 4 of 5

for revocation of the conditional use permit.

Section 6. This resolution shall become effective immediately upon its passage and without publication.

Date Adopted: December 10, 2019

Faribault City Council

______Kevin F. Voracek, Mayor

ATTEST:

______Timothy C. Murray, City Administrator

Resolution 2019-241 Page 5 of 5

Exhibit A Attach Environmental Assessment for the proposed Cannon River Park 115-kV Substation and Transmission Line Project dated October 2019

Environmental Assessment for the Proposed

Cannon River Park 115-kV Substation and Transmission Line Project

Rice County, Minnesota

City of Faribault

October 2019 Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction ...... 1-1 1.1 Project Need and Proposed Project ...... 1-1 1.2 Project Location and Schedule ...... 1-1 1.3 Project Cost Estimate ...... 1-4

2.0 Regulatory Framework ...... 2-1 2.1 Permit Requirement ...... 2-1 2.2 Environmental Assessment Requirement ...... 2-1 2.3 Public Participation/Scoping of Environmental Assessment ...... 2-1 2.4 Permit ...... 2-3

3.0 Engineering Design, Right-of-Way Acquisition, and Construction .. 3-1 3.1 Cannon River Park Distribution Substation ...... 3-1 3.2 Transmission Line ...... 3-3 3.3 Right-of-Way Management Practices ...... 3-4 3.4 Construction Procedures ...... 3-4 3.5 Restoration/Maintenance Procedures ...... 3-5

4.0 Assessment of Environmental Impacts and Mitigation ...... 4-1 4.1 Description of Environmental Setting ...... 4-1 4.2 Impacts on Human Settlement ...... 4-1 4.2.1 Socioeconomics ...... 4-1 4.2.2 Displacement ...... 4-3 4.2.3 Noise ...... 4-3 4.2.4 Aesthetics ...... 4-5 4.2.5 Human Health and Safety ...... 4-5 4.2.6 Public Services ...... 4-7 4.2.7 Transportation ...... 4-8 4.3 Impacts on Land-based Economies ...... 4-8 4.3.1 Recreation/Tourism ...... 4-8 4.3.2 Agriculture ...... 4-8 4.3.3 Mining and Forestry ...... 4-8 4.4 Archaeological and Historic Resources ...... 4-8 4.5 Natural Environment ...... 4-9 4.5.1 Air Quality ...... 4-9 4.5.2 Water Resources, Wetlands and Soils ...... 4-9 4.5.3 Vegetation and Wildlife/Rare and Unique Natural Resources ...... 4-10

5.0 Regulatory Permits and Approvals Required ...... 5-1

i Figures

Figure 1-1 General Vicinity Map………………………………………………… ... 1-2 Figure 1-2 Proposed Project …………………………………………………… .... 1-3 Figure 3-1 Cannon River Park Distribution Substation Plot Plan………………. 3-2 Figure 3-2 Proposed 115-kV Single Circuit Structure…………………… ...... 3-3 Figure 4-1 Zoning ……………………………………………………...... 4-2 Figure 4-2 Hydrologic Features………………………………………… ...... 4-11 Figure 4-3 Rare Features ……………………………………………...... 4-12

Tables

Table 4-1 Common Noise Sources and Levels………………………………. .. 4-3 Table 4-2 Noise Area Classifications………………………………………….. ... 4-4 Table 5-1 Regulatory Permits and Approvals Required…………………. …. .. 5-1

Appendices

Appendix A Notices/Commission Correspondence

Appendix B Landowner Letter to Scope EA

Appendix C Agency Correspondence

ii List of Acronyms Used in this Document

ACRONYMS

Commission Minnesota Public Utilities Commission dB Decibel dB(A) Decibel, A-weighted DNR Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

EA Environmental Assessment

EMF Electromagnetic fields

EQB Minnesota Environmental Quality Board

IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers

kV Kilovolt

kV/m Kilovolts per meter

MHS Minnesota Historical Society

MnDOT Minnesota Department of Transportation

MPCA Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

NAC Noise Area Classification

NESC National Electric Safety Code

NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

NWI National Wetland Inventory

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration

ROW Right-of-way

SWCE Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric

SHPO State Historic Preservation Office

SWPPP Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan

USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers

USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service

iii 1.0 Introduction Great River Energy is a not-for-profit generation and transmission cooperative based in Maple Grove, Minnesota. Great River Energy provides electrical energy and related services to 28 member-owner cooperatives, including Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric (SWCE). Great River Energy’s distribution cooperatives, in turn, supply electricity and related services to approximately 685,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

1.1 Project Need and Proposed Project Great River Energy and SWCE’s mission is to provide safe, reliable, competitively priced energy to those they serve. An air-processing company is planning to construct a new facility in the City of Faribault’s Northern Industrial Park. This new facility requires a robust electric source to power its operation, and the new 115-kV transmission line and substation will provide the needed electric power. The distribution substation will contain two transformers to lower the voltage. A 115-kV/4.16-kV transformer to serve the air- processing facility and a 115/12.47-kV transformer to serve cooperative member- consumers.

Great River Energy is proposing to construct a new overhead 115-kV transmission line (approximately 2000-feet) to deliver power to a new SWCE substation in the City of Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota (Figure 1-1 and 1-2).

The project is discussed in more detail below and in Section 3.0.

1.2 Project Location and Schedule The proposed single circuit 115-kV transmission line will be located in the City of Faribault’s Northern Industrial Park, in Section 13 of Wells Township, Rice County Minnesota (Figures 1-1 and 1-2). The transmission line would originate at the existing Xcel Energy 115-kV transmission line running along Interstate 35. Two new switch structures, owned and installed by Xcel Energy, will allow the new line to connect to the existing Xcel Energy line. The new line will then run approximately 2000-feet east, across Park Avenue, to the proposed Cannon River Substation.

Project permitting will occur in fall of 2019 and construction will occur in spring 2020.

1-1 Figure 1-1 General Vicinity Map

1-2 Figure 1-2 Proposed Project

1-3 1.3 Project Cost Estimate

Estimated project costs are listed below.

SWCE Substation $ 2,500,000

Great River Energy Transmission Line & Substation Equipment $ 700,000

Total Estimated Project Cost $ 3,200,000

1-4 2.0 Regulatory Framework 2.1 Permit Requirement This project falls under the State of Minnesota’s Power Plant Siting Act, (Minnesota Statutes § 216E.03, Subdivision 2, and Minnesota Rules Chapter 7850) for transmission projects over 100 kV and requires a permit from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (Commission). However, for eligible projects, a utility may apply to the local unit of government that has jurisdiction over the project for approval instead of applying to the Commission (Minn. Rules 7850.5300). This proposed 115 kV project is eligible for local review.

Great River Energy is seeking approval for the project from the City of Faribault. The City of Faribault has 60 days to relinquish its jurisdiction after receipt of the Permit application on June 27, 2019. The City of Faribault has agreed to act as the lead local unit of government with jurisdiction to approve the project (see letter dated July 23rd, 2019, Appendix A).

As required by Minn. Rules 7850.5300 Subp.3, a project notice (see Appendix A) was sent by Great River Energy to the Commission and to those persons on the Power Plant Siting General Notification list on July 24th, 2019, indicating that Great River Energy is seeking local approval of the project. A letter from the Commission (see letter dated August 1st, 2019) confirming receipt of Great River Energy’s letter of intent to seek local approval is also included in Appendix A. The project was assigned Docket No.ET2/LR- 19-474.

2.2 Environmental Assessment Requirement In accordance with Minn. Rules 7850.5300 Subp.5, an environmental assessment (EA) report prepared by the local unit of government with jurisdiction over the project must be completed. The EA contains information on the human and environmental impacts of the proposed project and addresses methods to mitigate such impacts.

When the EA is complete, the City of Faribault must publish a notice in the Environmental Quality Board (EQB) Monitor stating the EA is available for review, how a copy of the document may be reviewed, how the public may comment on the document, and the procedure for submitting comments to the City. A final decision on the project cannot be made until at least ten days after the notice appears in the EQB Monitor.

2.3 Public Participation/Scoping of Environmental Assessment On August 7th, 2019, the City of Faribault mailed letters to all adjoining property owners, soliciting input on the development of the EA scope (see Appendix B). The comment period concluded at the end of business on August 21st, 2019. Three comments were received regarding the project.

2-1 Landowner Comments

• Great River Energy and Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric received a comment from Jim Templeton, Minnesota Municipal Power Agency/Avant Energy on July 8th, 2019 stating they are in discussions to purchase Outlot A and have a preference to route the transmission line along the southern boundary of Outlot A.

Response – On August 21st, 2019 Great River Energy forwarded the communication and a map to the City of Faribault to include in the Environmental Assessment. Great River Energy is evaluating the southern boundary and will be discussing the option with landowners.

2-2 • Peter Waldock, City of Faribault, received a comment starting about August 9, 2019 from Mr. Heselton, Northern Partners, LLC. in support of modifying the alignment to the southern boundary of Outlot A.

• Peter Waldock, City of Faribault, received a telephone call on or about August 16, 2019 from Jim Holmstrom, QF5, LLC. Mr. Holmstrom inquired about the possible alignment change to the southerly boundary of the Northern Partners, LLC, Outlot A, parcel and the legal rights Great River Energy has for land transactions.

Response - Great River Energy is reviewing the feasibility of moving the alignment to the southerly property line. Great River Energy will continue discussions with landowners to review the possibility of moving the alignment to the south. Great River Energy will need to work with landowners to acquire easements for the transmission line. Great River Energy does have the right of Eminent Domain.

The alignment of the transmission line to the southern side of Outlot A, Northern Industrial Park Eleventh Addition extending across Park Avenue (CSAH 76) then north along the east side parallel to the existing gas line easement on the Absolute Air site is an acceptable route option. The City has asked Great River Energy that the placement of the transmission line maintain a safe separation from the Absolute Air structures to assure access to the structures by firefighting apparatus and for maintenance equipment on the west side of the proposed industrial structures.

2.4 Permit The City of Faribault is the legal governing authority for all activities requiring Permits, Conditional Use, Special Use, and zoning-related approval. The proposed project is located entirely within the limits of the City of Faribault.

The City of Faribault requires a Permit for this project. Great River Energy submitted a Permit Application to the City on June 27, 2019. After the EA is finalized, notice of the EA will been published in the EQB Monitor, and the comment period requirements have been met, the City of Faribault will hold a public hearing and decide on Great River Energy’s Permit request.

The Permit process is open to the public as part of the respective review by the City of Faribault City Council at its regularly scheduled meetings. Prior to the public hearing, notices are sent out to all adjoining landowners to the project property. Public hearing notices are published in the Faribault Daily News, the City's official legal newspaper. The City of Faribault City Council makes the final decision to approve or deny the Permit application.

2-3 3.0 Engineering Design, Right-of-Way Acquisition, and Construction 3.1 Cannon River Park Distribution Substation The Cannon River distribution substation property is located in Section 13, Township 110N, Range 21W, Wells Township, Rice County Minnesota. The substation equipment will be enclosed in a fenced area (approximately 90 feet wide by 150 feet deep) situated within a larger 10-acre parcel owned by Absolute Air (Figure 3-1). SWCE leases the land and owns all the substation equipment (control building, fence, etc.) and will operate the distribution facilities. The substation is enclosed within an 8-foot-high chain link fence to provide essential safety and security measures and topped with one-foot-high barbed wire designed to deter climbing and animals. Access gates into the substation are locked.

The primary components of the substation will include:

• One 15 MVA 115-kV / 12.47-kV transformer; and

• One 10 MVA 115-kV / 4.16-kV transformer; and

• Two 115-kV high side structures with switches and breakers to accommodate the 115-kV transmission line terminations; and

• Grading, fencing, a control building, steel structures, and other electrical equipment.

Some equipment within the substation will be filled with mineral oil for cooling. This equipment sits on concrete slabs, while the remainder of the fenced-in area surface is covered with three inches of crushed rock.

The new 115-kV transmission line will enter the Cannon River Substation from the east. Great River Energy will have a permanent easement for its facilities at the proposed substation.

3-1 Figure 3-1 Cannon River Park Distribution Substation Plot Plan

Property Plan

Substation Plan

3-2 3.2 Transmission Line The project includes the construction of approximately 2,000-feet of new 115-kV transmission line. The line will be primarily constructed using wood or steel structures with horizontal post insulators (Figure 3-2). The poles will range in height from 60 to 90 feet above ground and spaced approximately 300 to 400 feet apart. Structures, pole heights and spans may vary somewhat depending upon topography and environmental constraints (such as road crossings, pipeline crossings, and required angle structures). The single circuit structures will have three single conductor phase wires and one shield wire. The phase wires will be 477 thousand circular mil ACSR with seven steel core strands and 26 outer aluminum strands. The shield wire will be 0.528 inch aluminum core with fiber optic communication cable.

Angles in the line will require guying (the use of anchors and support cables) or specialty structures. Where guying is not feasible, direct embedded laminated wood poles or steel poles on drilled pier concrete foundations may considered in lieu of guying and anchors.

The transmission line will be designed to meet the National Electric Safety Code (NESC) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standards. The NESC recommends minimum strength and safety standards for clearances over roadways, buildings, signs, light standards, and other facilities. Great River Energy has company standards that meet or exceed the NESC requirements. Clearances over highways and roadways will be a minimum of 23.6 feet, which exceeds the requirements of the NESC and may be increased by Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) or local county highway permitting.

Figure 3-2 Typical 115-kV Single Circuit Structure

3-3 3.3 Right-of-Way Management Practices Once the transmission line project is approved by the City of Faribault, and easements have been acquired, landowners will be notified, by a Great River Energy representative, of the construction schedule, access points and vegetation clearing plan. The proposed easements are 70 feet wide, 35 feet on each side of the transmission line. Any trees or tall growing vegetation will be cleared 35 feet on both sides of the transmission centerline to enable the safe construction, operation and maintenance of the line. Tall trees, that are weak, leaning, or diseased and are located beyond 35 feet, may be removed if determined they could interfere with the line’s safe operation. Removed trees will be offered to the landowner or removed from the site. Brush will be chipped and removed from the right- of-way (ROW). It is standard practice to remove all vegetation species that could represent a danger to the transmission line when at a mature height.

Some structure locations may require soil analysis to assist with the design of the transmission line. Soil borings would be performed by GRE or its consultant to determine the soil properties for engineering analysis. An independent geotechnical testing company would perform and analyze these soil borings. Site access may be required, and landowners would be notified of the soil boring activity.

Where possible, construction staging, and equipment laydown areas would be located within the ROW and limited to previously disturbed or developed areas. Upon completion of construction activities, landowners will be contacted to determine if any additional clean-up or restoration matters need to be reconciled.

3.4 Construction Procedures The proposed 115-kV transmission line would be constructed at existing ground elevations; therefore, no pole locations would require additional grading unless it is necessary to provide a level area for construction access and activities. Construction would comply with the latest industry standards regarding clearance to ground, clearance to crossing utilities, clearance to buildings, ROW widths, erecting power poles, and stringing of transmission line conductors.

Typical pole structures would require a drilled hole 10 to 15 feet deep and 3 to 4 feet in diameter for each pole. Pole structures in wet environments or angle structures may require additional foundation support, typically consisting of a concrete foundation or placement of the wood pole inside a vertical galvanized steel culvert. Erosion control methods would be implemented to minimize runoff during construction. Great River Energy or approved contractors would perform transmission line construction in compliance with local, state, NESC, IEEE, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and industry standards.

3-4 Poles would be delivered to either the staked location or a project storage yard. If the poles were delivered to a staked site, they would be placed on the ROW out of the clear zone of any adjacent roadways or designated pathways. Insulators and other hardware would typically be attached while the pole was on the ground. The pole would then be lifted, placed and secured on the foundation by a bucket truck or crane.

Once the structures have been erected, conductors would be installed by establishing stringing setup areas within the ROW. Conductor stringing operations require brief access to each structure to secure the conductor wire to the insulators or to install shield wire clamps once the wire’s final sag is established. Temporary guard or clearance poles would be installed, as needed, over existing distribution or communication lines, streets, roads, highways, railways or other obstructions after any necessary notifications were made or permits obtained. This ensures that conductors would not obstruct traffic or contact existing energized conductors or other cables. In addition, the conductors would be protected from damage.

3.5 Restoration/Maintenance Procedures During construction, limited ground disturbance at the structure sites may occur. Disturbed areas would be restored to their original condition to the maximum extent practicable as agreed to with the landowner. Post-construction reclamation activities include:

• removing and disposing of debris, • removing all temporary facilities (including staging and laydown areas), • employing appropriate erosion control measures, • reseeding and mulching areas disturbed by construction activities with vegetation similar to that which was removed and, • restoring the areas to their original condition to the extent possible.

Great River Energy will periodically use the transmission line ROW to perform inspections, maintain its equipment, and repair any damage. Regular route maintenance for weed control and removal of undesired vegetation will be conducted in accordance with terms of the easements and any state or local permitting requirements.

3-5

4.0 Assessment of Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Because the project is located in a previously disturbed industrial park, impacts to the environment are expected to be minimal and short-term, with little mitigation required. Great River Energy and SWCE will minimize environmental impacts during construction of the project.

Correspondence relative to environmental conditions in the project area and responses received from state and federal agencies that reviewed the project are provided in Appendix C.

4.1 Description of Environmental Setting The City of Faribault is the County seat for Rice County. The City of Faribault is situated at the confluence of the Cannon and Straight Rivers in southern Minnesota.

The proposed substation and the transmission line corridor are located in areas that are zoned Industrial (see Zoning Map, Figure 4-1). Land use in the area outside of the industrial park is mainly rural residential and agricultural.

4.2 Impacts on Human Settlement There are no residences within approximately 1,300-feet of the ROW. Great River Energy will work with the landowners within the industrial park to minimize any impacts.

4.2.1 Socioeconomics

The City of Faribault’s economy is primarily driven by some manufacturing, and retail.

Approximately 15-25 workers will be required for construction of the project. During construction, there would be a small impact on the local community due to revenue created from expenditures of the construction crew (local community services, hotels, restaurants, construction materials). No permanent jobs will be created in the local area by this project.

4-1

Figure 4-1 Zoning

4-2

4.2.2 Displacement

The new substation and transmission line will not cause the displacement of any residences or businesses.

4.2.3 Noise

Noise is composed of a variety of sounds of different intensities across the entire frequency spectrum. Humans perceive sound when sound pressure waves encounter the auditory components in the ear. These components convert these pressure waves into perceivable sound. Transmission conductors and transformers at substations produce noise under certain conditions. The level of noise or its loudness depends on conductor conditions, voltage level, and weather conditions.

Noise is measured in units of decibels (dB) on a logarithmic scale. Because human hearing is not equally sensitive to all frequencies of sound, certain frequencies are given more "weight". The A-weighted scale (dBA) corresponds to the sensitivity range for human hearing. Noise levels capable of being heard by humans are measured in dBA, the A-weighted sound level recorded in units of decibels. A noise level change of 3 dBA is barely perceptible to human hearing. A 5-dBA change in noise level, however, is clearly noticeable. A 10-dBA change in noise levels is perceived as a doubling of noise loudness, while a 20-dBA change is considered a dramatic change in loudness.

Table 4-1 below shows noise levels associated with common, everyday sources. Noise levels for a 115-kV transmission line would typically be between 0 and 20 dBA, depending on the weather.

Table 4-1 Common Noise Sources and Levels

Sound Pressure Level Typical Sources (dB) Jet aircraft takeoff at 100 120 feet 110 Jet aircraft at 400 feet 90 Motorcycle at 25 feet 80 Garbage disposal 70 City street corner 60 Conversational speech 50 Typical office 40 Living room (without TV) 30 Quiet bedroom at night Source: Environmental Impact Analysis Handbook, ed. By Rau and Wooten, 1980

4-3

In Minnesota, state rules have been established to regulate noise levels by land use types. The most stringent noise limit is assigned to places with a Noise Area Classification (NAC) of 1, which generally applies to areas where people may normally be expected to sleep. Due to the location of, within the City of Faribault Northern Industrial Park, the Noise Area Classification for the project would be NAC 3. The various NACs are described in the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) noise regulations and the applicable limits for each NAC are shown in Table 4-2.

Table 4-2 Noise Area Classifications1

Day (0700-2200) Night (2200-0700) NAC L50 L10 L50 L10 1 60 65 50 55 2 65 70 65 70 3 75 80 75 80

Transmission Line

Noise emission from a transmission line increases during heavy rain and wet conductor conditions. In foggy, damp, or rainy weather conditions, power lines can create a crackling sound due to the small amount of electricity ionizing the moist air near the wires. During heavy rain, the general background noise level is usually greater than the noise from the transmission line and few people would be out near the transmission line. As a result, people do not normally notice audible noise from a transmission line during heavy rain. This is confirmed by calculated levels during a heavy rain (one inch per hour) that shows noise levels for a 115 kV line at less than 25% of the most sensitive state NAC (NAC 1). During light rain, dense fog, snow, and other times when there is moisture in the air, transmission lines will produce audible noise at approximately household background levels. During dry weather, audible noise from transmission lines is barely perceptible.

Substation

Noise associated with substations includes the operation of transformers and switchgear. The transformers produce a constant low-frequency humming noise while the switchgear produces an impulsive or short duration noise during infrequent activation of the circuit breakers. Due to the infrequent operation of the switchgear, the noise generated would be considered temporary in nature and not predicted to exceed the MPCA Noise Limits.

1 Minn. R. 7030.0040 (2003).

4-4

Typical noise levels from the type of transformers that will be used in the Cannon River Substation are 71 dBA when the transformer cooling fans are not running and 73 dBA when the fans are running (measured 0.3 meter (0.98 feet) from the equipment). These levels are lower than the Noise Area 3 Classification (Table 4- 2) of 75 dBA.

4.2.4 Aesthetics

Given the location of the project in the City of Faribault’s Northern Industrial Park the project will have limited impact on aesthetics of the area. Directly to the north of the transmission tap location is a large substation owned by Xcel Energy and a generation facility owned by Minnesota Municipal Power Agency.

4.2.5 Human Health and Safety

No threats to public health and safety are anticipated for this project. All facilities will be constructed in accordance with all applicable standards, including the NESC and other industry standards. Construction personnel will be required to follow OSHA regulations. Other safety measures such as warning signs, fencing, and gates will be utilized as needed.

Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF)

The term electromagnetic fields (EMF) refers to electric and magnetic fields that are coupled together, such as in high frequency radiating fields. For the lower frequencies associated with power lines, EMF should be separated into electric fields and magnetic fields. For any specific line design, the height of the set of phase conductors above ground has a marked influence on the maximum electric and magnetic fields.

Voltage on a wire produces an electric field in the area surrounding the wire. The voltage on the conductors of a transmission line generates an electric field extending from the energized conductors to other nearby objects, such as the ground, towers, vegetation, buildings, and vehicles. The intensity of electric fields, measured in kilovolts/meter (kV/m), is proportional to the voltage of the line and the magnitude of the electric field rapidly decreases with distance from the transmission line conductors. The presence of trees, buildings, or other solid structures nearby can significantly reduce the magnitude of the electric field. Electric fields of transmission lines above ground are designated by the difference in voltage between two points (usually one meter).

Magnetic fields arise from the flow of electricity (current) in the transmission line. The intensity of the magnetic field is related to the current flow through the conductors. The magnetic field associated with the transmission line surrounds the conductor and rapidly decreases as the distance from the conductor increases. Magnetic field density is measured and expressed in units of gauss or milligauss.

4-5

Considerable research has been conducted in recent decades to determine whether exposure to power-frequency (60 hertz) electric and magnetic fields can cause biological responses and adverse health effects. The multitude of epidemiological and toxicological studies has shown at most a weak association (i.e., no statistically significant association) between EMF exposure and health risks.

In 1999, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) issued its final report on “Health Effects from Exposure to Power-Line Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields” in response to the Energy Policy Act of 1992. In the report, the NIEHS concluded that the scientific evidence linking EMF exposures with health risks is weak and that this finding does not warrant aggressive regulatory concern. However, in light of the weak scientific evidence supporting some association between EMF and health effects and the fact that exposure to electrical systems is common in the United States, the NIEHS stated that passive regulatory action, such as providing public education on reducing exposures, is warranted.2

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) comes to a similar conclusion about the link between adverse health effects, specifically childhood leukemia, and power-frequency EMF exposure. On its website, the EPA states:

Many people are concerned about potential adverse health effects. Much of the research about power lines and potential health effects is inconclusive. Despite more than two decades of research to determine whether elevated EMF exposure, principally to magnetic fields, is related to an increased risk of childhood leukemia, there is still no definitive answer. The general scientific consensus is that, thus far, the evidence available is weak and is not sufficient to establish a definitive cause-effect relationship.3

Minnesota, California, and Wisconsin have each conducted their own literature reviews or research to examine this issue. In 2002, Minnesota formed an Interagency Working Group to evaluate the research and develop policy recommendations to protect the public health from any potential problems arising from EMF effects associated with HVTLs. The Minnesota Department of Health published the Working Group’s findings in A White Paper on Electric and Magnetic Field (EMF) Policy and Mitigation Options. The Working Group summarized its findings as follows:

Research on the health effects of EMF has been carried out since the 1970s. Epidemiological studies have mixed results – some have shown no statistically significant association between exposure to EMF and health effects, some have shown a weak association. More recently, laboratory studies have failed to show such an association, or to establish a

2 Report is available at http://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/emf/ 3 http://www.epa.gov/radtown/power-lines.html

4-6

biological mechanism for how magnetic fields may cause cancer. A number of scientific panels convened by national and international health agencies and the United States Congress have reviewed the research carried out to date. Most researchers concluded that there is insufficient evidence to prove an association between EMF and health effects; however many of them also concluded that there is insufficient evidence to prove that EMF exposure is safe.4

Based on findings like those of the Working Group and NIEHS, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has consistently found that “there is insufficient evidence to demonstrate a causal relationship between EMF exposure and any adverse human health effects.”5 This conclusion was further justified in the recent Route Permit proceedings for the Brookings County – Hampton 345-kV Project (“Brookings Project”). In the Brookings Project Route Permit proceedings, the Applicants (Great River Energy and Xcel Energy) and one of the intervening parties both provided expert evidence on the potential impacts of electric and magnetic fields on human health. The administrative law judge (ALJ) in that proceeding evaluated written submissions and a day-and-a-half of testimony from the two expert witnesses. The ALJ concluded: “there is no demonstrated impact on human health and safety that is not adequately addressed by the existing State standards for [EMF] exposure.”6 The Commission adopted this finding on July 15, 2010.7

There is no federal standard for transmission line electric fields. The maximum electric field for the proposed Cannon River project is 1.3 kV/m, which is well under the maximum limit of 8 kV/m that has been a permit condition imposed by EQB in other transmission line routing proceedings.

4.2.6 Public Services

Impacts to other utilities (gas, telephone, electric, water, sewer) will be avoided or minimized. Public services would not be affected by the construction and operation of substation or proposed transmission line.

4 Minnesota Department of Health. 2002. A White Paper on Electric and Magnetic Field (EMF) Policy and Mitigation Options 5 See, for example, In the Matter of the Application for a HVTL Route Permit for the Tower Transmission Line Project, Docket No. ET-2, E015/TL-06-1624, Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Order Issuing a Route Permit to Minnesota Power and Great River Energy for the Tower Transmission Line Project and Associated Facilities (August 1, 2007). 6 In the Matter of the Route Permit Application by Great River Energy and Xcel Energy for a 345-kV Transmission Line from Brookings County, South Dakota to Hampton, Minnesota, Docket No. ET-2/TL- 08-1474, ALJ Findings of Fact, Conclusions and Recommendation at Finding 216 (April 22, 2010 and amended April 30, 2010). 7 In the Matter of the Route Permit Application by Great River Energy and Xcel Energy for a 345 kV Transmission Line from Brookings County, South Dakota to Hampton, Minnesota, Docket No. ET-2/TL- 08-1474, Order Granting Route Permit (September 14, 2010).

4-7

4.2.7 Transportation

The 2,000-foot transmission line will cross Park Avenue and temporary road closures, or lane reductions may be necessary during construction. Operation of the proposed transmission line will not affect the major roads in the area.

The project is approximately one-mile northeast from Faribault Municipal Airport.

The MnDOT Office of Aeronautics was contacted regarding any potential impacts to airports in the vicinity. In a reply email dated May 29, 2019 (Appendix C), the Office of Aeronautics indicated that a 7460-1 or 2 form would need to be completed and filed with the FAA prior to construction to stay compliant with navigable airspace regulations. Once the project design is completed a 7460 form will be submitted prior to construction.

4.3 Impacts on Land-based Economies 4.3.1 Recreation/Tourism

The City of Faribault has many year-round recreational, and social opportunities. Access to numerous lakes and rivers, and the City and County Parks system offers some of the finest recreational opportunities in southern Minnesota. The project is not expected to affect recreational or tourism opportunities in the area.

4.3.2 Agriculture

The proposed project is not expected to have any impacts on farmland due to the location of the project within the City of Faribault’s Northern Industrial Park.

4.3.3 Mining and Forestry

There are currently no mining operations in the vicinity of the proposed project.

There are no woodland areas within the proposed project area.

4.4 Archaeological and Historic Resources Jacobs conducted a Phase 1A cultural resources literature review (see letter dated May 6, 2019, Appendix C) for the project. A review of records indicated no previously recorded archaeological sites or historic structures in the study area.

The Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) was contacted to obtain comments regarding cultural resources in the project area. In a reply letter dated June 21st, 2019 (Appendix C), the MHS indicated that there are no properties listed on the National or State Registers of Historic Places, and no known or suspected archaeological properties in the area that will be affected by the project.

4-8

4.5 Natural Environment 4.5.1 Air Quality

The only potential air emissions from a transmission line result from corona, which may produce ozone and oxides of nitrogen. This can occur when the electric field intensity exceeds the breakdown strength of the air. For a 115-kV transmission line, the conductor surface gradient is typically below the air breakdown level. As such, it is unlikely that any measurable emissions would occur from the conductor surface

During construction of the proposed transmission lines, there would be emissions from vehicles and other construction equipment and fugitive dust from ROW clearing. Temporary air quality impacts caused by the proposed construction- related emissions would be expected to occur during this phase of activity. The magnitude of these emissions is influenced heavily by weather conditions and the specific construction activity taking place. Adverse impacts to the surrounding environment would be minimal because of the short and intermittent nature of the emission and dust-producing construction phases. Appropriate dust control measures will be implemented.

4.5.2 Water Resources, Wetlands and Soils

Streams and Lakes

The transmission line will not cross and DNR Public Waters (Figure 4-2).

Once the project is completed, there would be no significant impact on surface water quality because no transmission structures will be located within the creek, and no lakes in the area will be affected.

Sound water and soil conservation practices will be maintained during construction and operation of the project to protect topsoil and adjacent water resources and minimize soil erosion. These practices may include:

• Containment of stockpiled material away from stream banks and lake shorelines • Stockpiling and re-spreading topsoil • Reseeding and re-vegetating disturbed areas • Implementing erosion and sediment controls • Structures and disturbed areas will be located as far away from rivers and streams as practicable

4-9

Wetlands

Wetlands are important resources for flood abatement, wildlife habitat, and water quality. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) produced maps of wetlands based on aerial photographs and Natural Resources Conservation Service soil surveys starting in the 1970s. These wetlands are known as the National Wetland Inventory (NWI). Wetlands listed on the NWI may be inconsistent with current wetland conditions; however, NWIs are the most accurate and readily available database of wetland resources in the vicinity of the project and were therefore used to identify wetlands along the proposed transmission line route.

The only Wetlands in the project area are shown on Figure 4-2.

The United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) was contacted requesting comments on the possible effects of the proposed project on floodplains, waters, and wetlands. The USACE typically only provides a general response on a project until it receives a jurisdictional determination request and/or a permit application. In a reply letter dated July 2, 2019 (Appendix C), the USACE did address its’ regulatory jurisdiction and will evaluate the project if the detailed construction plans require either temporary or permanent impacts to wetlands on the project.

Soils

Soils in the project corridor are dominated by clay loams (Glencoe, Hayden, Cordova). Slopes generally range from 2-6%.

The soil type at the substation site is the Cordova clay loam.

4.5.3 Vegetation and Wildlife/Rare and Unique Natural Resources

The DNR and the USFWS were contacted regarding vegetation and wildlife resources in the vicinity of the project.

The DNR Rare Features database indicates that there are no rare features in the vicinity of the proposed project (Figure 4-3). In a letter dated July 29th, 2019 (Appendix C), the DNR concurred with this assessment.

Effects on area wildlife will be minimal. In an email response dated June 6, 2019 (Appendix C), the USFWS indicated that did not anticipate any concerns with area of the proposed project.

4-10

Figure 4-2 Hydrologic Features

4-11

Figure 4-3 Rare Features

4-12

5.0 Regulatory Permits and Approvals Required Permit requirements or approvals anticipated for this project and the status of each are shown below in Table 5-1.

Table 5-1 Regulatory Permits and Approvals Required

Government Unit Type of Approval Regulated Activity Status

US Dept. of Interior Threatened and Review of records for There are no federally listed Fish and Wildlife Endangered Species federally threatened or or proposed species and/or Service (USFWS) Review endangered species that designated or proposed may exist at or near the critical habitat within the proposed transmission action area of the proposed facilities project (email of 6/6/2019). US Dept. of the Army Wetland and Review navigable water and A general letter was received Corps of Engineers Waterways Review the dredging or filling of US from the Corps (letter of 7-2- (USACE) waters including wetlands 2019). If required, Great River Energy will apply for a permit once design details are available. MN Dept. of Natural Environmental Review Comprehensive review of Concurrence that no rare Resources (DNR) – Wetlands, Water, transmission line impacts features would be impacted Trails, Threatened in the project area. and Endangered (letter July 29th, 2019). Species MN Historical Society SHPO Review of Historic preservation No properties listed on the State Historic Nationally Registered National or State Registers Preservation Office Historic Places of Historic Places, and no (SHPO) known or suspected archaeological properties in the area that will be affected by this project (letter of June 21st, 2019). Minnesota Airspace Concerns Public and private The Faribault Municipal Department of airports/airstrips Airport is located 1-mile Transportation- southwest of the project and Aeronautics Division a 7460 filing is required once engineering is complete. (email of 5/29/2019). Minnesota Pollution National Pollutant Stormwater Pollution If soil disturbance will be ≥ Control Agency Discharge Elimination Prevention Plan (SWPPP) one acre for the project, a (MPCA) System (NPDES) and stormwater permit SWPPP will be prepared and Permit required for disturbance of ≥ a stormwater permit one acre. obtained. City of Faribault Park Avenue Crossing Permit required prior to All required permits will be Public Works Permit construction. acquired for construction. City of Faribault Permit Construction of new The application was transmission facilities submitted 6/27/2019 and is in process.

5-1

APPENDIX A

Notices/Commission Correspondence

July 24, 2019 Cannon River Park 115-kV Project WO #207182

Mr. Daniel Wolf Executive Secretary Minnesota Public Utilities Commission 121 7th Place East, Suite 350 St. Paul, MN 55101

SUBJECT: Proposed Cannon River Park 115-kV Substation and Transmission Line

Dear Mr. Wolf:

In accordance with the Power Plant Siting Act, Minn. Stat. § 216E.05, subd. 3, this letter, filed via eFiling, serves as the required notice to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (Commission) that Great River Energy has elected to seek local approval to construct new transmission infrastructure in the City of Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota.

Great River Energy is proposing to construct a new overhead 115-kilovolt (kV) transmission line that would provide electric power to a new Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric (SWCE) substation located in the City of Faribault, Northern Industrial Park. This project will provide a robust electrical source to support a new air-processing facility and meet future electric demand and growth for SWCE members in the area.

The proposed single circuit 115-kV transmission line is located within the City of Faribault Northern Industrial Park, in Section 13 of Wells Township, Rice County, Minnesota. The transmission line would originate at the existing Xcel Energy 115-kV transmission line running along the east side of Interstate Highway 35. Two new switch structures will be installed to allow the new line to tap off the existing Xcel Energy line. The new line will then run easterly approximately 2000 feet, across Park Avenue, to the proposed Cannon River Substation. A project description/site map is attached for your information.

Great River Energy and SWCE intend to permit the project through The City of Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota. The City of Faribault has accepted the role as lead agency for local review of the project (see attached letter dated July 23, 2019). The Permit application was submitted to the City on June 26, 2019. The City of Faribault has been informed that it has 60 days to refer the permitting process to the Commission.

Mr. Daniel Wolf July 24, 2019 Page 2

Any questions regarding this project should be directed to Timothy Murray, City Administrator, City of Faribault at 507-334-2222; Dale Aukee of Great River Energy at 763-445-5978; or me at 763-445-5975.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

GREAT RIVER ENERGY

Dan Lesher Leader, Transmission Permitting and Compliance

Attachments

c: Special Service List - General List 7850.2100 -1A – w/attachments Timothy Murray, City of Faribault – w/attachments Peter Waldock, City of Faribault – w/attachments John Wachtler, Department of Commerce – w/attachments Dale Aukee, GRE – w/attachments

DL:jh:\S:\Transmission\Capital Projects\207181 - TAREA - Cannon River Park Area project\207182 - Cannon River Park Tap line - discovery\Permitting & Compliance\City of Faribault\Cannon River Park PUCNOTltr.doc

August 1, 2019

Dan Lesher Great River Energy 12300 Elm Creek Boulevard Maple Grove, MN 55369

RE: Local Review of Great River Energy’s Cannon River Park 115 kV Transmission Line and Substation Project in Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota, Docket No. ET2/LR-19-474

Dear Mr. Lesher:

This letter confirms that the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (Commission) has received Great River Energy’s (GRE) letter dated July 24, 2019, indicating it has elected to pursue local review approval to construct approximately 2,000 feet of new 115 kilovolt (kV) transmission line that will connect a new Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric distribution substation to an existing Xcel Energy 115 kV transmission line in the city of Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota.

Under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 216E, a route permit from the Commission is required for most high-voltage transmission lines that are greater than 100 kV. However, certain projects may be eligible for review and permitting by local units of government with jurisdiction instead of filing with the Commission. In this case, the 115 kV transmission line project proposed by GRE is eligible for local review under Minn. Stat. § 216E.05, subd. 2(3).

GRE indicated that the city of Faribault is the local government unit (LGU) with jurisdiction to permit the proposed project. Under Minn. Stat. § 216E.05, subd. 1(b), a local unit of government may relinquish its jurisdiction by requesting the Commission assume jurisdiction and make a decision on the permit. The request must be filed with the Commission within 60 days after an application for a project has been filed with the LGU. GRE indicated that it filed a conditional use permit with the city of Faribault on June 26, 2019, and informed the City that it has 60 days to refer permitting to the Commission. The Faribault City Council formally granted GRE’s local review request on July 23, 2019.

P HONE 651- 296- 0406 • T OLL F REE 1 - 800- 657- 3782 • F AX 651- 297- 7073 121 7 TH P LACE E AST • S UITE 350 • S AINT P AUL, M INNESOTA 55101- 2147 MN. GOV/ PUC Under Minn. R. 7850.5300, subp. 5, an environmental assessment must be prepared by the LGU with jurisdiction over the project. Specific requirements of the environmental review process include: providing an opportunity for the public to participate in the development of the scope of the environmental assessment before it is prepared; publishing notice in the EQB Monitor of when the assessment is available for review and of the procedure for commenting on the assessment; and withholding a final decision on the project until at least 10 days after the notice appears in the EQB Monitor. A copy of the environmental assessment and other relevant documents must be provided to the Commission upon completion. The environmental assessment and other required documents must be filed to Docket No. 19-474 using the Commission’s electronic filing system (https://www.edockets.state.mn.us/EFiling).

This letter acknowledges that GRE has provided notice to the Commission and to those persons on the Commission’s General Notification List that a permit has been applied for from the local unit of government as required by Minn. R. 7850.5300, subp. 3.

If you have any questions, please direct them to Scott Ek of the Commission staff at 651-201- 2255 or [email protected].

Sincerely,

Daniel P. Wolf Executive Secretary

Cc: Timothy Murray, City of Faribault Peter Waldock, City of Faribault Dale Aukee, GRE

APPENDIX B

Letter to Scope EA Public Comments/Responses Received

APPENDIX C

Agency Correspondence

May 23, 2019 Cannon River Park 115 kV Project WO #207182

US Army Corps of Engineers St. Paul District 180 5th Street East, Suite 700 St. Paul, MN 55101-1678

SUBJECT: Proposed Cannon River Park 115-kV Project Rice County, Minnesota

Great River Energy is proposing to construct a new overhead 115-kilovolt (kV) transmission line in Rice County, Minnesota that would provide electric power to a new Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric substation to be constructed in the City of Faribault, Minnesota.

The Cannon River Park project includes construction of an approximately 2,000 foot 115-kV transmission line. The line will originate from the existing 115-kV transmission line that runs along Interstate 35 where two switch structures will be placed. From the switches the line proceeds east for approximately 2,000 feet. The transmission line will supply electrical power to the proposed Steele- Waseca Cooperative Electric substation (see attached fact sheet/map).

Great River Energy is seeking a Permit for the Project from the City of Faribault. The proposed project would be located within the Northern Industrial Park of the City of Faribault, Minnesota.

We would appreciate receiving any written comments from your office by Monday June 24, 2019. If you have any questions about this proposed project, please contact me at (763) 445-5975. If you wish to respond by e-mail, my address is [email protected]. Thank you for your attention to this important project.

Sincerely, GREAT RIVER ENERGY

Dan Lesher Leader, Transmission Permitting and Compliance

Enclosures: Fact Sheet/Project Map, Hydrologic Features Map

DL:jh\s:\transm\Capital Project\207181 Cannon River Area Project\207182 Cannon River Tap Line\Permit & Compl\Permitt letters\COE ltr.doc DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, ST. PAUL DISTRICT 180 FIFTH STREET EAST, SUITE 700 ST. PAUL, MN 55101-1678

July 2, 2019

Regulatory File No. MVP-2019-01235-DAS

Great River Energy c/o: Dan Lesher 12300 Elm Creek Blvd Maple Grove Minnesota, 55369

Dear Mr. Lesher:

This letter responds to your request for comments about a project to construct approximately 2,000 linear feet of 115-kV transmission line for utility purposes. The project is identified as the Proposed Cannon River Park 115-kV Project. The project site is in Section 13, Township 110 North, Range 21 West, Rice County, Minnesota.

The placement of aerial lines that cross navigable waters of the U.S. requires authorization under Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act.

Underground utility lines through waters of the U.S., including wetlands, as well as navigable waters of the U.S. are regulated under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act if there is a discharge of dredged or fill material. Any discharge would require authorization by a general permit or letter of permission.

Underground lines installed by vibratory plow and directional bore method through waters of the U.S., including wetlands, do not involve a discharge and a permit is not required. However, if installation of connecting points requires excavation and backfill in waters of the U.S., including wetlands, a permit would be required.

The placement of poles, overhead wiring, and/or buried wiring at upland locations is not within the jurisdiction of the Corps of Engineers, provided the work does not involve the placement of dredged or fill material into any waterbody or wetland.

Temporary placement of fill material into any waterbody or wetland for purposes such as bypass roads, temporary stream crossings, cofferdam construction, or storage sites may require a Department of the Army permit.

If any of the proposed projects would involve the placement of fill material, either permanent or temporary, please notify our office.

Without detailed construction plans, we cannot provide specific comments regarding the effects that the proposed activity would have on watercourse floodstages. It has been our experience that underground and overhead utility construction has negligible effects on flood stages, provided excess construction material is removed from the floodplain and additional care is taken not to disturb its hydraulic characteristics. Regulatory Branch (File No. MVP-2019-01235-DAS)

You may also need city, county, or State permits for the project. You should contact the appropriate agencies for their permit requirements. If the project includes the placement of dredged or fill material in a Federal regulated waterbody, we will notify the responsible State agency for water quality (401) certification.

You should also contact the State Historical Preservation Officer (SHPO) to determine if there are any known historic or archeological sites in the area or if any cultural resource survey would be required.

If you have any questions, please contact me in our La Crescent office at (651) 290-5902 or [email protected]. In any correspondence or inquiries, please refer to the Regulatory file number shown above.

Sincerely,

David Studenski Lead Project Manager

Page 2 of 2

May 23, 2019 Cannon River Park 115-kV Project WO #207182

Ms. Lisa Joyal Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Natural Heritage and Nongame Research Program 500 Lafayette Road, Box 25 St. Paul, MN 55155

SUBJECT: Proposed Cannon River Park 115-kV Project Rice County, Minnesota

Dear Ms. Joyal:

Great River Energy is seeking a Permit for the Project from the City of Faribault. The proposed project would be located within the Northern Industrial Park of the City of Faribault, Minnesota.

The Project does not cross any DNR Public Waters (see attached Hydrologic Features map). As shown on the attached Rare Features map, there are no rare features along the Project route. Great River Energy does not believe the Project will affect any rare features, but a NHIS data request form is attached to obtain DNR review.

We would appreciate receiving any written comments from your office by June 24, 2019.

Ms. Lisa Joyal May 23, 2019 Page 2

If you have any questions about this proposed project, please contact me at (763) 445-5975. If you wish to respond by e-mail, my address is [email protected]. Thank you for your attention to this important project.

Sincerely, GREAT RIVER ENERGY

Dan Lesher Leader, Transmission Permitting and Compliance

Attachments: Fact Sheet/Project Map, Hydrologic Features Map, Rare Features Map, NHIS form

DL:jh\s:\transm\Capital Project\207181 Cannon River Area Project\ 207182 Cannon River Tap Line\Permit & Compl\Permitt letters\DNR ltr.doc NO STAPLES PLEASE For Agency Use Only: #Sec Contact Rqsted?

oj Received______Due______Inv _ #EOs Survey Rqsted? cH O Search Radius_____ mi. L / I / D EM Map'd _ #Com (N NoR/NoF/NoE/Std/Sub Let___ Log out. Related ERDB#

DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL HERITAGE INFORMATION SYSTEM (NHIS) DATA REQUEST FORM NATURAL RESOURCES Please read the instructions on page 3 before filling out the form. Thank you!

WHO IS REQUESTING THE INFORMATION? Name and Title Dan Lesher, Transmission Permitting and Compliance Agency/Company Great River Energy Mailing Address 12300 Elm Creek Blvd. Maple Grove MN 55369 (Street) (City) (State) (Zip Code) Phone 763-445-5975 e-mail [email protected] Responses will be sent via email. |-| ------If vou prefer US Mail check here: '—1

THIS INFORMATION IS BEING REQUESTED FOR A: n Federal EA CH State EAW CH PUC Site or Route Application CH Watershed Plan CH BER CH Federal EIS CH State EIS (Z1 Local Government Permit CH Research Project CH NEPA Checklist CH Other (describe) ______

CH Check here if this project is funded through any of the following grant programs: Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (L-SOHC), Conservation Partners Legacy (CPL), or Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR). INFORMATION WE NEED FROM YOU: 1) Enclose a map of the project boundary/area of interest (topographic maps or aerial photos are preferred). 2) Please provide a GIS shapefile* (NAD 83, UTM Zone 15N) of the project boundary/area of interest. 3) List the following locational information* (attach additional sheets if necessary): ------For Agency Use: For Agency Use: TRS Confirmed □ Region / MBS Countv Township # Range # Section(s) (please list all sections) Status Rice 110N 21W 13

4) Please provide the following information (attach additional sheets if necessary):

Project Name: Faribault Energy Park-115 kV Project Project Proposer: Great River Energy Description of Project (including types of disturbance anticipated from the project): Construction of a new 115-kV transmission line approximately 2,000 feet long in the City of Faribault. The project will serve a new Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric substation that will serve the growing electrical needs of the industrial park area.

* Please see the instructions on page 3. Page 1 of4 Describe the existing land use of the project site. What types of land cover / habitat will be impacted by the proposed pioject? Thg project js located in an industrial park area that has been disturbed and graded ready for construction of industrial buildings.

List any waterbodies (e.g., rivers, intermittent streams, lakes, wetlands) that may be affected by the proposed project, and discuss how they may be impacted (e.g., dewatering, discharge, riverbed disturbance). There are no DNR public waters along the route.

Does the project have the potential to affect any groundwater resources (e.g., groundwater appropriation, change in recharge, or contamination)? No To your knowledge, has the project undergone a previous Natural Heritage review? If so, please list the correspondence #: ERDB #______. How does this request differ from the previous request (e.g., change in scope, change in boundary, project being revived, project expansion, different phase)? No To your knowledge, have any native plant community or rare species surveys been conducted within the site? If so, please list: . i No

List any DNR Permits or Licenses that you will be applying for or have already applied for as part of this project: None INFORMATION WE PROVIDE TO YOU: 1) The response will include a Natural Heritage letter. If applicable, the letter will discuss potential effects to rare features. ] Check here if you are interested in a list of rare features in the vicinity of the area of interest but you do not need a review of potential effects to rare features. Please list the reason a review is not needed:

2) Depending on the results of the query or review, the response may include an Index Report of known aggregation sites and known occurrences of federally and state-listed plants and animals* within an approximate one-mile radius of the project boundary/area of interest. The Index Report and Natural Heritage letter can be included in any public environmental review document.

3) A Detailed Report that contains more information on each occurrence may also be requested. Please note that the Detailed Report may contain specific location information that is protected under Minnesota Statutes, section 84.0872, subd. 2, and, as such, the Detailed Report may not be included in any public document (e.g., an EAW). I I Check here if you would like to request a Detailed Report. Please note that if the results of the review are ‘No Effects’ or a standard comment, a Detailed Report may not be available.

FEES / TURNAROUND TIME There is a fee* for this service. Requests generally take 3-4 weeks from date of receipt to process, and are processed in the order received.

I have read the entire form and instructions and the information supplied above is complete and accurate. I understand that material supplied to me from the Natural Heritage .Information System is copyrighted and that I am not permitted to reproduce or publish any of this copyrighted material without prior written permission from the.DNR. Further, if permission to publish is given, I understand that I must credit the Minnesota Division of Ecological and Water Resources, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, as the source of the material. Signature xA' V' Note: Digital signatures representing the name of a person shall be (required)' J ^sufficient to show that such person has signed this document.

Mail or email completed form to: Lisa loyal, Endangered Species Review Coordinator Division of Ecological and Water Resources Online version of the form Minnesota Department of Natural Resources 500 Lafayette Road, Box 25 St. Paul, Minnesota 55155 Review [email protected] Revised March 2, 2012

Please see the instructions on page 3. Page 2 of 4 DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Division of Ecological & Water Resources 500 Lafayette Road, Box 25 St. Paul, MN 55155-4025

July 29, 2019 Correspondence # ERDB 20200011

Mr. Dan Lesher Great River Energy 12300 Elm Creek Boulevard Maple Grove, MN 55369

RE: Natural Heritage Review of the proposed Faribault Energy Park -115 kV Project, T110N R21W Section 13; Rice County

Dear Mr. Lesher,

As requested, the above project has been reviewed for potential effects to known occurrences of rare features. Given the project details provided with the data request form, I do not believe the proposed project will negatively affect any known occurrences of rare features.

The Natural Heritage Information System (NHIS), 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. If additional information becomes available regarding rare features in the vicinity of the project, further review may be necessary.

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 the project description provided on the NHIS Data Request Form. Please contact me if project details change or for an updated review if construction has not occurred within one year.

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. If needed, please contact your DNR Regional Environmental Assessment Ecologist to determine whether there are other natural resource concerns associated with the proposed project. 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. Please include a copy of this letter in any state or local license or permit application. An invoice will be mailed to you under separate cover.

Sincerely,

Samantha Bump Natural Heritage Review Specialist Samantha. Bump(5)state.mn. us

Links: DNR Regional Environmental Assessment Ecologist Contact Info http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/eco/ereview/erp regioncontacts.html

Page 2 of 2

May 23, 2019 Cannon River Park 115-kV Project WO #207182

Mr. Harris Baker Office of Aeronautics Minnesota Department of Transportation 222 E. Plato Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55107-1618

SUBJECT: Proposed Cannon River Park 115-kV Project Rice County, Minnesota

Dear Mr. Baker:

Great River Energy is seeking a Permit for the Project from the City of Faribault. The proposed project would be located within the Northern Industrial Park of the City of Faribault, Minnesota. The transmission structures for the Project will range in height from 60 to 90 feet above ground.

Great River Energy is requesting information on the possible effects of the proposed Project on airports or airstrips in the project area. The proposed project is approximately one-mile northeast from Faribault Municipal Airport.

Mr. Dan Boerner May 23, 2019 Page 2

We would appreciate receiving any written comments from your office by Monday, June 24, 2019. If you have any questions about this proposed project, please contact me at (763) 445-5975. If you wish to respond by e-mail, my address is [email protected]. Thank you for your attention to this important project.

Sincerely, GREAT RIVER ENERGY

Dan Lesher Leader, Transmission Permitting and Compliance

Attachment: Fact Sheet/Project Map

DL:jh\s:\transmiss\Capital Project\207181 Cannon River Project\207182 Cannon River Tap Line\Permit & Compl\Permitt letters\MnDOT ltr.doc

From: Conklin, Brian (DOT) To: Lesher, Dan GRE-MG Subject: FW: Great River Energy - Cannon River Park Date: Wednesday, May 29, 2019 12:28:57 PM Attachments: Cannon River MnDOTltr.pdf Cannon River Park Project.pdf

EXTERNAL

Brian Conklin Sr. South Region Airport Specialist MnDOT – Office of Aeronautics (651)234-7247 [email protected]

From: Conklin, Brian (DOT) Sent: Wednesday, May 29, 2019 12:08 PM To: Lesher, Dan GRE-MG Cc: Giguere, John (DOT) ; Morgan, Christopher (DOT) ; Braunig, Richard (DOT) ; Praveena Pidaparthi (DOT) ([email protected]) ; Vesely, Kathy (DOT) ; [email protected]; Travis Block Subject: FW: Great River Energy - Cannon River Park

Good Morning Dan;

Thank you for reaching out to our office with your planned project with the close proximity to the Faribault Municipal Airport. Unfortunately, Harris Baker retired a year ago, so John Giguere and myself are the contacts in the Minnesota South Region for Airport Development. I haven’t got a lot of input about such development outside of the airport, but there the FAA has a website for construction projects near airports (within 2miles) listed below: https://oeaaa.faa.gov/oeaaa/external/portal.jsp

The Obstruction Evaluation / Airport Airspace Analysis (OE/AAA) webpage has a lot of information about and the forms necessary to stay compliant with regards to navigable airspace regulations. The regulations require that a construction project, in the vicinity of an airport, complete and submit form 7460-1 or 2 for airspace evaluation. Dan Millenacker is the FAA Program Manager at the Minneapolis Airports District Office for the Faribault Airport (.cc above). He would be a good resource to better understand the regulations around airport air-spacing rules.

Chris Morgan is the Airport Planner in our office assigned to the Faribault Airport, he has airport zoning as one of his responsibilities. I suspect the City of Faribault has zoning restrictions protecting the aircraft approaches for the airport. Chris would have a better handle on airport zoning than we would back in Airport Development.

Rick Braunig is in charge of Airport Licensing & Enforcement for the airports in Minnesota. I’m not sure if your proposed Cannon River Park Project could jeopardize airport licensing for FBL, but Rick can better evaluate and comment on that than I. I’ve cc’d all of the people that may have comments on Great River Energy’s Cannon River Park Project and also our two Assistant Office Directors: Kathy Vesely & Praveena Pidaparthi.

Please feel free to reach out to any of us with questions or comments you have with regards to aviation in your project.

Sincerely, Brian Conklin Sr. South Region Airport Specialist MnDOT – Office of Aeronautics (651)234-7247 [email protected]

From: Lesher, Dan GRE-MG [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2019 12:56 PM To: Conklin, Brian (DOT) Subject: Great River Energy - Cannon River Park

Hi Brian – Per my voicemail attached are the details of a new transmission project we are looking at. If you are not the right contact please let me know. Thanks very much Dan

From: Lesher, Dan GRE-MG Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2019 12:50 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Great River Energy - Cannon River Park

Dear Mr. Baker – Great River Energy has a new transmission project that we are looking at in the City of Faribault. I would appreciate if you would provide any comments to me on the proposal outlined in the attached letter and project fact sheet. If there are any questions please let me know. Thanks Dan

Dan Lesher Transmission Permitting & Compliance Great River Energy 12300 Elm Creek Blvd Maple Grove, MN 55369 Direct: 763-445-5975 / fax: 763-445-6775 / cell: 612-817-9910 www.GreatRiverEnergy.com

NOTICE TO RECIPIENT: The information contained in this message from Great River Energy and any attachments are confidential and intended only for the named recipient(s). If you have received this message in error, you are prohibited from copying, distributing or using the information. Please contact the sender immediately by return email and delete the original message.

May 23, 2019 Cannon River Park 115-kV Project WO #207182

Ms. Sarah Beimers Environmental Review Manager State Historic Preservation Office 50 Sherburne Ave., Suite 203 St. Paul, MN 55155

SUBJECT: Proposed Cannon River Park 115-kV Project Rice County, Minnesota

Dear Ms. Beimers:

Great River Energy is seeking a Permit for the Project from the City of Faribault. The proposed project would be located within the Northern Industrial Park of the City of Faribault, Minnesota.

Jacobs conducted a Phase 1A Cultural Resources Assessment of the proposed Project (see attached letter). Jacobs identified one previously recorded archaeological site in the study area. However, the site is external to the Project Area.

Jacobs therefore recommends that there will be no adverse impact on known or suspected cultural resources as a result of this Project and that no cultural resource survey is needed.

Ms. Sarah Beimers May 23, 2019 Page 2

Because wetland impacts are expected to be very minimal, we do not anticipate needing a Section 404 permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers; however, we will keep you informed if a Corps permit and hence Section 106 review will be required.

We would appreciate receiving any written comments from your office by Monday June 24, 2019.

Sincerely, GREAT RIVER ENERGY

Dan Lesher Leader, Transmission Permitting and Compliance

Enclosures: Fact Sheet/Project Map, Jacobs Phase 1A

DL:jh\s:\transm\Capital Project\207181 Cannon River Area Project\ 207182 Cannon RiverTap Line\Permit & Compl\Permit letters\SHPO ltr.doc

Azara 841, Piso 1 Ciudad Autonama de Buenos Aires Buenos Aires, Argentina ARBUAC 1267T +54 114 309 0200

www.jacobs.com

May 6, 2019

Dan Lesher Transmission Permitting & Compliance Great River Energy 12300 Elm Creek Blvd Maple Grove, MN 55369

Project Name: GRE - Cannon River Phase IA Cultural Resource Background Literature Review Project Number: BPG000J8.1

Subject: Phase IA Cultural Resources Assessment of the proposed Steele-Waseca Substation and associated 115kV Transmission Line Project, Rice County, Minnesota.

Dear Mr. Lesher Jacobs Engineering, Inc. (Jacobs) was contacted in April 2019 by Great River Energy to conduct a Phase IA Cultural Resources Assessment in support of the proposed Faribault Energy Park 115kV Transmission Line and Steele-Waseca Substation Project (Project) in Rice County, Minnesota.

Project Description

Great River Energy is proposing to construct the proposed Steele-Waseca Substations and approximately 0.3 miles of new 115kV Transmission Line in Rice County, Minnesota (Figure 1). The proposed transmission line originates from an existing 115kV transmission line that currently parallels Interstate 35 (I-35) and extends directly east approximately 1,950 feet, crossing over Park Avenue. The proposed new transmission line terminates at the location of the proposed Steele-Waseca substation.

Project Location

Proposed Project activities are anticipated to occur within portions of the following legal location. A one-mile buffer surrounding the Project Area is included within the Phase IA study area.

Please select a legal entity from the Change Document Details option on the Jacobs ribbon Enter Document No. via Document Properties

May 6, 2019 Subject: Phase IA Cultural Resources Assessment of the proposed Steele-Waseca Substation and associated 115kV Transmission Line Project, Rice County, Minnesota.

County Township Range Section(s) Project/ Study Area Rice 110N 21W 13 Project Area Rice 110N 21W 11, 12, 14, 23, Study Area 24 Rice 110N 20W 7, 18, 19 Study Area

Literature Review

The main objective in reviewing the cultural resources literature is to identify recorded cultural sites and assess the potential for unrecorded sites within the study area. The standard for considering a cultural property as significant is whether it meets the criteria for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The initial criterion for such listing is an age of 50 or more years. Beyond age, a property must retain integrity and be associated with significant historic trends, historic persons, building styles and craftsmanship, or the property must have the potential to provide significant information about the past.

Jacobs followed the published guidelines for conducting cultural resources literature reviews in Minnesota. The Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), located in the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul, maintains the state’s prehistoric and historic archaeological site files, historic standing structure inventory files, and field survey reports. A study area encompassing a 1-mile radius around the transmission line route was established and reviewed. Jacobs examined current topographic maps and aerial photographs to understand the modern land use of the study area and to provide a baseline for examining the historic maps and documents. Jacobs Project Manager and Cultural Resource Specialist Dean Sather examined site files maintained by the SHPO.

Previously Recorded Archaeological Resources

Jacobs identified one (1) previously recorded archaeological site in the study area (Figure 1).

Site Number – Location County - Site Evaluation Location Relative Name - Type Twp/Rng/Sec Status to Project Facilities 21 RC 0047 – Recommended North of Proposed unnamed site – Rice County – Ineligible for T-Line Route. Precontact Lithic Twp110N/Rng21W/Sec13 National External to Artifact Scatter Register proposed route.

Enter Document No. via Document Properties 2

May 6, 2019 Subject: Phase IA Cultural Resources Assessment of the proposed Steele-Waseca Substation and associated 115kV Transmission Line Project, Rice County, Minnesota.

The previously documented archaeological site identified within the Study Area are located external to the proposed Project Area. The proposed construction will have no effect on the previously inventoried archaeological sites.

Previously Recorded Standing Historic Structures

No previously recorded standing historic structures were identified within the Study Area.

Conclusions

Jacobs recommends that there will be no adverse impact on known or suspected cultural resources or historic properties as a result of this Project and that no cultural resource survey is needed. Jacobs also recommends that if plans are altered to physically affect areas that were not previously reviewed, these locations should be examined for cultural resources. Further, if human remains are encountered during construction activities, all ground disturbing activity must cease, and local law enforcement must be notified per MN 307.08. Should you have any questions or need clarification of anything presented in the attached proposal, please do not hesitate to call me at 651-365-8542.

Sincerely

Dean Sather Project Manager 651-365-8542 [email protected]

Enter Document No. via Document Properties 3 I35

RC-47 5:48:40 PM \\MSPFPP01\PROJ\GREATRIVERENERGY_CUTURAL\MAPDOCS\CANNONRIVER_20190513\FIG1_GRE_CR_8X11P_RICECO_20190513.MXD 5/13/2019 CS031687 GRE 115 kV TRANSMISSION LINE Figure 1 BUILD PROJECT STUDY AREA: Topographic Overview Archaelogical site CULTURAL RESOURCES Anticipated 115 kV transmission line GREAT RIVER ENERGY RICE COUNTY, MN Anticipated Steele-Waseca substation area Study Area (One Mile Radius)

Faribault, Minnesota 0 500 1,000 USGS 7.5 MINUTE QUADRANGLE TOPOGRAPHIC MAP; 1962 Feet

May 23, 2019 Cannon River Park 115-kV Project WO #207182

Mr. Andrew Horton, Habitat Conservation Biologist United States Department of the Interior Twin Cities Field Office 4101 East 80th Street Bloomington, MN 55425-1665

SUBJECT: Proposed Cannon River Park 115-kV Project Rice County, Minnesota

Dear Mr. Horton:

The Cannon River Park project includes construction of an approximately 2,000 foot 115-kV transmission line. The line will originate from the existing 115-kV transmission line that runs along Interstate 35 where two switch structures will be placed. From the switches the line proceeds east for approximately 2,000 feet. The transmission line will supply electrical power to the proposed Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric substation (see attached fact sheet/map).

Great River Energy is seeking a Permit for the Project from the City of Faribault. The proposed project would be located within the Northern Industrial Park of the City of Faribault, Minnesota.

The USFWS website list for threatened and endangered species includes the Northern long- eared bat (threatened) in Rice County. There are no documented Northern long-eared bat (NLEB) maternity roost trees or hibernacula entrances in Rice County per DNR data dated 4/1/19, therefore the NLEB should not be affected by the Project. The list for Rice County also includes: the Dwarf trout lily (endangered), the Prairie bush clover (threatened) and the Rusty patched bumble bee (endangered). Great River Energy looks to the USFWS for guidance on these species.

Mr. Andrew Horton May 23, 2019 Page 2

We would appreciate receiving any written comments from your office by Monday June 24, 2019.

Sincerely, GREAT RIVER ENERGY

Dan Lesher Leader, Transmission Permitting and Compliance

Attachment: Fact Sheet/Project Map

DL:jh\s:\transmission\Capital Project\207181 Cannon River Projects\ 207182 Cannon RiverTap Line\Permit & Compl\Permitt letters\FWS ltr.doc

From: Horton, Andrew To: Lesher, Dan GRE-MG Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] Great River Energy - New project, Cannon River Park Date: Thursday, June 06, 2019 9:18:59 AM

EXTERNAL I don't anticipate any concerns here.

- Andrew

Andrew Horton U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Minnesota-Wisconsin Field Office 4101 American Blvd East Bloomington, MN 55425-1665 (952) 252-0092, ext. 208

On Thu, May 23, 2019 at 12:44 PM Lesher, Dan GRE-MG wrote:

Hi Andrew - Great River Energy is proposing a new transmission project in the City of Faribault. I have attached a cover letter, Shapefile, fact sheet, and map for your review. If there are any questions or concerns that you have please let me know. I look forward to receiving your comments on this project.

Thanks

Dan

Dan Lesher

Transmission Permitting & Compliance

Great River Energy

12300 Elm Creek Blvd

Maple Grove, MN 55369

Direct: 763-445-5975 / fax: 763-445-6775 / cell: 612-817-9910

www.GreatRiverEnergy.com

Deadlines Action Responsible Party April Contact Merjent to start the Cultural GRE desktop review May 23 Send out letters to DNR, USFWS, Corps, GRE SHPO, MnDOT Aero June 24 Agency responses due NA

June 26 Submit Permit app. to City of Faribault GRE

July 23 City Council Grants Formal Authorization City and agrees to act as LGU July 24 Send notice to Public Utilities Commission GRE with LGU acceptance (PUC) that the City of Faribault will be letter attached LGU and when CUP was submitted. Send to the PUC General list, with mailings.

July 26 EA Scope letters sent to landowners City (aka landowner surveys – 2 week response time)

Aug 9 Final Day to receive written responses to City EA scope (aka landowner surveys) 1. City forwards responses to GRE to add to draft EA

2. GRE sends draft EA to county to finalize Aug 16 Draft EA to City GRE

Sep 16 City deems EA complete City deems EA complete

Sept 17 Submit Notice to the PUC of Final EA GRE on behalf of City

Oct 12 Deadline to submit final EA to EQB City/GRE Monitor Oct 28 Publication Date of EQB Monitor for EA City/GRE

Nov 12 10 Day Comment Period Deadline NA

Nov 19 Public Hearing Notice Letter Mailed City

Dec 10 City Council meeting to approve Permit City (City cannot make final decision on Permit until at least 10 days after EQB Monitor Publication.)

Revised 11/27/2019 The EQB Monitor

520 Lafayette Road North, Saint Paul, MN 55155 - www.eqb.state.mn.us [email protected] - (651) 757-2873

Facebook Twitter YouTube

Publication Schedule: Mondays at 8:00 AM Publication Date: October 28, 2019 Submission Deadline: View 2019 Schedule Vol. 43, No. 43 Use the EQB Monitor Submission Form

In this publication:

· Registration is now open for the 2019 Minnesota Environmental Congress! · EQB Announcements · Environmental Assessment Worksheet Need Decisions · Environmental Impact Statement Need Decisions · Environmental Assessment · Alternative Urban Areawide Review Drafts · Notices

The EQB Monitor is a weekly publication announcing environmental review documents, public comment periods and other actions of the Environmental Quality Board. For more information on environmental review, please visit the EQB website.

You can manage your subscription to the EQB Monitor here. Be sure to add [email protected] to your address book or safe sender list.

Check the EQB Calendar for more details on Monitor deadlines and Board Meetings. Meeting minutes, agendas and additional notices are also posted on the EQB Website. Registration is now open for the 2019 Minnesota Environmental Congress!

December 3, 2019. Minnesota State University – Mankato. 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Join us at the Environmental Congress to learn about innovative climate work happening across the state and explore ways to apply solutions in your community. This free, daylong conference will include sessions on community preparedness, innovative practices in agriculture, transitioning to a low-carbon transportation system, protecting our water resources, and more. Space is limited and preregistration is required; register here to reserve your spot.

EQB Announcements Governor’s Committee to Advise the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is seeking Minnesotans to serve on the Governor’s Committee to Advise the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. This citizens group has previously provided the MPCA with valuable counsel on its permitting, rules and environmental review decisions. Governor Walz has recently renewed this committee’s charter and the MPCA is seeking eight Minnesotans with vast, diverse experiences to serve on the committee. Appointments to the committee are facilitated through the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office. Individuals can apply here https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/183

Citizen Board Member Opening - 4th Congressional District

Applications are now open for an EQB Citizen Board Member in the 4th Congressional District. The 4th Congressional District includes St. Paul and surrounding suburbs such as Woodbury, Maplewood, Roseville, New Brighton, White Bear Lake, and Stillwater.

The position is for a four-year term starting January 1, 2020. The position is open until filled. For details and to apply: https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/agency/details/107

Citizen Environmental Review Survey

The Environmental Quality Board, which oversees the state’s Environmental Review program, is undergoing a continuous improvement project to monitor and improve the effectiveness of Environmental Review. Minnesota citizens who have participated in the Environmental Review process during this calendar year are asked to consider taking 10 minutes to complete the survey at the link below. Engagement in the process may include: reviewed a document, attended a public meeting, wrote a comment, contacted staff, etc. http://survey.mn.gov/s.asp?k=156822169253

Environmental Assessment Worksheet Need Decisions

The noted responsible governmental unit has made a decision regarding the need for an Environmental Assessment Worksheet in response to a citizen’s petition.

· City of Lake Elmo, Sunfish Lake Park Mountain Bike Trails (Denied) Link to document: http://www.lakeelmo.org/news_detail_T28_R19.php

Environmental Impact Statement Need Decisions

The noted responsible governmental unit has determined the following project does not require preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement. The dates given are, respectively, the date of the determination and the date the Environmental Assessment Worksheet notice was published in the EQB Monitor.

· Dakota County, County State Aid Highway 88 Reconstruction Project, 10-17-19 (8-12-19) Contact: Jacob Rezac, 952-891-7981, [email protected] Link to document: No link available. Contact the RGU for a copy of the document. Environmental Assessment Project Title: Cannon River Park 115 kV Substation/ Transmission Line

Comment Deadline: November 12, 2019

Project Description: Great River Energy, wholesale electric supplier to Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric, proposes to construct a new overhead 115-kilovolt (kV) transmission line to deliver electric power to a new Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric distribution substation to be built in the City of Faribault’s Northern Industrial Park. The proposed project will be located in the City of Faribault’s Northern Industrial Park, in Section 13 of Wells Township, Rice County. The transmission line would originate at the existing Xcel Energy 115-kV transmission line running along Interstate 35. Two new switch structures, owned and installed by Xcel Energy, will allow the new line to connect to the existing Xcel Energy line. The new line will run approximately 2000-feet east, across Park Avenue, to the proposed Cannon River Substation.

Copies of the Environmental Assessment (EA) will be available for review at the City of Faribault, 208 NW 1st Avenue, Faribault, Minnesota 55021 Public comments on the EA must be made within the 10-day comment period, which ends at the close of business on November 12, 2019.

Link to document: Cannon River Park 115 kV Substation/Transmission Line Project

RGU Contact Person: Peter Waldock, Planning Coordinator City of Faribault 507-333-0374 [email protected]

Alternative Urban Areawide Review Drafts Project Title: Jackson Township AUAR

Comment Deadline: November 27, 2019

Project Description: The Jackson Township Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) study is 2,889 acres located within Jackson Township to the west of the City of Shakopee. The study area is included within the existing Orderly Annexation Agreement between the City and Township. The study area is generally bound by the Minnesota River on the west, US 169 on the north, Marystown Road on the east and Scott County 78 to the south. As the Responsible Governmental Unit (RGU), the City of Shakopee has prepared a Draft AUAR and Mitigation Plan for the Jackson Township area. The Draft AUAR and Mitigation Plan is being distributed to agencies on the current Minnesota Environmental Quality Board distribution list and members of the pubic who have identified interest in the study. The Draft AUAR and Mitigation Plan can be accessed electronically on the City of Shakopee’s website at https://www.shakopeemn.gov/home/showdocument?id=4634.

The 30-day comment period will begin on October 28, 2019. Comments will be accepted though November 27, 2019 at 4:00 PM. Responsible Governmental Unit (RGU): City of Shakopee

RGU Contact Person: Mark Noble Senior Planner 485 Gorman Street Shakopee, MN 55379 952-233-9348 [email protected]

Notices Power Plant Annual Hearing

Comment Deadline: December 6, 2019

Public Utilities Commission (Commission) – Notice of Public Hearing for the power plant siting and transmission line routing annual hearing. This hearing is conducted in accordance with Minnesota Statute § 216E.07. The Commission is providing notice that it will hold the Public Hearing at 10 AM on November 19, 2019 in the Commission’s Large Hearing Room at 121 7th Place East, 3rd Floor, St. Paul, MN 55101.

Administrative Law Judge Barbara Case will preside over the hearing. Commission and Department of Commerce staff will give an overview of the programs and projects pending or completed in 2019. Staff will also be available to answer questions. Judge Case will use the information gathered at the hearing to write a summary report for the Commission. Members of the public will have the opportunity to offer oral or written comments, or both, into the record. The annual hearing is on the power plant siting and routing program as a whole. Comments on specific projects will not be considered.

Comments on power plant siting and transmission line routing can be submitted using a variety of different methods until December 6, 2019, as noticed. Documents related to this docket can be obtained from the Commission’s website at mn.gov/puc, select search eDockets, enter year (19) and the docket number (18), select search.

Responsible Governmental Unit (RGU): Minnesota Public Utilities Commission

RGU Contact Person: Charley Bruce 121 7th Place E., STE 350 St. Paul, MN 55101 651-201-2254 [email protected]

From: Douglas Jones To: Peter Waldock Cc: [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Re. Steel Waseca power line Date: Saturday, November 02, 2019 12:41:39 PM

To Pete Waldock From Doug Jones, Wheeling Township I am a farmer customer of Steele-Waseca Elect Co-op and I heartily endorse the new high voltage power line to the industrial park on the north side of Faribault. Growth in electric sales by the coop spreads the overhead burden and lowers prices for us farmers. Xcel’s power rates are about one-third lower than Steele-Waseca’s, but as a monopoly utility supplier, I no alternative to Steele Waseca.

I am copying Rice County Commissioner Jake Gilles and State Representative Brian Daniels. I also thank Kevin, Faribault’s excellent mayor.

Douglas Jones 507663-6191 PO Box 26 Nerstrand, MN 55053

Sent from my iPad