Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page Ii Table of Contents

Rainy River Basin Information Document

December 2001

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Rainy River Basin Information Document Table of Contents

Section 1 - Minnesota Water Planning Framework I. Water Planning and Management Framework in Minnesota...... I-1 A. County Water Plans and Watershed Management Organization Plans...... I-1 B. Major Watershed Plans ...... I-2 1. Funding Watershed Planning and Management...... I-3 2. Other Watershed-Based Programs ...... I-3 a. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Watershed Management Initiative...... I-3 b. Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL) ...... I-3 C. Basin Plans ...... I-4 D. Minnesota Watermarks - Gauging the Flow of Progress 2000 - 2010...... I-5 E. Minnesota Nonpoint Source (NPS) Water Pollution Management Program Plan ...... I-5

II. Rainy River Basin Specific Efforts ...... I-6 A. Basin Level Planning Activities ...... I-6 B. Local and Minor Watershed Planning Activities ...... I-6

III. How Basin Planning and Management Can Help to Improve Water Management in the Rainy River Basin...... I-6

IV. Preliminary Process to Develop the Rainy River Basin Plan ...... I-7 A. Objectives ...... I-7 B. Process Overview ...... I-7 C. Planning Committee Mission ...... I-8

V. Commonly Used Acronyms ...... I-10

Section 2 - Description of the Rainy River Basin Subsection 1 - Rainy River Basin Overview ...... II-1 I. Ecological Classification Systems (ECS) - Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) ...... II-2 A. Classes in the Rainy River Basin...... II-3 1. Laurentian Mixed Forest Province...... II-3 2. Plant Communities...... II-3 3. Forest Canopy...... II-3 4. Shrub Layers...... II-4 5. Groundlayer...... II-4 B. Biomes in the Rainy River Basin ...... II-4 1. Border Lakes ...... II-4 a. Landforms ...... II-5 b. Bedrock Geology...... II-5 c. Soils...... II-5

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d. Climate ...... II-5 e. Hydrology ...... II-5 f. Presettlement Vegetation...... II-5 g. Present Vegetation and Land Use...... II-6 h. Natural Disturbance ...... II-6 2. Laurentian Highlands ...... II-6 a. Landforms ...... II-6 b. Bedrock Geology...... II-6 c. Soils...... II-7 d. Climate ...... II-7 e. Hydrology ...... II-7 f. Presettlement Vegetation...... II-7 g. Present Vegetation and Land Use...... II-7 h. Natural Disturbance ...... II-7 3. Nashwauk Uplands ...... II-8 a. Landforms ...... II-8 b. Bedrock Geology...... II-8 c. Soils...... II-8 d. Climate ...... II-8 e. Hydrology ...... II-9 f. Presettlement Vegetation...... II-9 g. Present Vegetation and Land Use...... II-9 h. Natural Disturbance ...... II-9 4. Little Fork - Vermilion Uplands...... II-9 a. Landforms ...... II-9 b. Bedrock Geology...... II-9 c. Soils...... II-10 d. Climate ...... II-10 e. Hydrology ...... II-10 f. Presettlement Vegetation...... II-10 g. Present Vegetation and Land Use...... II-10 h. Natural Disturbance ...... II-10 5. St. Louis Moraines ...... II-11 a. Landforms ...... II-11 b. Bedrock Geology...... II-11 c. Soils...... II-11 d. Climate ...... II-11 e. Hydrology ...... II-11 f. Presettlement Vegetation...... II-12 g. Present Vegetation and Land Use...... II-12 h. Natural Disturbance ...... II-12 6. Chippewa Plains ...... II-12 a. Landforms ...... II-12 b. Bedrock Geology...... II-12 c. Soils...... II-13 d. Climate ...... II-13 e. Hydrology ...... II-13 f. Presettlement Vegetation...... II-13 g. Present Vegetation and Land Use...... II-13 h. Natural Disturbance ...... II-13 7. Agassiz Lowlands ...... II-14

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a. Landforms ...... II-14 b. Bedrock Geology...... II-14 c. Soils...... II-14 d. Climate ...... II-14 e. Hydrology ...... II-14 f. Presettlement Vegetation...... II-15 g. Present Vegetation and Land Use...... II-15 h. Natural Disturbance ...... II-15

II. Minnesota Ecoregions - Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) ...... II-15 A. Northern Lakes and Forests Ecoregion...... II-16 B. Northern Minnesota Wetlands Ecoregion...... II-16

III. National Resources Inventory - U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)...... II-16

Subsection 2 - Watershed Overviews ...... II-21

I. Rainy River Headwaters Watershed (HUC # 09030001)...... II-21

II. Vermilion River Watershed (HUC # 09030002) ...... II-30

III. Rainy River / Rainy Lake Watershed (HUC # 09030003)...... II-37

IV. Rainy River / Manitou Watershed (HUC # 09030004) ...... II-42

V. Little Fork River Watershed (HUC # 09030005)...... II-45

VI. Big Fork River Watershed (HUC # 09030006) ...... II-50

VII. Rapid River Watershed (HUC # 09030007)...... II-58

VIII. Rainy River / Baudette Watershed (HUC # 09030008) ...... II-61

IX. Lake of the Woods Watershed (HUC # 09030009)...... II-65

Subsection 3 - List of Sources...... II-71

Section 3 - Summary of Water Management Data Subsection 1 - Rainy River Basin Data Overview ...... III-1 I. Water Quality ...... III-1 A. Stream Assessments...... III-2 1. Rivers and Streams - Use Support Assessment Methodology...... III-2 B. Selected Water Quality Standards ...... III-4 1. Outstanding Resource Value Waters...... III-4 2. Nondegredation for All Waters ...... III-4 3. Waterbody Delineation...... III-5 C. Aquatic Life Use Support ...... III-5 D. Water Chemistry Data ...... III-5

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E. Nonpoint Source Indicators ...... III-6 1. Preliminary Assessment Based on Physical/Chemical Parameters of Water Quality ...... III-6 F. Biological/Habitat Data...... III-7 G. Aquatic Life Use Support - How We Combine the Information Sources ...... III-7 H. Swimming Use Support ...... III-7 I. Instream Monitoring ...... III-7 1. Fully Supporting ...... III-8 2. Partially Supporting ...... III-8 3. Not Supporting ...... III-8 J. Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL) and Minnesota’s Waterways ...... III-10 1. TMDL Process Steps...... III-10 a. Stakeholder Involvement ...... III-10 b. Data Collection...... III-11 c. Analyze and Interpret Data ...... III-11 d. Show Initial Results to Local Team ...... III-11 e. Show High-loading Watersheds / Sectors ...... III-11 f. Run Scenarios on Different Approaches to Achieving Designated Uses ...... III-11 g. Show Scenario Results to Team ...... III-11 h. Develop Implementation Strategy...... III-11 i. Send TMDL and Implementation Strategy to EPA...... III-11 j. Implement Strategy ...... III-11 k. Monitor Progress...... III-12 l. If Data Support, De-list the Impaired Reach...... III-12 K. Monitoring Programs ...... III-12 1. Stream Monitoring...... III-13 a. Minnesota Milestone Monitoring Program ...... III-13 b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) ...... III-13 Information Provided by CSMP Monitoring ...... III-14 Uses for CSMP data ...... III-14 c. River Watch ...... III-14 2. Lake Monitoring...... III-14 a. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment Program ...... III-14 Lake Assessment Program (LAP) ...... III-15 Lake Water Quality Assessment Reports ...... III-15 b. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP)...... III-15 3. General Water Quality Monitoring Programs ...... III-16 a. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) ...... III-16 Mercury Study...... III-16 L. Fish Consumption Advisories in the Rainy River Basin ...... III-17 1. Introduction...... III-17 2. Site Selection ...... III-17 3. Consumption Advice...... III-17 4. Advisory Summary...... III-17 M. Groundwater Information ...... III-18 1. Overview of State Groundwater...... III-18 a. Results ...... III-19 2. Overview of Rainy River Basin Groundwater ...... III-25 a. Results ...... III-26 b. Recommendations ...... III-27

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II. Water Quality ...... III-28

III. Aquatic and Riparian Environments ...... III-28

Subsection 2 - Major Watershed Overviews...... III-29 I. Rainy River Headwaters Watershed (HUC # 09030001)...... III-29 A. Water Quality ...... III-29 1. Stream Water Quality...... III-29 a. Milestone Monitoring Program...... III-29 b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) ...... III-29 c. River Watch ...... III-29 2. Water Quality Assessment ...... III-30 a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality...... III-30 b. Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL)...... III-30 c. Ecoregion Comparison ...... III-31 d. Trends ...... III-32 3. Lake Water Quality...... III-32 a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP)...... III-32 Secchi Transparency Trends...... III-32 b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment ...... III-33 Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-37 4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) ...... III-38 5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory...... III-38 6. Contaminated Sediments ...... III-39 7. Groundwater...... III-39 B. Water Quantity ...... III-39 1. USGS 05124480 Kawishiwi River near Ely, MN ...... III-40 2. USGS 05127000 Kawishiwi River near Winton, MN...... III-41 3 USGS 05127500 Basswood River near Winton, MN ...... III-42 C. Aquatic and Riparian Environments ...... III-43 D. Potential Impacts on Water Quality ...... III-43

II. Vermilion River Watershed (HUC # 09030002) ...... III-44 A. Water Quality ...... III-44 1. Stream Water Quality...... III-44 a. Milestone Monitoring Program...... III-44 b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) ...... III-44 c. River Watch ...... III-44 2. Water Quality Assessment ...... III-44 a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality...... III-44 b. Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL)...... III-44 c. Ecoregion Comparison ...... III-44 d. Trends ...... III-44 3. Lake Water Quality...... III-44 a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP)...... III-44 Secchi Transparency Trends...... III-45 b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment ...... III-45 Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-46 4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) ...... III-47 5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory...... III-47

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6. Contaminated Sediments ...... III-47 7. Groundwater...... III-47 B. Water Quantity ...... III-47 1. USGS 05129000 - Vermilion River below Vermilion Lake near Tower, MN ...... III-48 2. USGS 05129115 Vermilion River near Crane Lake, MN ...... III-49 C. Aquatic and Riparian Environments ...... III-50 D. Potential Impacts on Water Quality ...... III-51

III. Rainy River / Rainy Lake Watershed (HUC # 09030003)...... III-52 A. Water Quality ...... III-52 1. Stream Water Quality...... III-52 a. Milestone Monitoring Program...... III-52 b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) ...... III-52 c. River Watch ...... III-52 2. Water Quality Assessment ...... III-52 a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality...... III-52 b. Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL)...... III-52 c. Ecoregion Comparison ...... III-52 d. Trends ...... III-52 3. Lake Water Quality...... III-52 a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP)...... III-53 Secchi Transparency Trends...... III-53 b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment ...... III-53 Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-53 4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) ...... III-53 5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory...... III-53 6. Contaminated Sediments ...... III-54 7. Groundwater...... III-54 B. Water Quantity ...... III-54 1. USGS 05129290 Gold Portage Outlet from Kabetogama Lake near Ray, MN...... III-55 C. Aquatic and Riparian Environments ...... III-56 D. Potential Impacts on Water Quality ...... III-56

IV. Rainy River / Manitou Watershed (HUC # 09030004) ...... III-57 A. Water Quality ...... III-57 1. Stream Water Quality...... III-57 a. Milestone Monitoring Program...... III-57 b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) ...... III-57 c. River Watch ...... III-57 2. Water Quality Assessment ...... III-57 a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality...... III-58 b. Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL)...... III-58 c. Ecoregion Comparison ...... III-59 d. Trends ...... III-60 3. Lake Water Quality...... III-60 a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP)...... III-60 b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment ...... III-60 Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-60 4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) ...... III-60

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5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory...... III-60 6. Contaminated Sediments ...... III-60 7. Groundwater...... III-60 B. Water Quantity ...... III-60 1. USGS 05133500 Rainy River at Manitou Rapids ...... III-61 C. Aquatic and Riparian Environments ...... III-62 D. Potential Impacts on Water Quality ...... III-62

V. Little Fork River Watershed (HUC # 09030005)...... III-63 A. Water Quality ...... III-63 1. Stream Water Quality...... III-63 a. Milestone Monitoring Program...... III-63 b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) ...... III-63 c. River Watch ...... III-63 2. Water Quality Assessment ...... III-63 a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality...... III-64 b. Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL)...... III-64 c. Ecoregion Comparison ...... III-65 d. Trends ...... III-66 3. Lake Water Quality...... III-66 a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP)...... III-66 Secchi Transparency Trends...... III-66 b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment ...... III-67 Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-68 4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) ...... III-68 5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory...... III-68 6. Contaminated Sediments ...... III-68 7. Groundwater...... III-68 B. Water Quantity ...... III-68 1. USGS 05130500 Sturgeon River near Chisholm, MN ...... III-69 2. USGS 05131000 Dark River near Chisholm, MN ...... III-70 3. USGS 05131448 Wood Duck Creek near Nett Lake, MN...... III-71 4. USGS 05131455 Nett Lake River near Nett Lake, MN ...... III-72 5. USGS 05131500 Little Fork River at Littlefork, MN...... III-73 C. Aquatic and Riparian Environments ...... III-74 D. Potential Impacts on Water Quality ...... III-75

VI. Big Fork River Watershed (HUC # 09030006) ...... III-76 A. Water Quality ...... III-76 1. Stream Water Quality...... III-76 a. Milestone Monitoring Program...... III-76 b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) ...... III-76 c. River Watch ...... III-76 2. Water Quality Assessment ...... III-76 a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality...... III-77 b. Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL)...... III-77 c. Ecoregion Comparison ...... III-78 d. Trends for BF-0.5...... III-79 3. Lake Water Quality...... III-79 a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP)...... III-79 Secchi Transparency Trends...... III-79

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b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment ...... III-80 Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-81 4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) ...... III-81 a. Jessie Lake Watershed Investigation Project...... III-82 5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory...... III-82 6. Contaminated Sediments ...... III-82 7. Groundwater...... III-82 B. Water Quantity ...... III-82 1. USGS 05132000 Big Fork River at Big Falls, MN...... III-83 C. Aquatic and Riparian Environments ...... III-84 D. Potential Impacts on Water Quality ...... III-85

VII. Rapid River Watershed (HUC # 09030007)...... III-86 A. Water Quality ...... III-86 1. Stream Water Quality...... III-86 a. Milestone Monitoring Program...... III-86 b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) ...... III-86 c. River Watch ...... III-86 2. Water Quality Assessment ...... III-86 a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality...... III-87 b. Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL)...... III-87 c. Ecoregion Comparison ...... III-88 d. Trends ...... III-89 3. Lake Water Quality...... III-89 a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP)...... III-89 b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment ...... III-89 Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-89 4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) ...... III-89 5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory...... III-89 6. Contaminated Sediments ...... III-89 7. Groundwater...... III-89 B. Water Quantity ...... III-89 1. USGS 05134200 Rapid River near Baudette, MN ...... III-90 C. Aquatic and Riparian Environments ...... III-91 D. Potential Impacts on Water Quality ...... III-91

VIII. Rainy River / Baudette Watershed (HUC # 09030008) ...... III-92 A. Water Quality ...... III-92 1. Stream Water Quality...... III-92 a. Milestone Monitoring Program...... III-92 b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) ...... III-92 c. River Watch ...... III-92 2. Water Quality Assessment ...... III-92 a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality...... III-93 b. Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL)...... III-93 c. Ecoregion Comparison ...... III-94 d. Trends ...... III-95 3. Lake Water Quality...... III-95 a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP)...... III-95 b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment ...... III-95 Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-95

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4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) ...... III-95 5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory...... III-95 6. Contaminated Sediments ...... III-95 7. Groundwater...... III-95 B. Water Quantity ...... III-95 1. USGS 05137000 Winter Road River near Baudette, MN ...... III-96 C. Aquatic and Riparian Environments ...... III-96 D. Potential Impacts on Water Quality ...... III-97

IX. Lake of the Woods Watershed (HUC # 09030009)...... III-98 A. Water Quality ...... III-98 1. Stream Water Quality...... III-98 a. Milestone Monitoring Program...... III-98 b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) ...... III-98 c. River Watch ...... III-98 2. Water Quality Assessment ...... III-98 a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality...... III-98 b. Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL)...... III-98 c. Ecoregion Comparison ...... III-98 d. Trends ...... III-98 3. Lake Water Quality...... III-98 a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP)...... III-98 b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment ...... III-99 Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-99 4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) ...... III-99 5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory...... III-99 6. Contaminated Sediments ...... III-99 7. Groundwater...... III-99 B. Water Quantity ...... III-99 1. USGS 05139500 Warroad River near Warroad, MN ...... III-100 2. USGS 05140000 Bulldog Run near Warroad, MN...... III-101 3. USGS 05140500 East Branch Warroad River near Warroad, MN ...... III-102 C. Aquatic and Riparian Environments ...... III-103 D. Potential Impacts on Water Quality ...... III-104

Subsection 3 - Data Gaps...... III-105

Subsection 4 - Sources ...... III-106

Section 4 - Water Management Programs and Activities in the Rainy River Basin I. Comprehensive Local Water Plans ...... IV-1 A. Beltrami County...... IV-1 B. Cook County...... IV-1 1. Rainy Lake Watershed...... IV-1 2. Implementation Plan 1999 - 2003...... IV-1 C. Itasca County ...... IV-4 1. Surface Water Issues ...... IV-4 2. Groundwater...... IV-5 3. Land Use Trends...... IV-5

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4. Project List ...... IV-5 D. Koochiching County ...... IV-5 1. High Priority Goals ...... IV-5 2. Moderate Priority Goals ...... IV-6 3. Low Priority Goals ...... IV-6 4. Project List ...... IV-6 E. Lake County ...... IV-6 1. Education and Information ...... IV-6 2. Monitoring and Data Collection...... IV-8 3. Inventory and Mapping...... IV-9 4. Land and Water Treatment...... IV-9 5. Regulations and Ordinances ...... IV-10 F. Lake of the Woods County ...... IV-10 1. County-Wide Goal...... IV-11 2. Watershed Goals ...... IV-11 a. Lake of the Woods Watershed ...... IV-11 b. Rainy River / Baudette Watershed ...... IV-11 c. Rapid River Watershed...... IV-11 3. Issues ...... IV-11 a. Highest Priority Issues ...... IV-11 b. High Priority Issues ...... IV-12 c. Moderate Priority Issues ...... IV-13 G. Roseau County ...... IV-14 H. St. Louis County...... IV-14 1. Goal #1: Surface Water Quality...... IV-14 a. Objectives ...... IV-14 2. Goal #2: Education and Information ...... IV-15 a. Objectives ...... IV-15 3. Goal #3: Septic Systems ...... IV-16 a. Objectives ...... IV-16 4. Goal #4: Planning...... IV-17 a. Objectives ...... IV-17 5. Goal #5: Groundwater...... IV-18 a. Objectives ...... IV-18 6. Goal #6: Wetlands ...... IV-19 7. Goal #7: Animal Waste...... IV-19 a. Objectives ...... IV-19 8. Goal #8: Erosion Control, Run Off/Flood Control...... IV-19 a. Objectives ...... IV-19 9. Goal #9: Organization ...... IV-20 a. Objectives ...... IV-20 10. Goal #10: Infrastructure ...... IV-20 a. Objectives ...... IV-20 11. Goal #11: Recreation ...... IV-21 a. Objectives ...... IV-21

I. River Plans A. Big Fork River Plan ...... IV-21 B. Little Fork / Rat Rood Rivers Plan ...... IV-21 C. Rainy / Rapid River Plan...... IV-21

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II. Special Purpose District Plans ...... IV-21 A. Chippewa National Forest...... IV-21 B. Superior National Forest...... IV-21 C. Voyageurs National Park ...... IV-21

IV. Other Plans ...... IV-21 A. Minnesota Watermarks 2001-2010 ...... IV-21

V. Initiatives and Studies ...... IV-22 A. Drinking Water Protection...... IV-22 1. Source Water Protection...... IV-22 a. Source Water Assessments ...... IV-22 b. Wellhead Protection Plans...... IV-22 c. Source Water Protection Plans ...... IV-23 B. 2001 Water Monitoring Efforts ...... IV-23 1. Planned Water Monitoring Activities in the ManOMin Watershed, 2001 ... IV-24 C. Jessie Lake Clean Water Partnership ...... IV-33 1. Jessie Lake Watershed Investigation Project...... IV-33 D. USGS/MPCA Mercury Study in Voyageurs National Park...... IV-33 E. Rainy / Namakan Water Level Effects Study ...... IV-33 F. DNR Hydrogeologic Study of Rainy River...... IV-33

Vi. Basin Contact Information...... IV-34 A. Local...... IV-34 1. Beltrami County...... IV-34 2. Cook County...... IV-34 3. Itasca County ...... IV-34 4. Koochiching County ...... IV-34 5. Lake County ...... IV-35 6. Lake of the Woods County ...... IV-35 7. Roseau County ...... IV-35 8. St. Louis County...... IV-35 9. Arrowhead Regional Development Commission ...... IV-36 10. Headwater Regional Development Commission ...... IV-36 B. State ...... IV-36 1. Board of Water and Soil Resources ...... IV-36 2. Department of Health ...... IV-36 3. Department of Natural Resources ...... IV-36 4. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency...... IV-37 C. Federal ...... IV-37 1. Chippewa National Forest...... IV-37 2. Laurentian Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc...... IV-37 3. Natural Resources Conservation Service ...... IV-37 4. Superior National Forest...... IV-37 5. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers...... IV-37 6. U.S. Coast Guard...... IV-38 7. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ...... IV-38 8. U.S. Geological Survey...... IV-38 9. Voyageurs National Park ...... IV-38 D. Tribal...... IV-38 1. Bois Forte Band of Chippewa Indians ...... IV-38

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2. Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians ...... IV-38 E. International...... IV-39 1. International Joint Commission ...... IV-39 2. Rainy First Nations...... IV-39

Appendix A - Glossary

Appendix B - Acronyms

Appendix C - Data Source List (DSL) The Data Source List (DSL) is available as a Microsoft Access 97 database on the 3 1/2” diskette attached to the document cover. Also available in a searchable format on the Rainy River Basin web page, at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/basins/rainy.

Appendix D - Rainy River Basin GIS GIS data is available on request by contacting the Rainy River Basin Coordinator at: Nolan Baratono P.O. Box 61 International Falls, MN 56649 218-283-2240 [email protected]

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page xiii Rainy River Basin Information Document List of Figures

Section 1 FIGURES I-1. Minnesota Drainage Basins ...... I-4 I-2. Diagram of Rainy River Basin Plan Development Process...... I-9

Section 2 - Subsection 1 FIGURES II-1. Ecoregion Classifications in the Rainy River Basin...... II-2 II-2. Minnesota Rainy River Basin changes in developed land 1982 - 1997...... II-17 II-3. Minnesota Rainy River Basin changes in forest land 1982 - 1997 ...... II-18 II-4. Minnesota Rainy River Basin changes in pastureland 1982 - 1997...... II-18 II-5. Minnesota Rainy River Basin changes in cropland 1982 - 1997 ...... II-19 II-6. Minnesota Rainy River Basin changes in Conservation Reserve Program Land 1982 - 1997 ...... II-19 II-7. Minnesota Rainy River Basin 1997 total WEQ soil loss in tons/year by erosion rate in relation to tolerance (T) on cultivated cropland ...... II-20 II-8. Minnesota Rainy River Basin WEQ erosion rate in relation to soil loss tolerance (T) on cultivated cropland 1982 - 1997...... II-20

Section II - Subsection 2 FIGURES II-9. Rainy River Headwaters watershed major roads and railways ...... II-21 II-10. Rainy River Headwaters watershed administrative boundaries ...... II-22 II-11. Rainy River Headwaters watershed water resources and impoundments...... II-23 II-12. Vermilion River watershed major roads and railways ...... II-30 II-13. Vermilion River watershed administrative boundaries ...... II-31 II-14. Vermilion River watershed water resources and impoundments ...... II-32 II-15. Rainy River / Rainy Lake watershed major roads and railways...... II-37 II-16. Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed administrative boundaries...... II-38 II-17. Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed water resources and impoundments ...... II-39 II-18. Rainy River/Manitou watershed major roads and railways ...... II-42 II-19. Rainy River/Manitou watershed administrative boundaries ...... II-43 II-20. Rainy River/Manitou watershed water resources and impoundments ...... II-44 II-21. Little Fork River watershed major roads and railways ...... II-45 II-22. Little Fork River watershed administrative boundaries ...... II-46 II-23. Little Fork River watershed water resources and impoundments ...... II-47 II-24. Big Fork River watershed major roads and railways...... II-50 II-25. Big Fork River watershed administrative boundaries...... II-51 II-26. Big Fork River watershed water resources and impoundments ...... II-52 II-27. Rapid River watershed major roads and railways ...... II-58 II-28. Rapid River watershed administrative boundaries ...... II-59 II-29. Rapid River watershed water resources and impoundments ...... II-60 II-30. Rainy River/Baudette watershed major roads and railways ...... II-61

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II-31. Rainy River/Baudette administrative boundaries ...... II-62 II-32. Rainy River/Baudette watershed water resources and impoundments ...... II-63 II-33. Lake of the Woods watershed major roads and railways ...... II-65 II-34. Lake of the Woods watershed administrative boundaries ...... II-66 II-34. Lake of the Woods watershed water resources and impoundments ...... II-67

TABLES II-1. Rainy River Headwaters watershed public drinking water providers...... II-23 II-2. Vermilion River watershed public drinking water providers ...... II-33 II-3. Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed public drinking water providers...... II-39 II-4. Rainy River/Manitou watershed public drinking water providers ...... II-44 II-5. Little Fork River watershed public drinking water providers ...... II-48 II-6. Big Fork River watershed public drinking water providers...... II-53 II-7. Rapid River watershed public drinking water suppliers ...... II-60 II-8. Rainy River/Baudette watershed public drinking water providers...... II-63 II-9. Lake of the Woods watershed public drinking water suppliers...... II-68

Section 3 - Subsection 1 FIGURES III-1. Assessment for Aquatic Life ...... III-1 III-1. Assessment for Aquatic Life ...... III-1 III-3. Lake Assessment for Swimming ...... III-1 III-4. Monitoring programs in the Rainy River Basin...... III-12 III-5. Sampling Locations...... III-18 III-6. Hydrogeologic Regimes for the Rainy River Basin ...... III-26

TABLES III-1. Selected Water Quality Standards ...... III-3 III-2. Ecoregion Characteristics...... III-6 III-3. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Water Quality Criteria - Aquatic Life Use Support in Rivers and Streams...... III-9 III-4. CSMP Parameters...... III-13 III-5. Chemical concentrations in fish fillets (ug/g wet weight)...... III-18 III-6. Summary Rainy River Basin water bodies listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH 2000) ...... III-18 III-7. Number of samples collected for each analyte ...... III-20 III-8. Median concentrations for all aquifers combined...... III-21 III-9. Maximum concentrations for all aquifers combined...... III-22 III-10. Number of exceedances of drinking water standards ...... III-24 III-11. Percentage of samples exceeding the drinking water standard ...... III-25 III-12. Median chemical concentrations, by aquifer, for the Rainy River Basin...... III-27

Subsection 2 FIGURES III-7. Annual Peak Streamflow of Kawishiwi River near Ely ...... III-40 III-8. Annual Peak Streamflow of Kawishiwi River near Winton ...... III-41 III-9. Annual Peak Streamflow of Basswood River near Winton ...... III-42

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page xv List of Figures

III-10. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Rainy River Headwaters watershed...... III-43 III-11. Annual Streamflow of Vermilion River near Tower ...... III-48 III-12. Annual Streamflow of Vermilion River near Crane Lake...... III-49 III-13. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in the Vermilion River watershed ...... III-51 III-14. Annual Streamflow of Gold Portage Outlet from Kabetogama Lake ...... III-55 III-15. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed ...... III-56 III-16. Annual Streamflow of Rainy River at Manitou Rapids ...... III-61 III-17. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Rainy River/Manitou watershed ...... III-62 III-18. Annual Streamflow of Sturgeon River near Chisholm...... III-69 III-19. Annual Streamflow of Dark River near Chisholm ...... III-70 III-20. Annual Streamflow of Wood Duck Creek near Nett Lake ...... III-71 III-21. Annual Streamflow of Nett Lake River near Nett Lake...... III-72 III-22. Annual Streamflow of Little Fork River at Littlefork ...... III-73 III-23. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Little Fork River watershed...... III-75 III-24. Annual Streamflow of Big Fork River at Big Falls ...... III-73 III-25. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Big Fork River watershed ...... III-85 III-26. Annual Streamflow of Rapid River near Baudette...... III-90 III-27. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Rapid River watershed ...... III-91 III-28. Annual Streamflow of Winter Road River near Baudette...... III-96 III-29. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Rapid River watershed ...... III-97 III-30. Annual Streamflow of Warroad River near Warroad...... III-100 III-31. Annual Streamflow of Bulldog Run near Warroad ...... III-101 III-32. Annual Streamflow of East Branch Warroad River near Warroad...... III-102 III-33. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Lake of the Woods watershed...... III-104

TABLES III-13. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based upon the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) ...... III-30 III-14. River TMDLs as of 1998 ...... III-30 III-15. Ecoregion Comparison (based upon the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)...... III-31 III-16. CLMP lakes in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed ...... III-32 III-17. Kendall tau-b (Rk) and P-Level Values ...... III-32 III-18. 1998 CLMP secchi transparency trends in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed...... III-33 III-19. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by County ...... III-33 III-20. Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-37 III-21. Lakes in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) ...... III-38 III-22. Annual Mean Streamflow of Kawishiwi River near Ely...... III-40 III-23 Annual Mean Streamflow of Kawishiwi River near Winton ...... III-41 III-24. Annual Mean Streamflow of Basswood River near Winton ...... III-42 III-25. CLMP sites in the Vermilion River watershed ...... III-44 III-26. Kendall tau-b (Rk) and P-Level Values ...... III-45 III-27. 1998 CLMP secchi transparency trends in the Vermilion watershed ...... III-45 III-28. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by County ...... III-46 III-29. Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-46 III-30. Lakes in the Vermilion River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) ...... III-47

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page xvi List of Figures

III-31. Stream reaches in the Vermilion River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) ...... III-47 III-32. Annual Mean Streamflow of Vermilion River below Vermilion Lake ...... III-48 III-33. Annual Mean Streamflow of Vermilion River near Crane Lake...... III-49 III-34. CLMP sites in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed...... III-53 III-35. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by County ...... III-53 III-36. Lakes in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) ...... III-54 III-37. Annual Mean Streamflow of Gold Portage Outlet from Kabetogama Lake...... III-55 III-38. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) ...... III-58 III-39. Ecoregion Comparison (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)...... III-59 III-40. Stream reaches in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) ...... III-60 III-41. Annual Mean Streamflow of Rainy River at Manitou Rapids ...... III-61 III-42. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) ...... III-64 III-43. Ecoregion Comparison (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)...... III-65 III-44. CLMP Lakes in the Little Fork River watershed ...... III-66 III-45. Kendall tau-b (Rk) and P-Level Values ...... III-66 III-46. 1998 CLMP secchi transparency trends in the Little Fork River watershed...... III-67 III-47. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by County ...... III-67 III-48. Lakes in the Little Fork River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 1999) ...... III-68 III-49. Stream reaches in the Little Fork River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 1999) ...... III-68 III-50. Annual Mean Streamflow of Sturgeon River near Chisholm, MN...... III-69 III-51. Annual Mean Streamflow of Dark River near Chisholm, MN ...... III-70 III-52. Annual Mean Streamflow of Wood Duck Creek near Nett Lake...... III-71 III-53. Annual Mean Streamflow of Nett Lake River near Nett Lake ...... III-72 III-54. Annual Mean Streamflow of Little Fork River at Littlefork, MN ...... III-73 III-55. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) ...... III-77 III-56. Ecoregion Comparison (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)...... III-78 III-57. CLMP Lakes in the Big Fork River watershed...... III-79 III-58. Kendall tau-b (Rk) and P-Level Values ...... III-79 III-59. 1998 CLMP secchi transparency trends in the Big Fork River watershed ...... III-80 III-60. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by County ...... III-80 III-61. Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-81 III-62. Lakes in the Big Fork River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) ...... III-82 III-63. Stream reaches in the Big Fork River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) ...... III-82 III-64. Annual Mean Streamflow of Big Fork River at Big Falls ...... III-83 III-65. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) ...... III-87 III-66. Ecoregion Comparison (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)...... III-88

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page xvii List of Figures

III-67. Annual Mean Streamflow of Rapid River near Baudette...... III-90 III-68. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) ...... III-93 III-69. River TMDLs as of 1998 ...... III-93 III-70. Ecoregion Comparison (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)...... III-93 III-71. River TMDLs as of 1998 ...... III-98 III-72. CLMP Lakes in the Lake of the Woods watershed...... III-98 III-73. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by county...... III-99 III-74. Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports...... III-99 III-75. Lakes in the Lake of the Woods watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) ...... III-99 III-76. Annual Mean Streamflow of Warroad River near Warroad ...... III-100 III-77. Annual Mean Streamflow of Bulldog Run near Warroad ...... III-101 III-78. Annual Mean Streamflow of East Branch Warroad River near Warroad ...... III-102

Section 4

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page xviii The Winnipeg River Basin United States and Canada

The Rainy River Basin is a sub-basin of the Winnipeg River Basin

Manitoba

Ontario

a Minnesota t o k a D h t r o N Wisconsin a t o k a D

h t u o S Rainy River Basin Information Document

Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework

I. WATER PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK IN MINNESOTA The water planning approaches used in the State of Minnesota provide an orderly way of communicating water management goals and objectives between local and state government. The tiered approach recognizes the strengths of both statewide approaches and regional differences and capitalizes on the expertise of individuals at all levels. At first glance, the casual observer may think the water planning framework in Minnesota is awkward and cumbersome. In reality this framework, which has developed in Minnesota over the past 40 years, reflects the complex nature of both water management and the institutions that are in place to manage it.

The framework, in its purest sense, allows each level to do what it is best at doing. In general the different levels of planning result in: 1) local plans that are focused on implementation; 2) basin and major watershed plans, built from local plans, which identify specific pollutants, reduction targets, and problem areas; and 3) statewide plans, with broad goals, objectives and indicators. This framework supports what local government is best at doing - focusing on implementation activities that work toward achieving the specific water-related objectives and standards set for each of major watershed unit within their jurisdiction. This framework makes the wisest use of the human resources, fiscal resources, programs, and authorities that exist at each level with the least amount of duplication.

There are a number of ways in which the state’s framework for water planning can be viewed. In this section, the framework is presented in a hierarchical model, starting with local plans, then regional plans and then state plans. At each level the plan is built from the preceding level (local - basin - state). Plans at all levels are influenced by plans at other levels and plans are coordinated to ensure that water managers are working together.

A. COUNTY WATER PLANS AND WATERSHED MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION PLANS Implementation is the focus of this level of planning. Planning at this level is done by counties, watershed districts, and joint powers watershed management organizations. A major strength of this level of planning has been the strong support and participation from the state’s resource agencies. All of these organizations have: 1) a focus on implementation of programs and projects; 2) their own source of funding; and 3) some level of land use authority. The features of this level of planning are:

· County and minor watershed level plans that: - assess local resource conditions - set local priorities in context of watershed and basin plans - identify available fiscal and human resources · Implementation focus. · Coordinate local activities of: - county - SWCD - watershed organizations - extension office - municipalities - citizen organizations · Identify opportunities for partnerships with state and federal agencies. · Track and report accomplishments in measurable terms.

The Board of Soil and Water Resources (BWSR) oversees local water planning activities in coordination with other state agencies. In order for local government to respond and participate

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-1 Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework fully in the various water-related planning that is being done in the state and to take advantage of the products produced at the state, basin and major watershed level, the BWSR intends to pursue the following strategies for local water planning.

· Maintain maximum flexibility over water plan update deadlines. Water plans are required, by statute, to be updated on a regular basis. Statute also allows the BWSR to grant up to a two-year extension for just cause. The BWSR should grant extensions to those county’s and watershed management organizations where the extension will allow them to fully participate in basin and major watershed level planning efforts. BWSR should also support counties in advancing their plan update deadline where opportunities exist to match up with current or planned water-related planning efforts.

· Endorse the participation of BWSR staff with local governments and state agencies to discuss and plan for an orderly water plan update process particularly in those areas where the potential for conflict between planning efforts has been determined to be high.

· Encourage the incorporation of relevant data, assessments, priority issues, target pollutants, and watershed goals and objectives from statewide, basin, and watershed plans by reference into local water plans.

· Continue to endorse the concepts of local water plans, with a strong emphasis on implementation strategies and establishment of measurable outcomes. In some areas of the state this may lead to placing less emphasis on data collection and assessment and to a model which places greater emphasis on implementation. Historically considerable amounts of time were spent during a local water planning update, were spent on data collection and assessment of that data. The water planning framework, identified in this chapter, presents an opportunity to use the data collection, resource assessments, problem identification, and resource objectives established at the major watershed level, thereby reducing or eliminating the duplication of that by local governments. In turn this allows local governments in their next local water plan update or revision to focus more heavily on implementation, including 1) the development of specific implementation strategies to achieve watershed goals and objectives; 2) the allocation of limited human and fiscal resources; and 3) the use of existing programs and authorities and coordination with other local efforts and entities.

B. MAJOR WATERSHED PLANS This level of planning is less structured than the previous effort. In fact, planning at this level is not being done uniformly in the 84 defined major watersheds. The planning that is being done at this level is by various groups, including watershed districts, joint power entities, or organized citizen groups. The focus of this level of planning is to:

· Create sub-basin plans, typically at a major or minor watershed level · Establish specific water related goals, objectives, and priorities for: - individual environmental pollutants (i.e. phosphorous, sediment, etc.) - flood damage reduction - natural resources management - restoration, enhancement, or protection areas · Implementation of watershed plans

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-2 Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework

1. Funding Watershed Planning and Management Many of these watershed planning efforts, particularly those being managed by ad hoc groups, are funded through state and federal grant and cost-share programs. Local contributions of matching funds and in-kind services are typically a component of watershed projects as well. The Clean Water Partnership (CWP) Program administered by the MPCA has the ability to provide funding for watershed coordinators or other staff to facilitate these efforts, and has provided this type of support to many projects over the last decade. The BWSR Challenge Grants program has also provided similar funding.

There is growing interest in exploring the concept of allocating portions of the funding available for watershed projects to specific basins to support basin and watershed planning and put more control over resource allocation in the hands of basin resource managers. Much discussion and evaluation still needs to occur on this issue, but many see this as a way to support and implement basin and watershed planning and management.

2. Other Watershed-Based Programs a. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Watershed Manageme nt Initiative The DNR comprehensive watershed initiative is designed to integrate management efforts across discipline lines using the watershed as a geographical boundary. This effort is intended to capitalize on current interest in managing on a watershed basis and to foster cooperative ventures among the many units of government and private citizens who have a role in managing land and water resources.

This program uses a watershed based approach to address land and water resource issues. To accomplish this, the program: 1. Identifies means by which DNR can be more involved in county local water planning; 2. Provides a DNR point of contact for watershed based projects; 3. Identifies other state and federal resource agencies, local governments, and organizations with whom the DNR could be partnered; 4. Examines ways in which the DNR organizational structure could be changed to more effectively work with the external environment of land and water resource decision makers; 5. Works with the private sector to set up a land trust to compliment DNR acquisition programs; and 6. Inform and educate DNR personnel about a watershed based approach to land and water resource management.

Five of eight identified prototype watershed projects have received funding and had project coordinators assigned to them. Projects in the Nemadji, Red River Basin, the Leech and Niemackl Lakes, and the Wells Creek watershed are now underway. These projects are in various stages of planning and/or implementation. b. Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL) TMDLs have gained prominence over the last few years as a way to address impaired waterbodies. The State of Minnesota intends to address TMDLs using a watershed planning and management approach. This means TMDLs will be done by including the necessary components of developing a broad coalition of interest and involvement in development of the TMDLs, comprehensive watershed assessment, strategy development, and implementation, all in cooperation with local resource managers and stakeholders. When establishing new TMDLs

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-3 Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework

(post 1998) for the Rainy River Basin, it should be the result of corroborated, science-based information that is applicable to the Basin.

TMDLs are one tool in the basin and watershed management toolbox. A major component of basin management is prioritization - prioritization of issues to be addressed, waterbodies, watersheds, etc. The TMDL list will be one factor that basin planning teams will use to help them set their priorities on what waters to address as priorities. Other factors will also be considered, including any special status waters may have (drinking water supplies, Outstanding Resource Value Waters, etc.), readiness for a local group to proceed on addressing a waterbody, availability of funding, and other considerations. By their nature, TMDLs only address impaired waters, so cannot assist with protection of pristine waters or waters supporting designated uses. So, TMDLs are only a part of the basin management picture, and are not the main driver of basin management. At the same time, TMDLs do serve as a rallying point for local efforts to improve impaired waters. The MPCA intends to work with local resource managers and citizens to develop TMDLs, using a similar process to the watershed management approach that has been used successfully in the CWP Program. Thus, TMDLs will be a powerful mechanism for encouraging watershed and basin management.

C. BASIN PLANS Basin plans provide a more geographically focused level of water planning. Basin water planning in Minnesota is being done under the direction of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. It is a geographically- based approach to water Figure I-1. Minnesota Drainage Basins management with an emphasis on protection and restoration. The approach focuses on the state’s 10 major drainage basins and is designed to 1) identify water management problems; 2) work with local governments to establish shared goals and priorities; and 3) develop pollutant reduction Basins strategies. The focus of this level of Rainy River planning is to: Cedar River Des Moines River Lake Superior · refine water quality Lower Mississippi River related state objectives; Minnesota River Missouri River · set basin level water Red River management priorities; St Croix River · define priority water Upper Mississippi River quality pollutants, and problem areas; · identify actions and projects to be performed to address the identified goals, objectives, priorities, and targets; and · serve as a mechanism to help secure funding for implementation of the plans.

Basin plans are intended to help focus attention and funding on particular watershed planning and management efforts that will advance the goals of the basin plan to protect and improve water management within the basin.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-4 Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework

D. MINNESOTA WATERMARKS – GAUGING THE FLOW OF PROGRESS 2000 - 2010 The State Water Plan is a 10-year framework that will include broad goals, objectives, and targets to measure the results of state and local policies and programs on a statewide level and by drainage basins. The plan is as broad as possible in scope, addressing all aspects of water resource management. The four broad goal areas of the plan include surface and ground water quality and quantity issues, ecosystem diversity as related to water resources, and water recreation issues. Minnesota Watermarks is prepared under the direction of the Minnesota Planning, Environmental Quality Board. It is a legislatively mandated report that is also a major component of the Governor’s executive order calling for a Water Management Unification Initiative. The initiative includes the focusing of efforts on major drainage basins in order to recognize and act on the differences in water resources and management choices throughout the state, the unification of water management through interagency teams in each basin working with local resource managers and citizens, and measuring results by developing and tracking progress toward a statewide framework of goals and objectives adapted to each basin.

As a statewide plan, Water Plan 2000 will guide state lawmakers and agencies by:

· providing policy direction for the legislature; · identifying funding initiatives; · giving direction to agency efforts and resource allocations; and · measuring the state’s progress in meeting environmental goals.

While a statewide plan, Minnesota Watermarks recognizes and respects the individual basin efforts underway, and includes basin-specific sections that bring better specificity to planning at the more focused (though still geographically large) basin level.

The first phase of Minnesota Watermarks was completed in September 2000. The second phase will be developed during 2001 and 2002, and will track progress toward the goals and objectives, set 10-year targets, evaluate whether existing programs are meeting needs, and decide key strategies and related responsibilities.

E. MINNESOTA NONPOINT SOURCE (NPS) WATER POLLUTION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM PLAN This plan is another statewide plan, but is more focused in the scope of issues it addresses than State Water Plan 2000. While the state water plan includes all water quality and quantity, ecosystem health, and recreation issues related to water resources, the state NPS plan focuses on nonpoint source water pollution and its impact on water quality. As nonpoint source pollution has such a major impact on water quality and comes from such diverse and widespread sources, this plan is an important component of the state’s water planning framework.

While the state is definitely advancing the basin planning approach, it is recognized that there is also a need for statewide plans and approaches on specific issues. This NPS plan promotes statewide approaches on managing water resources through the strategies for lakes, ground water, streams, and wetlands. These statewide resource specific strategies provide a baseline framework for water resource managers to work from, to apply, and to enhance and provide more specific local detail to through basin and watershed planning. Likewise, this plan provides the statewide framework for addressing potential NPS pollution sources, such as feedlots, ISTS, agricultural nutrients and pesticides, storm water, etc. The basic programs, rules, and

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-5 Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework approaches for these sources are spelled out in this plan, and should be utilized and enhanced to fit local conditions in basin and watershed planning and management.

II. RAINY RIVER BASIN SPECIFIC EFFORTS The Rainy River sits on Minnesota’s border with Canada and is home to some of the state’s finest forest and water resources. Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness are located within the Rainy River Basin, as are several of Minnesota’s most famous walleye fisheries and many top-notch trout streams. Other prominent uses of natural resources in the basin are forestry, mining and various forms of recreation. Like the Red River Basin, waters from the Rainy River Basin flow north, eventually arriving in Hudson Bay.

A. BASIN LEVEL PLANNING ACTIVITIES · International Joint Commission (IJC) – Presently considering combining the International Lake of the Woods Board of Water Level Control, International Rainy/Namakan Lake Board of Water Level Control and the International Rainy River Pollution Board into a single body. This would better integrate IJC activities and make it easier for residents and stakeholders to participate in IJC activities in the basin. · MPCA – Basin Information Document (scheduled completion December 2001) · MPCA – Basin Plan (scheduled completion January 2003)

B. LOCAL AND MINOR WATERSHED PLANNING ACTIVITIES · Comprehensive Local Water Plans – Beltrami, Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, Lake of the Woods, Roseau and St. Louis Counties have existing plans. · Jessie Lake’s Clean Water Partnership (Phase I) · Big Fork River Plan (Implementation) · Little Fork River / Rat Root River Plan (Implementation) · Rainy / Rapid River Plan (Implementation) · Voyageurs National Park – General Management Plan and Visitor Use and Facilities Plan (In preparation, final due August 2001) · Voyageurs National Park – Water Resource Management Plan (In preparation, due October 2002) · Local Land Use Plans · Source Water and Wellhead Protection Plans · Superior National Forest - Mid-Level Watershed Assessment Process

III. HOW BASIN PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT CAN HELP TO IMPROVE WATER MANAGEMENT IN THE RAINY RIVER BASIN The Rainy River Basin Plan will help get all resource management agencies working together to accomplish locally identified water management goals, objectives, and strategies. These goals, objectives, and strategies will be developed by residents, local elected officials, stakeholders, and resource management professionals from local, state, and federal government agencies. Likely most of these goals will come from existing local plans.

The Rainy River Basin Plan will help state and federal agencies focus their resources – technical assistance and funding – on locally identified needs. In short, the Basin Plan should enhance implementation of local plans.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-6 Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework

IV. PRELIMINARY PROCESS TO DEVELOP THE RAINY RIVER BASIN PLAN The process to develop the Rainy River Basin Water Plan will not be just an effort to seek comments. The residents and stakeholders of the Rainy River Basin will develop the Basin Plan. Participants in the basin plan development process will have the opportunity to tell the MPCA, and other resource management agencies, what are appropriate water management activities for the Rainy River Basin.

The MPCA has been developing and implementing basin water plans for a long time. This planning effort represents a major departure from past practices. In the past, agency staff determined the issues and concerns, developed strategies to address those issues and concerns, then asked residents and stakeholders for comment. Now, we’re asking you to help us determine what should, or shouldn’t be done to maintain or improve water management in the Rainy River Basin over the next five years.

The overarching principle in basin planning is: “It’s your plan.”

A. OBJECTIVES 1. Develop a basin water plan that addresses the goals and objectives of the residents and stakeholders of the basin, and local, state, and federal governments. Participants will merge science and local perception to develop goals, objectives, and strategies that are locally acceptable and sustainable. 2. Establish a framework linking local, state, and federal water-resource management efforts. For example, develop a direct link from local water plans, through basin plans, to the state water plan to ensure that local concerns are not overlooked when state priorities for funding and resource allocations are developed. 3. Build on existing water plans and activities, such as comprehensive local water plans, river plans, and other appropriate local plans. 4. Identify water management issues, concerns, and problems within the basin. 5. Establish water management goals, objectives, and priorities. 6. Develop integrated strategies designed to address the water management goals and objectives. 7. Integrate and target point and nonpoint source management strategies to address the causes and sources of specific water quality problems. 8. Work with Ontario to ensure continuity in water management throughout the basin.

B. PROCESS OVERVIEW In conjunction with stakeholder sector groups and local planning organizations, the Basin Coordinator will form ad hoc committees charged with the development of a water plan for the Rainy River Basin. Primary responsibility for development of the plan will be delegated to the Basin Committee. This committee will be made up of representatives of the stakeholder sector groups and Local Committees. Due to the need to ensure local participation within the large geographic area of the Rainy River Basin, Local Committees will be formed. These Local Committees will be made up of local stakeholders representing the interests of the local planning area. Local Committees will appoint members to the Basin Committee, the same as the sector groups. However, Local Committees will have more direct input into development of

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-7 Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework the plan than sector groups. This is because for issues of local concern only, the Basin Committee is expected to accept the Local Committee’s management options. The MPCA and other state and federal agencies will provide technical and clerical support.

The planning committees will begin meeting in 2002. The Basin Coordinator, with support from the Local Resource Management Teams and in cooperation with local governments, will form the various committees in the fall of 2001 or early in 2002. Committee members need to understand that they are volunteers. The State of Minnesota will not pay their expenses. Sector groups may choose to reimburse their representatives.

The Local Committees will meet monthly. Once the Local Committees have developed recommendations for the Basin Committee, committee members may choose to meet less often, or only as needed. The Basin Committee will begin meeting monthly a few months after the Local Committees have started meeting. This will ensure that the plan development process is being lead by the Local Committees. The agenda for the initial committee meetings will consist of selecting a chair and vice-chair, review the plan development process and a discussion on the current situation regarding water management in the Rainy River Basin. At subsequent meetings the committees will identify water management issues and problems, member goals, shared goals, priority issues and waters, projects and review plan drafts and a monitoring plan for the Basin. All committee meetings will be open to the public. Public participation will be encouraged.

MPCA staff will provide support services for planning committee meetings, including mailing advance packets, keeping meeting records, and supplying information and data as requested by committee members. The MPCA will be responsible for all direct costs related to committee meetings.

C. PLANNING COMMITTEE MISSION Planning committees are expected to develop specific water management goals for the Rainy River Basin. These goals may include delineation of specific stream segments to be restored or protected, loading reductions to be achieved, amount of habitat to be restored, and other appropriate objectives. Minnesota State agencies will provide needed technical support throughout the planning process.

Committees will establish feasible combinations of point and nonpoint source control measures and management objectives to achieve goals. Committees will be expected to develop goals, objectives, indicators, and strategies that include descriptions of actions to be taken, responsibilities for implementation, timelines, costs, funding sources, monitoring strategies, and where applicable, compliance tracking and enforcement methods.

Management goals, objectives, indicators, and strategies must address regulatory constraints. However, when appropriate, voluntary efforts to meet environmental goals and objectives should be encouraged.

The Basin Committee will have the primary responsibility for development of the basin water quality plan. Local Committees will provide input and recommendations to the Basin Committee. The Basin Committee is expected to accept the Local Committee’s options for issues of local concern, and to consider the Local Committee’s recommendations for issues of regional concern.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-8 Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework

Figure I-2. Diagram of Rainy River Basin Plan Development Process

Local Committee Local Committee Local Committee Local Committee North South East West

Basin Committee The Plan

Government Government Agricultural Business/Industry Environmental Citizen Advocacy Organizations Agencies Organizations Organizations Education

Basin Sector Groups

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-9 Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework

V. COMMONLY USED ACRONYMS AMC Association of Minnesota Counties BMP Best Management Practices BOD Biologic Oxygen Demand BWSR Board of Water and Soil Resources CLMP Citizens Lake Monitoring Program CLWP Comprehensive Local Water Plan CNF Chippewa National Forest COD Chemical Oxygen Demand COLA Coalition of Lake Associations CSMP Citizen’s Stream Monitoring Program CSMP Citizens Stream Monitoring Program CWA Clean Water Act CWP Clean Water Partnership DNR Department of Natural Resources EPA Environmental Protection Agency GIS Geographic Information System HUC Hydrologic Unit Code IJC International Joint Commission ISTS individual sewage treatment systems JPB Joint Powers Board LOW Lake of the Woods MDA Minnesota Department of Agriculture MDH Minnesota Department of Health MLA Minnesota Lakes Association MPCA Minnesota Pollution Control Agency MRCC Minnesota Rural Counties Caucus NCLUCB Northern Counties Land Use Coordinating Board NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NPS Nonpoint Source NRCS Natural Resource Conservation Service OEA Office of Environmental Assistance PCA (Minnesota) Pollution Control Agency QAQC Quality Assurance, Quality Control SNF Superior National Forest SOP Standard Operating Procedures STORET a nation wide water quality data base SWCD Soil and Water Conservation District TDS Total Dissolved Solids TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-10 Section I Minnesota Water Planning Framework

TOC Total Organic Carbon TSS Total Suspended Solids USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers USF&WS United States Fish and Wildlife Service USFS United States Forest Service USGS United States Geological Survey VNP Voyageurs National Park WD Watershed District WQ Water Quality WWTF Wastewater Treatment Facility

A more inclusive glossary of water management terms and acronyms may be found in Appendices A and B.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page I-11 Rainy River Basin Information Document

Section II Description of the Rainy River Basin Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview

SUBSECTION 1 - RAINY RIVER BASIN OVERVIEW

The Rainy River Basin encompasses a total area of 27,114 square miles, of which 11,244 square miles (41 percent) are in Minnesota and 15,870 square miles (59 percent) are in Ontario. The primary focus of the Rainy River Basin Information Document is on the Minnesota portion of the Basin. The Minnesota portion of the Basin is bounded on the north by the Province of Ontario, the east by the Lake Superior Basin, the south by the Upper Mississippi Basin and the west by the Red River Basin.

The Rainy River Basin is home to some of Minnesota’s finest forest and water resources. Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) are located within the Rainy River Basin, as are several of the state’s most famous walleye fisheries and many top-notch trout streams. The majority of the land within the Basin is forested. Prominent uses of natural resources in the Basin are forestry, mining and various forms of recreation.

The Basin includes portions of eight Minnesota counties, including substantial portions of Cook, Itasca, Lake, Lake of the Woods, Koochiching, and St. Louis Counties with relatively minor portions of Beltrami and Roseau Counties. The Basin can be loosely divided into two broad geologic areas, the Canadian Shield and the bed of Glacial Lake Agassiz. Perhaps the best description of the Rainy River Basin is that of Thomas F. Waters in his 1977 book, The Streams and Rivers of Minnesota. The Rainy River watershed is readily divisible into two distinctly different areas. The upper, or eastern, part lies entirely on the Canadian Shield, a broad plain of eroded ancient rock covering much of central Canada and some of northern United States (mostly Minnesota). Whereas most of this bedrock is extremely hard, some weak spots were ground out by the moving glaciers. These produced many westward-tending excavations that now hold the lakes of the region and many of the streams that connect the lakes. This pattern is evident in the Quetico-Superior, the border lake country of Minnesota and Ontario. But nowhere in this upper watershed is there any stream named the Rainy River, although there are many that would qualify as the headwater of this stream. At the western edge of this region of lakes and forests, the Canadian Shield’s waters collect in Rainy Lake and pour over the great waterfalls known first as Koochiching Falls. Here the Rainy River proper begins, a stream large enough that it once accommodated giant log drives and steamboats.

Below the falls is the other distinctive area of the watershed, where the Rainy River flows as a broad stream over Glacial Lake Agassiz’s flat bed, and the lakes, streams and forests of the Shield are left behind. Across the old lake bed the Rainy flows fairly straight, with having carved very little valley. Here it picks up tributaries that drain the vast bog and swamplands on the poorly drained, flat glacial clay. There are few lakes in this lower watershed, except along the southern outer edges where higher moraines held back the waters of the ancient lake. Bedrock and moraines underlie the relatively thin veneer of lake clay so that the Rainy and some of its tributaries tumble over rock outcrops and through gravel riffles in some places. But for the most part, the Rainy is broad and unruffled. Finally, it empties into Lake of the Woods, itself a remnant of Glacial Lake Agassiz. At the Canadian outlet of Lake of the Woods, at Kenora, is a dam and hydropower facility, which regulates the level of the lake. Originally there were three natural outlets at the north end of the lake, all in falls; these were dammed, raising the lake level nine feet. From these dams, the waters of the Rainy watershed continue

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northwest down the Winnipeg River to Lake Winnipeg, and finally, by way of Canada’s Nelson River, to Hudson Bay.

The headwaters of the Basin are located in Cook, Lake, Itasca and St. Louis Counties. The eastern headwaters portion of the Basin includes an extensive area of irregularly shaped lakes on Canadian Shield topography. This area includes the BWCA. The southern headwaters portion includes the Vermilion Iron Range, part of the Mesabi Iron Range, and, in Itasca County, numerous northern lakes situated in glacial till.

The central, or large lakes, portion of the Basin is characterized by relatively large lakes on Canadian Shield topography. This area includes Voyageurs National Park. Lakes include Crane, Kabetogama, Namakan, Rainy and Vermilion.

The Lake of the Woods portion of the Basin is characterized by extensive wetlands located on the old Glacial Lake Agassiz lake bed and, of course, Lake of the Woods.

The Basin is made up of nine watersheds. These watersheds are: Rainy River Headwaters, Vermilion River, Rainy River/Rainy Lake, Rainy River/Manitou, Little Fork River, Big Fork River, Rapid River, Rainy River/Baudette, and Lake of the Woods. These watersheds will be discussed in more detail later in this section.

In general, the information presented in this section will follow the east to west flow of water in the basin.

I. ECOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (ECS) - Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) The Ecological Classification Figure II-1. Ecoregion Classifications in the Rainy System (ECS) is part of a River Basin nationwide mapping initiative Ecological Classificatio ns developed to improve our ability to DNR Ecologi cal Subsec tions Major Waters heds Agas siz Lowlands Rain y River manage all natural resources on a Littlefor k-Verm ilio n Upland s Ver milion River Ch ip pewa Plains Rain y River - Rainy Lake sustainable basis. This is done by St. Louis M oraine s Rain y River - Man ito u Tam arack L owlands Li ttle F ork River integrating climatic, geologic, Bor der L akes Big F ork Rive r Na sh wauk Upla nds Rap id River hydrologic and topographic, soil Laur entian Upl ands Rain y River - Ba udett e No rth Shor e High la nds La ke of the Wo ods and vegetation data. Toimi Upl an ds

Three of North America's ecological regions, or biomes, representing the major climate zones converge in Minnesota: prairie parkland, deciduous forest, and coniferous forest. The Rainy River Basin lies within the Laurentian Mixed Forest ecological region.

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A. CLASSES IN THE RAINY RIVER BASIN 1. Laurentian Mixed Forest Province This province comprises the true forested region of Minnesota. It consisted of continuous conifer, conifer-hardwood mix, or hardwood forest vegetation before settlement. Topography is variable. Landforms range from lake plains and outwash plains, to ground and end moraines. Soils are in the Alfisol, Entisol, or Histosol orders. The Rainy River Basin is primarily continuous conifer and conifer-hardwood mix.

The Coniferous Forest is the largest of the state's three biomes. It covers two-fifths of the state, including the north central and northeastern regions. Once mountainous, this rugged area claims both the highest and lowest points in the state.

Glaciers sculpted this landscape, leaving relatively thin deposits of till blanketing the bedrock in the northeast and deeper deposits in the southern and western portions. Boulders, outcrops, hills, numerous lakes, bogs, and vast tracts of forest land comprise Minnesota's scenic and much beloved "up north." The state's iron ranges also occur here, along with many other Precambrian rocks and well-exposed lava flows. Dense forests occupy the uplands, with bedrock lakes in the northeast, ice block lakes in the south and west, and large, open peatlands in lower areas.

2. Plant Communities Cold winters and cool summers caused by Arctic air masses result in extreme temperature variations and a low energy budget for the plant communities found here. Most of the precipitation occurs during warm months, and the air and soils are moist in comparison to the non-forested landscapes of western Minnesota. Soils that have developed from glacial till and loess now thinly overlay the Canadian Shield.

Species that succeed in this environment have adaptations that economize on energy—both temperature and sunlight, and on nutrient requirements. For example, coniferous trees hold their needles from 2 to 15 years, depending on the species. This adaptation avoids the necessity for producing a full crop of new leaves every spring, and it also allows photosynthesis for extended periods of the year. Species that occur in the boreal hardwoods, such as trembling aspen, balsam poplar and paper birch, have special adaptations to withstand temperatures below -30 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Forest Canopy The canopy layer of a forest community may be seen as being the primary buffer between atmospheric conditions and the communities below; it bears the brunt of wind and temperature extremes, and is the first beneficiary of sunlight. Coniferous Forest canopies may be dominated by coniferous, deciduous, or mixed coniferous-hardwood species.

Six forest communities are characteristic of Minnesota's Coniferous Forest area: white pine, red pine, jack pine, black spruce-feathermoss, spruce-fir, and upland white cedar. while all pines regenerate after fire, the fire regime differs for each species.

After a disturbance in the coniferous forest, such as logging or burning, the canopy opening favors deciduous species, with their higher rates of photosynthesis. Aspen and paper birch pioneer such areas, and they may in turn be followed by mixed hardwood and coniferous trees in a zone of intergrading communities. Northern hardwood stands of sugar maple, basswood,

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 3 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview yellow birch, and associated species develop on mesic uplands. On drier sites in the south and west portions of the Coniferous Forest, oak communities are more common.

4. Shrub Layers Beneath the canopy layer, shrubs vary locally in density. Seedlings and saplings of canopy trees bide their time in the shade; when a canopy tree falls, these young trees inherit the sunlight they need to succeed to canopy status themselves. Shrub-level species include beaked hazel, mountain maple, honeysuckle, and dogwood, along with others associated with specific soils and canopies. Variation of shrub density within the forest significantly affects the habitat and diversity of animal species.

5. Groundlayer The groundlayer in coniferous plant communities often includes feathermosses as well as forest herbs. The acid needle litter on the forest floor supports herbs such as clintonia and rose twisted-stalk, while feathermoss communities support such herbs as wintergreen and pyrola.

The Coniferous Forest biome ranges from relatively flat lake plains and outwash plains in the west, to more hilly moraines in the mid-section, with rugged, rocky outcrops in the eastern portions of the biome. Peatlands occur in huge areas across the western and central glacial lake plains. As elevation rises eastward, soils become thinner and bedrock outcrops more prominent. Here passing glaciers caught on rugged bedrock; ice blocks broke off and were abandoned to melt slowly beneath glacial till, forming many of our "10,000 lakes."

B. BIOMES IN THE RAINY RIVER BASIN The Ecological Classification System classified this biome on the basis of bedrock, glacial deposits, topography, climate, and plant communities. The following subsections, or landscape areas, are found within the Rainy River Basin: Northern Superior Uplands · Border Lakes · Nashwauk Uplands · Laurentian Highlands Northern Minnesota and Ontario Peatlands · Little Fork-Vermilion Uplands Northern Minnesota Drift and Lake Plains · St. Louis Moraines · Chippewa Plains Northern Minnesota and Ontario Peatlands · Agassiz Lowlands

1. Border Lakes The extent of this subsection was determined primarily by the extent of the bedrock controlled landscape. The southern and western boundaries were based on LTA-level boundaries on the Superior National Forest.

Lakes and rocky ridges characterize this landscape of glacially-eroded bedrock and poor soils. Historic forest types on

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 4 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview uplands were mostly aspen-birch, aspen-birch-conifer, and on dry sites, jack pine barrens. Much of this subsection consists of the BWCA, which is an internationally known wilderness area. Recreation, tourism, and forestry are the major land uses. a. Landform This subsection consists of scoured bedrock uplands or shallow soils on bedrock, with large numbers of lakes. Glacial ice moved from west to east across the subsection, deepening stream valleys in the bedrock. Long, east-west oriented lakes now occupy these enlarged valleys (Department of Soil Science, University of Minnesota 1981b). Topography is dominantly rolling with irregular slopes and many craggy outcrops of bedrock. Eagle Mountain, topping out at 2,301 feet, is the highest point in Minnesota. b. Bedrock Geology Thin glacial drift covers much of the subsection, and bedrock exposures are common (Department of Soil Science, University of Minnesota 1981b). The subsection has Precambrian-age (Late Archean and Early Proterozoic) bedrock, including gneiss, undifferentiated granite, and metamorphosed mafic to intermediate volcanic and sedimentary rocks (Sims et al. 1970c, Morey 1976). c. Soils The soils are derived from a mantle of acid, cobbly, and gravelly glacial till of variable depth. Coarse-loamy to coarse soil textures are most common. There are small areas of sandy and clayey lacustrine soil in the western portion of the subsection. About 5 percent of the unit is occupied by organic soils. The soils are classified as Ochrepts, with localized Aquents and Hemists (Anderson and Grigal 1984). d. Climate The subsection has a cool continental climate, with short warm summers and long winters (Heinselman 1973). Annual precipitation averages 28 inches (71 mm) and the mean annual temperature is 2 degrees C. Growing season length ranges from 108 to 123 days (Department of Soil Science, University of Minnesota 1981b). e. Hydrology There are over 300 lakes larger than 160 acres these cover about 13 percent of the subsection's surface (Department of Soil Science, University of Minnesota 1981b). The drainage network is very angular due to development in shallow sediments over bedrock. Rivers within the Rainy River Basin, traversing this subsection include the Vermilion, Moose, Portage and Kiwishiwi. f. Presettlement Vegetation Heinselman (1974) describes the major forest communities as jack pine forest, white pine-red pine forest, and hardwood-conifer forest. The latter community was dominated by balsam fir, white spruce, paper birch, and trembling aspen. Fire dependence characterizes all of these forest types. Jack pine is most prevalent in the two areas where the landscape is least dissected by small lakes, north of Vermilion Lake and within and north of the Sawbill Outwash Plain. Areas most dissected by lakes are where white pine-red pine forests are most common, probably as a result of partial fire protection (Albert 1993).

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 5 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview g. Present Vegetation and Land use Most of the subsection remains forested, with most forest types persisting with stand composition and structure similar to that present originally. Logging occurred within the subsection, but large areas remain unlogged. Heinselman (1973) maintained that this was because of the relatively sparse densities of forest stands, particularly white and red pines. Grigal (personal communications), however, maintains that the lack of logging was also partially the result of two other factors. The first of these was inaccessibility. The second was that by the time timber harvesting began here, public sentiment for preservation had begun to be heard. h. Natural Disturbance The average interval between significant fire years was about 4-years in presettlement time and a natural fire rotation of about 100-years was characteristic of the area (Heinselman 1973). Lightning caused many fires: the importance of Native American fire management in the area has not been established. Heinselman's work indicated that major fires occurred during drought years. Major drought years occurred 2 to 3 times per century. The timing of the fire, spring or fall, determined how severely soils burned and the tree species that regenerated. Pollen records indicate that the fire history has not changed substantially for several thousand years.

2. Laurentian Highlands The subsection is bounded on the east by the Lake Superior Highlands, on the north by mixed outwash and till plain and the Giants Range. To the west, the Upham Lake Plain and the Mille Lacs Moraines are the boundaries. The end of the drumlin field completes this unit to the south.

A drumlin field dominates this subsection. The drumlins trend southwest-northeast with very poorly drained organic soils in between. Topography is rolling, almost like a big washboard. White pine, white spruce, and aspen-birch were most common in the overstory of this dominantly forested region. Soils are medium to coarse textured. They formed from glacial till deposited by the Superior and Rainy lobes of the latest glacial period. Forestry is the most common land use today. a. Landform This unit mainly consists of a drumlin field. Drumlin ridges, about a mile long, 1/4 mile wide, and 30 to 50 feet high are typical (Department of Soil Science, University of Minnesota 1981b). The drumlins are oriented in a southwest-northeast direction with rivers and streams flowing southwest. Inter-drumlin areas are usually poorly or very poorly drained, and support either conifer swamps or bogs. The subsection also includes an outwash plain along its eastern edge. Most of the plain is level, but there are steep slopes along the Cloquet River. b. Bedrock Geology Glacial drift thickness over bedrock is generally less than 100 feet, and there are localized outcrops of bedrock, especially along the eastern edge of the subsection (Olsen and Mossler 1982). All of the bedrock underlying this unit is Precambrian in age. In the north, Keweenawan bedrock includes sandstone, arkose, shale, basaltic to rhyolitic lava flows and pyroclastic rocks, gabbro, troctolite, ferrogabbro, anorthosite, and peridotite (Morey 1976, Morey et al. 1982). To the south, Upper Precambrian quartzite is extensive (Albert 1993).

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 6 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview c. Soils Soils on the upland portions of the drumlin field are well drained gravelly, sandy loams. Between the drumlins are narrow to broad depressions with very poorly drained soils. Almost 90 percent of the soils in the outwash plain are excessively drained sands; the remainder are very poorly drained. Soils of the drumlin fields are classified as Ochrepts, Aquepts, and Hemists, whereas those of the outwash are Orthents, Orthods, Ochrepts, and Psamments (Cummins and Grigal 1981). d. Climate Annual precipitation ranges from 28 to 29 inches. Growing season precipitation is 11 to 12 inches. The growing season ranges from 106 to 121 days. e. Hydrology There are about 28 lakes in this unit that are greater than 160 acres in size. This unit is high and many rivers have their headwaters here. They include the St. Louis River, Cloquet River, and Whitefish River. Water flows southwest, channeled by the drumlins. Wetlands are larger and more common in the northwest quadrant. f. Presettlement Vegetation The major forest type found on drumlin ridges was aspen-birch, with only small areas of white pine-red pine forest (Marschner 1974). Mixed hardwood-pine was infrequent. Conifer swamp or bog occupied the depressions between most of the drumlins. White pine-red pine grew on the outwash plain, where it was the most common forest type. At the northeastern end of the plain, jack pine barrens dominated an 8 to 10 mile long and 1 to 3 mile wide strip. Small conifer bogs or swamps were scattered across the outwash. Aspen-birch was also present on the outwash. g. Present Vegetation and Land use This unit is still dominantly forested. Most of the land is in public ownership. The most important land use is forestry. Much of the upland sites are occupied by quaking aspen, either in mixed stands or in relatively pure stands. Balsam fir is a significant component in many of the stands. Recreation is important around areas where there are lakes and rivers. Hunting attracts a lot of people because of the extensive amount of public land in this unit. h. Natural Disturbance Fire occurred frequently enough to keep much of the unit in aspen-birch. The inter-drumlin lowlands, with significant areas of sedge meadows, channeled fires in a southwest-northeast direction. When southwest winds were strong, fire would burn a significant portion of the uplands. Windthrow was another significant natural disturbance.

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3. Nashwauk Uplands The southern boundary of this subsection is formed by Giant's Range. It is a prominent feature on the land. The western and part of the northern boundary is the limits of the Nashwauk Moraine, as delineated by the Soil Atlas (University of Minnesota, 1980b).

Brown glacial sediments form the parent material for much of this subsection. Landforms include end moraines, outwash plains, and lake plains. Soils are varied and range from medium to coarse textures. One unique aspect of this region is the Giants Range, where the majority of iron mining has taken and is taking place. It is a high narrow ridge trending northeast-southwest caused by bedrock. This region consisted of forest communities, dominated by white pine, red pine, balsam fir, white spruce, and aspen birch. Forestry and mining are the most important land uses presently. a. Landform The subsection includes ground moraines, stagnation moraines, end moraines, outwash plains and proglacial sandy lake plains (Hobbs and Goebel 1982). The landform that is most striking is the Giants Range, a narrow ridge that is 200 to 400 feet above the surrounding areas. It trends southwest to northeast. Outwash covers much of the subsection north and east of the Giants Range. Traditionally, this area was described as an outwash plain. However, the current thinking is that there was a glacial lake present that deposited much of the sandy sediments or at least reworked them (Lehr, personal communication). Bedrock is locally exposed both in the end moraines and on outwash plains. Rolling moraines characterize much of the western portion of this subsection, but there are some steeper moraines. Small bogs and potholes are common. b. Bedrock Geology Thickness of glacial drift ranges from very thin to thick (greater than 100 feet). Along the northern edge of the Mesabi Range is a 200 to 400 foot highland of granite known as the Giants Range (Wright 1972); this ridge is covered with thin, discontinuous layer of glacial drift. Immediately to the south is the iron-formation of the range, which has been heavily mined, first for "soft" iron ore, and later for taconite (Wright 1972). The Precambrian (Late Archean and Early Proterozoic) bedrock includes gneiss, undifferentiated granite, and metamorphosed mafic to intermediate volcanic and sedimentary rocks (Morey 1976). c. Soils The soils consist of sandy to fine-loamy glacial tills and outwash sands. Soils on the Nashwauk Moraine have a loamy cap with dense basal till below at depths of 20 to 40 inches. They are classified as boralfs (cold, well drained soils developed under forest vegetation). North of Giants Range, soils are coarse-loamy to sandy. The soils are a diverse mix of boralfs, orthents, and ochrepts (Anderson and Grigal 1984). d. Climate Annual precipitation averages between 24 and 27 inches, with the lowest amounts at the western edge of the subsection. About half of the precipitation arrives during the summer months. The growing season ranges from 106 to 121 days.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 8 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview e. Hydrology There are over 35 lakes at least 160 acres in size in this subsection. Most are found on the Nashwauk Moraine. The Continental Divide cuts right across the summit of Giant's Range. Water flowing north flows into the Rainy River Basin. On the west side, waters flow into the Mississippi River watershed. To the south, water flows into Lake Superior. The only Rainy River Basin large river in this subsection is the Dark River. f. Presettlement Vegetation Forest types represented within the subsection include white pine-red pine forest, aspen-birch forest, mixed hardwood-pine forest, and jack pine barrens on the uplands (Marschner 1974). Wetland vegetation included conifer bogs and swamps and open muskeg. g. Present Vegetation and Land use Forest management is the most important land use in this subsection. There are extensive areas of forested public land, which are managed for wood products and recreation. Quaking aspen is the dominant tree species presently. h. Natural Disturbance Fire was important on the outwash plains, and probably to a lesser degree, also on the moraines. Windthrow had the strongest impact on the moraines.

4. Little Fork - Vermilion Uplands The western edge of the subsection is on the west side of the Little Fork River. This river is a natural boundary between the extensive peatlands to the west and predominately clayey till and lake-laid mineral sediments to the east. The southern boundary is the southeastern corner of Glacial Lake Agassiz. To the east, the boundary is the Vermilion River up to the point it turns to the east and enters Crane Lake. This boundary marks the division between bedrock controlled uplands with shallow soils and glacial lake plain with bedrock knobs present but not dominant. This is a level to gently rolling lakeplain and transition zone to the Border Lakes region to the east. Soils are clayey to loamy and formed from lake laid sediments and glacial till. Topographic relief is less than 50 feet on most of the lake plain, becoming greater to the east in the transition zone. a. Landform This subsection is transitional between extensive peatlands to the west and bedrock controlled landscape to the east. The major landform on the west side is lake plain. On the east side, the glacial lake had a very irregular shoreline. It squeezed between bedrock outcrops, depositing sediments like fillings in teeth. The elevation grades from 1,100 feet in the northwest corner to 1,500 feet in the southeastern corner around Lake Vermilion. b. Bedrock Geology Glacial drift depth grades from shallow at the northern and eastern edges of the subsection to moderately thick in the western portion. Bedrock outcrops are common in the transition zone to the Border Lakes Subsection. Drift is up to 300 feet thick on the western side of the subsection. The underlying bedrock is Precambrian (Late Archean) in age, and includes gneiss,

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 9 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview amphibolite, undifferentiated granite, and metamorphosed mafic to intermediate volcanic and sedimentary rocks. There are also iron formation, metasediments, and metamorphosed felsic volcanic rocks (Morey 1976). c. Soils Soils in this subsection are primarily moderately well to poorly drained mineral soils formed from clayey lake-laid sediments or loamy to clayey glacial till. Organic soils are common, but do not dominate the landscape (as they do to the west in the Agassiz Lowlands). Peat depths vary from shallow to deep (1 to 15 feet thick). Soils are classified primarily as Aqualfs (wet forested soils), Aquents (wet undeveloped soils), Boralfs (well to moderately well drained forested soils), and Hemists (moderately decomposed peat) (Anderson and Grigal 1984). d. Climate The total annual precipitation ranges from 21 inches in the west to 25 inches in the east, with 40 to 50 percent occurring during the growing season. Average annual snowfall varies from 60 to 75 inches, with the greatest amounts occurring in the central portion of the subsection. The average daily maximum temperature during July is 80 degrees F. The growing season is short, from 98 to 111 days, with the shortest growing season near the eastern edge of the subsection. e. Hydrology This subsection is framed by the Little Fork River on the west side and the Vermilion River on the east side. Topography is level to gently rolling throughout most of the subsection. The drainage network is undeveloped, with rivers and streams meandering extensively, especially in the western part. Major rivers flowing through include the Little Fork, Vermilion, Ash, Blackduck, Lost, Rat Root, and Rainy. Lakes are concentrated in the southeastern part. Larger lakes include a portion of Vermilion Lake, Pelican Lake, and Net Lake. There are very few lakes in the western part of the subsection. f. Presettlement Vegetation Marschner (1974) mapped much of the subsection as aspen-birch that would eventually become conifer dominated (white pine, white spruce, and balsam fir). The eastern portion was dominated by white pine, red pine, and jack pine. Lowlands were occupied by sedge fen, black spruce-sphagnum bog, and white cedar-black ash swamp. There were also low moraines and beach ridges dominated by jack pine forest or trembling aspen-paper birch forest. g. Present Vegetation and Land use Quaking aspen is the most common species of tree in this subsection. It is found in both pure and mixed stands. It is heavily harvested for pulp (Grigal, personal communication). Aspen is probably the best-developed forest type on the uplands, and it probably was similarly common before settlement. Logging of conifer forests also occurred. In the past, attempts were made to farm portions of the peatlands (Heinselman 1963). Ditches were dug along section lines, but were not effective. The other important land use is recreation, particularly in the southeastern section where there are several prominent lakes and reservoirs. h. Natural Disturbance Fire occurred on the peatlands. Insect infestations, such as spruce budworm probably lead to fires. Water level fluctuation, caused by short-term climatic changes and by beaver dams, contributed to tree mortality. Windthrow was common on poorly drained mineral soils (Albert 1993).

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5. St. Louis Moraines The boundaries of this subsection primarily encompass the dhe, dce, do, and part of the dhg units from Hobbs and Goebel (1982). Rolling to steep slopes characterize much of this subsection. End moraines are the dominant landform. The underlying topography was formed by the Rainy Lobe. It was later overridden by the St. Louis Sublobe of the last glaciation period. Northern hardwoods were common in the southern portion of the region, south of Grand Rapids. North of Grand Rapids, white pine, sugar maple, basswood, and balsam fir were common tree species. Presently, forestry, and tourism are the major land uses. a. Landform This subsection consists of distinct end moraines associated with the St. Louis and Koochiching Sublobes and a pitted outwash plain (Hobbs and Goebel 1982). These sublobes overrode Rainy Lobe moraines, which formed the framework or landform characteristics. The cap of calcareous gray sediment varies from 1 to 10 plus feet in depth. Coarse loamy Rainy Lobe sediments underlie the cap. Portions of this unit, both north and south of Grand Rapids, have very steep topography. These areas are ice disintegration features. Topography on the rest is gently rolling to rolling. b. Bedrock Geology The glacial drift in this subsection ranges from 100 to 200 feet in depth (Olsen and Mossler 1982). Lower Precambrian undivided granites, metavolcanics, and metasedimentary rocks underlie the glacial drift (Sims et al. 1970c). c. Soils Loamy calcareous soils make up about 75 percent of the soils in this subsection (Department of Soil Science, University of Minnesota 110-1971). Excessively well drained outwash sands account for another 10 to 15 percent and poorly drained soils account for about 3 percent. The soils are classified as Boralfs (well drained soils developed under forest vegetation), Aqualfs (wet soils developed under forest vegetation), Hemists (moderately decomposed organic soils), and Psamments (sandy, poorly developed well drained soils), with Boralfs most common (Cummins and Grigal 1981). d. Climate Total annual precipitation ranges from 24 inches in the northwest to 27 inches in the southeast, with about 40 percent occurring during the growing season. Only 12 to 16 percent of the annual precipitation falls during winter months (based on Midwest Climate Center 1992). Growing season length varies from 111 to 131 days. e. Hydrology The Mississippi River cuts this subsection virtually in half. It flows northwest to southeast close to the midpoint north-south. There are some small, relatively short rivers that are present. They include the Prairie, Willow, Hill, and Moose Rivers. The drainage network is poorly developed due to landform characteristics. Lakes are numerous. In fact, there are over 66 lakes that have a surface area greater than 160 acres; lakes account for over 10 percent of the surface area.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 11 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview f. Presettlement Vegetation White pine-red pine forest covered large portions of the steep moraines and portions of the pitted outwash along the eastern edge of the subsection. South of Grand Rapids, there was an area of the moraine dominated by northern hardwoods. Aspen-birch forests also grew on the moraines, but were more common on the outwash, which had excessively well drained sandy soils. Mixed hardwood-pine forest was locally found on the moraines, generally near large lakes. Conifer swamp and bogs were scattered throughout the subsection, occupying both kettles and linear depressions in the pitted outwash and moraines (Albert 1993). g. Present Vegetation and Land use The most important land uses in this subsection are forestry and recreation. This area is heavily forested and timber harvesting is extensive. Quaking aspen is the primary species harvested. Recreation is primarily associated with the unit's lakes and the areas around them. Fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and skiing are popular. h. Natural Disturbance Fire and windthrow were the most common natural disturbances. Fire was an important agent in maintaining fairly pure red and white pine stands.

6. Chippewa Plains The southern boundary is Leech Lake and the moraines south of the lake. The northern boundary is the southern shore of Glacial Lake Agassiz. On the east side, the boundary of this subsection is a series of end moraines (Rainy Lobe in origin, but later covered by the St. Louis Sublobe). The west side is framed by the Alexandria Moraine Complex. Level to gently rolling lake plains and till plains characterize this subsection. Three large well used lakes are found here. These include Leech Lake, Lake Winnibigoshish, and Cass Lake. Conifers dominated the sandier portions of the subsection before settlement. Aspen-birch, sugar maple, basswood, red oak, and bur oak were common components on more productive sites. Present day land use is recreation and forestry. a. Landform The primary landforms are ground moraines, a lake plain, stagnation moraines, and an outwash plain. All these are associated with the Des Moines Lobe, or the Wadena Lobe (middle to late Wisconsin glaciation period). The ground moraines are characterized by gently rolling topography and have calcareous loamy parent material. The lake plain (Glacial Lake Aitkin) is level to gently rolling and has variable parent material, ranging from fine sands to clays. The stagnation moraines have gently rolling to hilly topography and have calcareous, loamy parent materials. The outwash plain has level to gently rolling topography and has fine to medium sandy parent material. b. Bedrock Geology Thick glacial drift covers bedrock over most of the subsection. Drift thicknesses range from 200 to over 600 feet. The underlying bedrock consists of a diversity of Precambrian rock, including Early Precambrian (Late Archean) and Middle Precambrian (Early Proterozoic) gneiss,

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 12 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview undifferentiated granite, and metamorphosed mafic to intermediate volcanic and sedimentary rocks (Morey 1976; Morey et al. 1981). c. Soils Soils range from sandy to clayey, depending on parent material. Most fall in the Alfisol, Entisol, or Histosol orders. On moraines, most soils are loamy well to moderately well drained and are classified as Boralfs. Soils on the outwash plain are dominantly sandy and excessively well drained. They are classified as Psamments (young, undeveloped sandy soils). d. Climate Total annual precipitation ranges from 23 inches in the northwest to 27 inches in the east, with about 40 percent occurring during the growing season. Only 12 to 16 percent of the annual precipitation falls during winter months (based on Midwest Climate Center 1992). Growing season length varies from 111 to 131 days. e. Hydrology The major river running through this subsection is the Mississippi River. The headwaters are just to the south in the Pine Moraines and Outwash Plains Subsection. Two large bodies of water are present, they are Lake Winnibigoshish (a reservoir) and Cass Lake. The drainage network throughout the subsection is poorly developed due to the age and characteristics of the landforms. f. Presettlement Vegetation Presettlement vegetation was a mixture of deciduous and conifer trees. White pine and red pine were present on the moraines. Jack pine was the dominant cover type on outwash plains and sandy lake plains. Hardwoods (red oak, sugar maple and basswood) grew in sheltered areas of the moraines, generally close to large lakes. Forested lowlands were occupied by black spruce, tamarack, white cedar, and black ash. Non-forested wetlands were dominated by sedge meadow communities. g. Present Vegetation and Land use Much of this subsection is presently forested and forestry is one of the most important land uses. Aspen is the most common tree species. It is found in both pure stands and mixed stands with birch, maple, oak, white spruce, jack pine, and red pine. Tourism and recreation is the other important land use. There are many lakes present and most are developed with summer homes. Agriculture is important locally, particularly in the western part. h. Natural Disturbance Fire was an important disturbance within the white pine-red pine forests. However, it is not clear whether the fires were from the Bemidji Outwash Plain immediately to the south or from lightning fires originating within the pine stands themselves.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 13 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview

7. Agassiz Lowlands The boundaries of this subsection encompass the portion of Glacial Lake Agassiz where peatland is dominant. The southern boundary is the southern edge of the lake plain where it abuts the Des Moines Lobe ground moraines and end moraines. The western boundary was delineated from the separation of dominantly conifer bog and wet prairie as delineated on Marshner's "Original Vegetation of Minnesota" map (Marshner, 1974). The eastern boundary separates that portion of the lake plain that is primarily peatland from wet to dry mineral sediments. This subsection is characterized by a flat, poorly drained lake plain. Local topographic relief is less than 50 feet on most of the plain. The peatlands are dominated by bog forest species (black spruce and tamarack). Upland sites are commonly vegetated by aspen-birch and jack pine. Forestry and tourism (associated with large lakes within the subsection) are the major land uses. a. Landform Peatlands occupy a large glacial lake bed. The mineral substrate consists of calcareous silty till, locally with a thin veneer of lake sediments (Glaser et al. 1981, referencing Wright 1972). Sediments vary in texture across the extensive lake bed. Sandy beach ridges are exposed throughout the subsection (Albert 1993). b. Bedrock Geology Glacial drift is thinnest at the northern and eastern edges of the lake plain, where bedrock is locally exposed (Olsen and Mossler 1982). Drift is up to 300 feet thick at the western edge of the basin. The underlying bedrock is Precambrian (Late Archean) in age, and includes gneiss, amphibolite, undifferentiated granite, and metamorphosed mafic to intermediate volcanic and sedimentary rocks. There are also iron formation, metasediments, and metamorphosed felsic volcanic rocks (Morey 1976). c. Soils Soils in this subsection are predominantly organic (Department of Soil Science, University of Minnesota 1980c, 1981b). There are a greater percentage of organic soils in the center of the lake basin, with increased amounts of poorly drained mineral soils near the edges. About 75 percent of the soils are peats in this portion of the basin. Peat depths can exceed 15 feet (Heinselman 1963). Soils are classified primarily as Hemists, Aqualfs, and Aquents (Anderson and Grigal 1984). Hemists occupy the center of the lake basin, whereas Aqualfs and Aquents are along the margins of the basin. d. Climate The total annual precipitation ranges from 21 inches in the west to 25 inches in the east, with 40 to 50 percent occurring during the growing season. The growing season is short, from 98 to 111 days, with the shortest growing season near the eastern edge of the subsection. e. Hydrology This subsection is virtually level and the drainage network reflects that. Extensive ditching of the peatlands was done in the earlier part of this century in an effort to turn this land into an agricultural nirvana. These efforts were unsuccessful however. The Big Fork and Rainy Rivers are the largest rivers running through the subsection. The Rainy River forms part of the

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 14 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview northern boundary of the subsection and the state. There are three large lakes that are remnants of Glacial Lake Agassiz. They are Lower Red Lake, Upper Red Lake, and Lake of the Woods. f. Presettlement Vegetation Marschner (1974) mapped most of this subsection as peatland. Plant communities included in this classification were sedge fen, black spruce-sphagnum bog, and white cedar-black ash swamp. There were also low moraines and beach ridges dominated by jack pine forest or trembling aspen-paper birch forest. Recent ecologists have classified the peatland as a number of plant communities-the plant species present in each community respond to differences in water flow and water chemistry (Heinselman 1963, 1970, Glaser et al. 1981, Glaser 1983). g. Present Vegetation and Land use Forestry and recreation are the major land uses. Black spruce, jack pine, and quaking aspen are the most common species utilized for papermaking and sawlogs. Recreation and tourism are associated with the three large lakes. h. Natural Disturbance Fire occurred on the peatlands. Insect infestations, such as spruce budworm probably lead to fires. Water level fluctuation, caused both by short-term climatic changes and by beaver dams, probably contributed to tree mortality. Windthrow was common on the poorly drained mineral soils (Albert 1993).

II. MINNESOTA ECOREGIONS - Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mapped ecoregions for the United States from information on soils, landform, potential natural vegetation, and land use. For Ec oreg i ons Minnesota, within-ecoregion Driftless Are a Nor th Central Hardwoo d Forest similarities in lake chemistry and Nor thern Gl aci ated Plains lake morphometry (depth and Nor thern Lake s and F ore sts Nor thern M inn esota W etl ands surface area) have been noted. Red River Val ley Reference lakes, deemed to be Western Co rn Be lt Plai ns Ba sin s representative and minimally Rai ny Ri ver impacted by man (e.g., no point Lak e Sup eri or St C roi x River source wastewater discharges, no Upp er Mi ssiss ipp i R ive r large urban areas in the Red River Minnesota River watershed, etc.), were sampled in Low er Mi ssiss ipp i River each ecoregion by the MPCA Missouri River Ced ar Des Moi ne s Ri ver from 1985 through 1988. The reference lake data base consists of approximately 90 lakes distributed as follows among the four ecoregions with the majority of Minnesota's lakes: Northern Lakes and Forests (NLF)-30, North Central Hardwood Forest (NCHF)-38, Western Corn Belt Plains (WCBP)-12, and Northern Glaciated Plains (NGP)-10. Data from the reference lakes can be used as a "yardstick" to compare other data against.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 15 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview

The Rainy River Basin in Minnesota contains two different ecoregions both contained entirely within the Laurentian Mixed Forest biome.

A. NORTHERN LAKES AND FORESTS ECOREGION The Northern Lakes and Forests ecoregion comprises the east and southern portion of the Rainy River Basin, approximately 60 percent of the basin in Minnesota. It encompasses the Border Lakes, Nashwauk Uplands, Laurentian Highlands, St. Louis Moraines, and Chippewa Plains Ecological Classification System subsections. The ecoregion is made up of Canadian Shield topography to the east and steep rolling hills interspersed with pockets of wetlands, bogs, lakes, and ponds in the southern reaches of the basin. It contains the headwaters of the Rainy Headwaters, Vermilion River, Rainy River/Rainy Lake, Little Fork River, and Big Fork River watersheds. Land cover is mostly coniferous forest, except where logging and burning have given rise to hardwoods such as birch and quaking aspen. Agriculture is inhibited due to limited soil over bedrock and lack of nutrients in the soil, though there are some beef and dairy cattle farms. Most of the lakes in the ecoregion are used for recreation.

B. NORTHERN MINNESOTA WETLANDS ECOREGION The Northern Minnesota Wetlands ecoregion comprises approximately the western 40 percent of the Rainy River Basin in Minnesota. It encompasses the Little Fork-Vermilion Uplands and Agassiz Lowlands Ecological Classification System subsections. Except for the Shield topography in the Little Fork-Vermilion subsection, the ecoregion is very flat and is made up primarily of wetlands, peat bogs and marshes. Extensive networks of drainage ditches were constructed to drain large areas of the ecoregion with limited success. Agriculture in the area is limited by the predominance of wet peatlands. Some small grains are grown with the major agricultural use being for livestock and hay. Streams have low gradients and significant riparian vegetation, which reduces the amount of sediment in them. Stream substrates range from sand and gravel to cobble and boulders. Rainy River/Manitou, Rapid River, Rainy River/Baudette, and Lake of the Woods watersheds are entirely within this ecoregion.

The ecoregion framework provides a regional perspective on the uses of lakes in each part of the state and allows for the definition of "most sensitive uses" in each region. The MPCA has defined the "most sensitive use" of a lake as that use (or uses) which can be affected or even lost as a result of an increase in the trophic status of the lake. Two examples include drinking water supplies and cold water fisheries. In the case of drinking water supplies, eutrophication can increase water treatment costs, contribute to taste and odor problems, and increase production of trihalomethanes during the treatment process. In a cold water fishery, increased nutrient loading will reduce oxygen in the hypolimnion, and cold water species (e.g., lake trout) may die off as these populations are driven into warmer surface waters.

III. NATIONAL RESOURCES INVENTORY - U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) The National Resources Inventory (NRI) is an inventory of land cover and use, soil erosion, prime farmland, wetlands, and other natural resource characteristics on non-Federal rural land in the United States. The NRI provides a record of the Nation’s conservation accomplishments and future program needs.

Inventories are conducted at 5-year intervals by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to determine the conditions and trends in the use of soil, water, and related resources nationwide.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 16 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview

NRI data are statistically reliable for national, regional, state, and substate (i.e. basin) analysis. The NRI was scientifically designed and conducted and is based on recognized statistical sampling methods.

The data are used in national, state and local planning, university research and private sector analysis. They help shape major environmental and land use decisions.

Figure II-2. Minnesota Rainy River Basin changes in developed land 1982 - 1997

70

60

50

40

Rural Transportation-roads and railroads 30 Urban-small and large built-up Thousands of Acres

20

10

0 1982 1987 1992 1997 Year

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 17 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview

Figure II-3. Minnesota Rainy River Basin changes in forest land 1982 - 1997

4,480

4,460

4,440

4,420

Forest land

Thousands of Acres 4,400

4,380

4,360 1982 1987 1992 1997 Year

Figure II-4. Minnesota Rainy River Basin changes in pastureland 1982 - 1997

140

120

100

80

60 Pastureland Thousands of Acres

40

20

0 1982 1987 1992 1997 Year

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 18 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview

Figure II-5. Minnesota Rainy River Basin changes in cropland 1982 - 1997

250

200

150

Cropland-noncultivated 100 Cropland-cultivated Thousands of Acres

50

0 1982 1987 1992 1997 Year

Figure II-6. Minnesota Rainy River Basin changes in Conservation Reserve Program Land 1982 - 1997

14

12

10

8

Conservation Reserve Program 6 Thousands of Acres

4

2

0 1982 1987 1992 1997 Year

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 19 Section II - Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Overview

Figure II-7. Minnesota Rainy River Basin 1997 total WEQ soil loss in tons/year by erosion rate in relation to tolerance (T) on cultivated cropland

<=T 6% >T <=2T <=T 11% >T <=2T >2T <=4T >4T

>4T 47%

>2T <=4T 36%

Figure II-8. Minnesota Rainy River Basin WEQ erosion rate in relation to soil loss tolerance (T) on cultivated cropland 1982 - 1997

180

>4T 160 >2T <=4T 140 >T <=2T <=T 120

100

80

Thousands of Acres 60

40

20

0 1982 1987 1992 1997 Year

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 20 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River Headwaters

SUBSECTION 2 – WATERSHED OVERVIEWS

I. RAINY RIVER HEADWATERS WATERSHED (HUC # 09030001) The Rainy River Headwaters watershed has its headwaters in Cook, Lake and St. Louis Counties. Its waters flow into several Lakes stretched out along the U.S. and Canadian Border which eventually flow into the Rainy River.

The largest community in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed is Ely which is located in St. Louis County. Watershed specific data, from the 2000 census was not available for this generation of the Basin Information Document (BID). The 1990 census recorded a population of 6,518 for the Rainy Rivers Headwaters watershed. This was a decline of 1,682 from the 1980 census figure of 8,201 for the watershed.

Cook, Lake and St. Louis Counties have Comprehensive Local Water Plans that include the Rainy River Headwaters watershed.

Principal roadways in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed include Minnesota Highway 1and 169 along with Cook County CSAH 3 and 12 Lake County CSAH 7, 2 and 18 and St. Louis County CSAH 21 and 116 along with several National Forest Roads. The only railways remaining in the watershed are small portions of the Erie Mining and Reserve Mining railways.

Figure II-9. Rainy River Headwaters watershed major roads and railways Principal industries include forest products harvesting and manufacturing, mining and tourism. There are s i u o

L some small farming

. t S 12

k !" operations in the e o k o a C L watershed. ø÷1 16 The Rainy River Headwaters watershed is %g1 the largest watershed, in

%g1 terms of size, in the !"7 %g169 Minnesota portion of the %g1 35 Rainy River Basin. It "2 ! comprises 2,509 square miles (1,605,602 acres). /(6 1 The watershed is located predominately in the Ecological Classification System’s Border Lakes Major Ro ads Railr oa ds Wate rsh ed Boundary and Laurentian Highlands. N Minnesota ecoregions 20 0 20 40 Miles included in the watershed are Northern Lakes and Forests.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 21 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River Headwaters

The Rainy River Figure II-10. Rainy River Headwaters watershed administrative boundaries Headwaters watershed has a total of 1,794 river miles and 2,233 lakes. The watershed has s i u o

214 minor L

. t S watersheds. "12 k ! e o k o a L C ø÷116

%g1

%g1 !"7 %g1 69 %g1 3 5

!"2

/(6 1

Watershed Sta te Park s Bear Head Lake Major Roads Admi nis tra tive B oun da rie s DNR Scie ntifi c a nd Natu ral Ar eas Boundary Waters Canoe Area Burntside Islands SNA N Superior Nati onal Forest Kawishiwi T ri angl e SNA Voyageurs Nat ional Park Purvi s Lake-Ober Foundat ion SNA Sand Lake Peatl and SNA 10 0 10 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 22 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River Headwaters

Figure II-11. Rainy River Headwaters watershed water resources and impoundments k e o k o a C L Water Resources Sewage Di sposal Pond or Fi ltration Bed

Tail ing Pond

Mar sh, wetl and, swamp, bog s i e u k o

Rapi ds a L

L . t

Grav el Pi t or Quarry fi ll ed with W ater S

Stream or Riv er

Lake or Pond

Submerged Area N

Streams and Ditches

Mi nor W atersheds 9 0 9 18 27 Miles

Table II-1. Rainy River Headwaters watershed public drinking water providers Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 1690014 Ely M 209 East Chapman St. Ely 1690057 Winton M Winton 1690057 Winton M Winton 1690057 Winton M Winton 5160005 Tofte Ranger Station USFS F Superior National Forest Tofte 5160062 Gunflint Lodge I 143 S. Gunflint Lake Grand Marais 5160075 Loon Lake Lodge I 65 Loon Lake Rd. Grand Marais 5160083 Tuscarora Lodge I 166 Rand Lake Rd. Grand Marais 5160107 Moosehorn Lodge O 194 North Gunflint Lake Rd. Grand Marais 5160115 Crescent Lake Campground #1 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5160116 Devils Track Campground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely East Bearskin Lake Campground East 5160117 F Superior National Forest Ely USFS 5160118 Flour Lake Campground East USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5160119 Iron Lake Campground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 23 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River Headwaters

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5160121 Sawbill Lake Campground #1 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely Temperance River Campground 5160122 F Superior National Forest Ely USFS 5160123 Trails End Campground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely Two Island Lake Campground North 5160124 F Superior National Forest Ely USFS 5160125 Voyageur Canoe Outfitters I 189 Sag Lake Trail Grand Marais East Bearskin Lake Campground 5160201 F Superior National Forest Ely West USFS 5160202 Flour Lake Campground West USFS F Superior National Forest Ely Two Island Lake Campground South 5160204 F Superior National Forest Ely USFS 5160205 Crescent Lake Campground #2 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5160207 Sawbill Lake Campground #2 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5160208 Sawbill Lake Campground #3 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5160209 Sawbill Lake Campground #4 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5160322 Sea Island Lodge O Hc 64 Box 925 Grand Marais 5160323 Voyageur Canoe Outfitters O Hc 64 Box 990 Grand Marais 5160398 Gunflint Northwoods Outfitters O 750 Gunflint Trail Grand Marais 5160430 Seagull Guard Station USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5380008 West Branch Bar & Grill O P.O. Box 595 Finland 5195 Hefflefinger Rd./P.O. 5380010 Our Place O Finland Box 626 5380012 Four Seasons Restaurant & Bar O 6538 Highway One Finland 5380012 Four Seasons Restaurant & Bar O 6538 Highway One Finland 5380012 Four Seasons Restaurant & Bar O 6538 Highway One Finland 5380013 Finland Area Recreation O County Rd. 7 Finland 5380014 Finland Forestry Station S County Rd. One Finland 5380016 Zion Lutheran Church O 576 Highway #1 Finland 5380023 Crosby Manitou State Park S County Rd. 7 Finland 5380030 Roaring Stony Lodge O 178 Forest Rd. Ely 5380034 North Country Lodge, Inc. O 5865 Moose Lake Rd. Ely 5380034 North Country Lodge, Inc. O 5865 Moose Lake Rd. Ely 5380039 Canadian Border Outfitters O 14635 Canadian Border Rd. Ely Canoe Country Cabins & 5380041 O Moose Lake Rd. #438 Ely Campground 5380044 Cliff Wold's Canoe Trip Outfitting Co. O 1731 E. Sheridan St. Ely 5380047 Garden Lake Resort O P.O. Box 25 Ely 5380054 Finland Campground and Picnic Area S Finland 5380054 Finland Campground and Picnic Area S Finland 5380056 Johnson's Big Farm Lake Resort O 713 Kiwishiwi Trail Ely 5380056 Johnson's Big Farm Lake Resort O 713 Kiwishiwi Trail Ely 5380057 Happy Wanderer O 10502 Highway 1 Isabella 5380061 Silver Rapids Lodge O 459 Kawishiwi Trail Ely 5380061 Silver Rapids Lodge O 459 Kawishiwi Trail Ely

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 24 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River Headwaters

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5380066 Wilderness Bay Lodge O Ely 5380066 Wilderness Bay Lodge O Ely 5380066 Wilderness Bay Lodge O Ely 5380067 National Forest Lodge O 3226 Highway One Isabella 5380071 Superior Forest Lodge O St. Rte. 1 Box 3199 Ely 5380074 Timber Trail Lodge LLC I 629 Kawishiwi Trail Ely 5380074 Timber Trail Lodge LLC I 629 Kawishiwi Trail Ely 5380074 Timber Trail Lodge LLC I 629 Kawishiwi Trail Ely River Point Rd./P.O. Box 5380076 River Point Resort & Outfitting Co. O Ely 397 River Point Rd./P.O. Box 5380076 River Point Resort & Outfitting Co. O Ely 397 River Point Rd./P.O. Box 5380076 River Point Resort & Outfitting Co. O Ely 397 5380079 Kawishiwi Lodge Inc. O P.O. Box 480 Ely 5380079 Kawishiwi Lodge Inc. O P.O. Box 480 Ely 5380079 Kawishiwi Lodge Inc. O P.O. Box 480 Ely 5380079 Kawishiwi Lodge Inc. O P.O. Box 480 Ely 5380091 White Iron Beach & Resort O 13471 White Iron Beach Ely 5380099 Sunset Lodge I Rr 1 Box 3039 Ely 5380099 Sunset Lodge I Rr 1 Box 3039 Ely 5380099 Sunset Lodge I Rr 1 Box 3039 Ely 5380101 Trails End F Ely 5380116 Jack Pine Lodge O Ely 5380116 Jack Pine Lodge O Ely 5380124 Knotted Pine Inn & Tavern Inc. O 9702 Highway One Isabella 5380127 Ojibway Resort & Campground O 593 Kawishiwi Trail Ely 5380127 Ojibway Resort & Campground O 593 Kawishiwi Trail Ely 5380130 Birch Lake Campground #1 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5380131 Fall Lake Campground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely Kawishiwi Lake-Campground #1 5380133 F Superior National Forest Ely USFS McDougal Lakes Rec Area- 5380135 F Superior National Forest Ely Campground USFS 5380136 Ninemile Lake Campground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5380137 South Kawishiwi Campground #1 F Superior National Forest Ely 5380148 Camp Buckskin O Box 389 Ely Charles L. Sommers National High 5380149 O 14798 Moose Lake Rd. Ely Base Charles L. Sommers National High 5380149 O 14798 Moose Lake Rd. Ely Base Charles L. Sommers National High 5380149 O 14798 Moose Lake Rd. Ely Base 5380201 Dumbbell Lake Picnic Ground F Superior National Forest Ely 5380203 Isabella Administration Site USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5380208 South Kawishiwi Campground #2 F Superior National Forest Ely

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 25 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River Headwaters

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5380209 Birch Lake Campground #2 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5380210 Kawishiwi Experiment Station USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5380211 Isabella Community Center O Lankinen Rd. Isabella Canoe Country Cabins and 5380216 O Ely Campground 5380219 Northwoods Mobile Home Park O Route #1 - Box 143b Finland 5380222 Superior Forest Lodge Campground O Ely 5380224 Custom Cabin Rental O 14663 Vosburgh Rd. Ely Tom & Woods' Moose Lake 5380225 O 14694 Vosburgh Rd. Ely Wilderness Canoe 5380226 Northwind Lodge O Fernberg Rd., Fire #2267 Ely 5380226 Northwind Lodge O Fernberg Rd., Fire #2267 Ely Pine Point Lodge/North Country Outfitters/474 Kawishiwi 5380227 O Ely Canoe Trail 1600 Fall Lake/P.O. Box 5380228 Noble Outdoor Adventures O Ely 576 5380232 Happy Wanderer O Isabelle 5380236 Moose Bay Company O P.O. Box 697 Ely 5380237 Jack & Toni's O P.O. Box 780 Ely 5380238 Johnson's Wilderness Canoe Trips O P.O. Box 658 Ely 5380239 Latourell's Resort and Outfitters O Moose Lake Rd. Ely 5380241 Smitty's On Snowbank O 14564 Snowlodge Rd. Ely 5380242 Vermillion Outdoor Learning Center O P.O. Box 157 Ely 5380243 Veterans On The Lake O 161 Fernberg Rd. Ely 5380243 Veterans On The Lake O 161 Fernberg Rd. Ely 5380243 Veterans On The Lake O 161 Fernberg Rd. Ely Superior National Forest Lodge 5380245 O 9802 Highway 1 Isabella Lakehomes 5380247 Stony River Cafe O 9375 Highway 1 Isabella 5380248 Moose Ridge O 9367 Highway One Isabella 5380270 Voyageur Outward Bound School O Box 450/Spruce Rd. Ely 5380272 Camp Voyageur O P.O. Box 420 Ely 5380282 Eagle Mountain F Superior National Forest Ely Little Isabella River Campground 5380287 F Superior National Forest Ely USFS 5380288 Divide-Superior National Forest USFS F Ely Section House-Superior Nat'l Forest 5380289 F Ely USFS Kawishiwi Lake-Campground #2 5380290 F Superior National Forest Ely USFS 5380292 Deer Ridge Resort O 444 Fernberg Trail Ely 5380294 Flathorn Lake Picnic Ground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5380295 McDougal Lake Campground F Superior National Forest Ely 5380296 White Pine Picnic Ground F Superior National Forest Ely 5380298 Eagle Mountain Trailhead F Superior National Forest Ely 5380301 Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning O 6282 Cranberry Rd. Finland

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 26 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River Headwaters

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City Center Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning 5380301 O 6282 Cranberry Rd. Finland Center Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning 5380301 O 6282 Cranberry Rd. Finland Center Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning 5380301 O 6282 Cranberry Rd. Finland Center 5380302 Moose Lake Wilderness Ct O P.O. Box 358 Ely 5380307 Blue Heron Bed & Breakfast I 827 Kawishiwi Trail Ely 5380308 Tofte Lake Cabins I 2209 Fernberg Trail Ely 5380310 Riverside Motel I 7143 Highway One Finland 5380311 Maple Grove Motel O P.O. Box 469 Finland 5380314 Four Seasons Lodging O 6663 Highway One Finland 5380315 Camp Kiwadinipi I 10493 Highway One Isabella 5380316 North Country Lodge/Rookery I 2654 Bernies Rd. Ely 14726 Moose Lake Water 5380317 North Country Lodge/Sunrise I Ely Access 5380318 Crooked Lake Resort I Cramer Rd. Finland 5690022 Moats Resort O 2041 Somero Rd. Ely 5690025 Shigwak Lodge O Ely 5690057 YMCA Camp Du Nord I Ely 5690057 YMCA Camp Du Nord I Ely 5690057 YMCA Camp Du Nord I Ely 5690057 YMCA Camp Du Nord I Ely 5690057 YMCA Camp Du Nord I Ely 5690062 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses O County Highway 21 Ely 5690078 Living Water Retreat O 1458 Walsh Rd. Ely 5690080 Northshore Mining Corporation I County Rd. 623 Babbitt 5690080 Northshore Mining Corporation I County Rd. 623 Babbitt 5690080 Northshore Mining Corporation I County Rd. 623 Babbitt 5690101 Shagawa Inn O 1973 West Shagawa Rd. Ely 5690127 Babbit Public Beach M Birch Lake Babbitt 5690132 Echo Trail Lodge O Ely St. Louis 5690162 Lodge of Wispering Pines I County. 5690166 Olsons Bay Resort & Restaurant I 2279 Grant Mcmahan Blvd. Ely 5690166 Olsons Bay Resort & Restaurant I 2279 Grant Mcmahan Blvd. Ely 5690179 Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboat O Babbitt 5690188 Camp Van Vac O 2714 Van Vac Land Ely 5690200 Canadian Wilderness Voyage O P.O. Box 431 Ely 5690204 Burntside Lodge I 2755 Burntside Lodge Rd. Ely 5690204 Burntside Lodge I 2755 Burntside Lodge Rd. Ely 5690207 Northernaire Lodge I 2123 Haapala Rd. Ely 5690244 Lodge of Whispering Pines I Ely 5690244 Lodge of Whispering Pines I Ely

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 27 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River Headwaters

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5690251 Shig-Wak Resort I P.O. Box 388 Ely 5690288 Hideaway Bar I Babbitt 5690385 Ely Municipal Airport M Highway 1 Ely 5690503 Whiteface Campground #1 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690504 Whiteface Campground #4 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690505 Whiteface Campground #3 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690506 Whiteface Campground #2 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690507 Cadotte Lake Campground #1 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690508 Cadotte Lake Campground #2 USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690513 Lake Leander Picnic East USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690514 Lake Leander Picnic West F Superior National Forest Ely 5690515 Pfeiffer Lake Campground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690518 Fenske Lake Campground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690659 Espland's Cabins O Ely Flathorn Well-Superior National 5690660 F Ely Forest Sawbill Spring-Superior National 5690680 F Ely Forest St. Louis 5690687 Timber Trail Resort I County. 5690700 Northern Lights Lodge O P.O. Box 186 Ely St. Louis 5690744 Camp Voyageurs I County. 5690907 Babbitt Foreign Legion I P.O. Box 237 Babbitt 5690943 Whispering Pines Lodge I 2100 Echo Trail Ely 5690944 YMCA Camp Du Nord O 3606 North Arm Rd. Ely 5690944 YMCA Camp Du Nord O 3606 North Arm Rd. Ely 5690944 YMCA Camp Du Nord O 3606 North Arm Rd. Ely 5690944 YMCA Camp Du Nord O 3606 North Arm Rd. Ely 5690944 YMCA Camp Du Nord O 3606 North Arm Rd. Ely 5690950 YMCA Camp Widjiwagan I 3788 North Arm Rd. Ely 5690951 Tamarack Resort I 3499 Tamarack Ln. Ely 5690953 Big Lake Wilderness Lodge O Ely 9301 Bear Head Lake State 5690962 Bear Head Lake State Park S Ely Park Rd. 9301 Bear Head Lake State 5690962 Bear Head Lake State Park S Ely Park Rd. 9301 Bear Head Lake State 5690962 Bear Head Lake State Park S Ely Park Rd. 9301 Bear Head Lake State 5690962 Bear Head Lake State Park S Ely Park Rd. 9301 Bear Head Lake State 5690962 Bear Head Lake State Park S Ely Park Rd. 5690977 Sand Lake Guard Station USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690979 Jeanette Lake Campground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690980 Cold Springs-Superior Nat'l Forest F Ely

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 28 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River Headwaters

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City USFS 5690981 Norway Point Picnic Ground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely St. Louis 5690982 North Wind Lodge O County. 5690988 Fenske Lake Cabins O 2239 Echo Trail Ely 5690989 Norway Point Picnic Ground F Superior National Forest Ely 5690990 Whiteface Picnic Ground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5690991 Jeanette Lake Campground F Superior National Forest Ely 5690993 Anderson's Resort O Ely 5690994 Babbitt Golf Association O Babbitt 5690996 Bear Island Resort O Ely 5690997 Bear Island Resort O Ely 5691002 Birch Lake RV Campground O 2015 Highway 623 Babbitt 5691011 Camp Easton O Ely 5691012 Cedar Shores Resort O Ely 5691013 Chainsaw Sisters Saloon O Ely 5691019 Duane's Outfitters O Babbitt 5691044 Living Waters Retreat O P.O. Box 327 Ely 5691044 Living Waters Retreat O P.O. Box 327 Ely 5691057 Samz' Place O 1225 Sinton Rd. Ely 5691071 Three Deer Haven Bed & Breakfast O Ely 5691081 Wilderness Field Station O Ely 5691101 Creek Ridge Sportsman Club O Ely 5691102 Timber Wolf Lodge O Ely 5691111 Whiteface Concession USFS F Superior National Forest Ely 5691128 Wintergreen Dogsledding Trips O 1101 Ring Rock Rd. Ely 5691129 Wilderness Wind, Inc. I 2945 Highway 169 Ely 5691134 Sawbill Cabin F Superior National Forest Ely

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 29 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Vermilion River

II. VERMILION RIVER WATERSHED (HUC # 09030002) The Vermilion River watershed has its headwaters in St. Louis County. Its waters flow into Crane Lake at the north end of the county.

Larger communities in the Vermilion River watershed include Tower and Orr located in St. Louis County. The Bois Forte Band of Chippewa Indians, Vermilion Lake Indian Reservation is located on Lake Vermilion. Watershed specific data, from the 2000 census, was not available for this generation of the BID. The 1990 census recorded a population of 11,415 for the Vermilion River Watershed. This was a decline of 2,151 from the 1980 census figure of 13,566 for the watershed.

St. Louis County has a Comprehensive Local Water Plan that includes the Vermilion River watershed. In addition to the counties’ water plan, St. Louis County is developing the Lake Vermilion plan.

Principal roadways in the Vermilion River watershed include Minnesota Highways 1, 169 and 53 along with St Louis County CSAH 21, 23, 24, 26, 68, and 116. The only railways remaining in the watershed are the DW & P and DM & IR railways.

Figure II-12. Vermilion River watershed major roads and railways Principal industries include forest products harvesting, manufacturing, mining

!"24 and tourism. There is a small amount of farming

116 ÷ø 116 in the watershed. ÷ø s i u e o k L a

5 3 . L /( t "!23 S The Vermilion River

g watershed is the fifth n i h i c h s

c largest watershed, in i o u o o K L

. Itas ca t terms of size, in the S %g7 3 %g1 g%1 Minnesota portion of the

(/53 Rainy River Basin. It %g169 %g135 comprises 1035 square miles (662,456 acres). The watershed is located predominately in the Ecological Classification System’s Border Lakes and Nashwauk Uplands. Minnesota Ecoregions Major Roads Railroads Watershed Boundary included in the watershed N are Northern Lakes and 10 0 10 20 30 Miles Forests.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 30 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Vermilion River

The Vermilion Figure II-13. Vermilion River watershed administrative boundaries River watershed has a total of 628 river miles and 539 lakes. The "!24 watershed has 111 minor watersheds. ø÷1 16 ø÷1 16 s i e u k o L a

5 3 . L

(/ t "!23 S g n i h c i h c s o i o u o K L

. It asca t S 1 %g7 3 %g %g1

(/5 3 %g1 6 9 %g1 3 5

Watershed Admi nis tra tive B oun da rie s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Major Roads Net t Lake Indian Reservation DNR Scie ntifi c a nd Natu ral Ar eas Superior Nati onal Forest Big Island SNA Voyageurs Nat ional Park Eagle's Nest Island No. 4 SNA N Lost Lake Peatland SNA Sta te Park s Bear Head Lake Soudan Underground Mine 7 0 7 14 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 31 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Vermilion River

Figure II-14. Vermilion River watershed water resources and impoundments s i u e o k g L a n i . t L h S c i h c o s i o u K o L

. a t c S s a t I

Water Resources Sewage Disposal Pond or Filtration Bed

Tailing Pond

Marsh, wetland, swamp, bog

Rapids

Gravel Pit or Quarry filled with Water N Stream or River Lake or Pond

Submerged Area

Streams and Ditches

Minor Watersheds 9 0 9 18 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 32 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Vermilion River

Table II-2. Vermilion River watershed public drinking water providers Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 1690038 Orr M Orr 1690038 Orr M Orr 1690038 Orr M Orr 1690045 Breitung M Soudan 1690045 Breitung M Soudan 1690045 Breitung M Soudan 1690051 Tower M Tower 5690008 Breitung Township/Soudan Spring O Hwy 169 Breitung Township Soudan 5690029 Black Bear Cafe O Tower 5690032 Four Seasons Restaurant O 6482 Hwy 53 Virginia 5690042 Marjo Motel I 712 Hwy 169 Tower 5690067 Inland Steel Mining Company I Hwy 53 North Virginia 5690067 Inland Steel Mining Company I Hwy 53 North Virginia 5690068 Wayside Cafe O 2083 Hwy 77 Tower 5690072 Vermilion River Tavern O Orr 5690104 Gloria Dei Lutheran Church O Hwy 169, Pike Township Virginia 5690104 Gloria Dei Lutheran Church O Hwy 169, Pike Township Virginia 5690117 Northland Lodge I Orr 5690118 Deer Lodge I Orr 5690120 Ash Ka Nam Resort O Orr 5690121 Polley's Resort O 2434 Polly Rd. Cook 5690124 Scotts Resort O 7546 Gold Coast Rd. Crane Lake 5690125 Mckinley Park Acres I Soudan 5690126 Hoodoo Point O Tower 5690131 Vermilion Beach Village I 5690141 Everett Bay Lodge O 1820 Everett Bay Rd. Tower 5690146 Shangri-La Resort I Orr 5690147 Island View Resort-Lodge I 4685 Hitchcock Rd. Orr 5690148 Island View Resort-Cabins I 4685 Hitchcock Rd. Orr 5690148 Island View Resort-Cabins I 4685 Hitchcock Rd. Orr 5690149 Pine Acres Resort I 4498 Pine Acres Rd. Orr 5690151 Vermilion Houseboats O Tower 5690153 Moccasin Point Resort/Campground O 4650 Moccasin Point Rd. Tower 5690153 Moccasin Point Resort/Campground O 4650 Moccasin Point Rd. Tower 5690164 Vermilion Dam Lodge I Cook 5690168 Bay View Lodge O Tower 5690169 Bratton's Resort I 11033 Slade Rd. Orr 5690176 Pine Trees Resort I 2126 Birch Point Rd. Tower 5690176 Pine Trees Resort I 2126 Birch Point Rd. Tower 5690177 Daisy Bay Resort O Tower 5690182 Red Loon Lodge I 2998 Vermilion Drive Cook 5690185 Cabin O' Pines I 4378 Pelican Rd. Orr

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 33 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Vermilion River

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5690185 Cabin O' Pines I 4378 Pelican Rd. Orr 5690187 Glenwood Lodge O Box 468 Tower 5690201 Melgeorge's Resort & Cedar Inn O 6402 Country Rd. 180 Orr 5690205 Kel's Love I St. Louis Cty 5690208 Calm Bay's White Eagle Resort I 10476 Gamma Rd. Ray 5690208 Calm Bay's White Eagle Resort I 10476 Gamma Rd. Ray 5690210 Life of Riley Resort O 3256 Cedar Rd. Buyck 5690210 Life of Riley Resort O 3256 Cedar Rd. Buyck 5690214 Grey Wolf Lodge I 4411 Pelican Orr 5690215 Gold Mine Resort O Orr 2600 Wakely Rd., Lake 5690217 Voyageurs Cove Resort I Cook Vermillion 5690218 Muskego Point Resort I 8147 Bayview Rd. Cook 5690232 Timber Wolf Point Lodge I 7079 Echo Trail Buyek 5690233 Bowser's Crane Lake Resort I Route 3, Box 72 Crane Lake 5690233 Bowser's Crane Lake Resort I Route 3, Box 72 Crane Lake 5690235 Sunset Bay Resort I 9084 Little Sweden Rd. Cook 5690237 Nelson's Resort, Inc. I 7632 Nelson Rd. Crane Lake 5690237 Nelson's Resort, Inc. I 7632 Nelson Rd. Crane Lake 5690240 Pine Point Lodge I P.O. Box 91-C, Route 3 Crane Lake 5690268 Birchwood Sports I St. Louis Cty 5690271 Portage Inn O 8030 Orr Buyck Rd. Buyck 5690329 New Hope Lutheran Church O St. Louis Cty 5690369 Vermillion Lake Town Hall O Hwy 169 & County Rd. 26 Tower 7449 Werner Rd. - County 5690370 Wuori Town Hall O Virginia #305 Eagles Nest Firehall/Community 5690372 O County Rd. 128 Ely Center 5690382 Anderson's Canoe Outfitters I County Rd. 24 Crane Lake 5690383 Crane Lake Distributing I County Rd. 24 Crane Lake 5690388 Evangelical Free Church O Hwy 135 Embarrass 5690392 Orr Regional Airport M Orr 5690396 Pike Sandy Co-op O Hwy 169 & County Rd. 68 Virginia 5690512 Echo Lake Campground USFS F Superior National Forest Ely You Camp Rd., Pelican 5690520 YOU/SEP Camp I Orr Lake 5690644 Birch Forest Resort I 4442 Birch Forest Rd. Orr 5690652 Dam Supper Club O Orr 5690657 Elbow Lake Lodge O Cook 5690658 Embarrass Town Hall O County Rd. 656 & 364 Embarrass 5690661 Forest Ln. Resort O 1785 Everett Bay Rd. Tower 5690673 Minnesota Voyageur Houseboat O Ash River Trail Orr 5690674 Myrtle Lake Resort O 9087 Myrtle Lake Rd. Orr 5690677 Pine Grove Resort I 4382 Pelican Lake Rd. Orr

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 34 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Vermilion River

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5690694 Westhaven Lodge O Tower 5690796 Pehrson's Resort I 2746 Vermilion Dr. Cook 5690799 Pelican Spring I St. Louis Cty 5690802 Ridgeview Spring I St. Louis Cty 5690809 Spring Bay Resort I 3045 Vermilion Dr. Cook 5690897 Pier 77 Mini Golf O 3111 County Rd. 77 Lake Vermilion Greenwood Township Community 5690901 O Firehall Lake Vermillion Center/ Sandy 5690903 Sandy Town Hall O County Rd. 303 Township 5690906 Aspen Resort and Campground I 11023 Slade Rd. Orr 5690914 Country Cafe I St. Louis Cty 5690919 Deer Horn Resort I St. Louis Cty 5690920 Head-O-Lake Resort I 3084 Vermillion Dr. Cook 5690922 Dickson Head O Lake Resort I St. Louis Cty 5690924 E and J I St. Louis Cty 5690926 Finns Deli I St. Louis Cty 5690929 George's Place I St. Louis Cty 5690930 Glenmore Resort I 1017 Glenmore Dr. Tower 5690931 Human Development Day I Treatment Center St. Louis Cty 5690934 Landing Supper Club I 3096 Vermilion Cook 5690942 White Eagle Resort I 3026 Vermilion Dr. Cook 5690945 Retreat Lodge Resort Inc. I 2320 Retreat Rd. Cook 5690946 Lakeview Motel I 7530 Gold Coast Rd. Crane Lake 5690952 Voyageur Landing I Route 3, Box 75 Crane Lake 5690958 Crane Lake Chapel O 7399 Handberg Rd. Crane Lake 5690959 Crane Lake Public Access O Handberg Rd. (Co. Rd. 425) Crane Lake 5690960 Laurentian Senior Citizen Center O 7596 Werner Rd. Virginia 5690965 Woodenfrog State Campground S 4656 Hwy 53 Orr 5690965 Woodenfrog State Campground S 4656 Hwy 53 Orr 5690985 St. Joseph's Catholic Church O County Rd. 23 Buyck 5690998 Beddow's Campground O 7516 Bayside Drive Crane Lake 5691003 Borderland Lodge O 7480 Crane Lake Rd. Crane Lake 5691014 Clover Point Resort O Tower 5691020 Eagle Point Resort O Orr 5691022 Elbow Lake Lodge O Cook 5691023 End of Trail Lodge O Tower 5691024 Everett Bay Lodge O Tower 5691029 Handberg's Marine, Incorporated O 7123 Handberg Rd. Crane Lake 5691031 Hidden Hills Campground O Ash River Trail Orr 5691037 Kandallberry Kountry Krossroads O 7017 Hill Rd. Virginia 5691045 Lure of The Loon Resort O 2162 Birch Point Rd. Tower 5691050 North Country Retreat O 7406 Ahlegren Rd. Buyck

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 35 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Vermilion River

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5691051 Norway Point Resort O 11033 Slade Rd. Orr 5691053 Pa Pa's In The Pines O 3114 County Rd. 77 Tower 5691059 Scott's Peaceful Valley Resort O 7559 Gold Coast Rd. Crane Lake 5691060 Sherrick's Wilderness Resort, Inc. O 8131 Forest Rd. #203 Crane Lake 5691062 Silverado Saloon O 7075 Hwy 169 Virginia 5691064 Sportsmen's Last Chance O 6224 Crane Lake Rd. Buyck 5691069 Sunset View Cabins O Ely 5691073 Trail's End Resort O 6310 Crane Lake Rd. Orr 5691076 Vermilion Club O Tower 5691078 Voyagaire Lodge/BJM, Incorporated O 1 White Pine Ln. Crane Lake 5691082 Y Store, The O 6368 Hwy 169 Tower 5691093 Pelican Lake Resort O Orr Hundred Acre Woods Bed and 5691123 I 5048 Old Hwy 53 Orr Breakfast 5691124 Ash River's Sunrise Park I 10253 Ash River Trail Orr 5691126 Ash Riviera O 10351 Ash River Trail Orr 5691127 Pike Bay Lodge O 9422 Hearthside Dr. Tower

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 36 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Rainy Lake

III. RAINY RIVER / RAINY LAKE WATERSHED (HUC # 09030003) The Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed has its headwaters in St. Louis and Koochiching Counties. Most of the waters from St. Louis County flow into Kabetogama Lake which flows into Rainy Lake. The waters from Koochiching County flow into Black Bay of Rainy Lake.

Communities in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed include Rainer, Ericsburg and Ray located in Koochiching County and Ash Lake located in St. Louis County. Watershed specific data, from the 2000 census, was not available for this generation of the BID. The 1990 census recorded a population of 4,263 for the Rainy River/Rainy Lake Watershed. This was a decline of 699 from the 1980 census figure of 4,962 for the watershed.

St. Louis and Koochiching counties have Comprehensive Local Water Plans that include the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed. In addition to the counties’ water plans, the Little Fork/Rat Root River Board has developed a local management plan for the mainstem of the Rat Root River in Koochiching County. Koochiching County has subsequently enacted an ordinance to implement the Rat Root River Plan.

Principal roadways in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed include Minnesota Highways 53, 11, 332 and 217 along with St. Louis County CSAH 122 and 129 and Koochiching County CSAH 3. The only railway Figure II-15. Rainy River / Rainy Lake watershed major roads and remaining in the watershed railways is the DW&P railway.

Principal industries include forest products harvesting and manufacturing, and g n s i i h u c 71 i o

% L g h

c .

t tourism. There is some o S o K farming in the watershed, /(53 primarily on the eastern reaches of Koochiching %g217 County.

(/53 The Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed is the forth smallest watershed, in !"24 terms of size, in the Minnesota portion of the Rainy River Basin. It comprises 909 square miles (581,670 acres). The watershed is located predominately in the Major Ro ad s Railr oa ds Wate rsh ed Bo undar y N Ecological Classification System’s Border Lakes with 9 0 9 18 Miles a portion on the northwest side being in the Little Fork-

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 37 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Rainy Lake

Vermilion Uplands Figure II-16. Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed administrative boundaries subsection of the watershed. Minnesota ecoregions included in the watershed are

the Northern Lakes g n s i i h u c 71 i o % L g h

.

and Forests. c t o S o K The Rainy (/53 River/Rainy Lake watershed has a %g21 7 total of 556 river miles and 884 lakes. The watershed has (/5 3 47 minor watersheds.

"!24

Water shed DNR Scientific and Natural Areas East Rat Root River Peatland SNA N Major Roads West Rat Root River Peatland SN A 3 0 3 6 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 38 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Rainy Lake

Figure II-17. Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed water resources and impoundments

Water Resources Sewage Dis posal Pond or Filt ration Bed

Tailing Pond g s n i i u

Mar sh, wetland , s wamp, bog h o c i L

h . t

Rapids c o S o

Gr avel Pit or Quarr y f illed with W ater K Stream or Riv er

Lake or Pond

Submerged Area N

Streams and Ditch es

Minor W at er sheds 6 0 6 12 Miles

Table II-3. Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed public drinking water providers Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5360008 Rainy Lake Lodge O 2144 County Rd. 137 International Falls 5360008 Rainy Lake Lodge O 2144 County Rd. 137 International Falls 5360009 Rainy Lake Houseboats O Rainy Lake, Route 8 International Falls 5360011 Borderland's Rocky Pine Camp- O Ground International Falls 5360012 Sha Sha Resort I 1664 Hwy 11 E, Rainy Lake International Falls 5360021 Slatinski's Campground O Route 9, Box 541 International Falls 5360023 Birch Point Camp O PO Box 236 Ranier 5360032 Woodland Inn O Ray 5360034 Spring Lodge Resort O Island View Route Rainy Lk International Falls 5360035 Camp Idlewood I 3033 County Rd. 20 International Falls 5360036 Y, The I 5536 Hwy 11 International Falls 5360038 Kozy Kove Kamp O Box 300, Island View Route International Falls 5360051 Lu's Bar I Ericsburg 5360052 Thunderbird Lodge I 2170 County Rd. # 139 International Falls 5360058 Northwoods Bible Church O Hwy 217 Ray

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 39 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Rainy Lake

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5360061 Grand Mound Interpretive Center S 6749 Hwy 11 International Falls 5360062 Ray Community Well M Hwy 217 Ray 5360068 Nagurski's Corner Inc. I Hwy 332 International Falls 5360068 Nagurski's Corner Inc. I Hwy 332 International Falls 5360100 Camp Kooch-I-Ching I Box 271 International Falls 5360102 19th Hole O Route 8, Box 305 International Falls 5360104 Birch Point Camp O Box 236 Ranier 5360112 Internat Falls Country Club I International Falls 5360114 Island View Lodge I Route 8, Box 411 International Falls 5360118 Nichol's Trailer Court O 3rd Ave. W. South Int'l. Falls 5360119 Nichols Mobile Home Park O P.O. Box 1019 International Falls 5360120 Northernaire House Boats O Rainy Lake International Falls 5360129 Island View Bed & Breakfast O 2160 County Rd. 139 International Falls 5360129 Island View Bed & Breakfast O 2160 County Rd. 139 International Falls 5360131 Korner Kwik Stop I Hwy 53 north of Ericsburg International Falls 5360132 Curtis/Windsong Island I 2603 County Rd. 94 International Falls 5690113 Trandel's Deer Horn Resort I 10024 Gappa Rd. Ray 5690114 Four Winds Resort I 9990 Gappa Rd. Ray 5690156 Voyageurs Park Lodge I 10436 Waltz Rd. Ray 5690163 Arrowhead Lodge and Resort O Lake Kabetogama Ray 5690165 Northern Lights Resort I 12723 Northern Lights Rd. Ray 5690172 Tall Timber Resort I 10480 Waltz Rd. Ray 5690191 Ash Trail Lodge O Orr 5690191 Ash Trail Lodge O Orr 5690192 Frontier Resort I 10141 Ash River Trail Orr 5690195 Northern Lights Resort-west I St. Louis Cty. 5690196 Northern Lights Resort-east I St. Louis Cty. 5690202 Rocky Point Resort I 12953 Ness Rd. Ray 5690202 Rocky Point Resort I 12953 Ness Rd. Ray 5690211 Park Point Resort I Lake Kabetogama Ray 5690211 Park Point Resort I Lake Kabetogama Ray 5690211 Park Point Resort I Lake Kabetogama Ray 5690212 Moose Horn Resort I 10434 Waltz Rd. Ray 5690219 Sunset Resort, Inc I Orr 5690219 Sunset Resort, Inc I Orr 5690222 Harmony Beach Resort I 10002 Gappa Rd., Box 87 Ray 5690229 North Star Resort I 10487 Waltz Rd. Ray 5690230 Kettle Falls Hotel O Ash River Trail Orr 5690230 Kettle Falls Hotel O Ash River Trail Orr 5690242 Pine Aire Resort I 9978 Gappa Rd. Ray 5690242 Pine Aire Resort I 9978 Gappa Rd. Ray 5690243 Snyder's Idlewild Resort O 10060 Gappa Rd. Ray 5690252 Birch Grove Resort I 10466 Waltz Rd. Ray

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 40 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Rainy Lake

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5690253 Driftwood Lodge I 10012 Gappa Rd. Ray 5690291 Grand View Resort I 10479 Waltz Rd. Ray 5690654 Eagle Wing Resort I 10042 Gappa Rd. Ray 5690668 Kabetogama Spring I Ray 5690678 Rocky Ledge Resort O 10064 Gappa Rd. Ray 5690679 Sandy Point Resort I 10606 Gamma Rd. Ray 5690688 Tomahawk Resort I 10078 Gappa Rd. Ray 5690843 Birchem's Lakeview Resort I 12475 Burma Rd. Ray 5690908 Bait & Bite I Lake Kabetogama Ray 5690910 Cedar Cove Campsites and Resort I 9940 Gappa Rd. Ray Lake Kabetogama Community 5690932 I St. Louis Cty. Center 5690937 Pokorny's Resort & Campground I 12473 Burma Rd. Ray 5690938 Red Pine Lodge I 12443 Burma Rd. Ray 5690948 Birch Grove Resort I P.O. Box 163 Ray 12497 Burma Rd.-lake 5691009 Bunt's Bed/Breakfast Inns O Ray Kabetoquma 12497 Burma Rd.-Lake 5691009 Bunt's Bed/Breakfast Inns O Ray Kabetoquma 5691036 Kec's Kove O 10428 Gamma Rd. Ray 5691114 Harmony Beach Resort-New Bldg. I 10002 Gappa Rd., Box 87 Ray 5691118 Bunt's Kabinns - Rock House I 12497 Burma Rd. Ray Kabetogama United Methodist 9853 Gamma Rd., County 5691119 O Ray Church Rd. 122 5691122 Pine Tree Cove I 10502 Gamma Rd. Ray 5691122 Pine Tree Cove I 10502 Gamma Rd. Ray

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 41 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Manitou

IV. RAINY RIVER / MANITOU WATERSHED (HUC # 09030004) The Rainy River/Manitou watershed has its headwaters in Koochiching County. The watershed begins at the outlet of Rainy Lake (at Ranier), continues along the floodplain of the Rainy River finally including the Black River watershed.

The larger community in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed is International Falls with several smaller communities located in Koochiching County such as Pelland, Loman, Indus and Birchdale. Some of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians tribal lands are located in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed. Watershed specific data, from the 2000 census, was not available for this generation of the BID. The 1990 census recorded a population of 8,976 for the Rainy River/Manitou watershed. This was a decline of 371 from the 1980 census figure of 9,347 for the watershed.

Koochiching County has a Comprehensive Local Water Plan that include the Rainy River/Manitou watershed. In addition to the counties’ water plans, the Rainy/Rapid River Board has developed a local management plan for the mainstem of the Rainy River in Koochiching and Lake of the Woods Counties. Koochiching and Lake of the Woods Counties have subsequently enacted ordinances to implement the Rainy/Rapid River Plan.

Figure II-18. Rainy River/Manitou watershed major roads and railways Principal roadways in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed include Minnesota Highways 11,

g%11 71, 53 and 332 along with County CSAH 1, 13 and 32. A short length of the DW&P railway runs into (/5 3 International Falls. s d o o (/7 1 W

e h t

f g

o n Principal industries

i e

h 2 17

k c % i g a h L c

o include forest products o Belt ram i K g%6 5 harvesting and manufacturing, paper industry, farming and tourism in the watershed.

Majo r Roads Ra ilr oads Watershed Bound ar y

N

8 0 8 16 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 42 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Manitou

The Rainy Figure II-19. Rainy River/Manitou watershed administrative boundaries River/Manitou watershed is the second smallest watershed, in terms of size, in the Minnesota %g11 portion of the Rainy River Basin. It comprises 524 /(5 3 s

square miles d o 7 1 o (/ W

(335,371 acres). e h t

f g o n i e 2 17 h

The watershed is k c %g i a h L c o located Belt ram i o K g%6 5 predominately in the Ecological Classification System’s Agassiz Lowlands with a small part in the northeastern Watershed sliver being Little Major Roads Fork-Vermilion State Parks Uplands. Franz Jevne Minnesota DNR Scientific and Natural Areas N ecoregions North Black River Peatland SNA South Black River Peatland SNA included in the 7 0 7 Miles watershed are Northern Lakes, Forests and Northern Minnesota Wetlands.

The Rainy River/Manitou watershed has a total of 368 river miles and 13 lakes. The watershed has 35 minor watersheds.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 43 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Manitou

Figure II-20. Rainy River/Manitou watershed water resources and impoundments s d o o W

e h t

f o g

n e i k h a c i L h c i o m o a K r t l e B Wa ter R esour ces Sewage Di sposal Pond or Fi ltration Bed

Tail ing Pond Mar sh, wetl and, swamp, bog Rapi ds Grav el Pit or Quar ry fi ll ed with Water

Stream or River Lake or Pond Submerged Area

Streams and Ditches N 6 0 6 12 Miles Mi nor W atersheds

Table II-4. Rainy River/Manitou watershed public drinking water providers Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 1360002 International Falls M 390 Hwy 11 East International Falls 1360006 Ranier M Ranier Manitou Rapids Hwy Rest Area Hwy 11, 3 miles east of 5360007 S Manitou MNDOT Manitou 5360010 Indus School, ISD 363 O South Koochiching Birchdale 5360053 Loman Store O Koochiching Co. 5360055 Bethany Lutheran Church O Hwy 11 Loman Black River Rd., County Rd. 5360057 Black River Mennonite Church O Loman 32 5360064 Loman City Park C Hwy 11 Loman 5360066 Frontier Public Access C Hwy 11 Frontier 5360130 Karen's Place I Koochiching County Birchdale

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 44 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Little Fork River

V. LITTLE FORK RIVER WATERSHED (HUC# 09030005) The Little Fork River watershed has its headwaters in Itasca and St. Louis counties. Its waters flow into Koochiching County eventually reaching the Rainy River approximately 11 miles west of International Falls.

Larger communities in the Little Fork River watershed include Cook located in St. Louis County and Little Fork located in Koochiching County. The Bois Fort Band of Chippewa Indians, Nett Lake Reservation is located in the Little Fork River watershed. Watershed specific data, from the 2000 census, is not available for this generation of the BID. The 1990 census recorded a population of 8,913 for the Little Fork watershed. This was a decline of 756 from the 1980 figure of 9,669.

Itasca, Koochiching and St. Louis counties have Comprehensive Local Water Plans that include the Little Fork River Watershed. In addition to the counties’ water plans, the Little Fork River Advisory Board has developed a local management plan for the mainstem of the Little Fork River in Koochiching County. Koochiching County has subsequently enacted an ordinance to implement the Little Fork River Plan.

Figure II-21. Little Fork River watershed major roads and railways Principal roadways in the Little Fork River watershed include %g11 Minnesota Highways 1, 53, 65, 71, 73 and 217; %g21 7

71 along with Koochiching /( /(53 County CSAH 8 and St.

"!24 Louis County CSAH 22, s i

u ø116

o ÷ CSAH 23 and CSAH 74. L

%g6 5 . t S "!2 3 The only railway %g6 remaining in the

Kooc hichi ng watershed is the DW&P It asc a %g1 %g1 Railway Company. %g1

%g38 53 %g73 /( %g65 Principal industries

g%16 9 %g1 3 5 include forest products harvesting and manufacturing, and tourism. There is some farming in the watershed, primarily in the lower Major Ro ad s Railr oa ds Wate rsh ed Bo undar y reaches in Koochiching N County. 10 0 10 20 30 40 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 45 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Little Fork River

The Little Fork Figure II-22. Little Fork River watershed administrative boundaries River watershed is g n i s

the third largest i h u c i o h L

11 c watershed, in terms g% . t o o S of size, in the K Minnesota portion %g2 17 7 1 of the Rainy River (/ /(5 3 Basin. It comprises 1,843 square miles (1,179,609 acres). ÷ø116 %g65 The watershed is g%6 !"23 located predominately in the Ecological %1 Itasca Classification g g%1 System’s Little %g73 %g3 8 Fork-Vermilion %g6 5 Uplands subsection /(53 %g135 with some Agassiz g%16 9 Lowlands in the western and northern reaches of the watershed. Watershed State Parks McCart hy Beach Minnesota Major Roads Administrative Boundaries ecoregions included DNR Scientific and Natur al Areas Net t Lake Indian Reserv ation Lost Lake Peatland SNA N in the watershed Superior Nati onal Forest Myrt le Lake Peatl and SNA are Northern Lakes Net t Lake Peat land SNA 10 0 10 Miles and Forests and Northern Minnesota Wetlands.

The Little Fork River watershed has a total of 1,411 river miles. The watershed has 325 lakes. The watershed has 108 minor watersheds.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 46 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Little Fork River

Figure II-23. Little Fork River watershed water resources and impoundments s i u o L

. t S

Koochiching Itasca

MinnTac Tailings Basin Impoundment

Water Resources Sewage Disposal Pond or Filtration Bed

Tailing Pond Marsh, wetland, swamp, bog

Rapids Gravel Pit or Quarry filled with Water

Stream or River

Lake or Pond Submerged Area N

Streams and Ditches

Minor Watersheds 6 0 6 12 18 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 47 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Little Fork River

Table II-5. Little Fork River watershed public drinking water providers Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 1310029 Thistledew Lake Camp N Box W 10 Togo 1310029 Thistledew Lake Camp N Box W 10 Togo 1310029 Thistledew Lake Camp N Box W 10 Togo 1360004 Littlefork M City Hall Littlefork 1360004 Littlefork M City Hall Littlefork 1690009 Cook M City Hall Cook 1690009 Cook M City Hall Cook 5160442 Tufthaugen II O Cook Bearville 5310136 Bear River Lutheran Church O County Rd. 22 Township 5310166 Togo Elementary School O Hwy One Togo 5310459 Junction Bar I Highways 65 & 61 Togo 5310540 Carpenter Town Hall O Hwy One Togo Button Box State Forest Carepenter 5310792 S County Rd. 542 Campground Township Thistledew Lake State Forest 5310793 S Carpenter Twp. Hwy 1 Togo Campground Thistledew Lake State Forest 5310793 S Carpenter Twp. Hwy 1 Togo Campground Thistledew Lake State Forest 5310793 S Carpenter Twp. Hwy 1 Togo Campground 5360059 Northwood Chapel Mennonite O Hwy 71 and County Rd. 79 Littlefork 5360063 North Star Electric Co-op I Hwy 65 Littlefork 5360070 Christiansen Store I P.O. Box 62 Gheen East of Hwy 65 on County 5360101 Samuelson Park C Rauch Rd. 75 5360133 Northern Minnesota District Fair M Littlefork 5690038 Voyageurs Sand Lake Resort O 7499 Hwy 53 Britt 5690071 Log Cabin Tavern O Angora 5690109 Bimbo's Octogon O Side Lake 5690112 Side Lake Store I 7505 Hwy 5 Side Lake 5690116 Vermilion Beach Village O Cook 5690144 Tardy's Food and Fuel O Hwy 73 & County Rd. 22 Angora 5690171 Pine Beach Resort & RV Park O P.O. Box 5 Side Lake 5690184 Vermilion Fairways I Cook 5690189 Bear River Community Center O County Rd.s 22 and 5 Morcom Township 5690197 Camp Austin I 6560 Long Lake Rd Chisholm 5690197 Camp Austin I 6560 Long Lake Rd Chisholm 5690197 Camp Austin I 6560 Long Lake Rd Chisholm 5690246 Ludlow's Island Resort I P.O. Box 1146 Lake Vermilion 5690292 Jerry's Place O Gheen 5690298 Greaney Store I County Rd. 74 and 75 Greaney 5690300 Elroy Supper Club I 7212 Hwy 53 North Britt 5690301 Alango Recreation and Community I St. Louis

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 48 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Little Fork River

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City Center Alango Recreation and Community 5690301 I St. Louis Center 5690303 Wooden Table Inn I Britt 5690335 Potlatch Corporation I Hwy 53 Cook 5690335 Potlatch Corporation I Hwy 53 Cook 5690377 Riverside Sales I Side Lake 5690378 Celina Store I 12900 Hwy 1 Togo 5690389 Sturgeon Town Hall O Hwy 73 Angora 5690390 Town of Balkan Garage O Hwy 73 Chisholm 5690391 Balkan Community Center O Hwy 73 Chisholm 5690393 Cook Municipal Airport M Airport Rd. Cook 5690394 Wright's Way Store I 3302 Hwy 53 Gheen 5690395 Sand Lake Chapel O 9038 Biss Rd. (Cty Rd. 65) Britt 5690397 Shortstop Convenience Store I U.S. Hwy 53 Britt French Township Recreation 5690896 O Side Lake Center 5690916 Country Rd.s I 8547 Hwy 53 Angora 5690917 Country Supper Club I P.O. Box 53 Cook 5690949 Voyageur's Lutheran Ministry I Box 1076 Cook 5690954 McCarthy Beach State Park S 7622 McCarthy Beach Rd. Side Lake 5690954 McCarthy Beach State Park S 7622 McCarthy Beach Rd. Side Lake 5690978 Idington F Ely 5690999 Bethany Range Shelter O 507 S. 5th St. Kinney 5691001 Birch Lake Resort O Babbitt 5691006 Britt Country Store O Britt 5691041 Laurentian Environmental Center O 8950 Peppard Rd. Britt 5691047 McNair's Bed & Breakfast O 7694 Hwy 5 Side Lake 5691049 Miracle Bible Camp O 12550 Perch Lake Rd. Side Lake 5691052 Oasis O 7539 Peel Rd. Britt Riverside Inn of Side Lake, 5691055 O 7477 Hwy 5 Side Lake Incorporated 5691063 South Switch O 8929 Hwy 22 Angora 5691066 Sturgeon River Landing O 12860 Rudstrom Rd. Side Lake 5691068 Sunset Beach Motel O Side Lake 5691072 Toni's Place O 9090 Hwy 73 Angora 5691075 Uncle Kenny's O Cook 5691077 Viking Bar, Bear River O Cook Swanson's Point Estate Bed & 5691107 O Cook Breakfast 5691110 Linden Grove Town Hall O Hwy 1 Cook Cook Congregation of Jehovah's 5691113 O 1821 Hwy 53 Cook Witness

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 49 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Big Fork River

VI. BIG FORK RIVER WATERSHED (HUC # 09030006) The Big Fork River watershed has its headwaters in Itasca and Koochiching Counties. Its waters flow into Koochiching County eventually reaching the Rainy River approximately 1 mile east of the County Road 1 intersection with Hwy 11.

Larger communities in the Big Fork River watershed include Bigfork located in Itasca County and Big Falls located in Koochiching County. The Leech Lake Band of Chippewa Indians, Leech Lake Reservation has some tribal lands in the Big Fork River watershed. Watershed specific data, from the 2000 census, is not available for this generation of the BID. The 1990 census recorded a population of 5,718 for the Big Fork River Watershed. This was a decline of 164 from the 1980 census figure of 5,882 for the watershed.

Itasca and Koochiching counties have Comprehensive Local Water Plans that include the Big Fork River watershed. In addition to the counties’ water plans, the Big Fork River Board has developed a local management plan for the mainstem of the Big Fork River in Itasca and Koochiching Counties. Itasca and Koochiching Counties have subsequently enacted ordinances to implement the Big Fork River Plan.

Figure II-24. Big Fork River watershed major roads and railways Principal roadways in the Big Fork River watershed include Minnesota

%g1 1 Highways 46, 6, 71, 38,

g 53

n 71 i /(

h (/

c 11, and 1 along with i Lak e of the W oods h %217 c g

Beltrami o o

K Itasca County CSAH 7, (/5 3 48, 49, 45, 35, 4, 34, 29, %g72 %g6 5 14, 52, 5, 27, and 31 and

(/71 Koochiching County %g6 CSAH 6, 36, 5, 27, 26, 30, 31, 13, and 1.

%g1 %g1

s %g1 a i u %1 c g o s L

a Principal industries t . I t S %g65 include forest products %g46 %g3 8 harvesting and manufacturing, and tourism. There is some farming in the watershed.

Majo r Roads Railroa ds Wate rsh ed Bo undar y N

20 0 20 40 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 50 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Big Fork River

The Big Fork River Figure II-25. Big Fork River watershed administrative boundaries watershed is the second largest watershed, in terms %g11

g /(5 3

n 7 1 i /( of size, in the h c i Lak e of th e Wo od s h %g2 17 c

Beltra mi o Minnesota portion of o K the Rainy River (/53 Basin. It comprises %g7 2 g%65 1,843 square miles (1,326,930 acres). (/71 %g6 The watershed includes four of the Ecological

Classification g%1 %g1

s 1

i %g a 1 u %g c o s System’s L a t . t I S subsections. These g%6 5 g%4 6 are the Chippewa g%3 8 Plains and St. Louis Moraines to the north with Agassiz Lowlands and Little Fork-Vermilion

Uplands to the Big Fork Wat ershed DNR Scie ntifi c and Natu ral Ar eas Caldwell Brook Cedar Swamp SNA Major Roads south. Minnesota Ladi es-Tresses Swamp SNA Sta te Park s Lost 40 SNA Scenic ecoregions included Lost Lake Peatland SNA Admi nis tra tive B oun da rie s Lost River Peat land SNA in the watershed are Chippewa Nat ional Forest N Myrt le Lake Peatl and SNA Northern Lakes, Deer Creek I ndian Reservat ion Leech Lake I ndian Reservat ion 10 0 10 Miles Forests and Northern Minnesota Wetlands.

The Big Fork River Watershed has a total of 1,195 river miles and 421 lakes. The watershed has 147 minor watersheds.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 51 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Big Fork River

Figure II-26. Big Fork River watershed water resources and impoundments s d o o W

e h t

f o g e n i k h a c i L h c o

Beltrami o K s i u o

Koochiching L

. t

Itasca S

Water Resources Sewage Disposa l Pond or F iltr ation Bed

Ta ilin g Po nd

Mar sh , w et land , swamp, b og

Rapids

Gra vel Pit o r Qu ar r y filled with Water

Str ea m or Rive r

Lake or Po nd Submer ged Ar ea N Str ea ms and Dit ches Minor Wa te rsheds 8 0 8 16 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 52 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Big Fork River

Table II-6. Big Fork River watershed public drinking water providers Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 1310001 Bigfork M City Hall Bigfork 1310001 Bigfork M City Hall Bigfork 1310001 Bigfork M City Hall Bigfork 1360001 Big Falls M Big Falls 1360001 Big Falls M Big Falls 5110082 Graves Lake Resort I Route One Remer 5310022 Squaw Lake School O ISD #318 Squaw Lake 5310027 Squaw Lake Co-op Store O Hwy 46 Squaw Lake 5310028 Squaw Lake Community Center I Hwy 46 Squaw Lake 5310036 Tam Oshanter Lodge O Spring Lake 5310038 Empty Bar Resort I 49092 Empty Bar Loop Deer River 5310039 Ghost Bay Trailer Resort O 52382 S. Center Rd. Spring Lake 55960 County Hwy. 4, Little 5310041 Anchor Inn I Spring Lake Sand Lake 55960 County Hwy. 4, Little 5310041 Anchor Inn I Spring Lake Sand Lake 5310043 Little Dipper Company, Inc. O 203 SE Hwy. 1 Effie 5310043 Little Dipper Company, Inc. O 203 SE Hwy. 1 Effie 5310043 Little Dipper Company, Inc. O 203 SE Hwy. 1 Effie 5310046 Effie Presbyterian Church O Hwy One Effie 5310047 Effie Lutheran Church O Hwy One Effie 5310072 Marcell Town Hall O Marcell 5310074 Bowstring Chapel O Cty Rd. 133, Bowstring Twp Bowstring 5310078 Rocky Shores Resort I Bowstring Lake Deer River 5310086 Benders Fishing Camp I HC 69, Box 54 Northome 5310086 Benders Fishing Camp I HC 69, Box 54 Northome 5310088 Wolf Point Resort I 66200 Stones Rd. Northome 5310089 Cedar Hill I Northome 5310089 Cedar Hill I Northome 5310090 Isle of View Resort I Hwy 46, Island Lake Northome 5310091 Evergreen Lodge O Box 30, S. Star Route Northome 5310092 Sleepy Hollow Resort I 64264 Hwy. 46 Northome 5310093 October Ridge Resort I 66211 County Rd. 31 Northome 5310101 Alvwood Evangelical Free Church O Hwy. 46 & Co. Rd. 131 Blackduck 5310105 Wausota Resort I 61493 Wausota Rd. Squaw Lake 5310107 Buckhorn Resort I 45101 Buckhorn Resort Rd. Marcell 5310107 Buckhorn Resort I 45101 Buckhorn Resort Rd. Marcell 5310109 Bright Star Resort I HC 2, Box 39 Squaw Lake 5310109 Bright Star Resort I HC 2, Box 39 Squaw Lake 5310110 Bojou Lodge and Resort I Squaw Lake 5310115 Dora Lake Alliance Church O County Rd. 145 Dora Lake 5310116 Good News Bible Camp I Dora Lake Northome

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 53 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Big Fork River

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5310118 Dora Lake Lodge I 56901 County Rd. 29 Northome 5310123 Wirt General Store I County Rd. 29 Wirt 5310170 St. Theresa's Catholic Church O Hwy One Effie 5310179 Jessie Lake Lutheran Church O County Rd. 4 Talmoon 5310190 Peaceful Valley Resort O HCR-3, Box 410 Deer River 5310195 Suomi Lutheran Church O County Rd. 48 Marcell 5310201 Washkish Resort O HCR Two, Box 185 Bigfork 5310202 Gunn Lake Resort I County Rd. 45, Gunn Lake Marcell 5310208 Aspen Springs I Jessie Lake Talmoon 5310208 Aspen Springs I Jessie Lake Talmoon 5310209 Hide Away I 66505 County Rd. 533 Effie 5310209 Hide Away I 66505 County Rd. 533 Effie 5310209 Hide Away I 66505 County Rd. 533 Effie 5310210 Evergreen Inn O Route One, Box 71 Effie 5310211 Hillcrest Resort I Turtle Lake Bigfork 5310228 Jessie Lake Baptist Church O County Rd. 4 Talmoon 5310231 Driftwood Resort I 56029 County Rd. 157 Max 5310231 Driftwood Resort I 56029 County Rd. 157 Max 5310232 Camp Deer Resort I Deer Lake Effie 5310245 Snow Shoe Inn O Route 38 Marcell 5310246 Snug Harbor Resort I 50351 County Rd. 35 Deer River 5310246 Snug Harbor Resort I 50351 County Rd. 35 Deer River 5310253 Island Lake Resort I 66868 Island Lake Rd. Northome 5310257 Whitefish Lake Resort O P.O. Box 342 Max 5310266 Scenic Pines Resort O Route 2, Box 103 Bigfork 5310267 Chippewa Resort I Squaw Lake 5310274 Lona Lodge Resort O RR 2 Bigfork 5310276 Maple Ridge Resort I Route 1, Box 218 Bigfork 5310279 St. Catherine's Catholic Church O Hwy 46 Squaw Lake 5310282 Richie's Marcell Inn I Hwy 38 Marcell 5310292 Lakewood Cafe O P.O. Box 126 Marcell 5310302 Fox Lake Resort I 32158 County Rd. 45 Marcell 5310304 Centennial Lutheran Church O Hwy 46 Squaw Lake 5310310 Little Bowstring Lake Resort I 42388 County Rd. 48 Deer River 5310316 Loggers Supper Club O Route One, Box 520 Bigfork 5310322 Cedar Point Resort O Marcell 5310326 Hayslip Corner I Highways 6 and 286 Talmoon 5310326 Hayslip Corner I Highways 6 and 286 Talmoon 5310343 Trails End O HCR 3 Box 450 Deer River 5310343 Trails End O HCR 3 Box 450 Deer River 5310345 Oakland Cottages O HC 1, Box 381 Marcell 5310347 Georgene's Haven O 50241 County Rd. 35 Deer River 5310357 Sure Game Wilderness Resort I 52385 County Rd. 31 Wirt

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 54 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Big Fork River

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5310361 Jessie Lake Resort I Box 137 Talmoon 5310363 Camp Jack the Horse I Jack the Horse Lake Marcell 5310388 North Star Campground USFS F Chippewa National Forest Cass Lake 5310388 North Star Campground USFS F Chippewa National Forest Cass Lake 5310413 Flaming Pine Youth Camp I Mirror Lake, Hwy. 1 Togo 5310413 Flaming Pine Youth Camp I Mirror Lake, Hwy. 1 Togo 5310413 Flaming Pine Youth Camp I Mirror Lake, Hwy. 1 Togo 5310419 Big Timber Resort I North Star Lake Marcell 5310420 North Shore Bay Resort I 65747 County Rd. 174 Northome 5310421 Sandy Beach Resort O HC 69, Box 50 Northome 5310422 M and J Groceries I Hwy 6 Talmoon 5310423 Northern Acres I 47292 Bowstring Access Deer River County Rd. 4, Lake Jessie 5310424 North School, ISD No. 317 O Talmoon Twp 5310424 North School, ISD No. 317 O Cty Rd. 4, Lake Jessie Twp Talmoon 5310430 Valley Forest Resources, Inc. I HC 1, Box 76 Marcell 5310430 Valley Forest Resources, Inc. I HC 1, Box 76 Marcell 5310431 Marcell Mercantile I Hwy 38 Marcell 5310433 Frontier Bait I Hwy 38 Marcell 5310433 Frontier Bait I Hwy 38 Marcell 5310434 Spring Lake Store I County 4 Spring Lake 5310435 Club 46 O HC 69, Box 72 Northome 5310436 Leino's Cabins I Round Lake Squaw Lake 5310436 Leino's Cabins I Round Lake Squaw Lake 5310441 Deer Trail Resort O Star Route Box 60 Marcell 5310442 Three Cedars Resort I Jessie Lake Talmoon 5310457 North Star Lake Resort I Hwy 38, North Star Lake Marcell 5310457 North Star Lake Resort I Hwy 38, North Star Lake Marcell 5310463 Bears Resort O Route 2 Box 152b Bigfork 5310475 Bass Lake Park O Hwy One, Bass Lake Effie 5310475 Bass Lake Park O Hwy One, Bass Lake Effie 5310475 Bass Lake Park O Hwy One, Bass Lake Effie 5310475 Bass Lake Park O Hwy One, Bass Lake Effie 5310493 Wasson Lodge O Rr 2 Box 77 Bigfork 5310519 Marcell Community Church O Hwy 38 Marcell Sand Lake Township Community 5310531 O Spring Lake Center 5310532 Riverside Chapel O Hwy 6 and Bigfork River Bigfork 5310539 Bowstring Airport Commission O Cty Rd. 173, Bowstring Twp Talmoon 5310543 Old Scenic Community Church O County Rd. 52 Bigfork 5310547 Max Mini Store I Hwy 46 & County Rd. 4 Squaw Lake 5310547 Max Mini Store I Hwy 46 & County Rd. 4 Squaw Lake 5310548 Wirt Town Hall O County Rd. 31 Wirt

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 55 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Big Fork River

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5310705 Atkins Resort O South Star Route Box 61 Northome Jessie View Resort and RV 5310706 O Jessie Lake, Cty Rd. 35 Deer River Campground Jessie View Resort and RV 5310706 O Jessie Lake, Cty Rd. 35 Deer River Campground 5310708 Lakewood Lodge O HCR 3, Box 432 Deer River 5310712 Bello Lake Group Home I Route 1 Bigfork 5310713 Bello North Group Home O Effie 5310718 Bowstring Shores Resort I Deer River 5310718 Bowstring Shores Resort I Deer River 5310723 Community Building M 45115 County Rd. 133 Bowstring 5310725 Dock Side Restaurant I 66816 Island Lake Rd. Northome 5310727 Edge of the Wilderness Golf Course I Golf Course Rd. Bigfork 5310728 Evergreen Campground I 66860 Evergreen Rd. Northome 5310730 Fishermans Village I HC2, Box 145 Squaw Lake 5310730 Fishermans Village I HC2, Box 145 Squaw Lake 5310730 Fishermans Village I HC2, Box 145 Squaw Lake 5310740 Koffee Kup O HCR1, Box 259a Spring Lake 5310742 Kinghurst Senior Club O South Star Route Dora Lake 5310744 Kokomo Resort O Hwy 38, North Star Lake Marcell 5310751 Neighborhood Tavern I Hwy 38 Effie 5310757 Hoot 'n Holler O 58988 State Hwy. 46 Alvwood 5310761 Perry Heide Post 9703 O Hwy 6 Talmoon 5310764 Riley's Fine Food and Drink I Hwy 6 North Bowstring 5310775 Harbor, The O Box 456 Squaw Lake 5310776 Harbor Resort, The O Box 456 Squaw Lake 5310777 Hill, The I 101 Hill St. Squaw Lake 5310777 Hill, The I 101 Hill St. Squaw Lake 5310789 Effie Cafe O Effie 5310791 Scenic State Park S County Rd. 7 Big Fork 5310791 Scenic State Park S County Rd. 7 Big Fork 5310791 Scenic State Park S County Rd. 7 Big Fork 5310791 Scenic State Park S County Rd. 7 Big Fork 5310791 Scenic State Park S County Rd. 7 Big Fork 5310791 Scenic State Park S County Rd. 7 Big Fork 5310791 Scenic State Park S County Rd. 7 Big Fork 5310791 Scenic State Park S County Rd. 7 Big Fork Larson Lake State Forest 5310794 S 4 miles South of Hwy. 1 Effie Campground 5310795 Bear Lake State Forest Campground S County Rd. 52 Effie 5310795 Bear Lake State Forest Campground S County Rd. 52 Effie 5310796 Lost Lake State Forest Campground S County Rd. 52 Effie 5310797 Owen Lake State Forest Campground S County Rd. 52 Effie 5310798 Long Lake State Forest Camp. O Itasca Co.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 56 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Big Fork River

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5310801 Bergquist Company O 61959 State Hwy. 38 Bigfork 5310804 Arcadia Resort I Turtle Lake Bigfork 5310806 Bowstring Lodge I Deer River 5310808 Blue Heron Lodge O P.O. Box 224 Spring Lake 5310810 Deer Lake Charlie's I Hwy One Effie 5310812 Island View Lodge I 52246 S. Center Rd. Spring Lake 5310817 Pine Grove Lodge I Sand Lake Max 5310817 Pine Grove Lodge I Sand Lake Max 5310819 Sand Lake Lodge I 54832 Rainbow Rd. Deer River 5310832 Sportsmen's Resort I 62339 County Rd. 149 Squaw Lake 5310832 Sportsmen's Resort I 62339 County Rd. 149 Squaw Lake 5310833 Chapel Hill Retreat I 52702 Chapel Rd. Spring Lake 5310836 Clubhouse Lake Rec Area South F Itasca Co. 5310842 Edgewater Resort I Spring Lake 5310843 Timberwolf Inn O Hwy 38 Marcell 5310845 Hill Motel I 101 Hill St. Squaw Lake 5310847 Cut Foot Sioux Horse Camp USFS F Chippewa National Forest Cass Lake 5310850 Crow Bar, The I County Rd. Four, Hwy. 46 Squaw Lake 5310851 Snyder's Foster Group Home I 40301 State Hwy. 6 Deer River 5360054 Seventh Day Adventist Church O P.O. Box 66, Hwy. 46 S Northome 5360060 Northome Truck Station S Hwy 71 N Northome 5360065 Page and Hill Forest Products I Hwy 71, P.O. Box 450 Bigfalls Hwy 71, N of Bigfork River 5360071 Forestry Station, Big Falls S Big Falls Bridge 5360117 Mizpah Liquor Store, Inc. I Mizpah 5360134 Koochiching County Fair M Hwy 71 Northome

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 57 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rapid River

VII. RAPID RIVER WATERSHED (HUC # 09030007) The Rapid River watershed has its headwaters in Koochiching, Beltrami and Lake of the Woods Counties. Its waters flow into Koochiching County eventually reaching the Rainy River at Clementson on the Lake of the Woods and Koochiching County line.

Clementson is about the only community remaining within the Rapid River watershed. The northern portion of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians, Red Lake Reservation is located in the Rapid River watershed. Watershed specific data, from the 2000 census, is not available for this generation of the BID. The 1990 census recorded a population of 1,723 for the Rapid River watershed. This was a decline of 73 from the 1980 census figure of 1,796 for the watershed.

Koochiching, Beltrami and Lake of the Woods Counties have Comprehensive Local Water Plans that include the Rapid River watershed. In addition to the counties’ water plans, the Rainy/Rapid River Board has developed a local management plan for the mainstem of the Rapid River in Koochiching and Lake of the Woods Counties. Koochiching and Lake of the Woods Counties have subsequently enacted ordinances to implement the Rainy/Rapid River Plan.

Figure II-27. Rapid River watershed major roads and railways Principal roadways in the Rapid River watershed include Minnesota Highways 72 and 11 along

g%11 with Lake of the Woods %g1 1 County CSAH 1.

Principal industries include forest products harvesting and manufacturing, farming %g72 and tourism. s d o o W

e The Rapid River watershed h t

f o g n e i

k is the third smallest h a i c L h c

Belt rami o o watershed, in terms of size, K in the Minnesota portion of the Rainy River Basin. It comprises 895 square miles (573,031acres). The watershed is located predominately in the

Majo r Roads Railroa ds Wate rsh ed Bo undar y Ecological Classification N System’s Agassiz

9 0 9 18 Miles Lowlands. The only Minnesota ecoregion in the watershed is Northern Minnesota Wetlands.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 58 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rapid River

The Rapid River Figure II-28. Rapid River watershed administrative boundaries watershed has a total of 758 river %g11 %g1 1 miles and 12 lakes. The watershed has 43 minor watersheds.

g%7 2 s d o o W

e h t

f o g

n e i h k a c i L h c

Beltra mi o o K

Watershed DNR Scientific and Natura l Areas Gustafson's Camp SNA Major Roads Mulligan Lake Peatland SNA N Red Lake Peatland SNA 2 0 2 4 6 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 59 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rapid River

Figure II-29. Rapid River watershed water resources and impoundments

Roseau

Lake of the Wo ods Belt rami

Water Resour ces Sewa ge Di sposa l Pond or Fil tr ati on Bed Ta ili ng Po nd i g m n

Marsh, wetla nd, swamp , bog i a r h t l c Rapids i e h B c

Gra vel Pit o r Qu arr y fill ed w ith W ater o o

Stream or Rive r K Lake o r Pond

Sub mer ged Are a N

Streams and Ditches

Mino r W ate rsheds 5 0 5 10 Miles

Table II-7. Rapid River watershed public drinking water suppliers Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5360049 P J's Drive In O Route 3 Box 216a Birchdale 5360067 United Congregational Church O Hwy 11 Birchdale 5360069 Sault Rapids Public Access C Hwy 11 Birchdale 5360127 Franz Jevne State Park S Hwy 11 Birchdale 5360127 Franz Jevne State Park S Hwy 11 Birchdale 5360135 Birchdale Community Center O 11020 Hwy. 11 Birchdale 5390062 Rainy River Resort O Rural Route 1 Box 91 Baudette 5390100 Wigwam Lodge Campground O Route 1, Box 200- Hwy 172 Baudette

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 60 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Baudette

VIII. RAINY RIVER / BAUDETTE WATERSHED (HUC # 09030008) The Rainy River/Baudette watershed has its headwaters in Lake of the Woods County. Its waters flow into the Rainy River at several locations with the Baudette River joining the Rainy River at Baudette and the Winter Road confluence approximately 5 miles north of the city of Baudette.

The larger community in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed is Baudette located in Lake of the Woods County. Some Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians, tribal lands are located in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed. Watershed specific data, from the 2000 census, was not available for this generation of the BID. The 1990 census recorded a population of 1,869 for the Rainy River/Baudette watershed. This was an increase of 123 from the 1980 census figure of 1,743 for the watershed.

Lake of the Woods County has a Comprehensive Local Water Plan that includes the Rainy River/Baudette watershed. In addition to the counties’ water plans, the Rainy/Rapid River Board has developed a local management plan for the mainstem of the Rainy River in Koochiching and Lake of the Woods Counties. Koochiching and Lake of the Woods Counties have subsequently enacted ordinances to implement the Rainy/Rapid River Plan.

Figure II-30. Rainy River/Baudette watershed major roads and railways Principal roadways in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed include Minnesota Highways 72 and 11 along with Lake of the Woods County CSAH 2, 3, 4, and 6. The only railway remaining in the g%11 watershed is the CN Ros eau railway. Lake of the W oods %g11 g%11 Principal industries %g72 include forest products, g n i

h harvesting, manufacturing, c i h c o o

K farming and tourism.

Majo r Roads Ra ilr oads Wate rsh ed Boundary N

5 0 5 10 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 61 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Baudette

The Rainy Figure II-31. Rainy River/Baudette administrative boundaries River/Baudette watershed is the smallest watershed, in terms of size, in the Minnesota portion of the Rainy River Basin. s

It comprises 305 d o o W

e

square miles (195,262 h t

%11 f g o

e acres). The k a

Roseau L watershed is located g%11 predominately in the Ecological g%1 1 Classification %g72 g

System’s Agassiz n i h c i h c

Lowlands. The o o watershed lays K entirely within the Minnesota ecoregion, Northern Minnesota Wetlands.

The Rainy River/Baudette Watershed Boundary DNR Scientific and Natural Areas watershed has a total Major Roads Winter Road Lake Peatland SNA of 294 river miles and N 3 lakes. The 10 0 10 Miles watershed has 26 minor watersheds.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 62 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Baudette

Figure II-32. Rainy River/Baudette watershed water resources and impoundments s d o o W

e h t

f o

e k

Ros eau a L s d o o g n W i

h e c i h t h

f c o o

o e K k a L

Water Resources Sewage Disposal Pond or Filt rat ion Bed Tail ing Pond M arsh, wet land, swamp, bog Rapids Gravel Pi t or Quarry f illed wit h Water

St ream or River Lake or Pond N Subm erged Area

St reams and Ditches

M inor Watersheds 3 0 3 6 9 Miles

Table II-8. Rainy River/Baudette watershed public drinking water providers Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 1390001 Baudette M 111 SW First Ave. Baudette 1390001 Baudette M 111 SW First Ave. Baudette 1390002 Anchor Bay Park N Baudette 1390002 Anchor Bay Park N Baudette East of Baudette on Hwy. 5390033 Royal Dutchman Motel O Baudette 11 5390037 Bayview Lodge I Hwy 172 Baudette 5390037 Bayview Lodge I Hwy 172 Baudette 5390040 Clementson Resort O 3583 State Hwy. 11 SE Clementson 5390040 Clementson Resort O 3583 State Hwy. 11 SE Clementson 5390040 Clementson Resort O 3583 State Hwy. 11 SE Clementson 5390044 River Oaks Lodge O Route 1, Box 96 Baudette 5390048 Twin River Resort I County Rd. 172 Baudette 5390052 Flag Island Resort O Angle Inlet 5390055 Oak Harbor Golf & Tennis Club I County Rd. 172 Baudette

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 63 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Rainy River / Baudette

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5390059 Pitt Community Church O Hwy 11 Pitt 5390059 Pitt Community Church O Hwy 11 Pitt 5390060 Lake Rd. Chapel O Hwy 172 Baudette 5390063 Sportsman's Lodge O Route 1, Box 167 Baudette 5390063 Sportsman's Lodge O Route 1, Box 167 Baudette Northwest of Baudette on 5390064 Birch View Resort I Baudette Hwy. 172 Northwest of Baudette on 5390064 Birch View Resort I Baudette Hwy. 172 Hwy 172, Northwest of 5390065 Ship's Wheel Resort I Baudette Baudette Two Miles Northwest of 5390079 Anchor Bay Mobile Home Park O Baudette Baudette Two Miles Northwest of 5390079 Anchor Bay Mobile Home Park O Baudette Baudette 5390080 Country Bunk-Ins O Route 3 Box 8D Baudette 5390081 Fishermen's Wharf O Red Carpet Lodge Baudette 5390086 Lake of The Woods Bible Camp O Route 1 Baudette 5390087 Lake of The Woods Campground I 2769 - 28th St. NW Baudette 5390087 Lake of The Woods Campground I 2769 - 28th St. NW Baudette 5390087 Lake of The Woods Campground I 2769 - 28th St. NW Baudette 5390087 Lake of The Woods Campground I 2769 - 28th St. NW Baudette 5390095 Ship's Wheel O Route 1, Box 90 Baudette 5390107 Schuster's Resort O 3140 State Hwy. 172 NW Baudette 5390107 Schuster's Resort O 3140 State Hwy. 172 NW Baudette

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 64 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Lake of the Woods

IX. LAKE OF THE WOODS WATERSHED (HUC # 09030009) The Lake of the Woods watershed has its headwaters in Lake of the Woods and Roseau counties. Its waters flow into Lake of the Woods with the Warroad River main stem flowing into Muskeg Bay, Lake of the Woods at Warroad. The Northwest Angle is included within the Lake of the Woods watershed.

The largest community in the Lake of the Woods watershed is Warroad located in Roseau County. There are some smaller communities such as Swift, Roosevelt, Williams, Graceton, and Pitt along Hwy. 11. The Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians, Red Lake Reservation have tribal lands located in the Lake of the Woods watershed. Watershed specific data, from the 2000 census, was not available for this generation of the BID. The 1990 census recorded a population of 4,349 for the Lake of the Woods watershed. This was an increase of 1,504 from the 1980 census figure of 2,890 for the watershed.

Lake of the Woods and Roseau counties have Comprehensive Local Water Plans that include the Lake of the Woods Watershed.

Figure II-33. Lake of the Woods watershed major roads and railways Principal roadways in the Lake of the Woods Watershed include Minnesota Highways 11 and 313 along with Lake of the Woods County CSAH 2, 17, 11, 12 and 8 and Roseau County CSAH 12, 2, 5 and 13. The railways remaining in the watershed is the BN & CN railways.

Principal industries include

%g89 g%11 forest products harvesting and manufacturing, farming and tourism. Ros eau Lak e of the Wo ods %g11 g

i n The Lake of the Woods %g72 h c i h c o

o watershed is the fourth K largest watershed, in terms of size, in the Minnesota

Major Roads Railroads Watershed Boundary portion of the Rainy River Basin. It comprises 1,151 N 10 0 10 20 Miles square miles (736,244 acres). The watershed is located predominately in the Ecological Classification System’s Agassiz Lowlands. The entire watershed is located in the Minnesota ecoregion, Northern Minnesota Wetlands.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 65 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Lake of the Woods

The Lake of the Figure II-34. Lake of the Woods watershed administrative boundaries Woods watershed has a total of 524 river miles and 95 lakes. The watershed has 42 minor watersheds. s d o o u W

a e e h s t

o f o R

8 9 %g1 1 e

%g k a L

%g11 g n i 7 2 h c g% i h c o o K

Watershed Administrative Boundaries Red Lake Indian Reservation Major Roads DNR Scientific and Natur al Areas State Parks Luxemberg Peat land SNA Garden Island Stat e Rec. Area Norris Cam p Peat land SNA Zippel Bay N Pine & Curry I sl and SNA Winter Road Lake Peat land SNA 7 0 7 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 66 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Lake of the Woods

Figure II-34. Lake of the Woods watershed water resources and impoundments s g d n i o h o c i W h

c e o h t o

f K o

e k

Roseau Lake of the W oods a Beltrami L

Water Resources Sewage Disposal Pond or Filtration Bed Tailing Pond Marsh, wetland, swamp, bog Rapids Gravel Pit or Quarry filled with Water Stream or River Lake or Pond Submerged Area N

Streams and Ditches

Minor Watersheds 9 0 9 Miles

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 67 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Lake of the Woods

Table II-9. Lake of the Woods watershed public drinking water suppliers Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 1680006 Warroad M Warroad 1680006 Warroad M Warroad 1680006 Warroad M Warroad 1680006 Warroad M Warroad 1680011 AMG, Inc. N 111 Cedar Court Warroad 1680011 AMG, Inc. N 111 Cedar Court Warroad 1680012 Liberty Court Mobile Home Park N Warroad 1680012 Liberty Court Mobile Home Park N Warroad 1680014 Springsteel Island Supply N Warroad 5390005 St. Joseph's Catholic Church O Williams 5390008 Bethany Lutheran Church O 475 Zippel Ave. Williams 5390010 Assembly of God Tabernacle O Williams 5390018 Ladyslipper Park M Williams 5390019 Northern Farmers Coop Exchange I Hwy 11 Williams 5390024 Adrian's Resort I Baudette 5390025 Rock Harbor Lodge I 6760 Rocky Point RdNW Roosevelt 5390025 Rock Harbor Lodge I 6760 Rocky Point Rd. NW Roosevelt 5390025 Rock Harbor Lodge I 6760 Rocky Point Rd. NW Roosevelt 5390025 Rock Harbor Lodge I 6760 Rocky Point Rd. NW Roosevelt 5390025 Rock Harbor Lodge I 6760 Rocky Point Rd. NW Roosevelt 5390025 Rock Harbor Lodge I 6760 Rocky Point Rd. NW Roosevelt 5390025 Rock Harbor Lodge I 6760 Rocky Point Rd. NW Roosevelt 5390026 Ballard's Resort I 3314 Bur Oak Rd. NW Baudette 5390026 Ballard's Resort I 3314 Bur Oak Rd. NW Baudette 5390026 Ballard's Resort I 3314 Bur Oak Rd. NW Baudette 5390029 Long Point Resort O 7046 Resort Ln. NW Williams 5390029 Long Point Resort O 7046 Resort Ln. NW Williams 5390029 Long Point Resort O 7046 Resort Ln. NW Williams 5390030 Angle Inn Lodge I Oak Island Northwest of Baudette on 5390031 Morris Point Resort I Baudette LOW Co. #8 Northwest of Baudette on 5390031 Morris Point Resort I Baudette LOW Co. #8 Northwest of Baudette on 5390031 Morris Point Resort I Baudette LOW Co. #8 5390032 Bonnie Brae Club O Box 56, Lake of the Woods Oak Island 5390034 Northwest Angle Resort O Angle Inlet 5390034 Northwest Angle Resort O Angle Inlet Northwest of Baudette on 5390035 Riverview Resort O Baudette Hwy. 172 5390036 Jake's of The Northwest Angle I Angle Inlet 5390036 Jake's of The Northwest Angle I Angle Inlet 5390041 Ken-Mar-Ke Resort O 3147 Ken-Mar-Ke Dr. NW Baudette

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 68 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Lake of the Woods

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5390041 Ken-Mar-Ke Resort O 3147 Ken-Mar-Ke Dr. NW Baudette 5390042 Oak Island Resort O Oak Island 5390045 Randall's Resort O 3984 County Rd. 8 NW Baudette 5390046 Jaynes Bear River Camp O Angle Inlet 2 miles west of Zippel Bay 5390047 Zippel Bay Resort I Williams State Park 5390050 Cyrus Resort I 3298 Cyrus Road NW Baudette 5390050 Cyrus Resort I 3298 Cyrus Road NW Baudette 5390050 Cyrus Resort I 3298 Cyrus Road NW Baudette East End of Roosevelt, 5390053 Nite Hawk Club O Roosevelt Hwy. 11 5390054 Border View Lodge O 3409 State Hwy. 172 NW Baudette 5390054 Border View Lodge O 3409 State Hwy. 172 NW Baudette 5390054 Border View Lodge O 3409 State Hwy. 172 NW Baudette 5390054 Border View Lodge O 3409 State Hwy. 172 NW Baudette 5390056 Pilgram Congregational Church O Williams 5390057 Mount Carmel Lutheran Church O County Road 17 Roosevelt 5390058 Williams Senior Center O Williams 5390061 Williams Area Community Center M 350 Park Ave. Williams 5390063 Sportsman's Lodge O Route 1, Box 167 Baudette 5390066 Wheeler's Point Resort O 2605 River Ln. NW Baudette 5390067 Wigwam Lodge and Resort I 3502 Four Mile Bay Dr. Baudette 5390067 Wigwam Lodge and Resort I 3502 Four Mile Bay Dr. Baudette 5390074 Babler's Place Mobile Home Park I East of Rocky Point Resort Roosevelt 5390076 Williams City Park M Williams 5390077 Angle Outpost I 1 mile NW of Young's Bay Angle Inlet 5390077 Angle Outpost I 1 mile NW of Young's Bay Angle Inlet 5390077 Angle Outpost I 1 mile NW of Young's Bay Angle Inlet 5390077 Angle Outpost I 1 mile NW of Young's Bay Angle Inlet Northwest Angle along Lake 5390078 Carlson's Lake of The Woods Resort I Angle Inlet of The Woods NW of Baudette on Hwy. 5390083 River Bend Resort I Baudette 172 NW of Baudette on Hwy. 5390083 River Bend Resort I Baudette 172 5390088 Jennifer's Cafe O Hwy 11, Box 270b Williams 5390089 Lakeroad Lodge, Inc. I 3205 Bur Oak Rd. NW Baudette 5390090 Lake Trails Children's Camp O Oak Island 5390091 Municipal Liquor Store O Hwy 11 Williams 5390092 Norm's Camp O Box 54 Oak Island 5390093 Rocky Point I O Roosevelt 5390094 Rocky Point I / Rocky Point South II O Roosevelt 5390094 Rocky Point I / Rocky Point South II O Roosevelt 5390097 Sunset Lodge O 42 Main St. Oak Island 5390098 The Grey Stone O RR 1, Box 140 Williams

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 69 Section II - Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews - Lake of the Woods

Owner Facility ID Facility Name Type Address City 5390099 Wheeler's Point Resort O Baudette 5390101 Wildlife Bar O Box 585 Williams 5390102 Winter-Sett Park O Route 1, Box 101 Williams 5390103 Young's Bay Resort O 7600 Young's Bay Dr. NW Angle Inlet 5390105 Oak Island Resort I Oak Island 5390106 Bay Store Resort I Oak Island 5390108 Prothero's Post Resort I Northwest Angle Angle Inlet 5390108 Prothero's Post Resort I Northwest Angle Angle Inlet 5390109 Far North Rest-Angle Inlet O P.O. Box 751 Grand Forks 5390110 Pine Creek Pub O Angle Inlet 5390112 Jerry's Bar and Lounge I Young's Bay Drive Angle Inlet Blueberry Hill State Forest 5390115 S Hwy 11 West Williams Campground 5390116 Zippel Bay State Park Campground S County Hwy. 34 Williams 5390116 Zippel Bay State Park Campground S County Hwy. 34 Williams 5390116 Zippel Bay State Park Campground S County Hwy. 34 Williams 5390116 Zippel Bay State Park Campground S County Hwy. 34 Williams 5390116 Zippel Bay State Park Campground S County Hwy. 34 Williams 5390116 Zippel Bay State Park Campground S County Hwy. 34 Williams 5390116 Zippel Bay State Park Campground S County Hwy. 34 Williams 5390116 Zippel Bay State Park Campground S County Hwy. 34 Williams 5390117 Faunce State Forest Campground S County Road 2 Williams 5390118 Sage's Angle West, Inc. I Northwest Angle Angle Inlet 5390119 Angle Inlet School S Angle Inlet 5390121 Angle Inlet School O 5390122 St. Lukes Church I Angle Inlet 5390123 Wildwood Inn Bed and Breakfast I 3361 Cottonwood Rd. NW Baudette 5390124 Fish Family Restaurant I Williams 5390125 Walleye Retreat I 5680030 Springsteel Resort O HC02, Box 124 Warroad 5680030 Springsteel Resort O HC02, Box 124 Warroad 5680030 Springsteel Resort O HC02, Box 124 Warroad 5680139 North Star Court O Hwy 11 Warroad 5680144 Roosevelt Cafe O Roosevelt 5680145 Roosevelt Mobile Home Park O Roosevelt 5680152 Warroad Eagles 4195 O Hwy 11 W. Pine Ridge Est. Warroad 5680153 Warroad Estates Golf Course O HC02 Box 30 Warroad Roosevelt American 5680167 O N. Main St. Roosevelt Legion/Community Ct.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 70 Section II - Subsection 3 List of Sources

SUBSECTION 3 - LIST OF SOURCES

Waters, T.F. (1977). The Streams and Rivers of Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota Press. Reprinted with permission of the author.

Minnesota DNR Website. Ecological Classification System. (2000). [On-line]. Available: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/ebm/ecs/ index.html

Minnesota PCA Website. Lake Programs. (2000, January). [On-line]. Available: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/lakeprograms.html

U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service. Natural Resources Inventory. (1997). [On-line]. Available: http://www.mn.nrcs.usda.gov

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Surf your watershed – Watershed Information. (2000, September). [On-line]. Available: http://www.epa.gov/surf2/hucs (09030001 – 09030009)

U.S. Geological Survey. Surface Water Data for Minnesota. (2001, May). [On-line]. Available: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 71 Rainy River Basin Information Document

Section III Summary Water Management Data Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

SUBSECTION 1 - RAINY RIVER BASIN DATA OVERVIEW

I. WATER QUALITY In general, the water quality of the Rainy River Basin is considered to be good. Excluding lakes on the Impaired Waters List Figure III-1. Assessment for Aquatic Life because of mercury concerns, only two of the monitored river reaches and 26.7 one lake within the Basin do not meet the standards for 35.6 Fully Supporting aquatic life or swimming uses. In addition, the long Partial Supporting term trends for physical and Not Supporting chemical parameters, except nitrogen, indicate 172.2 imp roving water quality. Specific water quality information will be 234.5 river miles assessed of a total of 7,528 river miles in the Basin. discussed in detail in the individual watershed subsections.

Figure III-2. Assessment for Swimming

218.7

FS Swimming Not Assessed

7528

218.7 miles assessed of a total 7,528 river miles in the Basin

Figure III-3. Lake Assessment for Swimming

2%

Fully Supporting 37% Supporting, but Threatened 54% Partially Supporting Not Supporting

7%

896,115 lake acres assessed

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-1 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

A. STREAM ASSESSMENTS The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) prepares lake and stream assessments for Congress under Section 305(b) of the Clean Water Act, to understand the extent to which Minnesota waterbodies meet the goals of the Clean Water Act and attain state water quality standards; and to share the information with planners, citizens, and other partners in basin planning and watershed management activities. These assessments are a fundamental part of our State Water Quality Management Program.

Two major goals of the Clean Water Act, “Fishable and Swimmable” waters are assessed in terms of Aquatic Life use support and Swimming - Recreation use support.

1. Rivers and Streams - Use Support Assessment Methodology How do we measure “Water Quality?” One way is to look at standards or expectations.

Water quality standards consist of two parts: beneficial uses for a waterbody and water quality criteria to protect and support those uses.

Beneficial uses are the desirable uses that water quality should support, legally defined in Minnesota Rules, Chapter 7050, to include domestic consumption, aquatic life, recreation (swimming), agriculture and wildlife, industrial consumption, and aesthetics. The level of use support describes the quality of the waterbody with respect to its designated uses. A use impairment occurs when a waterbody cannot support its designated uses fully. Existing and threatened use impairments are considered water quality problems and may require corrective or preventive action.

Numeric water quality criteria establish the minimum chemical and physical parameters required to support a beneficial use. Physical and chemical numeric criteria may set maximum concentrations of pollutants, acceptable ranges of physical parameters, and minimum concentrations of parameters such as dissolved oxygen.

B. SELECTED WATER QUALITY STANDARDS Chapter 7050 classifies all waters for multiple uses. Class 1: Domestic consumption. Class 2: Aquatic life and recreation Class 3: Industrial consumption. Class 4: Agriculture and wildlife. Class 5: Aesthetics and navigation. Class 6: Other uses Class 7: Limited resource value waters. For example, all trout waters are classified as Class 1B, 2A, 3B, 3C, 4A, 4B, 5 and 6 waters. All wetlands are classified as Class 2D, 3D, 4C, 5 and 6 waters. All surface waters of the state that are not specifically listed in Chapter 7050 and are not wetlands, which includes most lakes and streams in Minnesota, are classified as Class 2B, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5 and 6 waters. Since all waters carry multiple use classes, all the water quality standards for each of the classes apply.

If more that one use class has standards for the same pollutant, the most stringent standard is used.

Numerical water quality standards are assigned to each use class to protect that beneficial use. For surface waters not protected for drinking, most of the applicable standards are associated with Class 2, fisheries and recreation. In general, if the Class 2 standards are met other uses such as industrial and agricultural uses are also protected. Chapter 7050 includes a method to develop site-specific criteria to address pollutants for which numerical standards have not been adopted.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-2 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

Water quality standards for all use classifications are found in Minn. R. 7050.0220 and 7050.0221 through 7050.0227. Water Use Classification Rules may be accessed at: http://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/arule/7050.

The following table addresses only a limited number of standards.

Table III-1. Selected Water Quality Standards Designated Uses Cool or warm Limited Trout water fish & Resource Substance or Drinking waters aquatic life Wetlands Value Characteristic (1B / 1C) (2A) (2B, 2C) (2D) (7) Dissolved oxygen 7.0 (daily 5.0 (daily 5.0 1 1.0 (daily mg/L minimum) minimum) average) pH - Standard Units 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 maintain 6.0-8.5 background Temperature no material 862 (daily avg.) maintain degrees F increase 902 (daily avg.) background Fecal coliform 2003 2003 2003 10003 orgs/100ml 4004 20004 20004 20004 Ammonia, un-ionized 0.016 0.04 0.04 mg/L Nitrate Nitrogen 10 mg/L Turbidity 5 / 25 10 25 25 NTU Specific Conductance 10005 10005 10005 10005 umhos/cm Sulfates (wild rice 105 105 105 105 present) mg/L Mercury 2 0.0069 0.0069 0.0069 ug/L

1 Dissolved oxygen: If background is less than 5.0 mg/L as a daily minimum, maintain background. 2 5 degrees F above natural in streams and 3 degrees F above natural in lakes, based on monthly average of maximum daily temperature, except in no case shall it exceed the daily average temperature of 86 degrees F (Class 2B) 90 degrees F (Class 2C) 3 Not to exceed as a geometric mean of not less than 5 samples per calendar month, March-October (May-October for Class 7) or 4 No more than ten percent of samples per calendar month can individually exceed. 5 Standard applicable for Class 4 Agriculture and wildlife use classification.

The following additional standards and requirements apply to all Class 2 waters. (Minn. R. 7050.0222 Subp.7): For all classes of aquatic life and recreation waters, the aquatic habitat, which includes the waters of the state and stream bed, shall not be degraded in any material manner, there shall be no material increase in undesirable slime growths or aquatic plants, including algae, nor shall there be any significant increase in harmful pesticide or other residues in the waters, sediments, and aquatic flora and fauna; the normal fishery and lower aquatic biota upon which it is dependent and the use thereof shall not be seriously impaired or endangered, the species composition shall not be altered materially, and the propagation or migration of the

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-3 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview fish and other biota normally present shall not be prevented or hindered by the discharge of any sewage, industrial waste, or other wastes to the waters.

1. Outstanding Resource Value Waters Waters of the state with high water quality, wilderness characteristics, unique scientific or ecological significance, exceptional recreational value, or other special qualities that warrant stringent protection from pollution. To preserve the value of these special waters the MPCA prohibits or stringently controls new or expanded discharges to such waters (Minn. R. 7050.0180).

Prohibited discharges: New or expanded discharges are not allowed to the following waters that are within or to (Minn. R. 7050.0180 subp.3): · Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness · Voyageurs National Park · Department of Natural Resources designated scientific and natural areas (as listed in Minn. R. 7050.0470) · Federal or state wild river segments

Restricted discharges: New or expanded discharges that result in an increased pollutant loading are not allowed unless there is not a prudent and feasible alternative to the discharge. If such a discharge is allowed, the MPCA shall restrict the discharge to the extent necessary to preserve the existing high quality, or to preserve the wilderness, scientific, recreational, or other special characteristics that make the water an ORVW (Minn. R. 7050.0180 subp.6): · Lake Trout lakes (as listed in Minn. R. 7050.0470) · Calcareous fens (as listed in Minn. R. 7050.0470)

2. Nondegradation for All Waters The purpose of the nondegradation provision of the rules is to protect all Minnesota waters from significant degradation from point and nonpoint sources and to maintain existing water uses, aquatic habitats, and the level of water quality necessary to protect these uses. Additional review under nondegradation provisions of MPCA rules is required for discharges that meet the definition of a "significant discharge" as stated in Minn. R. 7050.0185 subpart 2.G. (1) through (3). "Significant discharge" means: (1) a new discharge of sewage, industrial, or other wastes that expands by more than 200,000 gpd to any water other than a class 7, limited resource value water; or (2) an expanded discharge of sewage, industrial, or other wastes that expands by more than 200,000 gpd to any water other than a class 7, limited resource value water; or (3) a new or expanded discharge containing any toxic pollutant at a mass loading rate likely to increase the concentration of the toxicant in the receiving water by greater than one percent over the baseline quality.

That part of the rule which discusses additional requirements states: “In making the decision, the agency shall consider the importance of economic and social development and impacts of the project, the impact of the discharge on the quality of the receiving water, the characteristics of the receiving water, the cumulative impacts of all new or expanded discharges on the receiving water, the costs of additional treatment beyond what is required of non-significant dischargers, and other matters as shall be brought to the agency’s attention.”

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-4 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

The permittee is required to submit information that demonstrates how and why the public benefits of the project exceed the public costs associated with the anticipated environmental degradation caused by the project. Such a demonstration should include a description of the jobs, taxes, recreational opportunities, and other impacts that are realized as a result of the proposed project and how these benefits are related to the expected adverse impact on the environment.

3. Waterbody Delineation Assessments of use support in Minnesota are made on individual waterbodies. The waterbody unit used for river system assessments is the river reach. Minnesota uses the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Reach File 1 (RF1) river reach numbering system, augmenting it to include reaches not in RF1. A river reach is typically less than 20 miles in length and extends from one tributary river to another. RF1 reaches may be divided further when there is a change in the use classification (as defined in Minn. R. Ch. 7050) within a reach or when there is a significant morphological feature within the reach, such as a dam. Each waterbody is identified by a unique code (WBID), comprised of the USGS 8-digit Hydrologic Unit Code, plus the 3-digit RF1 or MPCA segment number. It is for these specific reaches that the data are evaluated, as described below.

C. AQUATIC LIFE USE SUPPORT Assessments of aquatic life use support are conducted to determine if the waters are of a quality to support the aquatic life that would be found in the stream under the most natural conditions. Three types of data are used in the assessments: water chemistry data, biological, and habitat information, and a survey of local resource managers.

The following guidelines are used to evaluate each of the data sources for a reach, and to combine them when more than one type of information is available.

D. WATER CHEMISTRY DATA To evaluate chemical and physical parameters of water quality, the MPCA uses data and sampling site information that are stored in the EPA STORET data system by the MPCA and others. Ten years of data are used where available, based on water year, believing that the time period is sufficient in most cases to pick up impairments under a variety of climatic and flow conditions.

Samples are evaluated against water quality standards set forth in Minnesota Rules Ch. 7050, as minimum requirements needed to support aquatic life. Determinations of use support are based on the ‘frequency of exceedance’ of the “chronic” standards applicable for a given water class.

Conventional parameters include dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and turbidity. At least ten samples from a reach are needed during the ten-year time frame for a parameter to be evaluated. For each parameter evaluated, levels of support are then defined as: Fully supporting - fewer than 10 percent of samples exceed the standard. Partially supporting - 10 percent to 25 percent of the samples exceed the standard. Not supporting - more than 25 percent of samples exceed the standard.

Toxics include un-ionized ammonia, chloride, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, nickel, selenium, zinc, and mercury. At least five samples are needed for a given toxicant to be

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-5 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview evaluated. For each toxicant evaluated, levels of support are then defined, according to EPA guidance, as: Fully Supporting - not more than 2.8 percent of samples exceed the standard (not more than 1 violation in 3 years of monthly sampling). Not Supporting - more than 2.8 percent of observations exceed the standard.

The primary source of mercury to the Rainy River Basin’s waterways is atmospheric deposition. This problem is being addressed through a statewide mercury Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) initiative.

E. NONPOINT SOURCE INDICATORS Total phosphorous (TP), nitrate/nitrite, total suspended solids (TSS), and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) are evaluated as indicators of nonpoint sources of pollution. In contrast to the support parameters described above, Minnesota has not established legal standards for the indicators. However, the MPCA has developed ecoregion expectations for these indicators from data collected at a small set of least impacted sites. At least ten observations are needed for an indicator to be evaluated, and a reach is considered to be “Threatened” if more than 10 percent of the observations of an indicator exceed the ecoregion expectation.

1. Preliminary Assessment Based on Physical/Chemical Parameters of Water Quality For each reach, the evaluations described above are combined into a preliminary assessment of the waterbody’s ability to support aquatic life. The level of support is assumed to be no greater than the support provided by the weakest of the elements measured. Therefore, the preliminary assessments are defined as follows: Not Supporting - At least one of the conventional or toxics parameters indicates non- support. Partially Supporting- The worst parameter indicates partial support. Supporting but Threatened - Conventional and toxics show full support, but threat indicated by nonpoint sources of pollution. Fully Supporting - All measures show full support.

Table III-2. Ecoregion Characteristics Parameter Northern lakes and Forests Northern Minnesota Wetlands Conductivity 197 193 pH 7.6 7.7 TSS 4.9 17.1 T. Ammonia 0.15 0.17

NO2 + NO3 0.08 0.06 T. Phosphorus 0.04 0.08 Fecal Coliform 40 70 Temperature (C) 9.5 10.7 Turbidity 4 9.4

BOD 5 1.3 1.7 Mean annual stream values based on 1970 – 1992 data

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F. BIOLOGICAL/HABITAT DATA The MPCA conducted fish community assessments for rivers and streams in the St. Croix, Red River, and Minnesota River basins. The Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) and a regional reference site approach were used to evaluate fish communities and develop biological criteria. Field investigations and IBI metric development were conducted in cooperation with numerous federal and state agencies.

The typical time frame or index period for sampling fish communities was during normal to low flows in the summer (mid-June through September) and fall. A collection was only used to assess that portion of the reach that has similar physical/chemical characteristics.

The IBI is a composite index , evaluating 10 to12 characteristics of a fish community, with a total possible score of 12 to 60 points. IBI classes were determined in relation to the best sites in the basin or ecoregion. “Fair” (30) was considered to be the lowest acceptable condition in terms of meeting an aquatic life or biological criteria. Therefore the use support levels were defined as: Fully Supporting: IBI score 30 or above Not supporting: IBI score below 30 Partially supporting: IBI scores disparate between 2 portions of a larger reach

Development of the IBI for the Rainy River Basin is scheduled to begin in 2007.

G. AQUATIC LIFE USE SUPPORT - HOW WE COMBINE THE INFORMATION SOURCES Some waterbodies had more than one category of data available for assessing use support. When this occurred, the judgment was based on the strongest information possible, according to the following simple hierarchy: Biology was considered to be the strongest indicator of a waterbody’s ability to support aquatic life, therefore IBI evaluations took precedence over any other preliminary assessments for a reach. In the absence of biological measures, support levels were based on physical and chemical parameters of water quality.

H. SWIMMING USE SUPPORT Assessments for swimming use support are conducted to determine if the waters are of a quality to support primary body contact. Swimmable use was determined based on instream monitoring of fecal coliform bacteria.

I. INSTREAM MONITORING In Minnesota, water quality standards for primary body contact apply from March 1 to October 31. The MPCA uses data collected according to EPA guidelines for fecal coliform monitoring using the membrane filter technique.

Ten years of data are used, where available, based on water year. At least 10 samples are needed for the data to be evaluated. To approximate the requirements of the fecal coliform standard as written in Minnesota rules, at least five observations for a month (all years combined) are needed to determine a geometric mean for that month. All data and site information are stored in EPA’s STORET data system. Use support categories are defined as follows:

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1. Fully Supporting The geometric mean for each month (all years combined) did not exceed 200 orgs/100 ml, and fewer than 10 percent of all observations for the ten-year period exceeded 2000 orgs/100 ml.

2. Partially Supporting The geometric mean for 1 or 2 months (all years combined) exceeded 200 orgs/100 ml, or 10 to 25 percent of all observations for the ten-year period exceeded 2000 orgs/100 ml.

3. Not Supporting The geometric mean for 3 or more months (all years combined) exceeded 200 orgs/100 ml, or more than 25 percent of all observations for the ten-year period exceeded 2000 orgs/100 ml.

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Table III-3. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Water Quality Criteria - Aquatic Life Use Support in Rivers and Streams Conventional: Dissolved oxygen, pH, Turbidity n > 10 observations for each parameter Use Support - Criteria for each parameter evaluated Fully Supporting (FS) - The standard is exceeded in fewer than 10% of the observations. Partially Supporting (PS) - The standard is exceeded 10% to 25% of the time Not Supporting (NS) - The standard is exceeded in more than 25% of the observations. Toxics: Ammonia, Chloride, Arsenic, Cadmium, Chromium, Copper, Lead, Nickel, Selenium, Zinc (n > 5 observations for each parameter) Use Support Criteria for each parameter evaluated Fully Supporting (FS) The standard is exceeded in fewer than 2.8% of the measurements. (Not more than 1 violation in 3 years of monthly sampling.) Not Supporting (NS) The standard is exceeded in 2.8% or more of the measurements. NPS: Total phosphorus, Nitrite/nitrate, Total suspended solids, Biochemical oxygen demand (n > 10) Use Support - Criteria for each parameter evaluated (nonpoint source pollution indicators) No impact - The ecoregion expectation is exceeded in fewer than 10% of the observations. Ecoregion Criteria - The ecoregion expectation is exceeded in 10% or more of the exceeded observations.

Preliminary Assessment, based on physical and chemical parameters of water quality: Aquatic Life Use Support - Criteria for each waterbody (river reach) Fully Supporting (Good) – FS - Parameters measured against WQ Standards are Fully Supporting; NPS ok Partially Supporting (Fair) – PS - The worst parameter measured against WQ Standards is Partially Supporting Not Supporting (Poor) – NS - At least 1 parameter measured against WQ Standards is Not Supporting Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI): Aquatic Life Use Support - Criteria (evaluated against regional expectations) Fully Supporting (S) - The biological community is in fair or better condition, not significantly altered from what would be expected for the region under natural conditions. IBI score of 30 or above. Not Supporting (NS) - Indications of a poor or very poor biological community, severely modified from what would be expected under natural conditions. IBI score less than 30. Partially Supporting (PS) - Disparate levels of support between different portions of a larger reach Partially Supporting (ps) - Equal number of surveys identify the waterbody as Threatened vs. Impaired Determination of Use Support, based on hierarchy of data sources: Aquatic Life Use Support - Criteria for each waterbody (river reach) Full Support - IBI shows support for aquatic life. If no IBI, physical/chemical parameters are fully supporting (FS) Partially Supporting - Partial support based on mixed IBI findings (PS) - Partial support based on physical/chemical parameters (PS) Not Supporting - IBI shows nonsupport (NS) - If no IBI, physical/chemical parameters show nonsupport (NS) - Physical/chemical parameters - evaluated against state Water Quality standards (Minnesota Rules, Chapter 7050). - Sampling by MPCA and cooperators. Data stored in EPA’s STORET data system. - Nonpoint source indicators (NPS) - evaluated against least impacted sites in the ecoregion.

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J. TOTAL MAXIMUM DAILY LOADS (TMDLs) AND MINNESOTA'S WATERWAYS Minnesota’s rivers, streams and lakes are a valuable resource for the state. Not only do they provide great natural beauty, they supply the water necessary for recreation, industry, agriculture and aquatic life. The MPCA is the state agency responsible for protecting Minnesota’s water quality.

A new approach to help solve the old problem of water pollution is developing Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs). The federal Clean Water Act requires states to adopt water quality standards to protect the nation’s waters. These standards define how much of a pollutant can be in a surface and/or ground water while still allowing it to meet its designated uses, such as for drinking water, fishing, swimming, irrigation or industrial purposes. Many of Minnesota’s water resources cannot currently meet their designated uses because of pollution problems from a combination of point and nonpoint sources.

For each pollutant that causes a water body to fail to meet state water quality standards, the federal Clean Water Act requires the MPCA to conduct a TMDL study. A TMDL study identifies both point and nonpoint sources of each pollutant that fails to meet water quality standards. Water quality sampling and computer modeling determine how much each pollutant source must reduce its contribution to assure the water quality standard is met. Rivers and streams may have several TMDLs, each one determining the limit for a different pollutant.

The Clean Water Act requires states to publish, every two years, an updated list of streams and lakes that are not meeting their designated uses because of excess pollutants. The list, known as the 303(d) list, is based on violations of water quality standards and is organized by river basin. A number of lawsuits dealing with TMDL development have been filed in the United States. The EPA is under court order to establish TMDLs in at least 11 states if these states do not do so themselves. There is currently no such lawsuit in Minnesota. However, if Minnesota does not comply with federal requirements to do TMDLs, a lawsuit and subsequent requirements to complete the studies are likely. If that happens, there’s a good chance we will not like what is decided for us, because the federal TMDLs will not contain local input. However, beyond the federal requirements, there are many reasons for us to move forward with the development of TMDLs. Foremost is the need to clean up our rivers, streams and lakes to maximize their contributions to the state’s economy and quality of life and to protect them as a resource for future generations.

Minnesota’s published list includes about 100 areas where TMDLs need to be established. The list of Minnesota’s impaired waters includes streams throughout the state, including segments of the Mississippi, Red, Long Prairie, Minnesota, Chippewa, Grindstone and Whitewater Rivers. It also includes a number of lakes in northeastern Minnesota affected by excess mercury. By establishing TMDLs in these areas, the MPCA will be able to take steps to regain designated uses in these waters.

1. TMDL Process Steps [MPCA lead staff listed in brackets] a. Stakeholder Involvement [Basin Coordinator, PCA Watershed Project Manager] · Outline water quality problem; answer questions, in regional meetings/presentations. · Establish local team (or use existing one) to stay with the project · Invite local ideas on approaches to solving the problem

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· Involve local people in data collection, plan development and review. b. Data Collection [PCA Watershed Project Manager, Consultant*, in consultation with TMDL Modeling Coordinator] · Use TMDL “grid” or other appropriate format · Develop Source inventories · Conduct water quality monitoring to identify contributing areas · Other data – geologic, land use, etc. c. Analyze and Interpret Data [TMDL Modeling Coordinator, PCA Watershed Project Manager, and/or Consultant*] · Identify sub-watersheds contributing disproportionately to problem · Estimate “loads” or relative contributions by sector d. Show Initial Results to Local Team [PCA Watershed Project Manager and others as needed] e. Show High-loading Watersheds / Sectors · Discuss broad load-reduction scenarios · Discuss specific site issues (unsewered communities, unpermitted feedlots, poor manure management sites, etc.) f. Run Scenarios on Different Approaches to Achieving Designated Uses [PCA Watershed Project Manager, Consultant* TMDL Modeling Coordinator] g. Show Scenario Results to Team [PCA Watershed Project Manager and others as needed] · Show Scenario Results/Discuss Alternatives h. Develop Implementation Strategy [All, with Team] · State Load-Reduction Goals by Sector · Describe Strategies for Reaching Goals i. Send TMDL and Implementation Strategy to EPA [TMDL Coordinator] · EPA Review · Revisions if any · EPA Approval j. Implement Strategy · Focus MPCA programs on target areas/sites · Seek funding

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-11 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview k. Monitor Progress · Track progress on the land (BMP implementation, permits, etc.) · Monitor water quality to determine when goals are achieved. · If not achieved on schedule, return to #2 and repeat process. l. If Data Support, De-list the Impaired Reach *Use of consultants for data collection, data analysis and interpretation, or public meeting facilitation is at the discretion of the PCA Watershed Project Manager and local watershed team members.

K. MONITORING PROGRAMS Figure III-4. Monitoring programs in the Rainy River Basin

$ Roseau ÊÚÊÚ ÊÚ #ÊÚ $ Lake of ÊÚ ÊÚ the Woods $

$ Beltrami Koochiching $

$$ $ $ $ $ $$$ $ Cook $ $ $$$ ÊÚ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$ $$$$$ $ $ %$ $$$ $ $$ $ $$ $ Lake Itasca St. Louis

% Cle an W ater Partner ship Major Watersheds Little Fork River N $ Cit iz en Lake Monitoring Sites Rainy River Big F ork River Rap id Riv er # Cit iz en Str eam Monitor ing Sites Vermilion Riv er Rainy River - R ainy Lak e Rainy River - Baudette ÊÚ Milestone Monitor ing Sites Rainy River - Manitou Lak e of the W oods 20 0 20 40 Miles

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1. Stream Monitoring a. Minnesota Milestone Monitoring Program Milestone Sites are samples monthly for ten months of two non-consecutive years in a five-year period for each major basin in the state. The sites in the Rainy River Basin are next scheduled to be sampled in 2003 and 2005.

Milestone Parameter List: · Ammonia · Dissolved Oxygen · Turbidity · pH · Chloride · Specific Conductance

If streamflow records are available for the site, the following parameters are also sampled: · Chlorophyll a · Total Suspended Solids · Total Phosphorus · BOD b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) Minnesota streams are important for recreation, transportation, and as a source of clean water for many plants and animals... including humans! The Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) combines the knowledge and commitment of interested citizens with the technical expertise and resources of the MPCA to develop a more comprehensive statewide network for monitoring our state's 92,000 miles of streams. Any person or group willing to devote a small amount of time and energy to conduct simple stream checks on a regular basis can become a volunteer monitor.

Table III-4. CSMP Parameters Measure Measurement Tool What it Tells Us Transparency tube - clear, 60 cm-long The clarity of stream water: how much Transparency tube with colored disk on the bottom for sediment, algae, and other materials measuring depth at which disk is visible are suspended in the water. Potential causes of low transparency Appearance Observation of stream-water color readings (e.g., sediment, algae, bog stain). Recreational Visual assessment on a scale of 1-5 The perceived suitability of a stream Suitability (1=Very Good, 5=Very Poor) for fishing, swimming or boating. How rainfall events and runoff affect *Precipitation Rain gauge stream transparency, appearance and stage. Visual estimate (Low, Normal, High) Water level: If changes in water level, OR Stream stage which may occur during rainfall events, Measurement from benchmark above the affect transparency and appearance. stream (bridge or culvert) to water surface *precipitation is monitored daily

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About once a week during the summer, volunteers visit an established spot on a nearby stream and measure the following:

Information Provided by CSMP Monitoring During rainfall events, stream transparency can significantly decrease as sediments are delivered to streams in runoff. In addition, sediments may carry other water pollutants to streams. CSMP records of rainfall amount, stream stage estimates, and transparency readings can tell us where runoff may be contributing sediment and other pollutants to streams. Note, on the graph below, how transparency decreased immediately following a rainfall of approximately two inches in mid-June:

Uses for CSMP Data Changes over time in transparency, appearance and recreational suitability can serve as yardsticks to measure improvements or declines in water quality. Individuals and organizations can use CSMP data to detect trends in water quality and help decide if additional assessments or actions are needed to protect and improve water quality. Some potential projects for CSMP monitoring include:

· Before and after a change in upstream land use: If a land management change is planned near a stream or river, select a monitoring site just downstream of where the change will take place. Monitor before and after the change occurs to detect any potential effects on the stream. · Seasonal storm monitoring: Compare CSMP data for rainfall events during spring, summer, and fall to background or baseflow (low flow) conditions. Keep track of upstream land management practices or crop status during this period. · Upstream and downstream of a water quality improvement project: Monitor a site upstream, and a site downstream of a stormwater retention pond or stream vegetative buffer (fenced area along the edges of a stream) to evaluate its effectiveness at reducing sediment inputs. c. River Watch River Watch is a citizen-based ambient water quality monitoring program affiliated with Minnesota Rivers Council. It has ties to the national program offered by River Network. Data is collected monthly by participating high schools. Sampling and analysis follows professional methods and QAQC. Results are reported to local and state government.

2. Lake Monitoring a. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessment Program The Lake Water Quality Monitoring Project is an assessment of 2,235 lakes in Minnesota as required by the Federal Water Quality Act of 1987. In addition to assessing whether the lake supports swimming as required by the federal act, the annual assessment includes information on the lakes’ trophic state (Carlson’s TSI) and summer Secchi readings.

There are 318 lakes assessed for swimming in the Rainy River Basin. Of those assessed, 232 are ranked as fully supporting, 43 are ranked as supporting but threatened, 34 are ranked as partially supporting and 9 are ranked as not supporting.

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Lake Assessment Program (LAP) The Lake Assessment Program (LAP) is a cooperative study of a lake involving MPCA staff and local citizens, such as a lake association or municipality. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Soil and Water Conservation Districts also cooperate on many of the studies. LAP studies serve to characterize a lake's condition and provide some basic information regarding the interaction of the lake and its watershed.

Groups that are interested in working with the MPCA on a lake assessment project fill out a questionnaire that briefly describes their organization and perceived water-quality problem in the lake.

A detailed individual report is written for each LAP project. These reports provide valuable information for the local group, the MPCA, and others interested in protecting or improving the quality of lake. In the future, LAP studies will complement the Clean Water Partnership and Clean Lakes Programs by providing information necessary for selecting projects and communicating ideas regarding lake protection and restoration. More than 150 lake assessment projects have been completed through 1998. Each year approximately 12 to 15 lakes are evaluated.

Lake Water Quality Assessment Reports The LAP was developed in 1985 in response to requests from lake associations who were interested in cooperatively assessing the condition of their lake. Detailed reports on lake and watershed condition and trends are developed as a part of these studies.

Since 1985 over 160 LAP studies have been conducted. In addition to complete LAP studies, the MPCA conducts a variety of other lake-monitoring (regional and trend studies) efforts that result in briefer reports. These including the following:

· Trend reports are often follow-up studies to previously conducted LAP or other studies. Their primary focus is to assess trends in lake condition over time. · Notes reports as they are referred to are brief LAP-like reports often prepared in response to lakeshore residents' concerns or as a part of oral presentations. These are brief reports that focus primarily on the current trophic status of the lake. · Status reports are brief reports that serve to characterize the trophic status and trends of several lakes in a county.

The following provides a listing of all available LAP and related reports sorted by county. The date, type of report, and whether the report is available on the site is noted. Digital copies of reports are available for many of the studies conducted since about 1995. Hard copy reports are available for review at the MPCA, St. Paul office library. Copies may also be available at the MPCA regional offices and/or DNR area fishery offices. b. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) The Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) is a cooperative program combining the technical resources of the MPCA and the volunteer efforts of citizens statewide who collect water-quality data on their lakes. The program greatly multiplies the MPCA’s water-quality sampling capabilities, while volunteers learn about the water quality of lakes in their region and the causes and effects of lake pollution.

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CLMP volunteers collect water transparency data using a Secchi disk at designated locations. Data is collected about once per week during the summer. The volunteer lowers the disk until it is no longer visible and notes the depth from markings on the rope. The disk is then lowered a little further and then raised back up until it is just visible. The second depth reading is averaged with the first, and the final number is recorded on a data sheet. At the end of the summer, volunteers send their data sheets to the MPCA to be compiled with other water quality data.

Water transparency is a quick and easy measurement that tells scientists a lot about a lake's water quality. First it indicates the amount of light penetration into a lake. Second, Secchi transparency provides an indirect measure of the amount of suspended material in the water, which in many cases is an indication of the amount of algae in the water. Long-term transparency monitoring by CLMP volunteers helps scientists detect signs of degradation to a lake. Generally, the sooner water-quality problems are detected, the easier and less expensive it is to restore the lake to its previous state.

3. General Water Quality Monitoring Programs a. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) The Clean Water Partnership (CWP) was created in 1987 to address pollution associated with runoff from agricultural and urban areas. The program provides local governments with resources to protect and improve lakes, streams and ground water. CWP projects begin with a desire by a local government to improve a water resource that has been polluted by land-use- related activities. Local leadership and expertise, combined with technical and financial resources from the state, create an effective program for controlling pollution and restoring water quality.

CWP funding for local water-quality projects is awarded in two phases. In the first, or resource investigation phase, a diagnostic study and implementation plan are completed. As part of the diagnostic study, local sponsors work with the MPCA to collect data and information on the water resource and its drainage area. This information is used to identify pollution problems and their causes and define water-quality goals and objectives. The final step of the resource investigation phase is the development of an implementation plan that identifies the combination of education, management practices and other activities need to protect or restore water quality. The second phase, called project implementation, involves putting in place the best management practices (BMPs) identified in the first phase. BMPs may include sedimentation ponds, manure management, conservation tillage, terraces, new ordinances, wetland restoration, fertilizer management, education or other methods designed to reduce nonpoint- source pollution. Projects may be completed either partially or completely through the CWP program. To be eligible for CWP funding, the entire project must meet program requirements. This means that if the project sponsor intends to seek CWP funding for later phases (e.g., implementation), the MPCA must first approve a diagnostic study and an implementation plan.

Mercury Study A study to monitor mercury concentration in precipitation is currently underway in Voyageurs National Park and in the Superior National Forest near Ely. This effort is being jointly conducted by Superior National Forest, Voyageurs National Park, U.S. Geological Survey and MPCA staff. Data from this study will be included in the 2006 BID update.

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L. FISH CONSUMPTION ADVISORIES IN THE RAINY RIVER BASIN 1. Introduction The Minnesota Fish Contaminants Monitoring Program in the DNR (DNR) tests fish tissue from selected lakes and streams for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and mercury in fish. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) issues an annual fish consumption advisory for tested waterbodies based on the concentrations of these chemicals in fish fillets. This section summarizes the methods used for site selection and issuance of consumption advice as well as the number of consumption advisories issued for lakes and stream reaches in the Rainy River Basin. This summary does not provide waterbody-specific advice, nor does it specify the levels of restriction (if any) for the waterbodies. Consumption advice is specific to the species and size of fish caught, the time frame over which the angler is eating sport fish (vacationing, seasonal or year-round) and the sensitivity of the fish consumer to contaminant exposures. The Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory should be consulted for fish-specific and consumer-specific fish consumption advice.

2. Site Selection The DNR collects fish from approximately 100 sites each year, 90 percent of which are lakes and 10 percent are rivers. When possible, fish are collected to represent predator, pan and rough fish. All samples are analyzed for mercury, and approximately 30 percent of the samples are analyzed for PCBs (DNR, 1994). The fish tested for PCBs are typically the larger predator fish and fish that have a high fat content.

Sites are chosen for fish testing based on recommendations from DNR area managers and state and federal agencies. These recommendations are based on potential contamination, high fishery usage, citizen concerns, lack of current data or special studies. The remaining sites are chosen for geographical representation. Due to the non-random nature of site selection, the data collected for the Fish Consumption Advisory may be biased and are not meant to be representative of Minnesota’s water quality or fishability. The data may over-represent impacted waters, and this summary should be read with this in mind.

3. Consumption Advice MDH issues a fish consumption advisory each spring that is based on the concentration of mercury and PCBs in fish collected from Minnesota lakes and streams. The fish consumption advice for mercury contaminated fish is based on the risk of neurological damage due to mercury exposure. The consumption advice for PCB contaminated fish is based on fetal and infant developmental risks associated with PCB exposure (McCann, 1997). The consumption advice summarized in this report is the advice provided for the general, year-round angler who consumes sport fish three or more months of the year. In the Fish Consumption Advisory, the advice for women of childbearing age, pregnant or nursing women and young children is more restrictive than the advice for the general fish consumer, while the advice for the seasonal or vacationing fish consumer is less restrictive (MDH, 2000). Table III-5 shows the total mercury and total PCB concentrations in fish fillets that trigger the different levels of fish consumption advice for the general, year-round consumer.

4. Advisory Summary A summary of the number of sites tested and the current number of advisories due to elevated mercury and/or PCBs is provided in Table III-6. 242 lakes and 5 river reaches in the Rainy River Basin have been tested for the Fish Contaminants Program. 98 percent of the lakes and 80 percent of the river reaches tested in this basin have advice to the general consumer to limit

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-17 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview consumption of fish to some degree. 100 percent of the sites with consumption advisories have advice to limit consumption due to elevated mercury. In addition, 2.5 percent of all lakes tested and 20 percent of all rivers tested have consumption advisories due to elevated PCBs. The individual lakes and stream reaches that have been tested for fish contaminants in the Rainy River Basin are listed in Table III-6.

Table III-5. Chemical concentrations in fish fillets (ug/g wet weight)

Mercury (µg/g) < 0.16 0.16 - 0.65 0.66 - 2.8 >2.8

Meal Advice - unlimited 1 meal/week 1 meal/month Do not eat

PCBs (µg/g) < 0.05 0.05 - 0.2 0.21 - 1.0 1.1 - 1.9 > 1.9

Meal Advice - unlimited 1 meal/week 1 meal/month 1/2 meal/month do not eat

Chemical concentrations in fish fillets that trigger the different levels of fish consumption advice for the general, year round (³ 3 months) sport fish consumer. One meal is assumed to be 0.5 pounds of uncooked fish per 154 pounds of human body weight (McCann, 1997).

Table III-6. Summary Rainy River Basin water bodies listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH 2000) Consumption Advice Based on # Sites Tested Mercury PCBs Both No Restriction lakes 230 226 6 6 4 stream reaches 5 4 1 1 1

The table lists the number of lakes and stream reaches assessed for fish consumption advice, the number of sites with advice to restrict consumption due to mercury only, PCBs only or both Hg and PCBs and the number of tested sites with no advice to restrict consumption.

M. Groundwater Information 1. Overview of State Groundwater Figure III-5 illustrates the location of ground water Figure III-5. Sampling Locations sampling points. Table III-7 summarizes the

# # # # number of samples collected from each basin. # # ### # # # # # # # # # # # # # # Table III-8 shoes median concentrations of each # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # ## analyte, but basin. Table III-9 shows maximum # # # ## # # # # # # ## # # # # # ## # # # ## # # # # # # # # # # # # ## # # ## # # ## # # # # ## ## # # # # # concentrations. Median and maximum # # # # # # # # # ## # # # # ## # ## ## ## # # # # # ## # # ## ## # # # # # # # concentrations shown in Tables III-8 and III-9 # # # ## ## # # # # # # # # ## # # ## # # ## # # # ## # # # ## # # # ## ## # # # # # # # ## # # ### ## ## # # # # # ### # # represent data compiled for all aquifers within a ## # # ## # # # # # ## # # # # ## # # ## ## # # # ## # # ## # # # ## ## # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # ## ## # # ## # # basin. Tables III-10 and III-11 illustrate the number # # # # # ## ## # ## ## ## # # # # # # # # # # # # ### ## # # # ## ## # # # # ## # # # ## # # ### ## ## # # ## # ## # ## and percentage of exceedances of drinking water # # # # # # # # ### # # ## ## ## # # ## # ## # ## # # # # # # # # # # ## ## # # # ## ### ## ## # ## ## ## ## ## # ## # # # # ## # ### ### ## ## ## ## # ## standards for each analyte having at least one # # # # # # # # # ## # ## ## # # # # # # ## ## # # # # # # # ## ## # ## ## # # # # # # ## # # # # ## # # ## # # # ## ## ## ## exceedance. Data for iron should be viewed with # # # # ## ## # # # ## # # # # # # # ### ## ## ## ### # # # # # # # # ## # # # # # # # # # # # ## ## # ### # # caution, since the drinking standard of 300 ug/L ## ## # # # # # ## ## ## # # ## # # ## # # # # # # # # # # ## ## # # ## # ### # # # ## # # # # # # # # # # ### ## ## ## ## # # # # ## # # # # applies to dissolved iron but samples collected for ## # ## ## # ## ## # # # # # # # # # ## # # # # ## ## ## # # # ### # ## # # # # # ### ## # # # # # # # # # # ### ## # this study were not filtered. # # # # # # ## # # # # # # ## # # #

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-18 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview a. Results Data in Tables III-7 through III-11 represent a compilation of results from several aquifers. There are likely to be wide variations in water quality between aquifers in a particular basin. Nevertheless, we can identify general differences in water quality between basins. 1. Concentrations of total dissolved solids were highest in the Des Moines River (median concentration of 1523000 ug/L or parts per billion), Minnesota River (734,000 ug/L), and Missouri River (651,500 ug/L) basins. The very high dissolved solid concentrations in the Des Moines River Basin are due to high concentrations of sulfate, potassium, and sodium compared to other basins. Low concentrations of dissolved solids exist in the Lake Superior (168,000 ug/L), St. Croix (235,000 ug/L), and Rainy River (292,000 ug/L) Basins. Differences in concentration of dissolved solids are primarily due to geology, although ground water residence time, well construction, and human inputs are important factors locally. 2. Boron concentrations are high in the Des Moines River (431 ug/L) and Minnesota River (266 ug/L) Basins. The drinking water standard of 600 ug/L was exceeded in one-third of the wells sampled in the Des Moines River Basin and in 16 percent of wells sampled in the Minnesota River Basin. Cretaceous bedrock is the primary source of boron in ground water of these two basins. 3. The highest median concentration for arsenic, 4.4 ug/L in the Red River Basin, is well below the current drinking water standard of 50 ug/L. This drinking standard, however, may be changed to 10 ug/L or less in the next few years. 4. Ground water in some aquifers of the Des Moines River, Lower Mississippi River, and Missouri River Basins appears to be oxidized, with high concentrations of dissolved oxygen, low concentrations of iron, and high oxidation-reduction potentials (Eh). Consequently, nitrate is more persistent in these aquifers than in aquifers found in other basins. 5. Tritium is used as an environmental tracer for detecting ground water that is relatively young (post-1953). Median tritium concentrations were highest in the Rainy River (16 tritium units), Lake Superior (8.7 tritium units), and Upper Mississippi River Basins (7.0 tritium units). Although these basins are vulnerable to nitrate contamination based on the age of ground water, nitrate concentrations were below the reporting limit of 500 ug/L in these basins. This reflects low inputs of nitrogen in these basins. 6. Median concentrations of nitrate were less than 500 ug/L in all basins except the Missouri River Basin (3,040 ug/L). The drinking water standard of 10000 ug/L was exceeded in 39 percent of wells sampled in the Missouri River Basin and in 17 percent of wells sampled in the Des Moines River Basin. The distribution of nitrate appears to be related to several factors. Low nitrogen inputs probably account for low concentrations in the Lake Superior, Upper Mississippi River, and Rainy River Basins. High concentrations of organic carbon (median concentration of 8,900 ug/L) may account for low concentrations in the Cedar River Basin. Conversely, high nitrogen inputs, low concentrations of organic carbon, and oxidizing conditions may account for elevated nitrate concentrations in the Missouri and Minnesota River Basins. Well construction is also an important factor affecting nitrate concentrations in individual wells, particularly in the Minnesota and Missouri River basins. 7. Results for metals were variable and appear to be related to geology. The drinking water standard for beryllium, for example, was exceeded in 9 percent of samples collected from the Lake Superior Basin and 10 percent of samples collected from the Rainy River Basin.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-19 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

The drinking standard for manganese was exceeded in 21 percent of samples collected from the Des Moines River Basin, 17 percent of samples collected from the Red River Basin, and 10 percent of samples collected from the Rainy River Basin. The drinking standard for cadmium was exceeded in 8 percent of samples collected from the Cedar River Basin.

Table III-7. Number of samples collected for each analyte Des Lower Upper Cedar Moines Lake Mississippi Minnesota Missouri Rainy Red St. Croix Mississippi Analyte River River Superior River River River River River River River Alkalinity 13 24 56 88 205 18 37 124 59 325 Aluminum 13 24 56 86 203 18 39 124 56 325 Antimony 13 24 56 86 203 18 39 124 56 325 Arsenic 13 24 56 86 203 18 39 124 56 325 Barium 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Beryllium 13 24 56 86 203 18 39 124 56 325 Bismuth 0 0 46 10 14 0 28 68 44 90 Boron 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Bromide 12 24 56 87 202 18 39 124 60 325 Cadmium 13 24 56 86 203 18 39 124 56 325 Calcium 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Cesium 0 0 46 10 14 0 28 68 44 90 Chloride 12 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Chromium 13 24 56 86 203 18 39 124 56 325 Cobalt 13 24 56 86 203 18 39 124 56 325 Conductance 13 24 56 88 205 18 37 124 60 327 Copper 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Dissolved oxygen 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Dissolved solids 12 24 56 86 205 18 39 124 60 327 Eh 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Fluoride 12 10 44 63 153 11 30 114 49 200 Iron 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Lead 13 24 56 86 203 18 39 124 56 324 Lithium 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Magnesium 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Manganese 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Mercury 13 24 0 74 166 18 0 21 0 135 Molybdenum 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Nickel 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Nitrate-N 13 24 56 88 204 18 39 124 60 327 Organic carbon 13 24 56 88 204 18 39 124 60 325 pH 13 24 56 88 205 18 37 124 60 327 Phosphate-P 0 8 56 19 192 7 39 111 60 327 Phosphorus 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Potassium 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Rubidium 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Selenium 10 24 56 56 201 18 39 124 57 325

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-20 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

Des Lower Upper Cedar Moines Lake Mississippi Minnesota Missouri Rainy Red St. Croix Mississippi Analyte River River Superior River River River River River River River Silica 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Silver 13 24 56 86 203 18 39 124 56 325 Sodium 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Strontium 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Sulfate-S 12 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Suspended solids 12 24 56 86 205 18 39 124 60 327 Temperature 13 24 56 88 205 18 37 124 60 327 Thallium 13 24 56 86 203 18 39 124 56 325 Tin 0 0 46 10 14 0 28 68 44 90 Titanium 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Tritium 4 0 30 53 21 0 17 0 35 65 Vanadium 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Water Level 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Well Depth 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Zinc 13 24 56 88 205 18 39 124 60 327 Zirconium 0 0 46 10 14 0 28 68 44 90

Table III-8. Median concentrations for all aquifers combined Des Lower Upper Cedar Moines Lake Mississippi Minnesota Missouri Rainy St. Croix Mississippi Analyte River River Superior River River River River Red River River River Alkalinity 269000 356500 126000 263000 383000 342000 206000 335500 167000 259000 Aluminum 1.5 0.57 3.6 0.94 0.72 3.6 6.1 0.82 2.7 0.90 Antimony 0.011 0.026 0.020 0.012 0.030 0.061 0.010 0.010 0.016 0.010 Arsenic 1.7 1.5 1.6 0.4 2.9 1.9 0.7 4.4 1.1 1.5 Barium 182 14 23 56 46 44 68 104 42 73 Beryllium < 0.01 < 0.01 < 0.01 < 0.01 < 0.01 < 0.01 0.01 < 0.01 < 0.01 < 0.01 Bismuth - - < 0.040 < 0.040 < 0.040 - < 0.040 < 0.040 < 0.040 < 0.040 Boron 31 431 45 23 266 82 21 124 22 23 Bromide < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2 Cadmium 1.1 0.040 < 0.020 0.11 0.060 0.055 < 0.020 < 0.020 < 0.020 < 0.020 Calcium 71095 239171 30567 72359 113699 119317 55190 78023 38282 70269 Cesium - - 0.015 0.020 0.020 - < 0.010 < 0.010 < 0.010 < 0.010 Chloride 970 5165 1630 1175 2560 14150 3720 4770 2150 1950 Chromium 0.04 0.055 0.15 0.26 0.26 0.13 0.28 0.45 0.32 0.77 Cobalt 0.29 1.0 0.21 0.36 0.69 0.68 0.48 0.41 0.31 0.43 Conductance 0.51 1.8 0.26 0.53 1.0 0.99 0.28 0.60 0.36 0.49 Copper 13 19 7.5 9.9 6.7 29 < 5.5 < 5.5 < 5.5 < 5.5 Dissolved oxygen 470 1495 < 300 1300 < 300 2015 < 300 < 300 < 300 < 300 Dissolved solids 282500 1523000 168000 316500 734000 651500 292000 455000 235000 324000 Eh 101 243 183 271 168 392 232 146 219 198 Fluoride 240 410 420 310 370 380 305 465 280 280 Iron 1836 1252 155 342 1996 51 1021 1282 247 673 Lead 0.24 0.43 0.25 0.50 0.19 0.38 0.36 0.14 0.21 0.21

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-21 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

Des Lower Upper Cedar Moines Lake Mississippi Minnesota Missouri Rainy St. Croix Mississippi Analyte River River Superior River River River River Red River River River Lithium 9.8 78 5.2 6.6 29 31 6.7 21 5.1 4.6 Magnesium 22045 73926 10819 24656 42372 44140 15709 32387 14553 22210 Manganese 73 363 48 19 186 158 140 83 59 141 Mercury < 0.10 < 0.10 - < 0.10 < 0.10 < 0.10 - < 0.10 - < 0.10 Molybdenum < 4.2 7.3 < 4.2 < 4.2 < 4.2 4.7 < 4.2 < 4.2 < 4.2 < 4.2 Nickel 6.7 12 < 6.0 < 6.0 < 6.0 6.7 < 6.0 < 6.0 < 6.0 < 6.0 Nitrate-N < 500 < 500 < 500 < 500 < 500 3040 < 500 < 500 < 500 < 500 Organic carbon 8900 3450 1400 2850 3100 2850 3100 2900 1450 1900 pH 7.18 6.82 8.00 7.26 7.05 6.93 7.30 7.31 7.52 7.30 Phosphate-P < 20 40 < 20 20 50 30 < 20 60 30 60 Phosphorus 197 108 26 31 104 57 38 101 44 69 Potassium 1086 7088 1104 1369 4699 3383 3012 3728 1244 1722 Rubidium < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 Selenium 1.0 < 1.0 1.2 1.0 2.5 0.95 1.4 1.7 1.7 2.7 Silica 9595 13503 8288 7912 12548 12079 8898 12733 10377 10220 Silver <0.0090 <0.0090 0.010 < 0.0090 < 0.0090 <0.0090 <0.0090 <0.0090 <0.0090 < 0.0090 Sodium 5720 70405 9033 3689 47514 14475 6225 22105 5401 6084 Strontium 159 1251 103 102 571 346 145 308 86 120 Sulfate-S 2320 211235 2205 6640 61440 52695 3670 7305 2445 3360 Suspended solids 5000 4000 2000 2500 6000 2000 6000 6000 4000 4000 Temperature 9.3 9.7 7.6 9.5 9.8 9.6 7.8 8.4 8.85 9.0 Thallium 0.0060 0.0050 < 0.0050 0.0055 0.0050 <0.0050 <0.0050 <0.0050 <0.0050 < 0.0050 Tin - - 0.070 0.065 0.045 - < 0.050 < 0.050 0.11 0.065 Titanium <0.0035 0.0052 < 0.0035 < 0.0035 < 0.0035 0.0056 <0.0035 <0.0035 <0.0035 < 0.0035 Total Sulfur 2671 226473 2449 7230 62692 52247 4310 7419 2685 3842 Tritium 1.8 - 8.7 < 0.80 2.2 - 16 - < 0.80 7.0 Vanadium 5.0 15.1 5.8 5.4 5.2 12 5.7 5.9 5.0 4.6 Water Level 38 93 14 118 50 26 12 20 27 24 Well Depth 155 166 125 260 160 115 127 92 118 80 Zinc 17 27 10 74 22 19 9 12 13 11 Zirconium - - 0.050 < 0.030 < 0.030 - 0.16 0.035 < 0.030 < 0.030

Concentrations are in ug/L (parts per billion) except for well depth (ft), water level (ft), pH, tritium (tritium units), Eh (mV), temperature (oC), and conductance (umhos/cm).

Table III-9. Maximum concentrations for all aquifers combined Des Lower Upper Cedar Moines Lake Mississippi Minnesota Missouri Rainy Red St. Croix Mississippi Analyte River River Superior River River River River River River River Alkalinity 375000 513000 383000 487000 591000 528000 541000 534000 394000 515000 Aluminum 6.4 90 1448 18 1151 223 870 611 2330 1396 Antimony 0.083 0.20 0.26 0.25 1.1 6.8 0.091 0.060 0.20 0.20 Arsenic 13 48 15 14 54 30 157 91 20 56 Barium 331 85 191 397 780 470 247 2392 209 787 Beryllium 0.050 0.080 2.5 0.080 0.16 0.030 0.14 0.060 0.41 0.19

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-22 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

Des Lower Upper Cedar Moines Lake Mississippi Minnesota Missouri Rainy Red St. Croix Mississippi Analyte River River Superior River River River River River River River Bismuth - - 0.060 < 0.040 0.040 - < 0.040 0.50 < 0.040 0.080 Boron 163 2053 2114 567 4763 719 635 3104 3524 2013 Bromide < 0.20 < 0.20 0.67 < 0.20 0.82 0.44 < 0.20 2.5 1.5 < 0.20 Cadmium 37 0.36 0.14 13 3.5 0.42 0.47 2.4 1.0 0.47 Calcium 95426 436238 58575 144905 476013 474535 309399 310650 94566 269492 Cesium - - 0.83 0.04 0.040 - 0.82 0.020 1.6 0.080 Chloride 4860 180580 5029000 242480 719700 42070 32240 860510 231230 357830 Chromium 0.50 6.5 5.9 5.3 8.3 1.9 5.0 5.8 92 20 Cobalt 3.3 3.4 4.0 4.8 5.1 1.7 5.1 2.5 49.0 4.5 Conductance 688 3160 946 1350 4030 3290 1004 3370 1029 6860 Copper 21 40 530 71 248 163 140 110 450 121 Dissolved oxygen 1800 17300 10690 105300 56000 18400 9630 13400 45700 34100 Dissolved solids 405000 2737000 614000 876000 3394000 3158000 25940002634000 604000 1782000 Eh 271 525 333 702 509 582 354 359 294 424 Fluoride 630 620 1600 2510 3960 1190 4090 7500 760 1010 Iron 3561 16889 26320 4050 10592 15295 39594 11311 123730 22451 Lead 1.1 4.8 26 28 210 8.7 11 13 15 162 Lithium 21 224 50 50 447 160 215 212 75 107 Magnesium 29740 150542 49755 60246 206048 182045 147192 147151 76379 95663 Manganese 156 2364 835 383 2939 3213 2508 943 1213 1856 Mercury 0.23 0.38 - 0.19 0.24 0.11 - 0.20 - 0.18 Molybdenum 4.9 16 18 10 21 25 29 33 13 21 Nickel 11 28 26 31 40 51 23 26 234 17 Nitrate-N < 500 98020 600 30460 23510 33240 5400 2600 11900 47900 Organic carbon 11800 9700 15100 77800 25600 12800 14100 17500 18500 21700 pH 7.39 7.18 9.30 8.69 8.29 7.31 9.10 8.80 9.43 8.30 Phosphorus 1120 488 299 718 1215 1514 441 828 1566 554 Potassium 5380 17970 3334 18309 31205 128473 9766 14702 6408 94813 Rubidium 852 1259 817 893 1581 2637 732 1062 829 1295 Selenium 4.0 17 93 6.9 17 11 308 21 613 77 Silica 13959 15546 23012 14236 18052 22629 16249 16850 53216 21264 Silver 0.017 0.0080 0.24 0.78 0.97 0.019 0.11 0.13 0.12 0.80 Sodium 19571 294335 177736 98633 1095280 209456 144848 743427 213087 240390 Strontium 320 2274 611 554 3255 2920 2077 1770 508 1152 Sulfate-S 13440 494300 82430 40380 630080 531620 402460 351370 18460 303640 Sulfur 13660 522112 88252 41148 607335 613372 429506 353545 25255 1451700 Suspended solids 14000 38000 230000 12000 904000 52000 112000 516000 1732000 78000 Temperature 9.8 11.8 10.9 11.6 13.2 11.2 10.8 13.0 12.1 12.3 Thallium 0.11 0.37 0.040 0.46 0.30 0.056 0.032 0.15 2.36 43 Tin - - 2.59 0.19 0.16 - 0.52 1.5 0.7 1.16 Titanium 0.0079 0.015 0.23 0.011 0.057 0.031 0.049 0.046 0.067 0.028 Tritium 4.0 - 52 26 36 - 41 - 35 51 Vanadium 12 35 23 14 33 56 35 25 112 23 Water Level 210 320 54 428 254 306 54 126 148 230

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-23 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

Des Lower Upper Cedar Moines Lake Mississippi Minnesota Missouri Rainy Red St. Croix Mississippi Analyte River River Superior River River River River River River River Well Depth 660 543 450 617 3241 644 415 380 565 620 Zinc 182 765 370 1858 1911 3224 1102 342 1078 1250 Zirconium - - 5.8 0.070 0.27 - 4.1 3.6 1.8 2.1

Concentrations are in ug/L (parts per billion) except for well depth (ft), water level (ft), pH, tritium (tritium units), Eh (mV), temperature (oC), and conductance (umhos/cm).

Table III-10. Number of exceedances of drinking water standards Des Lower Upper Cedar Moines Lake Mississippi Minnesota Missouri Rainy Red St. Croix Mississippi Analyte River River Superior River River River River River River River Aluminum 0 2 11 0 3 3 10 4 6 11 Antimony 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 Arsenic 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 4 0 1 Barium 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 Beryllium 0 1 5 1 2 0 4 0 4 5 Boron 0 8 3 0 33 2 1 14 2 2 Cadmium 1 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 Chloride 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 4 0 2 Cobalt 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Fluoride 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 Iron 13 16 22 46 180 7 25 107 26 205 Lead 0 0 3 1 2 0 0 0 1 2 Manganese 0 5 0 0 13 3 4 0 3 11 Molybdenum 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 Nickel 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Nitrate-N 0 4 0 4 6 7 0 0 1 9 Selenium 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 3 Sodium 0 1 0 0 9 0 0 4 0 0 Sulfate-S 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 Thallium 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 Vanadium 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 Zinc 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0

Table III-11. Percentage of samples exceeding the drinking water standard Des Lower St. Upper Cedar Moines Lake Mississippi Minnesota Missouri Rainy Red Croix Mississippi Analyte River River Superior River River River River River River River Aluminum 0.0 8.3 19.6 0.0 1.5 16.7 25.6 3.2 10.7 3.4 Antimony 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 5.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Arsenic 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 0.0 2.6 3.2 0.0 0.3 Barium 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.8 0.0 0.0 Beryllium 0.0 4.2 8.9 1.2 1.0 0.0 10.3 0.0 7.1 1.5 Boron 0.0 33.3 5.4 0.0 16.1 11.1 2.6 11.3 3.3 0.6 Cadmium 7.7 0.0 0.0 4.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-24 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

Des Lower St. Upper Cedar Moines Lake Mississippi Minnesota Missouri Rainy Red Croix Mississippi Analyte River River Superior River River River River River River River Chloride 0.0 0.0 1.8 0.0 0.5 0.0 0.0 3.2 0.0 0.6 Cobalt 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.8 0.0 Fluoride 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.3 0.9 0.0 0.0 Iron 100.0 66.7 39.3 52.3 87.8 38.9 64.1 86.3 43.3 62.7 Lead 0.0 0.0 5.4 1.2 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.8 0.6 Manganese 0.0 20.8 0.0 0.0 6.3 16.7 10.3 0.0 5.0 3.4 Molybdenum 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.8 0.0 0.0 Nickel 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.7 0.0 Nitrate-N 0.0 16.7 0.0 4.5 2.9 38.9 0.0 0.0 1.7 2.8 Selenium 0.0 0.0 1.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.6 0.0 3.5 0.9 Sodium 0.0 4.2 0.0 0.0 4.4 0.0 0.0 3.2 0.0 0.0 Sulfate-S 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 5.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Thallium 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.8 0.3 Vanadium 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 5.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Zinc 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 5.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

2. Overview of Rainy River Basin Groundwater The western part of the Rainy River Basin is part of the Glacial Lake Agassiz plain and consists of low-lying, poorly-drained areas that drain to the north. The eastern part of the basin has a complex drainage pattern controlled by the underlying bedrock surface, with drainage primarily occurring westward. Annual precipitation in the basin ranges from 21 inches in the west to over 28 inches in the east, with an average of about 26 inches. Runoff ranges from 6 to 10 inches and increases from west to east. The basin is forested in the east and covered by wetlands in the west.

Bedrock consists of a variety of Precambrian igneous and metamorphic rocks. Bedrock is close to the land surface in the eastern half of the basin, along Lake of the Woods, and along the major rivers. Consequently, the bedrock topography controls hydrology in these areas.

Surficial materials in the western half of the basin consist of glacial lake deposits, peat, till, and outwash. These deposits range in thickness from a few feet to over 200 feet. There is considerable variability in thickness of surficial material as a result of variability in the bedrock surface. Lacustrine clay is prevalent across much of the western part of the basin and consequently, numerous peat deposits are found in these poorly drained areas. Peat comprises more than 50 percent of the land area in the Lake of the Woods watershed. Outwash sands occur adjacent to and within morainic deposits and are generally 10 to 40 feet thick. Surficial deposits are less than 50 feet thick throughout much of the eastern half of the basin. Thicker deposits occur in bedrock depressions. Surficial materials consist predominantly of undifferentiated drift, and outwash, lake, or ice-contact sands and gravel. Sand deposits are generally 10 to 30 feet in thickness.

In areas where glacial deposits are of sufficient thickness, sand and gravel aquifers occur and are used for domestic supply. Extensive areas of peat and near-surface bedrock have little ground water development. These occur in the southern half of Lake of the Woods watershed, in the northwestern portion of the Little Fork River watershed, and the northern two-thirds of the Rainy Lake watershed. Wells completed in glacial deposits are typically less than 100 feet

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-25 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview deep. Fractures in the bedrock may yield small quantities of water, particularly in the upper 200 feet.

Figure III-6. Hydrogeologic Regimes for the Rainy River Basin

Wells completed in drift and bedrock. Water quality good. Shallow aquifers vulnerable to contamination.

Bedrock close to land surface. Little ground water development. Low concentrations of dissolved solids. Locally high concentrations of manganese and beryllium.

Sand and gravel deposits. Water quality good. Vulnerable to contamination.

Peat and water. Little ground water development. a. Results 39 samples were collected. 15 of these were from buried sand and gravel aquifers, five from surficial sand and gravel aquifers, 17 from Precambrian bedrock aquifers, and two from undifferentiated sand and gravel aquifers.

1. Ground water quality in the basin is good. Concentrations of total dissolved solids and most trace inorganic chemicals, including boron, cadmium, and arsenic, are low. Tritium was found at high concentrations in most sampled wells, indicating a responsive ground water system in which recharge and discharge occur over relatively short distances.

2. There were no differences between aquifers in concentrations of any chemical. This may be due to several factors. Ground water residence times may be very short, thus limiting the potential for dissolution of geologic materials. Bedrock materials are slowly soluble. Also, soils are highly leached in much of the area, limiting the amount of dissolved solids that reach ground water during recharge.

3. Drinking water standards for beryllium and manganese were exceeded in 10 percent of the samples. These represent natural concentrations, primarily in Precambrian bedrock aquifers.

We established four hydrogeologic regimes for the Rainy River Basin. Bedrock is close to or at the land surface in the eastern part of the basin. There are few dependable sources of ground water in this area, but when present, ground water has low concentrations of dissolved solids and occasionally high concentrations of beryllium and manganese. In areas covered by peat, there is little ground water development. Surficial sand and gravel aquifers are found in the southern part of the basin and provide high quality water, although they are likely to be vulnerable to contamination. The remainder of the basin is covered by drift that often has sufficient thickness to contain buried sand and gravel aquifers. Water quality in these aquifers is good.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-26 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview b. Recommendations 1. Long-term monitoring networks for nitrate should be established in surficial sand and gravel aquifers and in bedrock aquifers where drift thickness is less than 50 feet. These monitoring networks should focus on areas where human impacts are likely.

Table III-12. Median chemical concentrations, by aquifer, for the Rainy River Basin Quaternary Precambrian Quaternary buried crystalline Quaternary Analyte buried unconfined Crystalline undifferentiated water table Alkalinity 255500 277500 177000 185000 154000 Aluminum 4.5 2.3 19 9.3 5.3 Antimony < 0.0080 0.014 0.020 0.010 0.020 Arsenic 1.5 2.7 0.50 0.70 0.15 Barium 73 107 40 42 47 Beryllium 0.010 < 0.010 0.025 0.010 < 0.010 Boron 47 18 39 19 14 Bromide < 0.20 < 0.20 < 0.20 < 0.20 < 0.20 Cadmium < 0.020 < 0.020 0.020 < 0.020 0.060 Calcium 67594 75051 38909 31619 47895 Cesium < 0.010 < 0.010 0.050 < 0.010 0.035 Chloride 3690 2820 4020 3520 5900 Chromium 0.27 0.45 0.72 0.28 0.22 Cobalt 0.61 0.35 0.76 0.45 0.43 Conductance 255 472 249 440 221 Copper 5.4 7.8 11 16 5.7 Depth 82 41 185 147 64 Eh 174 147 274 249 238 Fluoride 420 - 420 220 221 Iron 1733 1011 1665 169 211 Lead 0.28 0.12 0.46 0.61 0.89 Lithium 7.6 8.0 8.4 4.6 5.3 Magnesium 20195 25051 12775 8185 15709 Manganese 129 120 283 65 54 Molybdenum < 4.2 4.5 < 4.2 < 4.2 < 4.2 Nickel < 6.0 8.5 6.9 7.6 < 6.0 Nitrate-N < 500 2945 < 500 < 500 < 500 Oxygen < 300 2640 810 < 300 < 300 pH 7.39 7.35 7.05 7.40 7.40 Phosphate-P 30 50 10 10 10 Phosphorus 56 59 38 25 34 Potassium 3596 2066 2659 1394 2555 Rubidium < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 < 555.5 Selenium 1.4 3.8 1.5 1.0 2.4 Silica 9187 7504 8732.5 8460 9121 Silver < 0.0090 < 0.0090 < 0.0090 0.010 < 0.0090

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-27 Section III – Subsection 1 Rainy River Basin Data Overview

Quaternary Precambrian Quaternary buried crystalline Quaternary Analyte buried unconfined Crystalline undifferentiated water table Sodium 10627 4751 7178 6684 3710 Static water level 12 14 12 23 9 Strontium 145 105 287 123 55 Sulfate-S 3110 2875 3665 5650 4320 Sulfur 3280 3248 4331 5915 4630 Temperature 8.1 8.2 7.65 7.65 7.7 Thallium < 0.0050 0.0070 < 0.0050 < 0.0050 < 0.0050 Tin 0.040 - 0.040 0.090 < 0.040 Titanium < 0.0035 0.0046 0.0038 < 0.0035 < 0.0035 Total dissolved solids 340000 322000 268000 244000 250000 Total organic carbon 2300 2050 4550 3400 2300 Total suspended solids 8000 6000 5000 4000 3000 Tritium 16 - 16 16 - Vanadium 5.7 8.5 7.0 < 4.7 6.0 Zinc 7.3 9.7 12 13 5.1 Zirconium 0.12 - 0.60 0.080 0.15

Concentrations are in ug/L (parts per billion) except for well depth (ft), water level (ft), pH, tritium (tritium units), Eh (mV), temperature (oC), and conductance (umhos/cm).

II. WATER QUANTITY Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the U.S. Geological Survey web site at: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

III. AQUATIC AND RIPARIAN ENVIRONMENTS Some data may be available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-28 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

SUBSECTION 2- MAJOR WATERSHED OVERVIEWS

I. RAINY RIVER HEADWATERS (HUC # 09030001) A. WATER QUALITY 1. Water Quality a. Milestone Monitoring Program The Rainy River Headwaters watershed has two Milestone sites (KA-10 and KA-13) both located on the Kawishiwi River. KA-10 is located at the Highway 1 crossing at the outlet of Birch lake. KA- 13 is located at the Highway 1 crossing on the Kawishiwi River. KA-10 has been sampled since 1967. This site provides information for Birch Lake (HUC-Segment # 09030001-006). The KA-13 site provides information for the Kawishiwi River reach from the Isabella River to the Stony River, a length of 5.1 miles (HUC-Segment # 09030001-013).

Milestone data may be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/storet/dbtop.html. b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) There are no CSMP sites in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed. c. River Watch There are no active River Watch sites in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-29 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

2. Water Quality Assessment a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality Table III-13. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based upon the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) Suspected Pollution Uses: Indicators of Impairment: Sources:

On TMDL HUC-Segment List? River Reach Location Reach Length (Mi.) Aquatic Life Swimming Biology Oxygen Depletion Turbidity Un-Ionized Ammonia Metals Chloride Bacteria Municipal Industrial Nonpoint

09030001-013 Kawishiwi R Isabella R to Stony R 5.1 NS FS NS X 09030001-006 Kawishiwi R Out of Birch Lake 22 NS FS FS FS FS NS FS X

27.1 miles assessed of a total of 1,794 miles in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed (1.51 percent). Full Support (FS, S); Partial Support (PS);Not Supporting (NS); Not Attainable (NT) b. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Table III-14. River TMDLs as of 1998 Target start// Reach River Reach # Lake # Affected use Pollutant or stressor3 completion 7 Hustler Lake 09030001 69-0343 Aquatic life Mercury1 1999//2010

1 MPCA Policy concerning inclusion of segments based on biological monitoring results is under discussion.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-30 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters c. Ecoregion Comparison Table III-15. Ecoregion Comparison Table (based upon the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)

Uses Nonpoint Source Indicators Oxygen Demand Total Phosphorus (BOD)

HUC-Segment River Reach Location Reach Length (Miles) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L)

09030001-013 Kawishiwi R Isabella R to Stony R 5.1 Y .052 Y .09 Y 1.7 6.4 09030001-006 Kawishiwi R Out of Birch Lake 21.6 N .052 Y .09 N 1.7 N 6.4

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-31 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters d. Trends BOD ...... Decrease TSS ...... Decrease Total Phosphorus ...... Decrease Nitrite/Nitrate ...... no trend Unionized Ammonia...... no trend Fecal Coliforms...... Decrease

3. Lake Water Quality a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) Table III-16. CLMP lakes in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed Cook County Lake County St. Louis County Lake ID # Name Lake ID # Name Lake ID # Name 16-0356 Gunflint 38-0557 Grouse 69-0004 White Iron 38-0640 Ojibway 69-0066 Little Long 38-0715 Triangle 69-0069 Shagawa 38-0724 Tofte 69-0118 Burntside 38-0778 South Farm 69-0617 Sand Point 38-0779 Farm 38-0782 Garden

Secchi Transparency Trends

Table III-17. Kendall tau-b (Rk) and P-Level Values Group Kendall tau-b (Rk) Value Definition P-Level Value Group Definition Highly Significant, R Values: > + 0.50 Strong P-Level: < 0.01 k represented by **** Significant, represented by R Values: + 0.49 - + 0.40 Moderate P-Level: 0.05 – 0.015 k *** Somewhat Significant, R Values: + 0.39 - + 0.33 Weak P-Level: 0.1 – 0.055 k represented by ** Not Significant, R Values: < + 0.32 none P0Level: > 0.1 k represented by *

Description of the terms used in the following CLMP trend tables: The Kendall’s tau-b (Rk) ranges from –1 to 1. The closer the value is to +1, the stronger the trend. A probability level (p)<0.1 was used as a basis for screening and identifying significant trends in transparency. At this p-level there is a 10% of identifying a trend when none exists. Simply stated, the smaller the p-value, the more likely the trend is real. For purposes of this analysis, we have divided the Kendall (Rk) and p-level values into four categories each.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-32 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

Table III-18. 1998 CLMP secchi transparency trends in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed Lake Mean Lake ID Name Location years Rk P-level Secchi Correlation Significance Lakes exhibiting a positive (improving) trend in Secchi transparency Lake County 38-0640 Ojibway 14 mi E Ely 10 0.38 0.128 5.9 weak * St. Louis County 69-0069 Shagawa at Ely 20 0.56 0.001 2.1 strong **** Lakes exhibiting a negative (declining) trend in Secchi transparency Lake County 7 mi NW 38-0557 Grouse 9 -0.48 0.075 1.8 moderate ** Isabella Lakes exhibiting no trend in Secchi transparency St. Louis County 69-0118 Burntside 3 mi NW Ely 14 -0.08 0.702 6.2 none N/A

Legend: Lake ID: Lake Identification Number Lake Name: Name of Lake Location: Distance & direction from nearest Years: Number of years of data Rk: Kendall’s tau-b correlation coefficient P-Level: P-Level Value Mean Secchi: Long-Term Secchi Correlation: Rk Group Definition Significance: P-Level Group Definition town

Lake specific CLMP data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/pca/clmp.html. b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessments Table III-19. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by County

Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI) Secchi Cook County 16-0759 Alpine 28 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 834 65’ NLF 39 Oligo 14.1’ 16-0701 Barto 18 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 95 40’ NLF 50 Meso - 16-0752 Bat 31.5 miles NW of Lutsen FS M 80 100’ NLF 37 Oligo 16.7’ 16-0659 Beth 17 miles E of Forest Center FS M 182 22’ NLF 50 Meso 12.5’ 16-0600 Brandt 32 miles NW of Lutsen FS M 104 80’ NLF 39 Oligo 14.1’ 16-0524 Cherokee 23 miles N of Lutsen FS M 974 142’ NLF 38 Oligo 15.1’ 16-0538 Copper 28 miles N of Lutsen FS M 34 56’ NLF 35 Oligo 18.0’ 16-0357 Crab 27 miles NW of G Marais FS E 91 - NLF 37 Oligo - 16-0625 Crag 31 miles NW of Lutsen FS M 49 30’ NLF 49 Meso 6.9’ 16-0723 Crooked 30 miles NW of Lutsen FS M 233 75’ NLF 39 Oligo 14.1’ 16-0526 Cross Bay 31 miles N of Lutsen FS M 52 12’ NLF 40 Oligo 13.1’ 16-0677 Dent 18 miles NE of Forest Center ST E 112 - NLF 44 Meso 11.2’ 16-0616 Devils Elbow 37 miles NW of G Marais FS M 85 - NLF 40 Oligo 12.8 16-0342 East Pope 22 miles NW of G Marais FS E 30 28’ NLF 51 Eutr - 16-0604 Edith 34 miles E of Tofte FS M 10 - NLF 41 Meso 12.1’ 16-0602 Flying 32 miles NW of Lutsen FS M 45 - NLF 47 Meso 7.9’ 26 moles NE of Forest 16-0571 Frost FS M 236 80’ NLF 30 Oligo 26.9 Center Gabimichiga 16-0811 23 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 1,236 209’ NLF 40 Oligo 13.5’ mi 16-0603 Gaiter 29 miles NW of Lutsen FS M 21 - NLF 46 Meso 8.5’ 16-0753 Gillis 25 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 595 180’ NLF 41 Meso 12.1’

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-33 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI) Secchi 16-0617 Gneiss 35 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 220 - NLF 42 Meso 11.2’ 16-0569 Gordon 25 miles N of Lutsen FS M 139 93’ NLF 30 Oligo 25.9’ 16-0657 Grace 20 miles NE of Forest Center ST E 391 16’ NLF 51 Eutr 6.9’ 16-0580 Granite 40 miles N of Tofte FS M 302 - NLF 39 Oligo 14.1’ 16-0628 Green 31 miles NW of Lutsen FS M 41 70’ NLF 40 Oligo 12.8’ Gull (main 16-0632-01 25 miles N of Lutsen FS M 172 - NLF 39 Oligo 13.8’ basin) 16-0356 Gunflint 30 miles N of Lutsen FS M 4,047 200’ NLF 40 Oligo 12.8’ 16-0608 Ham 30 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 100 40’ NLF 35 Oligo 18.0’ 16-0535 Howl 28 miles N of Lutsen FS M 18 - NLF 49 Meso 6.9’ 16-0537 Hubbub 28 miles N of Lutsen ST M 10 - NLF 52 Eutr 5.9’ 16-0328 Iron 22 miles NW of G Marais FS E 105 15’ NLF 49 Meso - 16-0768 Jasper 41 miles NW of G Marais FS M 239 125’ NLF 38 Oligo 15.4’ 16-0812 Kingfisher 42 miles NW of G Marais FS M 35 38’ NLF 39 Oligo 13.8’ Little 16-0809 21 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 1,575 150’ NLF 44 Meso 9.8’ Saganawa 16-0460 Long Island 26 miles NW of G Marais FS M 901 69’ NLF 40 Oligo 13.5’ 16-0448 Loon 29 miles N of Lutsen FS E 1,197 140’ NLF 50 Meso - Lower 16-0546 29 miles N of Lutsen FS M 17 5’ NLF 49 Meso 6.9’ George 16-0463 Magnetic 37 miles N of Tofte FS M 431 93’ NLF 39 Oligo 14.4’ 16-0610 Marabaeuf 43 miles N of Tofte FS M 902 - NLF 40 Oligo 12.8’ 16-0337 Mayhew 24 miles NW of G Marais FS E 202 80’ NLF 36 Oligo 24.9’ 16-0529 Missing Link 30 Miles NNW of Lutsen FS M 41 25’ NLF 37 Oligo 16.1’ 16-0732 Mora 29 miles NNW of Lutsen FS M 247 - NLF 49 Meso 6.9’ 16-0726 Owl 29 miles NW of Lutsen FS M 80 70’ NLF 36 Oligo 17.1’ 16-0757 Peter 24 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 259 120’ NLF 35 Oligo 18.0’ 16-808 Phoebe 14 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 625 25’ NLF 46 Meso 9.2’ 16-0720 Rattle 34 miles N of Tofte FS M 50 30’ NLF 43 Meso 10.5’ 16-0793 Red Rock 29 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 353 64’ NLF 47 Meso 7.9’ 16-0544 Rib 30 miles N of Lutsen FS M 82 10’ NLF 32 Oligo 23.0’ 16-0605 Ron 34 miles N of Tofte ST M 10 - NLF 52 Eutr 5.9’ 16-0606 Round 32 miles NW of G Marais FS M 145 45’ NLF 36 Oligo 17.4’ 16-0229 Rush 24 miles NW of G Marais FS E 274 54’ NLF 44 Meso - 16-0633 Saganaga 44 miles NW of G Marais FS M 19,610 - NLF 43 Meso 10.5’ 16-0629 Sea Gull 28 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 3,736 130’ NLF 40 Oligo 13.5’ 16-0527 Snipe 29 miles N of Lutsen FS M 112 80’ NLF 37 Oligo 16.1’ 16-0731 Tarry 29.5 miles NNW of Lutsen FS M 44 - NLF 40 Oligo 13.1’ 16-0623 Tuscarora 29 miles NW of Lutsen FS M 707 130’ NLF 35 Oligo 19.0’ 16-0607 unnamed 32 miles NW of Tofte ST E 14 45’ NLF 51 Eutr - 16-0686 Wine 20 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 264 55’ NLF 45 Meso 9.8’ Lake County 38-0153 Adams 16 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 448 84’ NLF 40 Oligo 14.1’ 43 miles NW of Taconite 38-0011 Agsmok FS M 106 29’ NLF 41 Meso 12.1’ Harbor 38-0330 Alice 11 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 1,566 53’ NLF 45 Meso 9.5’ 38-0336 Amber 12 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 135 27’ NLF 47 Meso 9.8’ 38-0227 Amoeber 24 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 386 110’ NLF 43 Meso 14.8’ 38-0157 Anit 29.5 miles NE of Isabella FS M 11 19’ NLF 46 Meso 8.5’ 38-0195 Annie 36 miles NE of Isabella FS M 23 16’ NLF 44 Meso 9.8’ -0502 Ashigan 16 miles N of Forest Center FS E 189 59’ NLF 38 Oligo 26.2’ 38-0691 August 15 miles SE of Ely FS E 218 19’ NLF 44 Meso 6.2’ 38-0645 Basswood 9 miles NE of Ely FS E 29,400 65’ NLF 50 Meso 5.2’ 38-0223 Beaver 14 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 237 76’ NLF 47 Meso 9.2’ 24 miles N of Sawbill 38-0390 Bonnie FS M 71 10’ NLF 50 Meso 6.6’ Landing 38-0503 Boot 15 miles N of Forest Center PS E 209 83’ NLF 54 Eutr - 38-0140 Bolder 18 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 236 54’ NLF 50 Meso - 38-0780 Browns 6 miles N of Ely FS E 206 20’ NLF 50 Meso - 38-0810 Cedar 5 miles NE of Ely FS E 489 42’ NLF 27 Oligo -

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-34 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI) Secchi 38-0166 Cherry 25 miles N of Forest Center FS E 147 80’ NLF 42 Meso 17.1’ 38-0722 Clear 10 miles E of Ely PS E 236 19’ NLF 55 Eutr - 11 miles NW of Forest 38-0638 Clearwater FS E 641 46’ NLF 27 Oligo - Center 38-0664 Coffee 11 miles E of Forest Center ST E 126 11’ NLF 53 Eutr 3.3’ 38-0817 Crooked 20 miles N of Ely FS E 10,904 160’ NLF 42 Meso - 38-0415 Delay 2.5 miles E of Isabella PS E 94 13’ NLF 55 Eutr - Disappointme 38-0488 13 miles N of Forest Center FS E 976 50’ NLF 46 Meso 11.2’ nt 38-0664 Dunnigan 14 miles NW of Isabella FS M 81 17’ NLF 47 Meso 9.2’ 38-0674 East Chub 22.5 miles S of Ely FS E 64 8’ NLF 45 Meso 7.9’ 38-0187 Eddy 22 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 197 95’ NLF 34 Oligo 19.4’ 38-0727 Ella Hall 11 miles NE of Ely FS E 511 28’ NLF 48 Meso - 38-0126 Elton 31 miles NE of Isabella FS M 122 53’ NLF 46 Meso 8.9’ 38-0498 Ensign 16 miles N of Forest Center FS E 1,408 30’ NLF 38 Oligo 29.5’ 38-0207 Ester 28 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 389 110’ NLF 43 Meso 16.1’ 38-0811 Fall 0.5 mile NE of Winton FS M 2,173 32’ NLF 46 Meso 7.2’ 38-0779 Farm 6 miles SE of Ely FS M 1,328 56’ NLF 47 Meso 6.6’ 38-0483 Fire 10 miles N of Forest Center ST E 96 30’ NLF 52 Eutr 6.6’ 38-0568 Flat Horn 6 miles NW of Isabella PS M 56 10’ NLF 54 Eutr 4.9’ 38-0528 Four 18 miles E of Winton ST M 655 25’ NLF 52 Eutr 5.9’ 38-0372 Fraser 16 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 1,091 80’ NLF 38 Oligo 15.1’ 38-0701 Gabbro 12 miles SE of Ely ST E 896 26’ NLF 52 Eutr 5.2’ 38-0782 Garden 2 miles SE of Winton FS M 4,236 55’ NLF 46 Meso 6.2’ 38-0718 Greenstone 11 miles E of Ely FS E 345 72’ NLF 50 Meso - 38-0656 Greenwood 13 miles SW of Isabella NS E 1,469 5’ NLF 62 Eutr 2.3’ 38-0557 Grouse 7 miles NW of Isabella ST M 121 10’ NLF 52 Eutr 5.9’ 10 miles NW of Forest 38-0590 Gull FS E 503 31’ NLF 48 Meso 6.9’ Center 38-0206 Hanson 26 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 284 100’ NLF 41 Meso 13.5’ 38-0369 Hatchet 15 miles N of Forest Center FS E 126 40’ NLF 50 Meso 5.9’ 38-0673 Highlife 13 miles NW of Isabella ST E 20 22’ NLF 53 Eutr - 38-0792 Horse 12 miles NE of Ely FS M 647 25’ NLF 32 Oligo 6.9’ 38-0580 Horseshoe 8 miles NW of Forest Center ST E 194 40’ NLF 51 Eutr 4.6’ 38-0400 Ima 15 miles N of Forest Center ST E 773 116’ NLF 51 Eutr - 38-0397 Insula 8 miles N of Forest Center FS M 2,700 63’ NLF 45 Meso 9.2’ 38-0396 Isabella 1 mile NE of Forest Center PS E 1,516 18’ NLF 54 Eutr - 38-0641 Jasper 12 miles NE of Winton FS M 154 25’ NLF 39 Oligo 13.8’ Jenny (west 38-0194-01 40 miles NE of Winton FS M 93 93’ NLF 39 Oligo 13.8’ bay) 38-0080 Kawishiwi 10 miles E of Forest Center ST M 400 12’ NLF 51 Eutr 6.6’ 38-0226 Kekekabic 19 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 1,620 195’ NLF 33 Oligo 21.7’ Kekekanic 21.5 miles NE of Forest 38-0188-02 FS M 24 - NLF 33 Oligo 21.0’ Ponds (2nd) Center 38-0108 Kivaniva 29 miles NE of Isabella FS M 38 49’ NLF 46 Meso 8.9’ 38-0404 Knife 20 miles N of Forest Center FS M 5,536 179’ NLF 33 Oligo 21.3’ 38-0098 Koma 13 miles NE of Forest Center ST E 260 14’ NLF 51 Eutr 7.9’ 38-0147 Makwa 32 miles NE of Isabella FS M 143 76’ NLF 37 Oligo 16.4’ 38-0090 Malberg 14 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 404 33’ NLF 49 Meso 10.2’ 38-0616 Manomin 17 miles NE of Winton FS E 455 18’ NLF 47 Meso 9.8’ 38-0816 Moosecamp 15 miles NE of Ely FS E 190 16’ NLF 36 Oligo 23.0’ 44 miles N of Taconite 38-0193 Mueller FS M 24 36’ NLF 40 Oligo 12.8’ Harbor 38-0784 Newton 7 miles NE of Ely FS E 500 47’ NLF 50 Meso 5.9’ North Branch 38-0738 4 miles SE of Ely FS M 670 55’ NLF 48 Meso 7.2’ Kawishiwi North 38-0686 8.5 miles NE of Isabella FS E 240 10’ NLF 49 Meso 4.9’ McDougal Ogishkemunc 38-0180 23 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 701 70’ NLF 39 Oligo 14.4’ ie 38-0640 Ojibway 14 miles E of Ely FS M 438 110’ NLF 34 Oligo 19.4’

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-35 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI) Secchi 10 miles NW of Forest 38-0605 One ST M 876 57’ NLF 52 Eutr 5.9’ Center 38-0151 Pan 30 miles NE of Isabella FS M 100 59’ NLF 43 Meso 10.8’ 38-0150 Panhandle 31 miles NE if Isabella ST M 8 20’ NLF 52 Eutr 5.9’ 12 miles NW of Forest 38-0526 Parent FS E 1,571 50’ NLF 35 Oligo 11.5’ Center 38-0220 Perent 8 miles E of Forest Center PS E 1,800 38’ NLF 57 Eutr 4.9’ 38-0741 Pickerel 9 miles E of Ely FS E 184 13’ NLF 42 Meso - 11 miles NW of Forest 38-0584 Pictro FS E 339 31’ NLF 43 Meso 14.8’ Center 38-0104 Polly 12 miles NE of Forest Center PS M 513 21’ NLF 54 Eutr 3.9’ 38-0214 Rabbit 27 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 104 90’ NLF 48 Meso - 38-0113 Raven 18 miles NE of Forest Center FS E 205 56’ NLF 47 Meso - 38-0338 River 26 miles NE of Isabella FS M 126 - NLF 44 Meso 9.8’ 38-0225 Sagus 16 miles N of Forest Center FS E 172 37’ NLF 47 Meso 9.8’ 38-0735 Sand 13 miles W of Isabella PS E 506 10’ NLF 57 Eutr 3.6’ 38-0786 Sandpit 10 miles NE of Ely FS E 65 53’ NLF 43 Meso 14.1’ 38-0219 Silver Island 5 miles E of Sawbill Landing ST M 1,294 10’ NLF 52 Eutr 5.9’ 38-0191 Skindance 40 miles N of Tofte FS M 58 51’ NLF 40 Oligo 13.1’ 38-0666 Slate 13 miles NW of Isabella ST E 235 12’ NLF 53 Eutr - 14 miles NW of Forest 38-0529 Snowbank FS M 4,595 150’ NLF 38 Oligo 16.4’ Center 38-0778 South Farm 8 miles SE of Ely PS M 618 30’ NLF 54 Eutr 4.9’ South 38-0659 9 miles W of Isabella NS E 262 5’ NLF 66 Hyper 1.6’ McDougal 38-0453 South Wilder 6 miles NW of Forest Center FS E 614 35’ NLF 50 Meso 3.0’ 38-0388 Spoon 20 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 223 85’ NLF 40 Oligo 12.8’ 38-0351 Thomas 13 miles NE of Forest Center FS M 1,471 110’ NLF 39 Oligo 14.1’ 12 miles NW of Forest 38-0600 Three FS M 854 37’ NLF 44 Meso 9.8’ Center 38-0785 Tin Can Mike 11 miles NE of Ely FS E 147 29’ NLF 48 Meso 10.5’ 38-0724 Tofte 12 miles NE of Ely FS M 134 70’ NLF 32 Oligo 23.0’ 38-0715 Triangle 14 miles NE of Ely FS M 318 43’ NLF 37 Oligo 16.4’ 38-0704 Turtle 14 miles SE of Ely ST E 337 9’ NLF 51 Eutr 5.9’ 10 miles NW of Forest 38-0608 Two FS M 481 35’ NLF 49 Meso 6.9’ Center 38-0484 Unnamed 8 miles N of Forest Center FS M 381 35’ NLF 49 Meso 7.2’ 38-0491 Vera 17 miles N of Forest Center FS E 181 55’ NLF 40 Oligo 12.8’ 38-0079 Watonwan 11 miles E of Forest Center FS M 66 25’ NLF 41 Meso - 38-0642 Wind 16 miles NE of Ely ST E 1,009 32’ NLF 52 Eutr - 38-0068 Windy 11 miles SE of Forest Center PS E 450 39’ NLF 56 Eutr - 38-0729 Wood 13 miles NE of Ely FS E 643 21’ NLF 48 Meso 8.2’ St. Louis County 69-0223 Agnes 23 miles NW of Ely FS E 973 30’ NLF 47 Meso 4.9’ 69-0063 Bass 2.5 miles NW of Winton FS E 144 35’ NLF 46 Meso 10.8’ 69-0115 Bear Island 3 miles N of Babbitt FS E 2,667 70’ NLF 49 Meso 6.9’ 69-0190 Big 14 miles NW of Ely FS E 1,740 15’ NLF 48 Meso 10.8’ 69-0316 Big Moose 14 miles NW of Ely FS E 1,032 15’ NLF 47 Meso - 69-0003 Birch 2 miles E of Babbitt ST E 7,628 25’ NLF 51 Eutr 5.2’ 69-0100 Boot 12 miles N of Ely FS E 308 27’ NLF 46 Meso - 69-0452 Bootleg 25 miles N of Tower NS M 352 26’ NLF 62 Eutr - 69-0118 Burntside 3 miles NE of Ely FS M 7,287 160’ NLF 37 Oligo 20.0’ 69-0220 Crab 10 miles W of Ely PS M 219 57’ NLF 57 Eutr 12.1’ 69-0604 Dovre 24 miles NE of Orr FS E 120 17’ NLF 45 Meso 5.6’ 69-0199 Ed Shave 13 miles NW of Ely PS E 97 15’ NLF 57 Eutr 6.6’ 69-0120 Everett 6 miles NW of Ely ST E 109 15’ NLF 53 Eutr 9.2’ 69-0481 Fat 32 miles NW of Ely FS M 102 50’ NLF 37 Oligo - 69-0085 Fenske 7 miles N of Ely FS M 104 43’ NLF 45 Meso 8.5’ 69-0119 First 8 miles NE of Ely ST E 17 40’ NLF 51 Eutr - Ge-Be-On- 69-0350 28 miles NW of Ely FS E 607 55’ NLF 27 Oligo - Equat

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-36 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI) Secchi 69-0082 Grassy 7 miles N of Ely ST E 213 15’ NLF 52 Eutr - 69-0093 Gun 15 miles N of Ely FS E 336 57’ NLF 39 Oligo 16.7’ 69-0487 Gun 32 miles NW of Ely FS M 158 135’ NLF 47 Meso - 69-0071 High 5 miles N of Ely FS E 277 66’ NLF 44 Meso - 69-0343 Hustler 26 miles NW of Ely ST M 272 60’ NLF 52 Eutr 11.2’ 69-0456 Jeanette 10 miles E of Buyck PS M 293 15’ NLF 54 Eutr 4.9’ 69-0117 Johnson 6 miles N of Babbitt FS E 465 18’ NLF 47 Meso 9.8’ 69-0224 Lac la Croix 7 miles E of Crane lake FS M 34,070 169’ NLF 43 Meso 10.8’ 69-0066 Little Long 4 miles NW of Ely FS M 293 45’ NLF 35 Oligo 19.0’ 69-0484 Little Loon 31 miles NW of Ely FS E 175 - NLF 48 Meso 8.5’ 69-0086 Little Sletten 6 miles N of Ely ST E 14 30’ NLF 51 Eutr 7.9’ 69-0470 Loon 30 miles N of Tower FS E 2,616 75’ NLF 43 Meso 4.9’ Lower 69-0464 27 miles N of Tower ST E 215 35’ NLF 51 Eutr 4.6’ Pauness 69-0329 Meander 20 miles NW of Ely FS M 139 25’ NLF 42 Meso 14.8’ 69-0065 Minister 4.5 miles NW of Ely NS E 50 45’ NLF 63 Eutr - 69-0116 Mitchell 3 miles SW of Ely PS E 241 38’ NLF 55 Eutr - 69-0080 Nels 9 miles NW of Ely PS E 143 30’ NLF 54 Eutr 6.2’ 69-0340 Nina Moose 21 miles N of Ely PS E 430 6’ NLF 57 Eutr 3.9’ 69-0061 One Pine 5 miles S of Ely FS E 363 13’ NLF 49 Meso - 69-0330 Oyster 24 miles NW of Ely FS E 714 130’ NLF 37 Oligo 7.9’ 69-0058 Perch 11 miles SW of Ely ST E 91 13’ NLF 53 Eutr 4.6’ 69-0339 Ramshead 21 miles NW of Ely ST E 480 10’ NLF 53 Eutr 5.6’ 69-0342 Rocky 26 miles NW of Ely FS E 114 40’ NLF 41 Meso 7.9’ 69-0069 Shagawa at Ely PS* M 2,370 48’ NLF 54 Eutr 7.2’ 69-0461 Shell 26 miles NW of Ely PS E 484 15’ NLF 56 Eutr 4.6’ 69-0084 Sletten 6 miles N of Ely FS E 18 40’ NLF 44 Meso 11.8’ 69-0181 Slim 9 miles NW of Ely FS M 296 49’ NLF 35 Oligo 19.0’ 69-0205 Stuart 21 miles NW of Ely FS E 752 40’ NLF 40 Oligo - 69-0369 Takucmich 32 miles NW of Ely FS E 320 150’ NLF 35 Oligo 10.8 69-0213 Toe 27 miles NW of Ely FS E 484 57’ NLF 37 Oligo 7.9’ 69-0088 Wagosh 16 miles N of Winton PS E 49 - NLF 57 Eutr 3.9’ 69-0004 White Iron 2 miles SE of Ely FS M 3,429 47’ NLF 49 Meso 4.6’ 69-0161 Wolf 1.5 miles NE of Robinson FS E 299 28’ NLF 47 Meso -

Use: Full Support (FS), Supporting but Threatened (ST), Partial Support (PS), Not Supporting (NS). Data: Monitored (M), Evaluated, Past or Present Wastewater Discharge (*). Trophic State: Oligotrophic (low algae) (Oligo), Mesotrophic (Meso), Eutrophic (Eutr), Hypereutophic (Hyper). Ecoregion: Northern Lakes and Forests (NLF), Central Hardwood Forest (CHF), Northern Minnesota Wetlands (NMW).

Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports Table III-20. Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports County Report Lake ID(s) Year 69-0004, 38-0779, 38- Lake White Iron Chain of Lakes LAP report 1996 0782 St. Louis Burntside Lake LAP report 69-0118 1994 Shagawa, Prairie, and Elbow Lakes Status 69-0069, 69-0848, 69- St. Louis 1998 report 0717 St. Louis White Iron Chain of Lakes LAP report 69-0004 1996

Additional Lake Assessment data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/basins/lks95rny.pdf.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-37 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) There are no current CWP projects in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed.

5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory All tested water bodies are listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory even if there is no advice to restrict consumption. Anglers should check the Advisory for the specific advice issued for each waterbody.

Table III-21. Lakes in the Rainy River Headwaters watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) Lake Name County Lake Name County Lake Name County Adams Lake Greenwood Lake Parent Lake Alpine Cook Grouse Lake Pauline St. Louis Amber Lake Gull Cook Perch St. Louis August Lake Gunflint Cook Perent Lake Bass St. Louis Harriet Lake Phoebe Cook Basswood Lake Harris Lake Pickeral Lake Bear Island St. Louis High St. Louis Picket St. Louis Beaver Hut Lake Highlife Lake Pike Lake Big St. Louis Hog Cook Portage Cook Big Moose St. Louis Horse Lake Quadga Lake Birch Lake Hustler St. Louis Ramshead St. Louis Birch St. Louis Ima Lake Red Rock Cook Browns Lake Iron Cook Round Cook Bunny Lake Isabella Lake Rush Cook Burntside St. Louis Jack Lake Saganaga Cook Cedar Lake Jasper Cook Sand Lake Clear Lake Johnson (69-0117) St. Louis Sandpit Lake Coffee Lake Johnson (69-0691) St. Louis Seagull Cook Conchu Lake Kawishiwi Lake Section 29 Lake Crab Cook Kitigan Lake Shagawa St. Louis Crellin St. Louis Knife Lake Silver Island Lake Crooked Cook Lac la Croix St. Louis Slate Lake Crooked Lake Little St. Louis Sletten St. Louis Cypress Lake Little Iron Cook Slim St. Louis Delay Lake Little Knife Lake Snowbank Lake Disappointment Lake Little Long St. Louis Square Lake Dragon Lake Little Saganaga Cook Stuart St. Louis Dry St. Louis Little Sandy St. Louis Sucker Lake Dunnigan Lake Loon Cook Swallow Lake East Chub Lake Loon St. Louis Sylvania Lake Ed Shave St. Louis Low St. Louis T (Tee) Lake Eighteen Lake Mayhew Cook Tahuemich St. Louis Everett St. Louis McDougal, Middle Lake Tee St. Louis Fall Lake McDougal, North Lake Thomas Lake

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-38 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

Lake Name County Lake Name County Lake Name County Fenske St. Louis McDougal, South Lake Three Lake Flash Lake Meander St. Louis Tooth St. Louis Flathorn Lake Meditation Cook Triangle Lake Found Lake Mesaba Cook Tuscarora Cook Fourtown Lake Minister St. Louis Twin (69-0163) St. Louis Fraser Lake Mitawan Lake Twin (69-0174) St. Louis Frost Cook Moose Lake Two Lake Gabbro Lake Muckwa St. Louis Vera Lake Gacimichigami Cook Nels St. Louis Wanless Lake Gander Lake Newfound Lake Watonwan Lake Garden Lake Newton Lake West Chub Lake Ge-Be-On-Equat St. Louis North Cook Whisper St. Louis Gegoka Lake Ojibway Lake White Iron St. Louis Gillis Cook O’Leary St. Louis Windy Lake Grass Lake One Lake Wine Cook Grassy St. Louis One Pine St. Louis Wolf (69-0161) St. Louis Greenstone Lake Oyster St. Louis

6. Contaminated Sediments No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

7. Groundwater No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

B. WATER QUANTITY

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-39 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

1. USGS 05124480 Kawishiwi River near Ely, MN Table III-22. Annual Mean Streamflow of Kawishiwi River near Ely Lake County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030001 Latitude 47°55'22", Longitude 91°32'06" NAD27 Drainage area 254.00 square miles Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1967 169 1975 155 1983 239 1991 130 1968 291 1976 165 1984 173 1992 199 1969 256 1977 218 1985 166 1993 179 1970 343 1978 171 1986 198 1994 221 1971 290 1979 201 1987 156 1995 142 1972 198 1980 150 1988 248 1996 258 1973 255 1981 214 1989 183 1997 153 1974 224 1982 256 1990 181 1998 110

Figure III-7. Annual Peak Streamflow of Kawishiwi River near Ely

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-40 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

2. USGS 05127000 Kawishiwi River near Winton, MN Table III-23. Annual Mean Streamflow of Kawishiwi River near Winton Lake County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030001 Latitude 47°56'05", Longitude 91°45'50" NAD27 Drainage area 1,230.00 square miles Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual mean mean mean mean mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1906 909 1937 827 1953 1,175 1969 1,424 1984 965 1913 783 1938 1,120 1954 1,405 1970 1,607 1985 1,094 1916 1,196 1939 1,018 1955 676 1971 1,692 1986 1,130 1924 490 1940 820 1956 1,062 1972 1,243 1987 768 1925 519 1941 992 1957 1,091 1973 1,433 1988 1,187 1926 814 1942 714 1958 596 1974 1,038 1989 998 1927 1,109 1943 1,203 1959 761 1975 933 1990 984 1928 1,333 1944 1,535 1960 743 1976 824 1991 768 1929 675 1945 1,166 1961 758 1977 1,074 1992 1,042 1930 931 1946 1,307 1962 951 1978 1,092 1993 1,001 1931 586 1947 1,382 1963 575 1979 1,161 1994 1,165 1932 754 1948 1,006 1964 1,003 1980 796 1995 838 1933 591 1949 1,097 1965 1,298 1981 1,135 1996 1,611 1934 770 1950 1,858 1966 1,373 1982 1,461 1997 854 1935 897 1951 1,384 1967 870 1983 1,223 1998 724 1936 833 1952 1,136 1968 1,758

Figure III-8. Annual Peak Streamflow of Kawishiwi River near Winton

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-41 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

3. USGS 05127500 Basswood River near Winton, MN Table III-24. Annual Mean Streamflow of Basswood River near Winton Lake County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030001 Latitude 48°04'55", Longitude 91°39'10" NAD27 Drainage area 1,740.00 square miles Gage datum 1,296.80 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual mean mean mean mean mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1931 825 1946 1,796 1960 954 1973 1,686 1986 1,522 1932 1,030 1947 1,905 1961 1,023 1974 1,630 1987 1,106 1933 821 1948 1,278 1962 1,261 1975 1,259 1988 1,532 1934 1,086 1949 1,321 1963 712 1976 1,131 1989 1,381 1935 1,167 1950 2,564 1964 1,248 1977 1,519 1990 1,337 1936 1,088 1951 1,757 1965 1,734 1978 1,477 1991 1,025 1937 1,051 1952 1,487 1966 1,795 1979 1,486 1992 1,427 1939 1,224 1953 1,481 1967 1,107 1980 1,003 1993 1,393 1940 959 1954 1,734 1968 2,169 1981 1,544 1994 1,701 1941 1,323 1955 840 1969 1,767 1982 1,898 1995 1,138 1942 987 1956 1,333 1970 2,090 1983 1,649 1996 1,952 1943 1,549 1957 1,337 1971 2,024 1984 1,315 1997 1,163 1944 2,119 1958 667 1972 1,526 1985 1,454 1998 740 1945 1,507 1959 881

Figure III-9. Annual Peak Streamflow of Basswood River near Winton

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-42 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River Headwaters

For additional quantity information, the reader is referred to the United State Geological Survey web site at: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

C. AQUATIC AND RIPARIAN ENVIRONMENTS No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

D. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON WATER QUALITY Figure III-10. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Rainy River Headwaters watershed

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Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-43 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Vermilion River

II. VERMILION RIVER (HUC # 09030002) A. WATER QUALITY 1. Stream Water Quality a. Milestone Monitoring Program There are no Milestone sites located in the Vermilion River watershed.

Milestone data may be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/storet/dbtop.html. b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) There are no CSMP sites in the Vermilion River watershed. c. River Watch There are no active River Watch sites in the Vermilion River watershed.

2. Water Quality Assessment a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List. b. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) None in the Vermilion River watershed. c. Ecoregion Comparison Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List. d. Trends Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List.

3. Lake Water Quality a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) Table III-25. CLMP sites in the Vermilion River watershed

St. Louis County Lake ID # Name Lake ID # Name Lake ID # Name 69-0842 Blackduck 69-0285-02 Eagles Nest # 1 69-0218 Eagles Nest # 4 69-0285-01 Eagles Nest 1 & 2 69-0285-03 Eagles Nest # 3 69-0378 Vermilion

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-44 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Vermilion River

Secchi Transparency Trends

Table III-26. Kendall tau-b (Rk) and P-Level Values Group Kendall tau-b (Rk) Value Definition P-Level Value Group Definition Highly Significant, R Values: > + 0.50 Strong P-Level: < 0.01 k represented by **** Significant, represented by R Values: + 0.49 - + 0.40 Moderate P-Level: 0.05 – 0.015 k *** Somewhat Significant, R Values: + 0.39 - + 0.33 Weak P-Level: 0.1 – 0.055 k represented by ** Not Significant, R Values: < + 0.32 none P0Level: > 0.1 k represented by *

Description of the terms used. The Kendall’s tau-b (Rk) ranges from –1 to 1. The closer the value is to +1, the stronger the trend. A probability level (p)<0.1 was used as a basis for screening and identifying significant trends in transparency. At this p-level there is a 10% of identifying a trend when none exists. Simply stated, the smaller the p-value, the more likely the trend is real. For purposes of this analysis, we have divided the Kendall (Rk) and p-level values into four categories each.

Table III-27. 1998 CLMP secchi transparency trends in the Vermilion watershed Mean Lake ID Lake Name Location years Rk P-level Secchi Correlation Significance Lakes exhibiting a positive (improving) trend in Secchi transparency St. Louis County Eagles 3 mi SW of 69-0285-02 9 0.83 0.002 5.9 strong **** Nest #1 Robinson Eagles 8 mi E of 69-0218 8 0.57 0.048 5.3 strong *** Nest #4 Soudan 69-0378 Vermilion at Tower 20 0.62 0.000 2.2 strong **** Lakes exhibiting a negative (declining) trend in Secchi transparency St. Louis County Eagles 3 mi S of 69-0285-03 9 -0.50 0.061 4.4 strong ** Nest #3 Robinson Lakes exhibiting no trend in Secchi transparency N/A Legend: Lake ID: Lake Identification Number Lake Name: Name of Lake Location: Distance & direction from nearest Years: Number of years of data Rk: Kendall’s tau-b correlation coefficient P-Level: P-Level Value Mean Secchi: Long-Term Secchi Correlation: Rk Group Definition Significance: P-Level Group Definition town

Lake specific CLMP data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/pca/clmp.html. b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessments

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-45 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Vermilion River

Table III-28. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by County Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI) Secchi St. Louis County 69-0278 Armstrong 1 mile W of Robinson FS M 389 34’ NLF 32 Oligo 22.6’ 69-0742 Ban 8 miles E of Orr PS M 377 15’ NLF 55 Eutr 4.6’ 69-0381 Buck 12 miles NE of Tower PS M 194 21’ NLF 57 Eutr - 69-0277 Clear 1 mile W of Robinson ST E 119 24’ NLF 53 Eutr - 69-0616 Crane 24 miles NE of Orr FS E 3,088 80’ NLF 48 Meso 5.9’ Eagles Nest 1 & 69-0285-01 4 miles SW of Robinson FS M 875 45’ NLF 36 Oligo 17.1’ 2 69-0285-02 Eagles Nest # 1 3 miles SW of Robinson FS M 309 75’ NLF 35 Oligo 18.7’ 69-0285-03 Eagles Nest # 3 3 miles SW of Robinson FS M 966 49’ NLF 38 Oligo 15.1’ 69-0218 Eagles Nest # 4 8 miles E of Soudan FS M 202 55’ NLF 36 Oligo 17.1’ 69-0615 Echo 18 miles NE of Orr PS M 1,054 10’ NLF 54 Eutr 4.9’ 69-0744 Elbow 9 miles SE of Orr PS M 1,852 60’ NLF 54 Eutr 4.9’ 69-0810 Elephant 8 miles ESE of Ash lake ST M 742 30’ NLF 51 Eutr 6.2’ 69-0281 Four Mile 3 miles E of Soudan ST M 147 15’ NLF 52 Eutr 5.9’ 69-0802 Hoodoo 7 miles SE of Orr FS E 252 - NLF 37 Oligo - 69-0748 Kjostad 11 miles NE of Orr PS M 444 58’ NLF 57 Eutr 3.9’ 69-0755 Marion 18 miles NE of Orr FS E 163 13’ NLF 43 Meso 8.9’ 69-0590 Maude 8 miles E of Buyck NS E 88 26’ NLF 63 Eutr 3.6’ 69-0806 Moose 3 miles NE of Orr FS E 977 8’ NLF 27 Oligo - 69-0749 Myrtle 7 miles E of Orr FS M 889 20’ NLF 45 Meso 9.5’ 69-0282 Needle Boy 5 miles E of Soudan FS M 43 15’ NLF 50 Meso 6.6’ 69-0457 Nigh 9.5 miles E of Buyck PS E 38 10’ NLF 58 Eutr 4.9’ 69-0587 Oriniack 14 miles NW of Tower FS E 761 17’ NLF 41 Meso 7.5’ 69-0588 Pauline 9 miles E of Buyck ST E 62 25’ NLF 51 Eutr 12.5’ 69-0841 Pelican 3 miles W of Orr FS* M 10,945 38’ NLF 48 Meso 7.5’ 69-0591 Picket 21 miles E of Orr FS E 312 23’ NLF 37 Oligo 7.9’ 69-0448 Pine 10 miles N of Tower ST E 912 - NLF 52 Eutr 4.9’ 69-0764 Sunset 10 miles SE of Orr ST E 309 - NLF 51 Eutr - 69-0498 Trout 11 miles N of Tower FS E 7,641 98’ NLF 47 Meso 10.2’ 69-0598 Unnamed 9 miles E of Buyck PS E 109 30’ NLF 54 Eutr 9.2’ 69-0378 Vermilion at Tower ST* M 40,557 76’ NLF 50 Eutr 8.2’ 69-0217 West Robinson at Robinson NS E 135 8’ NLF 61 Eutr - 69-0690 Winchester 13 miles E of Orr FS E 360 50’ NLF 37 Oligo -

Use: Full Support (FS), Supporting but Threatened (ST), Partial Support (PS), Not Supporting (NS). Data: Monitored (M), Evaluated, Past or Present Wastewater Discharge (*). Trophic State: Oligotrophic (low algae) (Oligo), Mesotrophic (Meso), Eutrophic (Eutr), Hypereutophic (Hyper). Ecoregion: Northern Lakes and Forests (NLF), Central Hardwood Forest (CHF), Northern Minnesota Wetlands (NMW).

Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports Table III-29. Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports County Report Lake ID(s) Year St. Louis Elbow Lake LAP Report 69-0717 1987 St. Louis Vermilion LAP Report 69-0378 2000 Shagawa, Prairie, and Elbow Lakes 69-0069, 69-0848, 69- St. Louis 1998 Status report 0717

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-46 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Vermilion River

Additional Lake Assessment data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/basins/lks95rny.pdf.

4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) There are no current CWP projects in the Vermilion River watershed.

5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory All tested water bodies are listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory even if there is no advice to restrict consumption. Anglers should check the Advisory for the specific advice issued for each waterbody.

Table III-30. Lakes in the Vermilion River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) Lake Name County Lake Name County Lake Name County Armstrong St. Louis Elephant St. Louis Moose (69-0806) St. Louis Astrid St. Louis Fat St. Louis Myrtle St. Louis Ban St. Louis Gun St. Louis Pelican St. Louis Crane St. Louis Jeanette St. Louis Pfeiffer St. Louis Dovre St. Louis Kjostad St. Louis Pike River Flowage St. Louis Eagles Nest # 1 St. Louis Little Trout (69-0455) St. Louis Susan St. Louis Eagles Nest # 3 St. Louis Little Vermilion St. Louis Trout, Big St. Louis Eagles Nest # 4 St. Louis Long (69-0765) St. Louis Vermilion St. Louis Echo St. Louis Marion St. Louis Winchester St. Louis Elbow St. Louis Maude St. Louis Wolf (69-0582) St. Louis

Table III-31. Stream reaches in the Vermilion River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) River Name Location Vermilion River Vermilion Dam to Crane lake

6. Contaminated Sediments No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

7. Groundwater No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

B. WATER QUANTITY

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-47 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Vermilion River

1. USGS 05129000 – Vermilion River below Vermilion Lake near Tower, MN Table III-32. Annual Mean Streamflow of Vermilion River below Vermilion Lake St. Louis County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030002 Latitude 47°57'41", Longitude 92°28'33" NAD27 Drainage area 483.00 square miles Gage datum 1,347.36 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual mean mean mean mean mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1912 178 1936 246 1948 340 1959 245 1970 448 1913 309 1937 343 1949 270 1960 217 1971 478 1914 297 1938 407 1950 550 1961 237 1972 337 1915 277 1939 226 1951 337 1962 352 1973 399 1916 540 1940 236 1952 263 1963 195 1974 389 1929 186 1941 357 1953 305 1964 268 1975 385 1930 236 1942 266 1954 391 1965 401 1976 163 1931 213 1943 360 1955 153 1966 451 1977 296 1932 235 1944 559 1956 229 1967 208 1978 452 1933 200 1945 400 1957 267 1968 514 1979 363 1934 200 1946 417 1958 148 1969 480 1980 191 1935 328 1947 453

Figure III-11. Annual Streamflow of Vermilion River near Tower

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-48 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Vermilion River

2. USGS 05129115 Vermilion River near Crane Lake, MN Table III-33. Annual Mean Streamflow of Vermilion River near Crane Lake St. Louis County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030002 Latitude 48°15'53", Longitude 92°33'57" NAD27 Drainage area 905 square miles Gage datum 1,180 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1980 357 1985 925 1990 611 1995 585 1981 645 1986 755 1991 600 1996 826 1982 800 1987 402 1992 545 1997 575 1983 624 1988 667 1993 775 1998 334 1984 566 1989 652 1994 820

Figure III-12. Annual Streamflow of Vermilion River near Crane Lake

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-49 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Vermilion River

For additional quantity information, the reader is referred to the United State Geological Survey web site at: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

C. AQUATIC AND RIPAR IAN ENVIRONMENTS No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-50 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Vermilion River

D. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON WATER QUALITY Figure III-13. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Vermilion River watershed

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Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-51 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Rainy Lake

III. RAINY RIVER / RAINY LAKE (HUC # 09030003) A. WATER QUALITY 1. Stream Water Quality The USGS-Biological Resource Division and National Park Service have done extensive research, investigations and monitoring in Voyageurs National Park, located within Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed. Summary data will be included in the final version of the Basin Information Document. Reports and data will be included in the Data Source List. Aquatic Synthesis of Voyageurs National Park is in preparation by USGS-Biological Resource Division and will have the report posted at http://www.cerc.cr.usgs.gov/FRS_Webs/Intrntl/research.htm by July 2002. a. Milestone Monitoring Program There are no Milestone sites located in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed.

Milestone data may be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/storet/dbtop.html b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) There are no CSMP sites in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed. c. River Watch There are no active River Watch sites in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed.

2. Water Quality Assessment a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List. b. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) None in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed. c. Ecoregion Comparison Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List. d. Trends Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List.

3. Lake Water Quality The USGS-Biological Resource Division and National Park Service have done extensive research, investigations and monitoring in Voyageurs National Park, located within Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed. Summary data will be included in the final version of the Basin Information Document. Reports and data will be included in the Data Source List. Aquatic Synthesis of Voyageurs National Park is in preparation by USGS-Biological Resource Division

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-52 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Rainy Lake and will have the report posted at http://www.cerc.cr.usgs.gov/FRS_Webs/Intrntl/research.htm by July 2002. a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) Table III-34. CLMP sites in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed

St. Louis County Lake ID # Name 69-0694 Rainy 69-0842 Blackduck

Secchi Transparency Trends Lake specific CLMP data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/pca/clmp.html. b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessments Table III-35. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by County

Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI)Secchi St. Louis County 69-0864 Ash 13 miles NW of Orr ST M 669 29’ NLF 49 Meso7.2’ 69-0842 Blackduck 10 miles N of Orr FS E 1,264 30’ NLF 52 Eutr5.9’ 69-0819 Gannon 20 miles NE of Orr FS M 89 18’ NLF 45 Meso7.5’ 69-0845 Kabetogama at Kabetogama FS E 19,903 50’ NLF 45 Meso9.5’ 69-0760 Little Johnson 23 miles N of Orr FS E 481 28’ NLF 45 Meso9.8’ 69-0765 Long 19 miles NE of Orr FS E 409 18’ NLF 46 Meso8.5’ 69-0684 Mukooda 25 miles NE of Orr FS M 754 78’ NLF 42 Meso9.8’ 69-0694 Rainy 2 miles SE of Island View FS M 220,800 - NLF 46 Meso8.5’

Use: Full Support (FS), Supporting but Threatened (ST), Partial Support (PS), Not Supporting (NS). Data: Monitored (M), Evaluated, Past or Present Wastewater Discharge (*). Trophic State: Oligotrophic (low algae) (Oligo), Mesotrophic (Meso), Eutrophic (Eutr), Hypereutophic (Hyper). Ecoregion: Northern Lakes and Forests (NLF), Central Hardwood Forest (CHF), Northern Minnesota Wetlands (NMW).

Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

Additional Lake Assessment data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/basins/lks95rny.pdf.

4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) There are no current CWP projects in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed.

5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory All tested water bodies are listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory even if there is no advice to restrict consumption. Anglers should check the Advisory for the specific advice issued for each waterbody.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-53 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Rainy Lake

Table III-36. Lakes in the Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) Lake Name County Lake Name County Lake Name County Angus St. Louis Kabetogama St. Louis Net St. Louis Ash St. Louis Kabustasa St. Louis Oslo St. Louis Blackduck St. Louis Little Johnson St. Louis Peary St. Louis Brown St. Louis Little Shoepack St. Louis Quarterline (Leif) St. Louis Cruiser St. Louis Little Trout (69-0682) St. Louis Rainy St. Louis Ek (Leif) St. Louis Locator St. Louis Ryan St. Louis Fishmouth St. Louis Moose Koochiching Sand Point St. Louis Franklin St. Louis Moose (69-0750) St. Louis Shoepack St. Louis Johnson (69-0691) St. Louis Mukooda St. Louis Spring St. Louis Jorgens St. Louis Namakan St. Louis War Club St. Louis

6. Contaminated Sediments No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

7. Groundwater No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

B. WATER QUANTITY

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-54 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Rainy Lake

1. USGS 05129290 Gold Portage Outlet from Kabetogama Lake near Ray, MN Table III-37. Annual Mean Streamflow of Gold Portage Outlet from Kabetogama Lake St. Louis County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030003 Latitude 48°31'28", Longitude 93°04'29" NAD27 Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1983 224 1987 183 1991 253 1984 217 1988 234 1992 254 1985 300 1989 263 1998 115 1986 257 1990 262

Figure III-14. Annual Streamflow of Gold Portage Outlet from Kabetogama Lake

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-55 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Rainy Lake

For additional quantity information, the reader is referred to the United State Geological Survey web site at: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us or the Lake of the Woods Control Board at: http://www.lwcb.ca/waterflowdata.html.

C. AQUATIC AND RIPAR IAN ENVIRONMENTS The USGS-Biological Resource Division and National Park Service have done extensive research, investigations and monitoring in Voyageurs National Park, located within Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed. Summary data will be included in the final version of the Basin Information Document. Reports and data will be included in the Data Source List. Aquatic Synthesis of Voyageurs National Park is in preparation by USGS-Biological Resource Division and will have the report posted at http://www.cerc.cr.usgs.gov/FRS_Webs/Intrntl/research.htm by July 2002.

Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

D. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON WATER QUALITY Figure III-15. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed

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Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-56 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Manitou

IV. RAINY RIVER / MANITOU (HUC # 09030004) A. WATER QUALITY 1. Stream Water Quality a. Milestone Monitoring Program The Rainy River/Manitou watershed has two Milestone sites (RA- 83), located at the dam in International Falls, and (RA-86) located at the MD&W Railway trestle in Ranier. RA-83 has been sampled since 1953. This site provides information for the river reach from the Black River to the Rapid River, a length of 48 miles (HUC- Segment # 09030004-001). RA-86 has been samples since 1974, providing information on the river reach from Rainy Lake to the International Falls Dam, a distance of 2.9 miles. Due to safety concerns about sampling on the railway trestle, sampling at RA-86 was discontinued in 2000.

Milestone data may be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/storet/dbtop.html. b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) There are no CSMP sites in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed. c. River Watch A River Watch Program was started on the Rainy River, within the Rainy River/Manitou watershed, in 2000. This program is sponsored by Indus School, Koochiching County and Rainy River First Nations. Data from the 2000 sampling has not been submitted to the MPCA at this writing.

2. Water Quality Assessment

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-57 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Manitou a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality Table III-38. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) Suspected Pollution Uses: Indicators Of Impairment: Sources:

On TMDL HUC-Segment List River Reach Location Reach Length (Mi.) Aquatic Life Swimming Biology Oxygen Depletion Turbidity Un-Ionized Ammonia Metals Chloride Bacteria Municipal Industrial Nonpoint

09030004-213 Rainy R Rainy Lake to International Falls Dam 2.9 FS FS FS FS FS FS 09030004-001 Rainy R Black R to Rapid R 48 FS FS FS FS FS FS FS

51 miles assessed of a total of 368 miles in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed (13.86 percent). Full Support (FS,S); Partial Support (PS);Not Supporting (NS); Not Attainable (NT) b. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) None in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-58 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Manitou c. Ecoregion Comparison Table III-39. Ecoregion Comparison Table (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)

Uses Nonpoint Source Indicators Oxygen Demand Total Phosphorus (BOD)

HUC-Segment River Reach Location Reach Length (Miles) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L)

09030004-213 Rainy R Rainy Lake to International Falls Dam 2.9 Y .052 Y .09 N 1.7 N 6.4 09030004-001 Rainy R Black R to Rapid R 47.7 N .092 Y .08 2.2 17.2

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-59 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Manitou d. Trends BOD ...... Decrease TSS ...... Decrease Total Phosphorus ...... Decrease Nitrite/Nitrate ...... Increase Unionized Ammonia...... RA-83 no trend, RA-86 insufficient data Fecal Coliforms...... RA-83 decrease, RA-86 insufficient data

3. Lake Water Quality a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) There are no CLMP sites in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed.

Lake specific CLMP data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/pca/clmp.html. b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessments There have been no lake assessment within the Rainy River/Manitou watershed.

Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports There have been no Lake Assessment Reports completed in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed.

Additional Lake Assessment data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/basins/lks95rny.pdf.

4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) There are no current CWP projects in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed.

5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory All tested water bodies are listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory even if there is no advice to restrict consumption. Anglers should check the Advisory for the specific advice issued for each waterbody.

Table III-40. Stream reaches in the Rainy River/Manitou watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) River Name Location Rainy River International Falls to Four Mile Bay

6. Contaminated Sediments No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

7. Groundwater No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

B. WATER QUANTITY

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-60 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Manitou

1. USGS 05133500 Rainy River at Manitou Rapids, MN Table III-41. Annual Mean Streamflow of Rainy River at Manitou Rapids Koochiching County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030004 Latitude 48°38'04", Longitude 93°54'47" NAD27 Drainage area 19,400.00 square miles Gage datum 1,062.48 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual mean mean mean mean mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1929 8,891 1943 15,930 1957 12,800 1971 18,490 1985 21,000 1930 5,445 1944 17,910 1958 6,479 1972 13,930 1986 14,070 1931 4,636 1945 13,540 1959 9,784 1973 11,430 1987 7,728 1932 7,309 1946 13,460 1960 8,953 1974 17,630 1988 10,930 1933 8,362 1947 15,720 1961 9,836 1975 13,550 1989 13,460 1934 10,830 1948 11,900 1962 17,240 1976 8,959 1990 10,840 1935 11,590 1949 11,650 1963 11,870 1977 12,190 1991 9,732 1936 8,213 1950 24,330 1964 16,610 1978 16,170 1992 15,450 1937 12,170 1951 15,380 1965 17,490 1979 13,890 1993 14,260 1938 13,900 1952 11,770 1966 18,080 1980 7,175 1994 14,290 1939 8,522 1953 11,420 1967 11,110 1981 10,710 1995 11,350 1940 7,650 1954 14,499 1968 19,180 1982 16,550 1996 19,660 1941 15,900 1955 9,176 1969 18,700 1983 13,030 1997 11,900 1942 11,630 1956 12,460 1970 19,060 1984 12,100 1998 6,373

Figure III-16. Annual Streamflow of Rainy River at Manitou Rapids

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-61 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Manitou

For additional quantity information, the reader is referred to the United State Geological Survey web site at: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

C. AQUATIC AND RIPAR IAN ENVIRONMENTS No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

D. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON WATER QUALITY Figure III-17. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Rainy River/Manitou watershed

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Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-62 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River

V. LITTLE FORK RIVER (HUC # 09030005) A. WATER QUALITY 1. Stream Water Quality a. Milestone Monitoring Program The Little Fork River has one Milestone site (LF-0.5) located at the crossing on Highway 11. The site has been sampled since 1971. This site provides information for the river reach from Beaver Brook to the Rainy River, a length of 15.3 miles (HUC-Segment # 09030005-001).

Milestone data may be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/storet/dbtop.html. b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) There are no CSMP sites in the Little Fork Watershed. c. River Watch There are no active River Watch sites in the Little Fork Watershed.

2. Water Quality Assessment

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-63 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality Table III-42. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) Suspected Pollution Uses: Indicators Of Impairment: Sources:

On TMDL HUC-Segment List River Reach Location Reach Length (Mi.) Aquatic Life Swimming Biology Oxygen Depletion Turbidity Un-Ionized Ammonia Metals Chloride Bacteria Municipal Industrial Nonpoint

09030005-001 Little Fork R Beaver BK to Rainy R 15 FS FS FS FS FS FS

15.3 miles assessed of a total of 1,411 miles in the Little Fork watershed (1.08 percent). Full Support (FS,S); Partial Support (PS);Not Supporting (NS); Not Attainable (NT) b. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) None in the Little Fork River watershed.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-64 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River c. Ecoregion Comparison Table III-43. Ecoregion Comparison Table (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)

Uses Nonpoint Source Indicators Oxygen Demand Total Phosphorus (BOD)

HUC-Segment River Reach Location Reach Length (Miles) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L)

09030005-001 Little Fork R Beaver BK to Rainy R 15.3 Y .092 Y .08 N 2.2 Y 17.2

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-65 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River d. Trends BOD ...... Insufficient Data TSS ...... Insufficient Data Total Phosphorus ...... Insufficient Data Nitrite/Nitrate ...... Increase Unionized Ammonia...... Insufficient Data Fecal Coliforms...... Decrease

3. Lake Water Quality a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) Table III-44. CLMP Lakes in the Little Fork River watershed Itasca County St. Louis County Lake ID # Name Lake ID # Name 31-0003 South Sturgeon 69-0732 Little Sand 31-0058 Beatrice 31-0284 Raddison

Secchi Transparency Trends

Table III-45. Kendall tau-b (Rk) and P-Level Values Group Kendall tau-b (Rk) Value Definition P-Level Value Group Definition Highly Significant, R Values: > + 0.50 Strong P-Level: < 0.01 k represented by **** Significant, represented by R Values: + 0.49 - + 0.40 Moderate P-Level: 0.05 – 0.015 k *** Somewhat Significant, R Values: + 0.39 - + 0.33 Weak P-Level: 0.1 – 0.055 k represented by ** Not Significant, R Values: < + 0.32 none P0Level: > 0.1 k represented by *

Description of the terms used in the following CLMP trend tables: The Kendall’s tau-b (Rk) ranges from –1 to 1. The closer the value is to +1, the stronger the trend. A probability level (p)<0.1 was used as a basis for screening and identifying significant trends in transparency. At this p-level there is a 10% of identifying a trend when none exists. Simply stated, the smaller the p-value, the more likely the trend is real. For purposes of this analysis, we have divided the Kendall (Rk) and p-level values into four categories each.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-66 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River

Table III-46. 1998 CLMP secchi transparency trends in the Little Fork River watershed Mean Lake ID Lake Name Location years Rk P-level Secchi Correlation Significance Lakes exhibiting a positive (improving) trend in Secchi transparency N/A Lakes exhibiting a negative (declining) trend in Secchi transparency N/A Lakes exhibiting no trend in Secchi transparency Itasca County South 19 mi N of 31-0003 11 0.02 0.938 1.2 none N/A Sturgeon Keewatin Legend: Lake ID: Lake Identification Number Lake Name: Name of Lake Location: Distance & direction from nearest Years: Number of years of data Rk: Kendall’s tau-b correlation coefficient P-Level: P-Level Value Mean Secchi: Long-Term Secchi Correlation: Rk Group Definition Significance: P-Level Group Definition town

Lake specific CLMP data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/pca/clmp.html. b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessments Table III-47. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by County

Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI) Secchi Itasca County 31-0157 Bear 20 mi N of Nashwauk PS E 339 16’ NLF 5 Eutr 3.0’ 31-0058 Beatrice 21 mi N of Keewatin FS M 123 30’ NLF 40 Oligo 12.8’ 31-0171 Crum 14 mi E of Effie ST M 21 13’ NLF 53 Eutr 10.2’ 31-0289 Lost 12.4 mi E of Bigfork FS E 85 25’ NLF 42 Meso 15.1’ 31-0160 Mirror 5.5 mi SW of Togo FS E 102 44’ NLF 40 Meso 15.1’ 31-0292 Owen 16 mi SE of Effie FS M 328 35’ NLF 42 Meso 11.2’ 31-0003 S. Sturgeon 19 mi N of Keewatin PS M 193 43’ NLF 57 Eutr 3.9’ 31-0158 Thistledew 19 mi E of Bigfork FS E 318 45’ NLF 43 Meso 13.1 St. Louis County 6 mi SE of 69-0701 Aerie FS M 139 37’ NLF 44 Meso 10.2’ Meadowlands 69-0731 Auto 6 mi N of Mt. Iron FS M 93 25’ NLF 37 Oligo 15.7 69-0916 Dollar 5 mi NW of Chisholm FS E 11 31’ NLF 49 Meso 6.6’ 69-0796 Leander 12 mi N of Kinney FS M 249 45’ NLF 39 Oligo 14.1 69-0732 Little Sand 5 mi W of Brittmount PS M 94 14’ NLF 55 Eutr 4.6 69-1290 L. Sturgeon at Town of Side lake PS M 247 NLF 54 Eutr 3.3’ 69-0932 Perch 2 mi E of Side Lake FS M 343 21’ NLF 45 Meso 9.5’ 69-0736 Sand 6 mi W of Britt FS M 701 15’ NLF 49 Meso 7.2’ 69-0933 Side 8 mi SE of Togo FS M 372 16’ NLF 46 Meso 14.1’ 69-0920 Stuart 8 mi NW of Chisholm ST E 35 40’ NLF 52 Eutr 9.8’ 69-0939-01 Sturgeon at Town of Side Lake FS M 1,654 80’ NLF 41 Meso 15.1’ 69-0939-02 Sturgeon 2 mi W of Side lake ST M 114 31’ NLF 51 Eutr 4.6’

Use: Full Support (FS), Supporting but Threatened (ST), Partial Support (PS), Not Supporting (NS). Data: Monitored (M), Evaluated, Past or Present Wastewater Discharge (*). Trophic State: Oligotrophic (low algae) (Oligo), Mesotrophic (Meso), Eutrophic (Eutr), Hypereutophic (Hyper). Ecoregion: Northern Lakes and Forests (NLF), Central Hardwood Forest (CHF), Northern Minnesota Wetlands (NMW).

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-67 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River

Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports There have been no Lake Assessment Reports completed in the Little Fork River watershed.

Additional lake assessment data may be accessed: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/basins/lks95rny.pdf.

4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) There are no current CWP projects in the Little Fork Watershed.

5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory All tested water bodies are listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory even if there is no advice to restrict consumption. Anglers should check the Advisory for the specific advice issued for each waterbody.

Table III-48. Lakes in the Little Fork River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 1999) Lake Name County Lake Name County Lake Name County Auto St. Louis Little Bear Itasca Sand St. Louis Clear St. Louis Little Sand St. Louis Shannon St. Louis Dark St. Louis Long Itasca Side St. Louis Fourteen St. Louis Long St. Louis Sturgeon St. Louis Leander St. Louis

Table III-49. Stream reaches in the Little Fork River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 1999) River Name Location Dark R. N of Chisholm Little Fork R. Little Fork to Pelland

6. Contaminated Sediments No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

7. Groundwater No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

B. WATER QUANTITY

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-68 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River

1. USGS 05130500 Sturgeon River near Chisholm, MN Table III-50. Annual Mean Streamflow of Sturgeon River near Chisholm St. Louis County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030005 Latitude 47°40'25", Longitude 92°54'00" NAD27 Drainage area 180.00 square miles Gage datum 1,305.70 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1943 139 1957 105 1971 169 1985 143 1944 166 1958 64.4 1972 143 1986 132 1945 135 1959 116 1973 139 1987 84.3 1946 153 1960 93.8 1974 150 1988 106 1947 149 1961 85.1 1975 151 1989 127 1948 114 1962 121 1976 66.4 1990 105 1949 105 1963 83.8 1977 119 1991 97.2 1950 194 1964 114 1978 142 1992 105 1951 125 1965 144 1979 134 1993 159 1952 99.2 1966 170 1980 61.1 1994 178 1953 108 1967 93.3 1981 117 1995 157 1954 134 1968 160 1982 179 1996 179 1955 83.2 1969 164 1983 125 1997 131 1956 80.6 1970 141 1984 108 1998 87.9

Figure III-18. Annual Streamflow of Sturgeon River near Chisholm

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-69 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River

2. USGS 05131000 Dark River near Chisholm, MN Table III-51. Annual Mean Streamflow of Dark River near Chisholm St. Louis County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030005 Latitude 47°41'27", Longitude 92°49'15" NAD27 Drainage area 50.60 square miles Gage datum 1,316.80 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1943 36.1 1951 39.8 1959 36.2 1972 43.4 1944 46.6 1952 31.5 1960 31.4 1973 37.8 1945 37.8 1953 35.7 1966 44.8 1974 33.5 1946 44.1 1954 40.2 1967 24.1 1975 35.9 1947 47.8 1955 25.1 1968 42.2 1976 16.7 1948 37.9 1956 25.1 1969 45.7 1977 27.6 1949 32.5 1957 30.0 1970 43.2 1978 32.3 1950 58.2 1958 22.4 1971 56.1

Figure III-19. Annual Streamflow of Dark River near Chisholm

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-70 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River

3. USGS 05131448 Wood Duck Creek near Nett Lake, MN Table III-52. Annual Mean Streamflow of Wood Duck Creek near Nett Lake Koochiching County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030005 Latitude 48°09'24", Longitude 93°08'20" NAD27 Drainage area 31.8 square miles Contributing drainage area 31.8 square miles Gage datum 1,275 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1996 35.8 1997 19.7 1998 9.42

Figure III-20. Annual Streamflow of Wood Duck Creek near Nett Lake

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-71 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River

4. USGS 05131455 Nett Lake River near Nett Lake, MN Table III-53. Annual Mean Streamflow of Nett Lake River near Nett Lake Koochiching County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030005 Latitude 48°06'36", Longitude 93°11'12" NAD27 Drainage area 128 square miles Contributing drainage area 128 square miles Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1996 112 1997 86.4 1998 51.4

Figure III-21. Annual Streamflow of Nett Lake River near Nett Lake

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-72 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River

5. USGS 05131500 Little Fork River at Littlefork, MN Table III-54. Annual Mean Streamflow of Little Fork River at Littlefork Koochiching County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030005 Latitude 48°23'45", Longitude 93°32'57" NAD27 Drainage area 1,680.00 square miles Gage datum 1,083.59 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual mean mean mean mean mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1912 534 1939 654 1954 1,190 1969 1,872 1984 1,019 1913 1,104 1940 720 1955 659 1970 1,623 1985 1,768 1914 933 1941 1,443 1956 803 1971 1,543 1986 1,099 1915 1,082 1942 784 1957 1,078 1972 1,180 1987 690 1916 1,734 1943 1,257 1958 429 1973 924 1988 973 1929 441 1944 1,648 1959 823 1974 1,452 1989 1,146 1930 609 1945 1,222 1960 670 1975 1,440 1990 792 1931 320 1946 1,257 1961 764 1976 554 1991 984 1932 810 1947 1,316 1962 1,524 1977 1,075 1992 794 1933 668 1948 955 1963 756 1978 1,480 1993 1,213 1934 450 1949 1,168 1964 1,095 1979 1,298 1994 1,257 1935 891 1950 1,794 1965 1,448 1980 561 1995 1,095 1936 560 1951 1,344 1966 1,550 1981 1,039 1996 1,385 1937 1,260 1952 659 1967 770 1982 1,560 1997 1,144 1938 1,176 1953 949 1968 1,406 1983 1,036 1998 687

Figure III-22. Annual Streamflow of Little Fork River at Littlefork

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-73 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River

For additional quantity information, the reader is referred to the United State Geological Survey web site at: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us .

C. AQUATIC AND RIPAR IAN ENVIRONMENTS No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-74 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Little Fork River

D. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON WATER QUALITY Figure III-23. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Little Fork River watershed

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Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-75 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Big Fork River

VI. BIG FORK RIVER (HUC # 09030006)

A. WATER QUALITY 1. Stream Water Quality a. Milestone Monitoring Program The Big Fork River watershed has one Milestone site. BF-0.5 is located at the crossing on Highway 11. The site has been sampled since 1971. This site provides information for the river reach from Bear Creek to the Rainy River, a length of seven (7) miles (HUC- Segment # 09030006-001).

Milestone data may be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/storet/dbtop.html. b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) There are no CSMP sites in the Big Fork River watershed. c. River Watch The Big Fork River Watch Program has been monitoring seven sites annually on the Big Fork River mainstem for over 10 years. The sites include the Minnesota Milestone Site, BF-0.5, providing correlation between the River Watch and Milestone data. Data from the Big Fork River Watch are used in development of the 305(b) Report to Congress.

The Big Fork River Watch Program is sponsored by the Big Fork River Board.

The Big Fork River Watch Program sites: BF-Site 1, corresponds with Minnesota Milestone Site BF-0.5, at the crossing of Highway 11. This site provides information for the Big Fork River reach from Bear Creek to the Rainy River. BF-Site 18, at the crossing of CSAH 1, at Lindford. This site provides information on the Big Fork River reach from the Sturgeon River to Bear Creek. BF-Site 46, at the confluence of the Sturgeon River with the Big Fork River. BF-Site 59, at Big Falls. This site provides Information on the Big Fork River reach from Reilly Brook to the Sturgeon River. BF-Site 105, at the crossing of Highway 6. This site provides information on the Big Fork River reach from the Deer River to Cadwell Creek. BF-Site 130, at the crossing on CR 237. This site provides information on the Big Fork River reach from Moose Brook to Coon Creek. BF-Site 159, at the crossing on CSAH 32, near Wirt.

Big Fork River Watch program data is submitted to the MPCA for inclusion in STORET. Data may be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/storet/dbtop.html.

2. Water Quality Assessment

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-76 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Big Fork River a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality Table III-55. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) Suspected Pollution Uses: Indicators of Impairment: Sources:

On TMDL HUC-Segment List River Reach Location Reach Length (Mi.) Aquatic Life Swimming Biology Oxygen Depletion Turbidity Un-Ionized Ammonia Metals Chloride Bacteria Municipal Industrial Nonpoint

09030006-009 Big Fork R* Moose BK to Coon CR 33 PS FS PS1 FS FS X 09030006-007 Big Fork R* Deer R to Cadwell R 27 FS FS FS FS FS 09030006-004 Big Fork R* Reilly BK to Sturgeon R 23 FS FS FS FS FS 09030006-002 Big Fork R* Sturgeon R to Bear CR 33 FS FS FS FS FS 09030006-001 Big Fork R** Bear CR to Rainy R 7 FS FS FS FS FS FS

123 miles assessed of a total of 1195 miles in the Big fork river watershed (10.29 percent). Full Support (FS,S); Partial Support (PS);Not Supporting (NS); Not Attainable (NT). * Sites monitored by the Big Fork River Watch Program. ** Site monitored jointly by the Big Fork River Watch Program and the Minnesota Milestone Program. b. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) None in the Big Fork River watershed.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-77 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Big Fork River c. Ecoregion Comparison Table III-56. Ecoregion Comparison Table (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)

Uses Nonpoint Source Indicators Oxygen Demand Total Phosphorus (BOD)

HUC-Segment River Reach Location Reach Length (Miles) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L)

09030006-009 Big Fork R* Moose BK to Coon CR 32.5 Y .052 .09 1.7 6.4 09030006-007 Big Fork R* Deer R to Cadwell R 27 .052 .09 1.7 6.4 09030006-004 Big Fork R* Reilly BK to Sturgeon R 22.6 .092 .08 2.2 17.2 09030006-002 Big Fork R* Sturgeon R to Bear CR 32.5 .092 .08 2.2 17.2 09030006-001 Big Fork R** Bear CR to Rainy R 7 N .092 Y .08 N 2.2 Y 17.2

* Sites monitored by the Big Fork River Watch Program. ** Site monitored jointly by the Big Fork River Watch Program and the Minnesota Milestone Program.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-78 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Big Fork River d. Trends for BF-0.5 BOD ...... insufficient data TSS ...... Decrease Total Phosphorus ...... Decrease Nitrite/Nitrate ...... Increase Unionized Ammonia...... insufficient data Fecal Coliforms...... Decrease

3. Lake Water Quality a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) Table III-57. CLMP Lakes in the Big Fork River watershed Itasca County Lake ID # Name Lake ID # Name Lake ID # Name 31-0334 Deer 31-0657-01 Jack the Horse 31-0759 Maki 31-0452 Gunn 31-0657-02 Jack the Horse 31-0779 Little Turtle 31-0454 Eagle 31-0663 Forest 31-0782 Gunderson 31-0616 East Smith 31-0664 Ranier 31-0784 Little Jesse 31-0620 Caribou 31-0665 Little North Star 31-0786 Jessie 31-0621 Little Dead Horse 31-0670 Big Ole 31-0826 Sand 31-0623 Boy 31-0671 Big Island 31-0829 Cedar 31-0624 Grave 31-0687 Johnson 31-0832 Rush Island 31-0652 North Star 31-0725 Turtle 31-0882 Dora 31-0653 North Star 31-0726 Bello 31-0913 Island 310656 Big Dick

Secchi Transparency Trends Table III-58. Kendall tau-b (Rk) and P-Level Values Group Kendall tau-b (Rk) Value Definition P-Level Value Group Definition Highly Significant, R Values: > + 0.50 Strong P-Level: < 0.01 k represented by **** Significant, represented by R Values: + 0.49 - + 0.40 Moderate P-Level: 0.05 – 0.015 k *** Somewhat Significant, R Values: + 0.39 - + 0.33 Weak P-Level: 0.1 – 0.055 k represented by ** Not Significant, R Values: < + 0.32 none P0Level: > 0.1 k represented by *

Description of the terms used. The Kendall’s tau-b (Rk) ranges from –1 to 1. The closer the value is to +1, the stronger the trend. A probability level (p)<0.1 was used as a basis for screening and identifying significant trends in transparency. At this p-level there is a 10% of identifying a trend when none exists. Simply stated, the smaller the p-value, the more likely the trend is real. For purposes of this analysis, we have divided the Kendall (Rk) and p-level values into four categories each.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-79 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Big Fork River

Table III-59. 1998 CLMP secchi transparency trends in the Big Fork River watershed Mean Lake ID Lake Name Location years Rk P-level Secchi Correlation Significance Lakes exhibiting a positive (improving) trend in Secchi transparency Itasca County 20 mi N of 31-0454 Eagle 9 0.56 0.037 2.8 strong *** Coleraine 4 mi E of 31-0656 Big Dick 10 0.54 0.031 3.2 strong *** Marcell Big 5 mi E of 31-0671 10 0.56 0.025 4.4 strong *** Island Marcell 31-0725 Turtle at Marcell 13 0.74 0.000 4.6 strong **** Lakes exhibiting a negative (declining) trend in Secchi transparency Itasca County 31-0664 Ranier at Marcell 15 -0.44 0.023 5.8 moderate *** Lakes exhibiting no trend in Secchi transparency Itasca County 6 mi E of 31-0826 Sand 8 -0.21 0.458 2.7 none N/A Squaw Lake Legend: Lake ID: Lake Identification Number Lake Name: Name of Lake Location: Distance & direction from nearest Years: Number of years of data Rk: Kendall’s tau-b correlation coefficient P-Level: P-Level Value Mean Secchi: Long-Term Secchi Correlation: Rk Group Definition Significance: P-Level Group Definition town

Lake specific CLMP data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/pca/clmp.html. b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessments Table III-60. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by County

Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI) Secchi Itasca County 31-0690 Aspen 1 mile S of Bigfork FS E 96 27’ NLF 47 Meso 8.2’ 31-0361 Bass 11 miles E of Effie FS E 125 45’ NLF 44 Meso 15.4’ 31-0704 Batson 5 miles NE of Marcell FS E 110 50’ NLF 49 Meso 14.1’ 31-0726 Bello 8 miles SW of Bigfork FS E 493 58’ NLF 48 Meso 10.5’ 31-0656 Big Dick 4 miles E of Marcell FS M 246 25’ NLF 43 Meso 10.5’ 31-0671 Big Island 5 miles E of Marcell FS M 237 35’ NLF 44 Meso 14.4’ 14 miles NW of Deer 31-0813 Bowstring River NS E 9,220 32’ NLF 63 Eutr 3.3’ 31-0623 Boy 5 miles S of Marcell FS M 27 40’ NLF 43 Meso 10.5’ 31-0654 Burns 5 miles NE of Marcell FS E 144 100’ NLF 44 Meso 20.3’ 31-0530 Busties 11 miles NE of Bigfork ST E 252 45’ NLF 53 Eutr 6.2’ 31-0175 Button Bow 6 miles W of Togo FS E 86 18’ NLF 46 Meso 13.1’ 31-0620 Caribou 21 miles N of G Rapids FS M 251 150’ NLF 35 Oligo 29.2’ 31-0540 Clubhouse 10 miles SE of Bigfork FS E 210 90’ NLF 41 Meso 13.5’ Coon- Sandwick 31-0524-01 (Coon) 4 miles SW of Bigfork FS E 310 50’ NLF 48 Meso 7.2’ Coon- Sandwick 31-0524-01 (Sandwick) FS E 285 30’ NLF 47 Meso 7.2’

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-80 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Big Fork River

Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI) Secchi Dead 31-0622 Horse 4 miles S of Marcell ST E 97 30’ NLF 53 Eutr - 31-0334 Deer 14 miles NE of Bigfork FS M 1,748 50’ NLF 42 Meso 11.5’ 31-0469 Dock 3 miles SE of Marcell FS E 30 30’ NLF 40 Oligo - 8 miles NE of Squaw 31-0882 Dora Lake PS E 735 18’ NLF 53 Eutr 5.9’ 31-0616 East Smith 5 miles SE of Marcell FS E 145 38’ NLF 43 Meso - 9.6 miles SW of 31-0311 Erskine Northome FS E 39 56’ NLF 40 Oligo 15.1’ 31-0663 Forest 2 miles E of Marcell FS E 36 59’ NLF 49 Meso 11.2’ 19 miles N of G. 31-0624 Grave Rapids FS M 503 46’ NLF 41 Meso 12.5’ 31-0480 Gunn 19 miles N of Coleraine FS E 342 39’ NLF 49 Meso 10.5’ 31-0481 Highland 13 miles SE of Bigfork FS E 102 38’ NLF 47 Meso 10.8’ 31-0696 Horseshoe 5.5 miles S of Bigfork FS M 270 30’ NLF 46 Meso 8.5’ 31-0913 Island 4 miles S of Northome FS M 2,999 35’ NLF 49 Meso 7.2’ 18 miles N of Deer 31-0786 Jessie River FS M 1,635 35’ NLF 47 Meso 8.2’ 31-0687 Johnson 7 miles S of Bigfork FS E 305 51’ NLF 44 Meso 10.2’ 31-0317 Larson 11 miles E of Bigfork FS E 187 175’ NLF 36 Oligo 16.1’ 31-0679 Little Smith 4 miles SE of Marcell FS E 27 30’ NLF 46 Meso - 31-0837 Norma 1.5 miles N of Wirt FS E 50 45’ NLF 47 Meso 8.9’ 23 miles N of G. 31-0653 North Star Rapids FS M 1,052 90’ NLF 38 Oligo 15.1’ 31-0339 Pickerel 15 miles NE of Bigfork FS E 293 66’ NLF 48 Meso 10.8’ 31-0664 Ranier at Marcell FS M 72 45’ NLF 34 Oligo 19.4’ 31-0896 Round at Squaw Lake NS E 2,964 24’ NLF 68 Hyper 2.3’ 31-0442 Ruby 12 miles E of Bowstring FS M 229 85’ NLF 31 Oligo 24.6’ 5 miles SW of Spring 31-0832 Rush Island Lake FS M 308 29’ NLF 45 Meso 9.2’ 6 miles E of Squaw 31-0826 Sand Lake FS M 4,306 70’ NLF 45 Meso 9.2’ 31-0877 Squaw at Squaw Lake ST E 2,158 6’ NLF 51 Eutr - 31-0188 Tank 7.5 miles W of Togo FS E 31 45’ NLF 39 Oligo 22.6’ 31-0725 Turtle at Marcell FS M 2,018 150’ NLF 38 Oligo 14.8’ 31-0325 unnamed 11.5 miles E of Effie NS E 11 - NLF 61 Eutr - 31-0666 unnamed 1 mile SE of Marcell FS M 127 - NLF 41 Meso 12.1’ 31-0848 Wirt 2.7 miles N of Wirt PS E 32 25’ NLF 53 Eutr 3.0’ Use: Full Support (FS), Supporting but Threatened (ST), Partial Support (PS), Not Supporting (NS). Data: Monitored (M), Evaluated, Past or Present Wastewater Discharge (*). Trophic State: Oligotrophic (low algae) (Oligo), Mesotrophic (Meso), Eutrophic (Eutr), Hypereutophic (Hyper). Ecoregion: Northern Lakes and Forests (NLF), Central Hardwood Forest (CHF), Northern Minnesota Wetlands (NMW).

Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports Table III-61. Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports County Report Lake ID(s) Year Itasca Turtle Lake LAP Report 31-0725 2000

Additional Lake Assessment data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/basins/lks95rny.pdf.

4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) There one current CWP project in the Big Fork River watershed.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-81 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Big Fork River a. Jessie Lake Watershed Investigation Project The current focus of this project is to pinpoint the reason for excessive algal blooms in the lake, identify implementation steps to prevent further degradation, and actually implement protection or restoration measures. This is being accomplished by a partnership with citizens, local and state governments, and University of Minnesota researchers. Next steps for this project are further data collection, data analysis, and implementation plan development. The project will then submit the plan for approval by the CWP program and apply for Phase II implementation grant funds.

5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory All tested water bodies are listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory even if there is no advice to restrict consumption. Anglers should check the Advisory for the specific advice issued for each waterbody.

Table III-62. Lakes in the Big Fork River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) Lake Name County Lake Name County Lake Name County Aspen Itasca Crum Itasca Jessie Itasca Bass Itasca Dark Koochiching Ranier Itasca Bello Itasca Deer Itasca Round Itasca Bowstring Itasca East Itasca Sand Itasca Caribou Itasca Elizabeth Itasca Turtle Itasca Clear Koochiching Island Itasca

Table III-63. Stream reaches in the Big Fork River watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) River Name Location Big Fork River Itasca County

6. Contaminated Sediments No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

7. Groundwater No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

B. WATER QUANTITY

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-82 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Big Fork River

1. USGS 05132000 Big Fork River at Big Falls, MN Table III-64. Annual Mean Streamflow of Big Fork River at Big Falls Koochiching County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030006 Latitude 48°11'45", Longitude 93°48'25" NAD27 Drainage area 1,480.00 square miles Gage datum 1,144.71 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual mean mean mean mean mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1929 392 1942 577 1954 816 1966 1,203 1978 1,224 1930 391 1943 931 1955 448 1967 700 1983 775 1931 81.8 1944 968 1956 510 1968 793 1984 903 1932 374 1945 819 1957 903 1969 1,307 1985 1,369 1933 495 1946 788 1958 250 1970 1,062 1986 1,000 1934 196 1947 917 1959 473 1971 986 1987 627 1935 408 1948 607 1960 416 1972 801 1988 430 1936 366 1949 858 1961 385 1973 597 1989 895 1937 1,008 1950 1,344 1962 1,124 1974 991 1990 498 1938 824 1951 1,026 1963 504 1975 1,160 1991 547 1939 319 1952 501 1964 555 1976 361 1992 593 1940 391 1953 814 1965 848 1977 457 1998 597 1941 895

Figure III-24. Annual Streamflow of Big Fork River at Big Falls

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-83 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Big Fork River

For additional quantity information, the reader is referred to the United State Geological Survey web site at: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

C. AQUATIC AND RIPAR IAN ENVIRONMENTS No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-84 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Big Fork River

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Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-85 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rapid River

VII. RAPID RIVER (HUC # 09030007) A. WATER QUALITY 1. Stream Water Quality a. Milestone Monitoring Program The Rapid River watershed has one Milestone site (RP-0.1) located at the crossing on Highway 11. The site has been sampled since 1971. This site provides information for the river reach from the East Fork of the Rapid River to the Rainy River, a length of 7.2 miles (HUC-Segment # 09030007-001).

Milestone data may be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/storet/dbtop.html. b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) There are no CSMP sites in the Rapid River watershed. c. River Watch There are no active River Watch sites in the Rapid River watershed.

2. Water Quality Assessment

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-86 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rapid River a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality Table III-65. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) Suspected Pollution Uses: Indicators of Impairment: Sources:

On TMDL HUC-Segment List River Reach Location Reach Length (Mi.) Aquatic Life Swimming Biology Oxygen Depletion Turbidity Un-Ionized Ammonia Metals Chloride Bacteria Municipal Industrial Nonpoint

09030007-001 Rapid R E FK Rapid R to Rainy R 7.2 FS NA FS FS FS NA

7.2 miles assessed of a total of 758 miles in the Rapid River watershed (0.95 percent). Full Support (FS,S); Partial Support (PS);Not Supporting (NS); Not Attainable (NT) b. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) None in the Rapid River watershed.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-87 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rapid River c. Ecoregion Comparison Table III-66. Ecoregion Comparison Table (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)

Uses Nonpoint Source Indicators Oxygen Demand Total Phosphorus (BOD)

HUC-Segment River Reach Location Reach Length (Miles) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L)

09030007-001 Rapid R E FK Rapid R to Rainy R 7.2 Y .092 Y .08 Y 2.2 N 17.2

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-88 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rapid River d. Trends BOD ...... insufficient data TSS ...... Decrease Total Phosphorus ...... Decrease Nitrite/Nitrate ...... Increase Unionized Ammonia...... Decrease Fecal Coliforms...... insufficient data

3. Lake Water Quality a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) There are no CLMP sites in the Rapid River watershed.

Lake specific CLMP data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/pca/clmp.html. b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessments There have been no Lake Assessments in the Rapid River watershed.

Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports There have been no Lake Assessment Reports completed in the Rapid River watershed.

Additional Lake Assessment data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/basins/lks95rny.pdf.

4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) There are no current CWP projects in the Rapid River watershed.

5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory No lakes or stream reaches in the Rapid River watershed are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000). All tested water bodies are listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory even if there is no advice to restrict consumption. Anglers should check the Advisory for the specific advice issued for each waterbody.

6. Contaminated Sediments No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

7. Groundwater No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

B. WATER QUANTITY

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-89 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rapid River

1. USGS 05134200 Rapid River near Baudette, MN Table III-67. Annual Mean Streamflow of Rapid River near Baudette Lake Of The Woods County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030007 Latitude 48°32'10", Longitude 94°33'45" NAD27 Drainage area 543.00 square miles Gage datum 1,093.92 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1957 382 1964 500 1971 327 1978 291 1958 101 1965 552 1972 251 1979 374 1959 114 1966 509 1973 263 1980 113 1960 145 1967 349 1974 405 1981 203 1961 111 1968 444 1975 323 1982 494 1962 632 1969 356 1976 116 1983 377 1963 246 1970 427 1977 216 1984 286

Figure III-26. Annual Streamflow of Rapid River near Baudette

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-90 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rapid River

For additional quantity information, the reader is referred to the United State Geological Survey web site at: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

C. AQUATIC AND RIPAR IAN ENVIRONMENTS No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

D. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON WATER QUALITY Figure III-27. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Rapid River watershed

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Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-91 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Baudette

VIII. RAINY RIVER / BAUDETTE (HUC # 09030008) A. WATER QUALITY 1. Stream Water Quality a. Milestone Monitoring Program The Rainy River/Baudette watershed has two (2) Milestone sites. RA-12 located at the Highway 11, International Bridge crossing at Baudette has been sampled since 1958. This site provides information for the Rainy River reach from the Baudette River to the Winter Road River, a length of 4.7 miles (HUC-Segment # 09030008-005). WR-1 located at the Highway 11 crossing, has been sampled since 1958. This site provides information on the Winter Road River reach from Peppermint Creek to the Rainy River, a length of 5.3 miles (HUC-Segment # 09030008-002).

BAU-0.1 located at the crossing on Highway 11, is a relatively new site that has not been in use for a long enough time to be considered a Milestone site. The site provides information on the Baudette River reach from its source to the Rainy River, a length of 3.1 miles (HUC-Segment #09030008-006).

Milestone data may be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/storet/dbtop.html. b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) There are no CSMP sites in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed. c. River Watch There are no active River Watch sites in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed.

2. Water Quality Assessment

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page 92 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Baudette a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality Table III-68. Assessment of Stream Water Quality (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States) Suspected Pollution Uses: Indicators of Impairment: Sources:

On TMD HUC-Segment List River Reach Location Reach Length (Mi.) Aquatic Life Swimming Biology Oxygen Depletion Turbidity Un-Ionized Ammonia Metals Chloride Bacteria Municipal Industrial Nonpoint

09030008-006 * Baudette R Source to Rainy R 3.1 PS FS PS FS FS X 09030008-005 Rainy R Baudette R to Winter Rd R 4.7 FS FS FS FS FS FS 09030008-002 Winter Road R Peppermint CR to Rainy R 5.3 FS NA FS FS FS NA

13.1 miles assessed of a total of 294 miles in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed (4.46 percent). Full Support (FS,S); Partial Support (PS);Not Supporting (NS); Not Attainable (NT) b. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Table III-69. River TMDLs as of 1998 Target start// Reach River Reach # Lake # Affected use Pollutant or stressor3 completion 7 Baudette River, Headwaters to Rainy River 09030008-006 Aquatic life Low Oxygen2,5 2004//2009

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-93 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Baudette c. Ecoregion Comparison Table III-70. Ecoregion Comparison Table (based on the 2000 Minnesota 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States)

Uses Nonpoint Source Indicators Oxygen Demand Total Phosphorus (BOD)

HUC-Segment River Reach Location Reach Length (Miles) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L) Exceeds Ecoregion Values Ecoregion Values (Mg/L)

09030008-006 Baudette R Source to Rainy R 3.1 Y .092 Y .08 Y 2.2 N 17.2 09030008-005 Rainy R Baudette R to Winter Rd R 4.7 N .092 Y .08 N 2.2 Y 17.2 09030008-002 Winter Road R Peppermint CR to Rainy R 5.3 N .092 Y .08 Y 2.2 Y 17.2

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-94 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Baudette d. Trends BOD ...... RA-12 – Decrease, WR-1 – insufficient data TSS ...... RA-12 – Decrease, WR-1 – insufficient data Total Phosphorus ...... Decrease Nitrite/Nitrate ...... Increase Unionized Ammonia...... RA-12 – No Trend, WR-1 - Decrease Fecal Coliforms...... RA-12 – Decrease, WR-1 – insufficient data

3. Lake Water Quality a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) There are no CLMP sites in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed.

Lake specific CLMP data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/pca/clmp.html. b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessments There have been no Lake Assessments in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed.

Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports There have been no Lake Assessment Reports completed in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed.

Additional Lake Assessment data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/basins/lks95rny.pdf.

4. Clean Water Partnership There are no current CWP projects in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed.

5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory No lakes or stream reaches in the Rainy River/Baudette watershed are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000). All tested water bodies are listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory even if there is no advice to restrict consumption. Anglers should check the Advisory for the specific advice issued for each waterbody.

6. Contaminated Sediments No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

7. Groundwater No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

B. WATER QUANTITY 1. USGS 05137000 Winter Road River near Baudette, MN There is no annual mean streamflow available for the Rainy River/Baudette watershed.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-95 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Baudette

Figure III-28. Annual Streamflow of Winter Road River near Baudette

For additional quantity information, the reader is referred to the United State Geological Survey web site at: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

C. AQUATIC AND RIPAR IAN ENVIRONMENTS No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-96 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Rainy River / Baudette

D. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON WATER QUALITY Figure III-29. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Rapid River watershed

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Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-97 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Lake of the Woods

IX. LAKE OF THE WOODS (HUC # 09030009) A. WATER QUALITY 1. Stream Water Quality a. Milestone Monitoring Program There are no Milestone sites located at the Lake of the Woods watershed.

Milestone data may be accessed at: http://www.epa.gov/storet/dbtop.html. b. Citizen Stream Monitoring Program (CSMP) There are no CSMP sites in the Lake of the Woods watershed. c. River Watch There are no active River Watch sites in the Lake of the Woods watershed.

2. Water Quality Assessment a. Assessment of Stream Water Quality Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List. b. Total Maximu m Daily Load (TMDL) Table III-71. River TMDLs as of 1998 Target start// Reach River Reach # Lake # Affected use Pollutant or stressor3 completion 7 Williams Creek, 09030009- 2,5 Headwaters to Aquatic life Low Oxygen 2004//2009 116 Zippel Creek c. Ecoregion Comparison Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List. d. Trends Some data may be available, but summary data is not available for this printing. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List.

3. Lake Water Quality a. Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) Table III-72. CLMP Lakes in the Lake of the Woods watershed Lake of the Woods County Lake ID # Name 39-0002-02 Lake of the Woods

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-98 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Lake of the Woods

Summary CLMP data for the Rainy River Basin are not available for this generation of the BID. Resource managers may access lake specific CLMP data at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/pca/clmp.html. b. Minnesota Lake Water Quality Assessments Table III-73. Assessment of Lake Water Quality by county

Swimming Trophic State Lake ID Lake Name Location Use Data Acres Depth Ecoregion (Carlson TSI) Secchi Lake of the Woods County Lake of the 39-0002-01 at Warroad PS M 312,010 - NMW 60 Eutr 3.3’ Woods 39-0002-02 Fourmile Bay at Wheelers Point PS M 5,000 - NMW 60 Eutr 3.3’

Use: Full Support (FS), Supporting but Threatened (ST), Partial Support (PS), Not Supporting (NS). Data: Monitored (M), Evaluated, Past or Present Wastewater Discharge (*). Trophic State: Oligotrophic (low algae) (Oligo), Mesotrophic (Meso), Eutrophic (Eutr), Hypereutophic (Hyper). Ecoregion: Northern Lakes and Forests (NLF), Central Hardwood Forest (CHF), Northern Minnesota Wetlands (NMW).

Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports Table III-74. Minnesota Lake Assessment Reports County Report Lake ID(s) Year Lake of the Woods Lake of the Woods Status Report 39-0002 1999

Additional Lake Assessment data may be accessed at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/basins/lks95rny.pdf.

4. Clean Water Partnership (CWP) There are no current CWP projects in the Lake of the Woods watershed.

5. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory All tested water bodies are listed in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory even if there is no advice to restrict consumption. Anglers should check the Advisory for the specific advice issued for each waterbody.

Table III-75. Lakes in the Lake of the Woods watershed that are included in the Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory (MDH, 2000) Name County Lake of the Woods Lake of the Woods

6. Contaminated Sediments No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

7. Groundwater No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document.

B. WATER QUANTITY

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-99 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Lake of the Woods

1. USGS 05139500 Warroad River near Warroad, MN Table III-76. Annual Mean Streamflow of Warroad River near Warroad Roseau County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030009 Latitude 48°52'00", Longitude 95°21'20" NAD27 Drainage area 162.00 square miles Gage datum 1,070.74 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1947 35.6 1956 49.4 1964 70.6 1972 33.4 1948 39.3 1957 40.7 1965 68.1 1973 15.0 1949 15.0 1958 13.0 1966 85.8 1974 60.9 1950 96.5 1959 20.6 1967 60.5 1975 67.1 1951 46.3 1960 12.6 1968 87.2 1976 18.8 1952 32.3 1961 7.55 1969 46.6 1977 14.6 1953 21.9 1962 76.6 1970 74.6 1978 58.5 1954 33.5 1963 38.7 1971 41.2 1979 62.8 1955 17.9

Figure III-30. Annual Streamflow of Warroad River near Warroad

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-100 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Lake of the Woods

2. USGS 05140000 Bulldog Run near Warroad, MN Table III-77. Annual Mean Streamflow of Bulldog Run near Warroad Roseau County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030009 Latitude 48°51'30", Longitude 95°20'20" NAD27 Drainage area 14.20 square miles Gage datum 1,090.00 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1947 3.24 1968 3.77 1973 .22 1948 2.94 1969 2.11 1974 4.56 1949 .66 1970 7.38 1975 4.69 1950 7.08 1971 1.61 1976 1.07 1967 3.49 1972 2.03

Figure III-31. Annual Streamflow of Bulldog Run near Warroad

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-101 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Lake of the Woods

3. USGS 05140500 East Branch Warroad River near Warroad, MN Table III-78. Annual Mean Streamflow of East Branch Warroad River near Warroad Roseau County, Minnesota Hydrologic Unit Code 09030009 Latitude 48°51'30", Longitude 95°18'40" NAD27 Drainage area 102.00 square miles Gage datum 1,080.00 feet above sea level NGVD29 Annual mean Annual mean Annual mean streamflow streamflow streamflow Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) Year (ft3/s) 1947 26.5 1953 11.8 1972 14.2 1948 19.8 1967 26.0 1973 10.7 1949 8.43 1968 34.3 1974 42.3 1950 46.3 1969 25.3 1975 31.8 1951 25.5 1970 40.1 1976 10.8 1952 18.0 1971 18.9

Figure III-32. Annual Streamflow of East Branch Warroad River near Warroad

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-102 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Lake of the Woods

For additional quantity information, the reader is referred to the United State Geological Survey web site at: http://www.water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw or DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us or the Lake of the Woods Control Board at: http://www.lwcb.ca/waterflowdata.html.

C. AQUATIC AND RIPAR IAN ENVIRONMENTS No summary data available for the 2001 printing of the Rainy River Basin Information Document. For information, the reader is referred to the Rainy River Basin Data Source List or the DNR web site at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-103 Section III – Subsection 2 Watershed Overviews: Lake of the Woods

D. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON WATER QUALITY Figure III-33. Potential Impacts on Water Quality in Lake of the Woods watershed

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Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-104 Section III – Subsection 3 Data Gaps

SUBSECTION 3 - DATA GAPS

· Only 234.5 stream miles assessed for aquatic life, out of a total of 7,528 stream miles. · Only 218.7 stream miles assessed for swimming, out of a total of 7,528 stream miles. · Major watershed flow data and stage data. · Aquatic and riparian community (biota) summary information. · Water quality trend information for the Vermilion River, Rainy River/Rainy Lake watersheds.

Information Needed for 2006 Rainy River Basin Information Document Update: · Compilation of total lake acres by major watershed. Compare lake acres assessed to total lake acres in basin. · Major watershed based map showing waterbody classifications. · Add flow and stage gauge stations to the monitoring sites maps. · Summary CLMP data by major watershed. · Add dates for Lake Assessments to LAP tables. · Information and maps for constructed outlets and control structures by major watershed. · Summary climate data for the basin. · Summary sediment data by major watershed. · Summary groundwater data for the basin. · Precipitation vs. flow trends. · Stormwater management and erosion information. · Include livestock operations on the potential impacts maps. · Include biosolid application sites on the potential impacts maps. · Natural Resources Inventory data by major watershed.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-105 Section III – Subsection 4 Sources

SUBSECTION 4 - SOURCES

U.S. Geological Survey. Surface Water Data for Minnesota (2001, March). [On-line]. Available: http://water.usgs.gov/MN/nwis/sw

Minnesota Department of Health. 1999. Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory. Minnesota Department of Health. St. Paul, MN.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 1994. Minnesota Fish Contaminant Monitoring Program: 1990-1992 Data Document. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. St. Paul, Minn.

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. (2000). Assessment of Stream Water Quality, 305(b) Report to Congress of the United States. St. Paul, MN

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Water. (2001, January). [On-line]. Available: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/index.html

McCann, P. 1997. Criteria Used to Issue Fish Consumption Advice: 1997 Minnesota Fish Consumption Advisory. HRA Series FSH-97-001. Minnesota Department of Health. St. Paul, MN.

Heiskary, S. & McCollor, S., Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Selected Water Quality Characteristics of Minimally Impacted Streams from Minnesota’s Seven Ecoregions. 1993

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Surf your watershed – Watershed Information. (2000, September). [On-line]. Available: http://wwwepa.gov/surf2/hucs (09030001 – 09030009)

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page III-106 Rainy River Basin Information Document

Section IV Water Management Programs and Activities in the Rainy River Basin Section IV Programs and Activities

I. COMPREHENSIVE LOCAL WATER PLANS All counties in greater Minnesota develop Comprehensive Local Water Plans. These plans are approved by the Board of Soil and Water Resources (BWSR). These Plans contain a wealth of information about the environmental setting of the county, demographics and natural resources. These plans also highlight the issues, concerns, goals, strategies, and needs the counties have identified regarding water resources.

The county specific goals and needs are included below.

A. BELTRAMI COUNTY Data not available.

B. COOK COUNTY Last update: 1998

1. Rainy Lake Watershed A small number of year-round and seasonal residential units are located in the Rainy Lake watershed. Water quality concerns are limited primarily to private sewage treatment systems and road impacts. Another concern is the high recreational use of the water resources in and adjacent to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, the highest visited designated wilderness in the U.S.

The majority of the forested land in the Rainy Lake watershed is federal land under the control and management of the U.S. Forest Service. The state owns approximately 5 percent with the county and private less than 2 percent.

2. Implementation Plan 1999 - 2003 a. Education and Information 1. Continue support to community wide education projects already established. · Lake associations - 4 meetings per year minimum - Newsletter support. · Coalition of Lake Associations - 6 meetings per year and special events – Newsletter support. · Tofte and Birch Grove school programs on water topics - 2 grades - 5 meetings - expand curriculum to incorporate winter season and include required topics for 5th grade graduation rule. · Riverwatch program with 4-H and Extension - 2 meetings per year. · Flutereed River Stewardship Project - partner with SWCD. · On-site - septic system education class - 1 per year minimum. · Support Arrowhead Currents (if continued)– funds and articles for regional collaborative newsletter.

2. Develop educational initiatives for: · Wetland exhibit – Grand Marais fen - shared project with USFS, Wetland postcards - share with SWCD. · Wetland walk program - visit a wetland and provide hands-on knowledge about area. · Watershed concepts and impacts exhibit - general use at county fair, other events.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-1 Section IV Programs and Activities

· Stormwater runoff - Grand Marais pond monitoring, results provided to community. · Loggers education and private forestry issues for landowners - workshop support and cost share to support attendance at workshop - USFS and Minnesota Extension Minnesota DNR. · Appropriate, low impact development education package highlighting most frequent problems observed in Cook County - Lake associations and zoning staff - Offer development practices and impacts tour. · Countywide water issues news mailing - shared printed piece highlighting topics of concern from various county water professionals to community - SWCD, DNR, USFS, Lake associations. · Support to Lake Superior Basin Plan - development and open space workshops - discussion forum on planning for growth - protection of unique biodiversity-partner MPCA. · Support to new initiative (USFS and county) “Leave No Trace” message for water related impacts.

3. Land and Water Treatment · Continue efforts to promote on-site septic system loan program - partner Environmental Health and contractors. · Monitor septage field spreading sites. Sample runoff - Environmental Health and contractor. · Monitor sewage pre-treatment systems (sand filters) that are being tested on difficult sites. · Continue efforts to promote Lake Superior erosion control loan program - SWCD partner. · Riparian and shoreline corridor cost share projects - cost shares for setback vegetation restoration or vegetation improvements, water conservation retrofits - toilets and washing machines, enhance, restore buffer areas adjacent to critical habitat areas - partners SWCD, DNR, USFS, lake associations. · Continue dump site improvements - cover where needed, monitor any erosion or illegal dumping - partner with USFS and lake associations, clean up sites. · Establish routine set aside into dedicated fund for funding cost share projects and purchase equipment. · Continue support to emergency services exercises as related to oil spills, water quality impacts at marinas.

4. Monitoring and Data Collection · Continue sampling - fecal coliform in high use areas - beaches and known surface water drinking supplies, sedimentation, nutrients (nitrate, phosphorus) chlorophyll-a for LAP lakes - partner USFS, universities, MPCA. · Dump site related sampling - routine surveillance monitoring. · Exotic aquatics monitoring - map known occurrences of purple loosestrife - monitor sites for re-growth. · USFS cost share initiative - expand the number of lakes monitored by using USFS volunteer program. · Investigate program to identify better wetland assessment - begin monitoring. · Contract literature search for all known data related to North Shore groundwater data. Compile and assess data for gaps in ground water knowledge. Investigate map preparation for sensitive geologic areas by Professor John Green and Dr. Sam Tuthill.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-2 Section IV Programs and Activities

5. Regulations and Ordinances · Support review of current zoning ordinance to incorporate subdivision update. · Research density development adjacent to shorelines - forum/survey to discuss/assess community concerns about current perceptions of “liberal” density options, example: PUD formula. · Support state review of shoreland ordinance to modify PUD formula for less dense development in low density areas like Cook County. · Adopt by reference updated state sewage codes. Research and investigate standards of performance element for Cook County systems. · Participate in necessary hearings to formalize sewage management district now in development along Lutsen, Tofte, and Schroeder corridor.

6. Inventory and Mapping · Mid-Trail lakes infra-red aerial assessments of shoreline. · Watershed land use impact assessment – model using GIS/satellite/remote sensing imagery for planning – use a specific watershed. Attend remote sensing and watershed assessment training and cumulative affects analysis. Contract with private sector for best map preparation. · County and private roads network and water quality issues – ditching, erosion, culvert conditions and impacts - county engineer and lake association/property association responsible for private roads. Compile known policies on road management – DNR, USFS, county and private. Assess for water quality impacts.

7. Citizen Task Force Recommendations for Implementation of the county water plan The Citizens Task Force recognizes that the implementation of the water plan is crucial to address the water quality issues affecting Cook County. Therefore, the following recommendations are submitted to the Cook County board to assist them with their responsibility of administering the plan. a. Maintain an on-going Advisory Committee and county Water Plan Coordinator Committee responsibilities include: · Meet quarterly to assess progress. · Assist with budget preparation, grant applications. · Re-assess issues and amend plan. · Report progress to County Commissioners. · Conduct comprehensive reviews of the plan at 5-year intervals. · Assist in hiring process for water plan coordinator and provide direction to staff. The Water Plan Coordinator completes action items of work plan, oversees implementation of multi-agency and group work items, and prepares annual work plans and budgets.

b. Complete the tasks listed in the updated implementation plan 1999-2003.

c. Promote more diversity in future funding programs through state agencies and enhance enforcement of water quality statutes.

Funding issue - MPCA currently supplies funding programs for many restoration or correction measures to impacted water quality. Future funding must also address maintenance and preservation for areas where water quality may be

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-3 Section IV Programs and Activities

less impacted relative to statewide averages, that is, funds spent now would improve or correct minor issues in these watersheds. It is anticipated the Unified Watershed Assessment process enacted by EPA will make available funds to a broader group of watersheds in areas of high water quality.

Enhanced enforcement - Providing more substance to water quality statutes already on the books would enable planners and educators to show the public Minnesota wants to aggressively pursue a mandate of high quality water statewide. This may mean mandatory on-site septic systems inspections for projects receiving loans or grants. It may mean mandatory limits on turbidity created by construction projects (TMDLs on inorganic solids). It may mean re- visiting the shoreland protection act and constructing more restrictive density allowances in watersheds. It may mean a more thorough review of problems associated with sub-standard roads in high development areas and statewide BMP program for road contractors.

d. Establish and broaden a training program for water resource professionals. Many agencies and programs are involved in the State of Minnesota. It is difficult to stay current with technology or scientific advances, the application of the advances, and the access to the information. b. Project List The 1998 Cook County CLWP does not include a specific Project List.

C. ITASCA COUNTY Please Note: At this writing Itasca County is beginning an update to the county’s CLWP.

Last Update – 1995

1. Surface Water Issues 1. Conduct one-year lake assessment on selected lakes in the county. 2. Conduct detailed studies of sources of nutrients to selected eutrophic lakes and implement water quality improvement/protection projects where identified. 3. Expand and coordinate volunteer water resource monitoring throughout Itasca County. 4. Continue volunteer water quality monitoring on the Mississippi and Big Fork rivers, and expand similar efforts to other rivers in Itasca County. 5. Reduce the spread of harmful exotic aquatic plants and animals through information and education programs and volunteer monitoring. 6. Support and assist lake and river shoreland owners and others interested in forming lake associations, river management boards, lake improvement districts, watershed districts and other. 7. Organizations, such as joint powers boards, in order to protect, enhance and maintain the quality of surface water in Itasca County. 8. Encourage the revegetation and stabilization of altered shorelines through the use of demonstration projects and development and dissemination of BMPs for Shorelines, fact sheets and videos. 9. Develop river management plans for selected rivers in Itasca County.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-4 Section IV Programs and Activities

10. Assist the Big Fork River Board to implement the “Recommended Future Actions” for the Big Fork River as outlined in its management plan. 11. Update, revise and consolidate Itasca County floodplain maps.

2. Groundwater 1. Develop wellhead protection plans for the Mesabi Iron Range Corridor, from Keewatin to Cohasset, and other public wells as required/requested. 2. Compile existing groundwater quality and quantity data and prioritize areas that need further information and possible remedial action. 3. Assist and support groundwater monitoring efforts in Itasca County. 4. Encourage the updating of failing septic systems near surface water. 5. Inventory unused, unsealed wells in Itasca County and develop a well sealing cost- share program. 6. Delineate areas within Itasca County, which have differing groundwater recharge characteristics and identify sensitive groundwater recharge areas. 7. Encourage, through incentives or free testing, the periodic sampling of private drinking water wells in Itasca County to determine whether contamination has occurred. 8. Formulate a hydrogeologic atlas of Itasca County or of the Deer River-Grand Rapids- Keewatin corridor.

3. Land Use Trends 1. Utilize methods for predicting water quality impacts to lakes resulting from land use changes and incorporate into all applicable development proposals. 2. Prioritize wetlands in Itasca County. 3. Encourage implementation of forestry BMPs for Water Quality. 4. Encourage review of proposed developments that are subject to county or municipal approval for appropriate erosion control and stormwater detention and/or treatment. 5. Improve design and revegetation plans for all road projects to reduce sediment and nutrient loading to surface waters. Investigate adding a requirement to applicable ordinances to require review of plans by the county highway engineer and/or SWCD. 6. Assist and support agencies researching atmospheric deposition of acid rain pollutants and heavy metals, such as mercury, affecting Itasca County. 7. Enforcement of county/state regulations. 8. Support and participate in River Defense Network and related emergency spill response efforts countywide.

4. Project List The 1995 Itasca County CLWP did not include a specific Project List.

D. KOOCHICHING COUNTY Last Update – 2000

1. High Priority Goals 1. To administer and Implement the Comprehensive Water Management Plan. 2. To encourage people to update their ISTS’s. 3. To administer the WCA. 4. To reduce erosion and sedimentation.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-5 Section IV Programs and Activities

5. To extend sewer service to the Jackfish Bay area on Rainy Lake. 6. To attempt to improve land use practices.

2. Moderate Priority Goals 1. To attempt to monitor ground water quality. 2. To assist in protecting wellheads. 3. To do an unused, unsealed well assessment. 4. To continue to monitor closed landfills. 5. To assist in the removal of underground storage tanks.

3. Low Priority Goals 1. To maintain balance between recreational use and environmental quality. 2. To establish reasonable floodplain limits. 3. To safely manage storm water. 4. To continue to monitor industrial pollution (surface water quality).

4. Project List The 2000 Koochiching County CLWP does not include a specific Project List.

E. LAKE COUNTY 2000 – 2001 Work Plan

1. Education and Information 1. Conduct one educational workshop on the proper maintenance and operation of on-site sewage treatment systems for Central Services staff. Develop a shorter program for use at meetings (lake associations, etc.). Results: One workshop

2. Write monthly news articles. Results: 24 news articles

3. Assist in hosting the 2000 and 2001 ENVIROTHON. This will include recruiting teachers and students, planning the program, securing resource professionals for each station, publicity and conducting the competition. Results: Participation by Two Lake County Teams (per year)

4. Provide financial and technical assistance to continue producing the Arrowhead Currents newsletter. Results: 2 issues published in each year

5. Water Plan Advisory Committee set up an Award to recognize both a business and an individual/group that has helped maintain or improve water quality. Results: One award each year

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6. Conduct classroom presentations on water quality issues including water conservation and wastewater treatment, serve as science fair judges and resource people (College Day, Natural Resources Field Day, Earth Day, Science Fairs, Enrichment Days for home-schooled students, etc.). Results: Minimum of 6 programs per year (800-plus students)

7. Publicize and provide financial support for the WATERLINE. Results: Publicize WATERLINE

8. Work with the Lake County Historical Society to develop a Lake Superior display for the Lake County Museum. Results: Museum display on Lake Superior

9. Encourage Lake Associations to become more active by meeting with 1 - 2 each year. The meeting will include showing the BMP videos and introducing the BMP packet. Sponsor a water quality education program with the Lax Lake - Lake Association. Results: 2 meetings with Lake Associations per year

10. Develop and staff a county fair booth display on the Water Plan. Results: Fair booth display each year

11. Continue to promote water conservation in municipal and rural areas. Conduct a water use comparison study using a commercial establishment, seasonal residence and year-round residence. Results: County fair booth, low-flow fixtures, presentations

12. Promote Shoreland BMP video series (public access TV, libraries, contractors, realtors, county departments, lake associations, etc.). Results: Newspaper articles/workshops/purchase videos

13. Promote the Knife River Forest Stewardship Program. Results: Increased program participation

14. Attend each Township meeting once per year to share information about the Lake County Water Plan. Results: 5 meetings

15. Participate on the Arrowhead Water Quality Team. Results: Varied work projects

16. Meet with emerging community sewer system planning committees to share information about the Lake County Water Plan. Provide $1,000 to each organization plus provide seed money for a capitalization fund for sewage treatment projects. Results: 3 meetings per year

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17. Conduct classroom presentations on wastewater treatment with 7th grade students in the Lake Superior School District. Results: 6 presentations per year

18. Conduct a Contractors Workshop that includes a session on wetlands (functions, current ordinance provisions, permitting requirement). Results: One Contractors Workshop per year (20 participants)

19. Conduct seven classroom presentations per year on land use and development issues with 7th grade students in the Lake Superior School District. Results: 7 classroom presentations per year

20. Hand out "Septic System Owner's Guides" with all on-site sewage treatment system permits. Results: 100 booklets distributed per year

21. Develop a summary brochure on land use ordinances with user-friendly language for a countywide mailing. Results: Brochure mailed to 4500 households in Lake County

2. Monitoring and Data Collection 1. River Watch Program in the Lake Superior Watershed a. Support the on-going efforts of the Baptism River program. b. Continue the monitoring effort on Skunk Creek. Results: Skunk Creek and Baptism River monitored each year

2. Support on-going lake monitoring efforts in the MPCA Citizen Lake Monitoring program. Identify additional lakes in need of monitoring. Results: 11 lakes monitored each year

3. Continue to serve as a liaison between the Army Corps of Engineers, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and local residents in the Finland area regarding the sewage treatment problem and water quality issue at Lookout Mountain Village. Results: Informed residents

4. Monitor four private wells near four old dump sites located near Fall Lake and Isabella. Results: 4 well water tes ts

5. Conduct a well water testing program in Lake County. This will include broad-based testing available FREE to residents and testing at specific sites as issues arise. Results: Well Water Testing Program (100 samples)

6. Set up a citizen-based stream monitoring program in cooperation with MPCA. Results: Five streams monitored

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3. Inventory and Mapping 1. Provide partial (one-time) funding for a new GIS position. Results: GIS position

2. Secure detailed maps of each minor watershed in Lake County. Results: Set of Watershed Maps (GIS database)

3. Determine percent wetlands in each minor watershed along Lake Superior. Results: Set of maps (GIS database)

4. Land and Water Treatment 1. Administer the Lake Superior Shoreline Protection Project (low interest loan program for upgrading failed on-site sewage treatment systems and shoreline protection on Lake Superior). Results: Loan program implemented

2. Provide financial assistance to help clean up old dump sites. Results: 3 sites cleaned up and restored

3. Investigate potential sources of pollution in the Flood Bay watershed. · Performance Based Standards Results: Completed inventory

4. Assist the Northern Lights Tourism Alliance Group with their research on alternative on- site sewage treatment systems and provide local publicity of the results. Lake County Water Plan Coordinator and Land Use Administrator will also serve on the North Shore Management Board’s Alternative Wastewater Treatment Committee. Results: Research data

5. Set up a fund that organizations and local units of government can use to assist them with projects that meet the intent and purpose of the water plan (i.e. river clean-ups, illegal dump sites). Results: 4 Water Quality Improvement Projects

6. Work with city and county departments to ensure that they are using sound erosion control measures. Results: Field reviews

7. Work to correct shoreline erosion problems in Erosion Hazard Areas and secure blast rock for use as rip-rap on shoreline stabilization projects. The rock could be stockpiled at either the old Castle Danger landfill site or on county tax-forfeit property and made available to property owners who are working with the Lake County SWCD. Two potential sources include: · Waste blast rock at Chapin’s Curve on Highway 61

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· Highway 61 Realignment Project east of Gooseberry River Results: 120,000 cubic yards of rock

8. Field inspect construction sites for compliance on erosion control and storm water management measures. Results: Field reviews

9. Review development plans within the White Rock Creek watershed at the request of the City of Silver Bay. Results: Review plans

10. Continue working on the Skunk Creek watershed project by assisting the Skunk Creek Citizens Committee. This shall include participating in meetings and public service projects, securing funds to implement water quality improvement projects and providing funding to assist the City of Two Harbors with completing a Storm Water Management Plan. Results: Storm Water Management Plan

11. Share previous year’s results of the County Water Plan and the upcoming annual work plan with the Lake County Planning Commission. If applicable, make land use ordinance enforcement recommendations to the Lake County Board of Commissioners in a joint meeting with the County Planning Commission. Results: One joint meeting per year

12. Develop a low-flow designation on the Beaver River. Results: Low-flow designation

13. Investigate ways to control erosion under highway bridges working with MNDOT and Minnesota DNR. Results: Recommendations for effective erosion control

5. Regulations and Ordinances 1. Review city ordinances for adequate soil erosion and storm water management provisions. Results: Annual review with recommendations

2. Fund Lake County Land Use Department law enforcement efforts. Results: Enforcement Action on 2 Land Use Violations

F. LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY Last Update: 1996

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1. County-Wide Goal To increase the amount of information available on the County’s water resources; particularly on a watershed level through analytical processes and field work, and to achieve significant economic, social, or environmental benefits through initiated programs.

2. Watershed Goals a. Lake of the Woods Watershed Maintain and where needed enhance the water quality and economic viability of Lake of the Woods through sound resource management, education and enforcement of local controls. b. Rainy River / Baudette Watershed Monitor water quality in the Rainy River and tributaries in order to promote better water quality and to manage shoreland development consistent with the Rainy/Rapid Rivers Management Plan. c. Rapid River Watershed Maintain the wild and scenic nature of the watershed consistent with the Rainy/Rapid Rivers Management Plan.

3. Issues a. Highest Priority Issues Issue # 1: Implementation and management of a geographic information system and geologic atlas for Lake of the Woods County. Objective: Develop a GIS and Geologic Atlas that can be used as a natural resource management tool in Lake of the Woods County. Strategy 1: Identify GIS applications and begin operation of a GIS in Lake of the Woods County. Strategy 2: Identify and utilize Geologic Atlas applications in Lake of the Woods County.

Issue # 2: Identify abandoned wells and prevent their contamination of groundwater. Objective: Identified abandoned wells and seal those that are a pollution hazard. Strategy 1: Inventory abandoned wells. Strategy 2: Implement a cost shared pilot project to begin sealing abandoned wells.

Issue # 3: Enhancement of surface waters (surface water quality). Objective: Enhance economic development opportunities in Lake Of The Woods County by preserving those environmental features that promote and attract tourists and fishermen to the county. Strategy 1: Continue comprehensive program to inventory substandard on-site sewage treatment systems that can pollute ground and surface waters. Strategy 2 Inventory erosion of ditch banks in the Zippel Bay Watershed.

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Strategy 3: Support the cities of Williams and Baudette in their efforts to upgrade control of sewage runoff problems. Strategy 4: Sedimentation investigation on Zippel Bay. Strategy 5: Support the cities of Williams and Baudette in their efforts to control storm water runoff problems. Strategy 6: Rainy/Rapid River study. Strategy 7: Continue Citizen’s Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP) on Lake of the Woods. Strategy 8: Continue and expand program for monitoring of tributaries and other drainage systems. Strategy 9: Enroll Lake of the Woods and Rainy River in Clean Water Partnership (CWP) program. Strategy 10: Expand surface water education efforts.

Issue # 4: High priority wetland resources. Objective: To take advantage of opportunities to enhance the wetland resources of the county. Strategy 1: Modify legislation allowing counties with greater than 80 percent of original wetlands to administer its wetlands resources. Strategy 2: Undertake a broad public information campaign to explain the nature and value of the wetland resource in the county. Strategy 3: Establish high priority wetland areas and enforce future wetlands legislation.

Issue # 5: Identify areas of erosion prone soils and correct sedimentation problems. Objective: Inventory and correct high priority sedimentation problems in the county. Strategy 1: Inventory road projects, road construction practices, ditching projects, and agricultural practices that have the potential to cause sedimentation in ditches, watercourses, and wetlands. Strategy 2: Continue informational programs for shoreland and agricultural landowners where there is the largest potential for problems. b. High Priority Issues Issue # 6: Identify enforcement needs of local ordinances and regulations. Objective: Assess applicable ordinance enforcement relating to water resources. Strategy 1: Undertake programs that expand site inspections, identify areas weak in enforcement and implement condominium regulations to achieve better regulatory compliance.

Issue # 7: Identify, protect unique features.

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Objective: Assess social and economic importance of physical features unique to Lake of the Woods County. Strategy 1: Implement studies of sustained high water on Lake of the Woods to address erosion along shoreline and Pine and Curry Island. Strategy 2: Initiate a study to determine the highest and best use of peatlands. Strategy 3: Use findings from County Biological Survey to protect plants, animal, and fish which may be endangered, threatened, or are of special concern.

Issue #8: Evaluate illegal and old town dumps for water contamination prevention. Objective: Determine pollution hazard of closed dumps. Strategy 1: Inform and educate site owners regarding the status of the closed dump on their property. Support involvement in MPCA certified closure programs.

Issue #9: Prevent pollution from feedlots. Objective: Implement preliminary 1995 inventory to identify problem feedlots, and correct potential water quality problems. Strategy 1: Identify high priority sub-watersheds and high priority feedlots that are the most important to address. Strategy 2: Work cooperatively with farmers, NRCS, SWCD and MPCA in improving compliance with existing regulations.

Issue #10: Monitor groundwater quality/quantity. Objective: Develop and implement a program to inventory shallow wells, monitor their quality and quantity and to identify areas where quality is being degraded. Strategy 1: Commence groundwater monitoring. Strategy 2: Implement water well inventory data system. c. Moderate Priority Issues Issue #11: Recreation lands. Objective: Increase the availability and quality of recreation lands on all three of the County’s watersheds. Strategy 1: Identify funding sources to increase the number of public landings along the Rainy River. Strategy 2: Identify funding sources to provide public water access sites to the Rapid River.

Issue #12: Identification of highly permeable soils to prevent groundwater contamination from pesticides and nutrients.

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Objective: Improve the understanding of staff, elected officials and general public of the nature of the pesticide and nutrient contamination problem. Strategy 1: Collect available information and establish an education campaign concerning sound nutrient and pesticide management. Strategy 2: Form a partnership with the state in implementing the state Pesticide and Nutrient Management Strategy.

Issue #13: Identify locations of all storage tanks and inform owners of pollution potential. Objective: Identify underground and above ground storage tank locations or tanks exceeding 1,100 gallons; prevent groundwater contamination by these tanks. Strategy 1: Assist MPCA in completion and verification of storage tank inventory. Strategy 2: Develop a targeted information program to owners of storage tanks.

Issue #14: Hazardous waste generators. Objective: Manage the storage and disposal of hazardous waste, generated in the county. Strategy 1: Inventory hazardous waste generated in the county.

Issue #15: Wellhead protection. Objective: Identify and protect public water supply aquifers. Strategy 1: Develop WPS plans for the City of Baudette and Lunds Trailer Court.

G. ROSEAU COUNTY Data not available.

H. ST. LOUIS COUNTY Last update: 2001

1. Goal #1: Surface Water Quality Maintain lake and river water quality for water bodies within the county that are presently above the standard for the ecoregion and improve water quality for those lakes that are under that standard. a. Objectives 1. Lake Monitoring: Continue with the lake water quality monitoring program in cooperation with lake associations to ensure citizens understand issues relating to water quality and to take action on the findings. Lakes should be retested every five to eight years. The purpose of the lake testing is to determine baseline information on water quality and to identify trends. 2. Watershed Plans:

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Prepare watershed plans and implement them for targeted lakes. 3. Shore Impact Zones: The land adjacent to lakes and rivers is important to preserving surface water quality. This area is referred to as the shore impact zone. The water plan supports efforts to protect, and when necessary, reestablish the filter strip value of the shore impact zone. 4. Trout Streams: Trout streams are a unique resource within St. Louis County, and due to their fragile environment, they should be subject to more restrictive standards than the DNR tributary stream status. 5. Natural Disasters: A major natural disaster such as a forest fire, flood or storm can have a significant impact upon those who have property destroyed in the fire as well as the environment which is now prone to additional runoff into the lake, damage to fish and wildlife habitat, and potential damage to groundwater. It is in the interest of all that the recovery from such a disaster should begin as soon as feasible, while whenever possible to correct problems with development on the property. 6. Resource Protection: Variances, conditional uses and other types of development are important to the county and to the property owner, but in consideration of such development, consideration should be given as to ways development can proceed while protecting and enhancing lake and river water quality. 7. Rivers: Rivers are an important natural resource for the county and that the water plan supports the existing plans in effect for the St. Louis, Cloquet, Whiteface and Vermilion Rivers. Rivers that have no special plan may have additional bluff standards based on soil conditions and lot area standards that are reflective of the area. 8. Water Export: Surface water within the county provides an important recreational, environmental and economic resource for the county, therefore, it is in the interest of the county that no water be exported. 9. All public water supplies using surface water should have, by May 2003, a source water assessment prepared that will identify issues and concerns relating to protection of that water supply.

2. Goal #2: Education and Information Involve and inform the public on water quality issues including making it easier for people to understand and assess information that is useful to them. a. Objectives 1. BMP: BMP information should be available to all lake and river property owners and the documents should be updated to reflect present standards. 2. User-Friendly Information: User-friendly information regarding county regulations and policies should be developed. The county should actively be involved in outreach programs so that the information is accessible. 3. Central Sources of Information: The public should have the ability to obtain information on environmental issues and surface water use and regulation from a central location. 4. Septic Systems:

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Education concerning septic systems is a vital and needed component of water resource protection. Public acceptance and confidence in the use of on-site wastewater technologies needs to be dramatically improved. The public is reluctant to invest in something that they do not understand. On-site technology is rapidly advancing and the public needs assistance in understanding options. Contractor training provided by the MPCA is, at times, inadequate for our region. Expanded training opportunities to different groups needs to be provided, in order to advance the acceptance of on-site treatment systems by the public. 5. Junk Vehicle Information: Junk vehicles can be an important resource that can be recycled while also having the potential for environmental and land use conflicts. 6. Exotic Species Information: Limit geographic range of exotic species. 7. Groundwater Information: The public and local decision-makers should obtain information regarding groundwater movement, quality and supply. 8. Records Management: A modern septic system and land use program needs to have a records management system and computer software capable of sorting, tracking, counting categorizing, and assisting in the permitting program. The current county septic system program does not have the ability to track operating permits, write complex or alternative permits, or provide easy and useful GIS interactive abilities. The land use permitting program also should be improved to allow for web based permitting and GIS interactive abilities.

3. Goal #3: Septic Systems Support environmentally and effectively sound treatment of sewage that protects surface and ground water, as well as decrease the need for municipal sewage treatment lines. a. Objectives 1. Problem Areas: Septic problem areas are those with one or more of the following characteristics: areas with poor soils or high water table; systems on small lots; areas with high-density development. The areas have been mapped and are included in the sewer problem area map identified as Appendix B. In addition, high priority areas for replacement of systems are any failing systems within one-quarter mile of any wellhead protection site listed in the most recent phasing list from the State Health Department. The December 1999 list is part of Appendix D. Additional areas may be added by the County Health Department as they become discovered. 2. Alternative Systems: Regulatory reform is a key component of responsible use of new technologies as well as opening up cost effective solutions. New performance based perspectives should be codified. 3. Point of Sale: The sale of property provides and opportunity to review existing septic systems for compliance with state and county standards and to correct failing systems. 4. Sewage Treatment: All properties being considered for development shall have an effective means to treat sewage on a year around basis. 5. Septic System Financial Assistance:

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Cost effective alternatives are an important need in parts of our region. Septic system replacement can be expansive, although still less than the cost of a municipal sewer collection system and treatment plant. In most cases, the homeowner is expected to pay the entire cost of an on-site system as a lump sum without government assistance. In some areas with problem soils, construction costs for an on-site system can approach $1,000 per year (completed cost of $15 – 20,000). 6. Septic System Management: All systems require some type of management. Currently, most systems receive little or no maintenance and management, which results in premature failures and public health nuisances. Professional management could result in improved systems, alternative strategies, improved longevity, and better protection of public health and water resources. 7. Use of Public Lands: Development in certain areas of the county as noted in the problem area map often lack sufficient land for sewage treatment. These areas are often bordered by public lands and frequently those lands have soil conditions more conductive for waste treatment. The use of these lands should protect the water resources of the state and that protection balances the use of these lands for private purposes.

4. Goal #4: Planning The county’s planning effort should continue to progress and recognize the wide range of values our residents have. The planning effort must be scientifically sound and be based on the need to protect and enhance the environment and to sustain economic growth. a. Objectives 1. Data Availability: A scientifically sound planning process must have as accurate and complete data on land and water resources along with the ability to effectively analyze the data. 2. Lake Classification System: The state’s lake classification system of general development, recreation development and natural environment does not provide sufficient guidance as to the vision residents of the area wish for the lake and the ability of the lake to sustain development. Therefor, St. Louis County. in cooperation with lake associations and townships, shall further refine the DNR lake classification system with the DNR standards being the minimum guideline. 3. Mine Pit Lakes: Mine pit lakes are a unique resource in the county. There is a need for improved regulation regarding their size, depth, ultimate limits, surface and groundwater interconnections, water quality, rate of filling, benchmark water levels and possible uses. 4. Individual Plans: It is preferred that a land use plan be developed for all lakes and rivers within the county. This planning effort would take a considerable amount of time, and meanwhile, development pressures will continue near the water bodies, therefore, the following standards shall be in place for all lakes and rivers within the county. 5. Land Uses: Borrow pits shall be set back a minimum of 200 feet from the lake or river; industrial uses shall be prohibited unless in accordance with a plan; non-riparian lot sizes on lake property should be twice the width and acreage as is required for riparian property; trout streams shall be zoned residential while all other rivers may have a mixture of uses if environmental and land use issues are addressed.

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6. Planned Unit Development: Planned unit developments may have many advantages over traditional commercial and residential design. The county planning effort should address issues relating to development design, including provisions for increasing density beyond what is allowed in a conventional subdivision. The concept of a density bonus is based on the premise that the environment and adjacent properties benefit from improved design found in a planned unit development, however, this befit must be substantiated. 7. Storm Water Management: Communities with identified storm water management concerns, particularly those with infiltration problems into the sanitary sewer systems and/or direct discharge into trout streams or other high quality waters, are encouraged to develop plans that implement a strategy based on the specific minor watershed where the problem area is located. 8. Sewage Treatment Flexibility: The concept that all water resources are the same and deserve the same level of protection is both erroneous and self-defeating. The result of adopting this concept is that the cost of correction becomes insurmountable, and little or nothing is done. money can be spent needlessly, and in some cases, the resource is not adequately protected by the proposed remedy. The three feet of vertical separation standard found in State regulations is one such standard that may not be appropriate throughout the county. Local units of government have the ability to deviate from these types of requirements but as part of a planning effort environmental and land use resources need to be prioritized and identified in terms of protection needs. Resources such as sole-source aquifers, surface waters supplying drinking water, and nutrient sensitive surface waters, need to be differentiated from other resources that have a lower function or value to the community.

5. Goal #5: Groundwater The protection of groundwater is a significant concern in many areas of St. Louis County. Protection efforts must be directed towards improved information, education and regulation. a. Objectives 1. Groundwater Study: There should be detailed groundwater study on the Iron Range and in the gravel area near the City of Duluth. In addition, more information is needed on groundwater supply in the ledgerock areas. 2. Wellhead Protection: Public water suppliers identified in the Wellhead protection phasing list found in the appendix will prepare wellhead protection plans for their facility upon notification by the State Health Department to begin the effort. The plans should be completed by January 2, 2001. 3. Well Sealing: Sealing of wells is a priority on a parcel where new development is occurring and in those areas in the St. Louis watershed with high groundwater contamination susceptibility. 4. Leaking Storage Tanks: Leaking underground fuel storage tanks still pose a threat to groundwater in specific areas. The MPCA is the lead agency in cleaning up these sites and the water plan encourages the clean up of the contaminated soil at or near the impacted location or in an environmental sound site approved by the county and local governments. 5. Borrow Pits:

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Borrow pits are often located in areas sensitive to groundwater contamination. Washing can also impact groundwater supply of adjacent well. Pits also have the potential for impacting surface water off site through erosion and dust. Borrow pits are important for the county’s economic growth and improvements to the infra-structure, however, borrow pits must be designed in a manner that addresses the environmental issues relating to ground and surface water.

6. Goal #6: Wetlands Wetland goals and policies are implemented in the county wetland plan and said plan is incorporated into this plan by reference.

7. Goal #7: Animal Waste Livestock, including hobby farms and dog kennels, are and important part of the county’s heritage and generally waste from these facilities have not been a problem and it is the goal of the county’s water plan to support the keeping of livestock in a manner that will maintain the area’s ground and surface water quality. a. Objectives 1. Feedlots: Feedlots identified as being in a high priority area should have a functioning waste treatment system for the level of use. Moderate priority shall be the next area worked on by the SWCD’s. 2. Livestock and Kennel Facilities: New livestock or dog kennel facilities shall have waste facilities in accordance with county and state regulations. This plan must show the requires separation from well and neighboring wells.

8. Goal #8: Erosion Control, Run Off/Flood Control Erosion and run off from sites into lakes and streams must be controlled in an effective manner based on the particularly environmental issues of the particular area. a. Objectives 1. Specific Watershed Issues: Lake Superior, St. Louis and the Little Fork River watersheds have specific erosion issues relating to the types of soils and the heights of the stream bank. The existing county zoning ordinance standards relating to bluff impact zones in these watersheds should remain in effect. 2. Erosion Control Plans: Erosion and sediment control plans shall be developed according to the general criteria specified in the most current version of the MPCA urban runoff manual titled “Protecting Water Quality in Urban Areas.” 3. Shore Impact Zones: The shore impact zone adjacent to lakes and rivers are the most crucial area in limiting runoff into the water body. The minimum shore impact zone shall be 50 feet. Natural environment lakes and trout streams minimum shall be 75 feet from ordinary high water level. Other river and lakes may have different shore impact zones based on an adopted plan. In addition, the shore impact zone based on local planning efforts may have additional standard regarding use of fertilizers, pesticides, and other activities related to non-point pollution of lakes and rivers.

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4. Large Parking Lots: Parking lots for over 100 vehicles that are not part of a municipal storm drainage system can result in pollution of lakes and rivers if design standards limiting direct runoff are not implemented. 5. Forestry BMP: Timber harvesting if done in accordance with BMP and the standards found in this plan should not result in erosion. 6. Flood Management: St. Louis County supports efforts to limit damage from flooding and multiple tools will be used to ensure that flood damage will be minimized within the county, including planning in specific watersheds, enforcement of regulations, purchase of easements, wetland protection, storm water runoff control and other appropriate measures.

9. Goal #9: Organization The county water planning implementation should be done in a manner that takes advantages of the existing organizations relating to water quality and that the public is kept informed on the plan’s implementation. a. Objectives 1. Plan Implementation: Existing organizations should understand their role and responsibilities in implementing the water plan. 2. Annual Report: The County Board and Planning Commission shall receive an annual report regarding water plan implementation.

10. Goal #10: Infrastructure Investment in correcting relating to hazardous waste sites, sewage and storm water can improve surface and groundwater quality. The State of Minnesota has an interest in protecting this resource as they are waters of the state and the impact of pollution goes beyond the boundaries of the community. a. Objectives 1. Specific Improvements: The infrastructure improvements listed under action are a priority within St. Louis County. They are not listed in any particular order of significance.

Action: · Sewer line extensions in the Gary-Fond du Lac area. · Sewer line extensions along the North Shore in accordance with planning efforts presently underway. · Sewer line extensions in the Ely Lake area in Town of Fayal. · Improvements to the Midway Park in Proctor sanitary sewer system. · City of Hibbing South Sewage Treatment Plant improvements. · City of Ely new sewage treatment plant. · City of Duluth inflow and infiltration system improvement. · City of Biwabik evaluation of wastewater needs and plan for construction and/or hook to neighboring communities to accommodate Giants Ridge Development.

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· City of Tower inflow and infiltration problem addressed. 2. Dams: Dams provide important electrical and industrial needs for residents of the county. It is important that water levels consider the economic, recreational, and wildlife habitat needs of those living downstream of the dam. 3. Hazardous Waste Sites: Hazardous waste sites pose a significant threat to surface and groundwater and the ability of those living in the area to enjoy their property.

11. Goal #11: Recreation St. Louis County residents should have reasonable and diverse opportunities to enjoy the state’s water resources and recreational facilities should be designed and maintained in a manner that protects the environment. a. Objectives 1. Diverse Opportunities: County residents will have diverse opportunities to enjoy the county’s water resources. 2. Maintain and Improve: The quality of water reaction should continue to improve or be maintained.

II. RIVER PLANS A. BIG FORK RIVER PLAN Data not available.

B. LITTLE FORK / RAT ROOT RIVERS PLAN Data not available

C. RAINY / RAPID RIVER PLAN Data not available

III. SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICT PLANS A. CHIPPEWA NATIONAL FOREST

B. SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST

C. VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK Voyageurs National Park - Water Resource Management Plan (In preparation, due October 2002).

IV. OTHER PLANS A. MINNESOTA WATERMARKS 2001 – 2010 No data available. Please refer to http://www.mnplan.state.mn.us.

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V. INITIATIVES AND STUDIES A. DRINKING WATER PROTECTION The State of Minnesota has developed a comprehensive program to protect drinking water. Multiple tools are used including monitoring, treatment, source water protection, operator training, funding opportunities, and public education. These activities are aimed at public water supply systems.

A public water supply provides piped drinking water for human use to 15 or more service connections or to 25 or more persons for at least 60 days a year. A public water supply is further defined as either a community or non-community public water supply system.

A community water supply system serves 15 or more service connections used by year-round residents or at least 25 year-round residents. Examples include municipalities, subdivisions, and nursing homes.

Non-community water supply systems are divided into two groups: · A non-transient non-community supply serves at least 25 of the same people over six months of the year. Examples include schools, factories, and hospitals. · A transient non-community supply serves all other public water systems. Examples include restaurants, gas stations, resorts, campgrounds, and churches.

1. Source Water Protection Source water protection attempts to protect the quality of the raw or “source” water of public drinking water supplies. Source water protection is a proactive approach that emphasizes preventing problems before they occur. A variety of tools are used to achieve this goal. a. Source Water Assessments Source water assessments will provide basic information to public water suppliers and the general public regarding where their drinking water comes from and the degree to which it may be adversely impacted by potential sources of contamination. An assessment will be prepared for each public water supply which includes 1) delineation of an area which supplies water to the public water supply; 2) a description of the contaminants of concern which may impact the users of the public water supply; and 3) a susceptibility determination which evaluates the potential for contaminants which may adversely impact human health to impact the water supply. Both surface-water and groundwater sources of drinking water must have assessments prepared.

Source water assessments may serve as a starting point for source water protection plans. The Minnesota Department of Health will post source water assessments on its web page at www.health.state.mn.us. b. Wellhead Protection Plans Wellhead protection is a method of preventing well contamination by effectively managing potential contaminant sources in the area that contributes water to the well. This area is known as the wellhead protection area.

All community and non-transient non-community public water supply systems are required to develop and implement wellhead protection plans. A wellhead protection plan includes: 1) a map of the wellhead protection area; 2) a vulnerability assessment of the well and the wellhead protection area; 3) an inventory of potential sources of contamination within the wellhead

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-22 Section IV Programs and Activities protection area; 4) a plan to manage and monitor existing or proposed potential source(s) of contamination; and 5) a water supply contingency strategy.

The Minnesota Department of Health has developed a methodology to rank public water supply systems for phasing into the wellhead protection program. A “low” number suggests the system may be vulnerable to contamination and these systems are being phased into the program first. Vulnerability assessments are used to identify wells that should receive priority. Vulnerability assessments address three components: 1) geologic sensitivity; 2) well construction, maintenance, and use; and 3) water chemistry and isotopic composition.

Transient non-community systems are also required to implement wellhead protection activities in the inner wellhead management zone. This area is a fixed two hundred foot radius around each public water supply well. c. Source Water Protection Plans For groundwater based systems source water protection plans are equivalent to wellhead protection plans. Surface water based public water supply systems are not required to develop and implement source water protection plans but are strongly encouraged to do so by the Minnesota Department of Health.

In order to be successful, source water protection must be integrated with existing efforts occurring at the local, state, and federal levels to protect public drinking water supplies and the state's water resources.

B. 2001 WATER MONITORING EFFORTS

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1. Planned Water Monitoring Activities in the ManOMin Watershed, 2001

Agency Contact: Jennifer Mercer, Coordinator Rainy River First Nations’ Watershed Address: E-mail: Program P.O. Box 450 [email protected] Emo, ON Phone: P0W 1E0, Canada 807-482-2479, ext. 224 807-482-2603 (fax) Major Name 2 Watershed3 Location 4 Parameters Duration 5 Purpose / Intent 6 E. coli Rainy Where all waterways E. coli & coliform 2001 (focus Identification of leaking septic River (natural & anthropogenic) on sites with systems & other sources of fecal enter into the Rainy River high matter recreational usage) Rainy River Rainy Big Fork, Little Fork, pH, water temp., air 2001 Building upon database started Water River Rainy R. at Baudette, temp., weather, river by the Minnesota Pollution Quality above dam at Int’l Falls, level, stream Control Agency. Baseline data. Monitoring Rainer Bridge, Rapid R. appearance, secchi, DO Bridge west of Baudette, & temp profile, E.coli, LaVallee R., Sturgeon R., PO4, NO3 Cameron C., Pinewood R. River Watch Rainy Indus Creek, Black R. & Benthic invertebrates, 2001 Hands-on facilitated education of River Rainy River at Pither’s low-tech sub-lethal grade 7 students. Some benefit Point, up & down-stream toxicity test, dissolved as a long-term database of water of dam, Lions’ Park & oxygen, fecal coliform, quality. south of Riverview School pH, temp, phosphate, nitrate, turbidity Watershed Rainy Cameron & Everett Uncontrolled 2001 Monitor our efforts to control Report Card River Creeks cattle/horse access, cattle access to Rainy River controlled cattle/horse tributaries, either by aiding access (fencing, water landowners to access funds or pumps, ramps, etc.) & by providing supplies, equipment no cattle/horse access & labor for installation of fences, cattle ramps, water pumps, etc.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-24 Section IV Programs and Activities

Agency Contact: Jesse Anderson Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 1 Phone: E-mail: 218-529-6218 [email protected] Major Name 2 Watershed3 Location 4 Parameters Duration 5 Purpose / Intent 6 MPCA Lake Rainy Crane, Little Temp/DO, Secchi, pH, Monthly Determine Lake Trophic Status, Collect Assessment Lake Vermilion, & alkalinity, conductivity, ion May to baseline data; Assess effects of rule Program Echo Lakes chemistry, nutrients, September curve changes on productivity in Rainy chlorophyll-a, zooplankton Lake & Namakan Reservoir

Agency Contact: Rick Cousins Lake of the Woods Control Board Phone: E-mail: 819-953-5476 [email protected] Major Name 2 Watershed3 Location 4 Parameters Duration 5 Purpose / Intent 6 Real-time Entire Numerous Water level, Real time, The Lake of the Woods Control Board & the water level & ManOMin sites in the flow data continuous International Rainy Lake Board of Control collect & flow basin basin. See data process real-time hydrometerorologic data from information www.lwcb.ca sites throughout the Winnipeg River Drainage Basin for water level & flow monitoring & management purposes. The data comes from stations operated by various agencies including the Water Survey of Canada, US Geological Survey, Meteorological Service of Canada, the National Weather Service & the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

Agency Contact: Larry Kallemeyn USGS/Voyageurs National Park E-mail: [email protected] Major Name Watershed Location Parameters Duration Purpose / Intent 6 USGS BRD, Rainy Kabetogama, Temp/DO, 2001-2003, bi-weekly Assess effects of rule curve changes USGS Water Namakan, Secchi, pH, sampling from mid to late on productivity in Rainy Lake & Resources, Sand Point, alkalinity, May to October. Namakan Reservoir. Continue long- Voyageurs Rainy conductivity, ion term monitoring to evaluate changes chemistry, resulting from reservoir operations & chlorophyll-a, climatic effects.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-25 Section IV Programs and Activities

zooplankton USGS BRD, Rainy Kabetogama Young of year & Mid-June to late August, Assess reproductive success & Voyageurs, forage fish bi-weekly sampling using growth of walleye & other game fish. DNR 100 ft seine at 20 stations Assess relative abundance of minnows & other forage species. USGS BRD, Rainy Kabetogama, Juvenile & adult September, about one Annual survey to determine relative Voyageurs, Sand Point fish week on each lake. abundance of walleye & other fish DNR Sampling conducted using species. standard gill nets. USGS BRD, Rainy Shoepack Muskellunge, 2001-2002 Study primarily designed to determine Voyageurs Lake Temp/DO, status of muskellunge population & to Habitat variables assess effect of the sport fishery on it. USGS BRD, Rainy 20 interior Water chemistry, 2000-2003 Determine factors contributing to wide Water lakes in Hg in fish, water, variation in Hg in fish in these small Resources, Voyageurs NP plankton, soils, lakes MPCA, bottom Voyageurs sediments USGS BRD Rainy Rainy Lake Mysis relicta Bi-weekly sampling at 8 Mysis relicta has been found to be fixed stations, & basin one of the most important items in the wide survey of South Arm food web in Rainy Lake, so we have using transects been monitoring their relative (Tentative) abundance over several years. USGS BRD, Rainy Rainy Lake Rainbow smelt Sampling at fixed stations To determine abundance of exotic Voyageurs using small mesh gillnets. rainbow smelt & other pelagic fish. An integrated program Gillnetting provides estimate of involving hydroacoustics relative abundance while acoustics & & mid-water trawling. trawling allow us to estimate actual densities & biomasses.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-26 Section IV Programs and Activities

Agency Contact: John C. Kingston Ely Field Station Address: University of Minnesota Duluth NRRI Natural Resources Research Institute 1900 E. Camp St. Center for Water and the Environment Ely, MN 55731 Major Name Watershed Location Parameters Duration Purpose / Intent 6 White Iron Lake Kawishiwi East of Ely on the Sediment core: 03/2000 - Describe nutrient loading & soil paleolimnology River, Rainy border of St. Louis 210Pb dating, organic & present erosion trends during the past River & Lake Counties inorganic content from 150 years; answer questions that Headwaters Loss-on-ignition cannot be approached using 09030001 methods, diatoms & modern chemical sampling; this reconstructions of total work is not currently funded. phosphorus Jessie Lake Rainy River southern part of T. Sediment core: 01/2001 – Describe nutrient loading & soil paleolimnology Headwaters 148 N., R. 25 W., 210Pb dating, organic & 06/2002 erosion trends during the past 09030001 & the northern part inorganic content from 150 years; define trends in total of T. 147 N., R. 25 Loss-on-ignition phosphorus using literature W methods, diatoms & values for species nutrient reconstructions of total optima. Contract through Itasca phosphorus County SWCD. An inventory of Rainy River BWCAW, VNP, Live diatoms & desmids Proposed A proposal under the National the diatoms & Watershed Lake Agassiz & sedimented diatoms; summer Science Foundation’s Biotic desmids of peatlands; nutrient & other 2001- Surveys & Inventories program, Minnesota’s 09030001, chemistry & physical summer to assess the biodiversity of largest 09020302, others measurements 2004 threatened habitats & describe wildernesses new species. Miscellaneous Rainy River Lakes: Shagawa, Microscopic examination 1999- Preliminary work to develop diatom & Headwaters Vermilion, Elbow, of diatoms & other algae, present grants in the Arrowhead region, limnology 09030001 Pelican, others in limnological profiles, outreach to help citizens sampling Ely-Tower-Cook water sampling understand their lakes & area shoreland management practices

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-27 Section IV Programs and Activities

Agency Contact: Darryl McLeod, Area Biologist Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Address: c/o OMNR 922 Scott St. Fort Frances, Ontario, P9A 1J4 Major Name Watershed Location Parameters Duration Purpose / Intent 6 Fall Walleye Rainy North Arm, CUE & population Sept/2001 (long To monitor fisheries stock status, Index Netting Lake Rainy Lake characteristics for term assessment, provide & index of abundance for (FWIN) walleye & other fish rotation between walleye & other fish spp. & to provide species Ontario basins of fish pop. attributes for comparison to Rainy Lake) other waters. Evaluate management actions taken to date. DO/Temp Rainy North Arm, Dissolved oxygen & Sept/2001 To monitor water quality & lake Profiles Lake Rainy Lake temperature conditions during assessment gill netting profiles work. Water Rainy North Arm, Hourly Surface April to Nov 2001 To provide mean daily water Temperature Lake Rainy Lake water temperatures (long term annual temperatures, evaluate spawning Monitoring assessment since periods for fish & length of growing 1997) seasons. Lake Sturgeon Rainy South Arm & Sturgeon CUE, May/2001 To evaluate status of lake sturgeon Assessment? Lake Redgut Bay, & tagging & radio- stocks & identify spawning locations on mouth of Seine telemetry, genetics Rainy Lake in cooperation with River VNP/USGS. Roving Creel Rainy South Arm Angler effort & May-Sept/2001 Evaluate status of sport fishery & fish Survey Lake harvest, CUE & stocks, identify current harvest levels & population effort along with angler profiles (origin & characteristics for residency). Evaluate effectiveness of walleye & other regulations & other fisheries sportsfish species management actions.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-28 Section IV Programs and Activities

Agency Contact Alan Anderson Minnesota Department of Natural Address: E-mail: Resources 392 Highway 11 E [email protected] International Falls, MN 56649 Phone: 218-826-5220 Major Name Watershed Location Parameters Duration Purpose / Intent 6 Beast Lake Survey Rainy Entire lake 15 year rotational Fish population statistics, water Lake survey chemistry, aquatic vegetation Eugene Lake Rainy Entire lake 15 year rotational Fish population statistics, water Survey Lake survey chemistry, aquatic vegetation Quill Lake Survey Rainy Entire lake 10 year rotational Fish population statistics, water Lake survey chemistry, aquatic vegetation Loiten Lake Rainy Entire lake 10 year rotational Fish population statistics, water Survey Lake survey chemistry, aquatic vegetation Elephant Lake Vermilion Entire lake 4 year rotational Fish population statistics, water Survey River survey chemistry, aquatic vegetation Winchester Lake Vermilion Entire lake 10 year rotational Fish population statistics, water Survey River survey chemistry, aquatic vegetation Loon Lake Pop. Rainy U.S. portion of lake 5 year rotational Fish population statistics Assess. Lake survey Pelican Lake Pop. Vermilion Entire lake 3 year rotational Fish population statistics Assess. River survey Echo Lake Pop. Vermilion Entire lake 5 year rotational Fish population statistics Assess. River survey Namakan Lake Rainy U.S. portion of lake Annual survey Fish population statistics, water Pop. Assess. Lake chemistry Sand Point Lake Rainy U.S. portion of lake Annual survey Fish population statistics, water Pop. Assess Lake chemistry Little Vermilion Rainy U.S. portion of lake 5 year rotational Fish population statistics Lake Pop. Assess. Lake survey Rainy Lake Pop. Rainy U.S. portion of lake Annual survey w/ Fish population statistics, water Assess. Lake creel chemistry, angler catch & harvest Kabetogama Rainy Entire lake Annual survey Fish population statistics, water Lake chemistry Sturgeon River Big Fork Entire river Recording Major study Fish population statistics, aquatic

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-29 Section IV Programs and Activities

Special Sampling River thermometers invertebrates, water chemistry Little Fork River Little Fork M 60 to M 165 Recording Major study Invert sample. Sturgeon sample Special Sampling River M 104 to M 124 thermometers Kinmount Creek Rainy Recording Summer water temperatures Lake thermometers Gilmore Creek Little Fork Recording Summer water temperatures River thermometers Rainy River Rainy Int’l. Falls dam to Major study Fish population statistics, aquatic River Long Sault Rapids invertebrates, water chemistry Lost River Little Fork Entire river Reconnaissanc Physical inventory River e

Agency Contact: Tom Mosindy Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Address: Phone: Lake of the Woods Fisheries Assessment Unit 807-468-2609 808 Robertson St. Kenora, Ontario P9N 3X9 Major Name Watershed Location Parameters Duration Purpose / Intent 6 Lake of Rotating schedule, 2 of 6 sectors are Dissolved oxygen, Ongoing Monitor changes in the Woods sampled for 2 consecutive years, then temp profiles, TDS, oxygen/temperature sampling moves to next 2 sectors (complete secchi. regimes, productivity sample of lake every 6 years) over time.

Agency Contact: Dave Green Manitoba Conservation Water Quality Address: Phone: Management 123 Main St., Suite 160 204-945-0585 Winnipeg, MB R3C 1A5 Name Major Watershed Location Parameters Duration Purpose / Intent 6 Shoal Lake Upper Winnipeg Shoal Lake General Chemistry, Annual ongoing Water quality monitoring for Monitoring River -Lake of the nutrients, metals since 1991 database for the City of Woods Division including C/N, Winnipeg drinking water supply. phytoplankton, fecal coliform Falcon Upper Winnipeg Falcon Lake General Chemistry, Annual ongoing Monitor water quality conditions Lake/River River -Lake of the nutrients, major since 1991 at from Falcon Lake outlet & at

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-30 Section IV Programs and Activities

Woods Division anions, cations, fecal outlet of lake & Falcon River outlet coliform river

Agency Contact: Rick Bowering Manitoba Conservation Surface Water Address: Phone: Management 200 Saulteaux Crescent 204-945-6397 Winnipeg, MB R3J 3W3 Name Major Watershed Location Parameters Duration Purpose / Intent 6 Winnipeg River Upper Winnipeg River Water level/flow Ongoing Cooperative management with Lake System Winnipeg Management in of the Woods Control Board of Lake River-Lake of cooperation with the of the Woods/Winnipeg River the Woods Lake of the Woods system for hydro production & other Division Control Board stakeholder interests.

Agency Contact: Arnold Permut City of Winnipeg Address: Phone: 1500 Plessis Rd. 204-986-4817 Winnipeg, MB R3C 2Z9 Name Major Watershed Location Parameters Duration Purpose / Intent 6 Shoal Lake Upper Shoal Lake General Chemistry, nutrients, Ongoing Monitoring raw water Monitoring Winnipeg major anions, cations, some supply for City of River-Lake of metals, algae, giardia, Winnipeg drinking water the Woods crytosporidium, fecal coliform purposes. Division

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-31 Section IV Programs and Activities

Agency Contact: Garry Dunn Environment Canada Address: Phone: Park Plaza 306-780-8468 2365 Albert St. Regina, SK S4P 4K1 Major Name Watershed Location Parameters Duration Purpose / Intent 6 Canada/ Manitoba Upper Winnipeg River General Chemistry, nutrients, Ongoing Monitoring water quality on Agreement monitoring Winnipeg at Pointe du major anions, cations, total & a trans-boundary water of a trans-boundary River-Lake of Bois dissolved metals, Mercury, body as per Canada- site on the Winnipeg the Woods Arsenic, Selenium, pesticides, Manitoba agreement. River Division fecal coliform bacteria 1 Please include name, address, telephone # and e-mail. 2 Name or title of the study. 3 Name and HUC# of the major watershed (for example: Rainy Headwaters HUC # 09030001) 4 Actual location of the study, based on major or minor watershed and river mile(s), or GPS coordinates or a meets and bounds description. 5 One time sample/survey, major study/survey in 2001 or part of an ongoing effort. Please include information on ongoing efforts that do not have any activities scheduled in the Basin in 2001. 6 What are you hoping to determine from this effort? How will it add to the body of knowledge about water management.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-32 Section IV Programs and Activities

C. JESSIE LAKE CLEAN WATER PARTNERSHIP 1. Jessie Lake Watershed Investigation Project CWP funded.

The project goal is to solidify a partnership between local citizens and governmental agencies in an effort to protect and maintain the aesthetic, economic and recreational value of Jessie Lake and its watershed. More specific goals for the project are: · Improve, or at least maintain the water quality of Jessie Lake; · Preserve the aesthetic and economic value of the total watershed; · Maintain a high quality recreation potential; and · Generate a case study of the water quality of a shallow, polymictic lake.

This project has made significant progress this past year in spite of staffing changes at the local level. Past year activities include: · GIS mapping (land use, soil mapping units, national wetland inventory, USGS topographic maps, aerial photos, vegetated cover, homes, and feedlots) · Historical land use · Septic tank information gathered · DNR fish and habitat assessment · Shoreline stabilization and revegetation projects · Surface and ground water quality and quantity monitoring · Benthic boundary mixing and phosphorous dynamics · Paleolimnology · Education and outreach

The current focus of this project is to pinpoint the reason for excessive algal blooms in the lake, identify implementation steps to prevent further degradation, and actually implement protection or restoration measures. This is being accomplished by a partnership with citizens, local and state governments, and University of Minnesota researchers. Next steps for this project are further data collection, data analysis, and implementation plan development. The project will then submit the plan for approval by the CWP program and apply for Phase II implementation grant funds.

D. USGS/MPCA MERCURY STUDY IN VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK The USGS-Biological Resource Division and National Park Service have done extensive research, investigations and monitoring in Voyageurs National Park, located within Rainy River/Rainy Lake watershed. Summary data will be included in the final version of the Basin Information Document. Reports and data will be included in the Data Source List. Aquatic Synthesis of Voyageurs National Park is in preparation by USGS-Biological Resource Division and will have report posted at http://www.cerc.cr.usgs.gov/FRS_Webs/Intrntl/research.htm by July 2002. Interagency and university research is ongoing.

E. RAINY / NAMAK AN WATER LEVEL EFFECTS STUDY Data not available.

F. DNR HYDROGEOLOGIC STUDY OF RAINY RIVER Data not available.

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-33 Section IV Programs and Activities

VI. BASIN CONTACT INFORMATION A. LOCAL 1. Beltrami County Bill Patnaude Chris Parthen Beltrami County Planning and Zoning Beltrami SWCD 619 Beltrami Ave. NW 3217 Beltrami Ave. N, Suite #3 Bemidji, MN 56601 Bemidji, MN 56601-4328 218-759-4158 218-755-4339

2. Cook County Karen Evens Rebecca Wiinanen Cook County Water Planning Cook SWCD Cook County Courthouse Box 1150 P.O. Box 1150 Grand Marais, MN 55604-1156 Grand Marais, MN 55604 218-387-3000 218-387-3000 218-387-3042 (fax) [email protected] [email protected]

Tim Nelson Environmental Services Department Cook County Courthouse P.O. Box 1150 Grand Marais, MN 55604

218-387-3000 218-387-2610 (fax) [email protected]

3. Itasca County Terry Greenside Arthur Norton Environmental Services Department Itasca SWCD Itasca County Courthouse 1889 E. Highway 2 123 NE 4th St. Grand Rapids, MN 55744 Grand Rapids, MN 55744-2600 218-326-6595 218-327-2857 218-326-8938 (fax) 218-327-7331 (fax) [email protected]

4. Koochiching County Thomas Toratti Richard Lehtinen Koochiching SWCD Environmental Services Department Koochiching County Courthouse Koochiching County Courthouse 715 4th St. 715 4th St. International Falls, MN 56649 International Falls, MN 56649 218-283-8551 218-283-6257 218-283-3376 (fax) [email protected]

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-34 Section IV Programs and Activities

5. Lake County Dan Haglund Dick Sigel Lake SWCD Land Use Administrator PO Box 14 601 3rd Ave. 120 State Rd. Two Harbors, MN 55616 Two Harbors, MN 55616 218-834-8321 218-834-6638 218-834-8365 (fax) 218-834-6639 (fax) [email protected]

6. Lake of the Woods County Gary Lockner Les Lemm Environmental Services Department Lake of the Woods SWCD Lake of the Woods County P.O. Box 217 206 SE 8th St. 219 1st Ave. NW Baudette, MN 56623 Baudette, MN 56623 218-634-1945 218-634-2757 218-634-2509 (fax) [email protected]

7. Roseau County Jeff Pelowski Roseau SWCD Roseau County Environmental Services 502 7th St. SW, Suite 8 606 5th Ave. SW, Room 150 Roseau, MN 56751 Roseau, MN 56751-1477 218-463-1903 218-463-3750

8. St. Louis County Jim Plummer Mark Lindhorst St. Louis County Planning North St. Louis SWCD 307 1st St. S 230 1st St. S, Suite 104 Virginia, MN 55792 Virginia, MN 55792-2669 218-749-0628 218-741-3230 [email protected] [email protected]

Mark Johnson St. Louis County Water Plan Coordinator St. Louis County Planning 901 Mesabi Building 227 W. 1st St. Duluth, MN 55802 218-725-5000 [email protected]

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-35 Section IV Programs and Activities

9. Arrowhead Regional Development Commission Vicki Spragg 221 W. First St. Duluth, MN 55802 218-529-7547 218-722-5545 (general) 800-232-0707 218-529-7592 (fax) [email protected]

10. Headwater Regional Development Commission Cliff Tweedale 403 4th St. NW P.O. Box 906 Bemidji, MN 56601 218-751-3108 218-751-3695 (fax)

B. STATE 1. Board of Water and Soil Resources Dale Krystosek Mark Nelson 3217 Bemidji Ave. N 394 S. Lake Ave. Bemidji, MN 56601 Duluth, MN 55802 218-755-4236 218-723-4923 218-755-4201 (fax) [email protected] [email protected]

2. Department of Health Beth Kluthe 1819 Bemidji Ave. NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218-755-3820 218-755-3823 [email protected]

3. Department of Natural Resources Howard Christman, Regional Hydrologist John Guenther, Region 2 Administrator 1202 E. Highway 2 1201 E. Highway 2 Grand Rapids, MN 55744 Grand Rapids, MN 55744 218-327-4106 218-327-4263 218-327-4263 (fax) [email protected] [email protected]

Jim Weseloh, Regional Planner 1202 Highway 2 E Grand Rapids, MN 55744

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-36 Section IV Programs and Activities

[email protected]

4. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Suzanne Hanson, Regional Manager Nolan Baratono Minnesota Pollution Control Agency P.O. Box 61 525 Lake Ave. S, Suite 400 International Falls, MN 56649 Duluth, MN 55802 218-283-2240 218-723-4660 [email protected] 218-723-4727 (fax) [email protected]

C. FEDERAL 1. Chippewa National Forest Ann Long Voelkner Route 3, Box 244 Cass lake, MN 56633

2. Laurentian Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc. 4850 Miller Trunk Highway, Suite 3B Duluth, MN 55811 218-720-5255

3. Natural Resources Conservation Service Kevin Daw Room 121, Federal Building Duluth, MN 218-720-5308 218-720-5306 (fax) [email protected]

4. Superior National Forest Bob Berrisford Scott Snelson 8901 Grand Ave. Place 8901 Grand Ave. Place Duluth, MN 55808-1102 Duluth, MN 55808-1102 218-626-4390 218-626-4365 [email protected] [email protected]

5. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Charles Spitzack, P.E. 190 E. Fifth St. St. Paul, MN 55101 651-290-5307 651-290-5800 (fax) [email protected]

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-37 Section IV Programs and Activities

6. U.S. Coast Guard Robert N. Hildebrand, Chief Warrant Officer Environmental Planning and Response Group Commanding Officer MSO Duluth 600 S. Lake Ave. Duluth, MN 55802-2352 218-720-5286 218-720-5258 (fax) [email protected]

7. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Walter Redmon (WT-15J) Region 5, Water Division 77 W. Jackson BLVD Chicago, IL 60664 321-886-6110

8. U.S. Geological Survey Larry Kallemeyn USGS-Biological Resource Division International Falls Biological station 3131 Highway 53 International Falls, MN 56649 [email protected]

9. Voyageurs National Park Roger Andrascik, Chief Resource Management 3131 Highway 53 International Falls, MN 56649 218-283-9821 218-285-7407 (fax) [email protected]

D. TRIBAL 1. Bois Forte Band of Chippewa Indians Les Conner P.O. Box 16 Nett Lake, MN 55772

2. Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians Chuck Meyer P.O. Box 550 Red Lake, MN 56671 218-679-3959

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-38 Section IV Programs and Activities

E. INTERNATIONAL 1. International Joint Commission Ed Eaton, Advisor Rick Walden, Advisor International Rainy Lake Board of Control International Rainy Lake Board of Control U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Environment Canada 190 5th St. E 351 St. Joseph Blvd., 4th Floor St. Paul, MN 55101-1639 Hull, Quebec K1A 0H3 651-290-5617 819-997-2529 651-290-5841 (fax) 819-953-4666 [email protected] [email protected]

John Merriman Ann MacKenzie Environment Canada – W Q B – OR 234 Laurier Ave. W, 22nd Floor 867 Lakeshore Rd. Ottawa Ontario, Canada K1P 6K6 Burlington, Ontario, CA L7R 4A6 613-947-1420 905-336-4962 [email protected] 905-336-4609 (fax) [email protected]

2. Rainy River First Nations Jennifer Mercer P.O. Box 450 Emo, Ontario POW - 1EO 807-482-2479 [email protected]

Rainy River Basin Information Document – 2001 Page IV-39 Appendix A Glossary

Absorption: The penetration of a substance into or through another, such as the dissolving of a soluble gas into a liquid or solid.

Advection: In hydrogeology, the movement of ground water in response to pressure gradients.

Aerobic: A life form or process that requires oxygen (air) to proceed.

Algae: Microscopic aquatic plants. May be single cells or colonial forms, either free floating or attached to substrates.

Algal bloom: An unusual or excessive abundance of algae.

Alkalinity: Generally, a liquid's ability to buffer acids.

Alluvium: A general term for all detrital material deposited, or in transit by streams, including gravel, sand, silt, clay and all variations and mixtures of these. Unless otherwise noted, alluvium is assumed to be unconsolidated.

Ammonia: A compound of nitrogen and hydrogen (NH3) which when present in water suggests that human or animal wastes have been recently introduced. It can cause nutrient enrichment and eutrophication, and in sufficient quantities can be toxic to aquatic animals.

Ammonification: The biochemical process whereby ammoniacal nitrogen is released from nitrogen-containing organic compounds.

Ammonium ion:

The cation NH4 which caries a +1 charge.

Anaerobic: A life form or process that will only proceed in the absence of oxygen air).

Anthropogenic: Related to, or influenced by human beings.

Anion: An ion with a net negative charge.

Page A-1 Appendix A Glossary

Aquatic vascular plant: Plants that grow and live in water. They possess roots, stems, leaves, flowers and a vascular system.

Aquifer: A geologic formation (or group of formations, or part of a formation) or structure that yields water in sufficient quantities to supply the needs for a water development; usually saturated sand, gravel, fractures, and cavernous and vesicular rock. The term water bearing is sometimes used synonymously with aquifer when a stratum furnishes water for a specific use.

Aquitard: A geologic unit with relatively low permeability that retards the flow of water and is stratigraphically adjacent to one or more aquifers. The aquitard may lie above or below the aquifers. Synonym: confining layer.

Artesian aquifer: An aquifer that is overlain by an aquitard and whose piezometric surface is above the top of the aquifer. All artesian aquifers are confined aquifers.

Assimilation: 1. In biology, the conversion or incorporation of adsorbed nutrients into protoplasm. 2. In water pollution, the ability of a body of water to purify itself of (particularly organic) pollution.

Atmosphere: The layer of air (gases) surrounding the earth.

Atom: The smallest divisible particle of an element, which retains all the characteristics of that element.

Automatic sampler: A device designed to collect samples at preset times or when triggered by some other parameter such as water level.

Available nutrient: That portion of any element or compound that readily can be absorbed and assimilated by growing plants.

Background level: The amount, or concentration, of a substance naturally present in the environment.

Bacteria: Single-cell microscopic organisms that possess rigid cell walls. They may be aerobic, anaerobic, or facultative; they can cause disease; and some are important in the stabilization of solid wastes.

Base flow: The portion of a stream’s discharge that comes from groundwater discharge. During dry periods the flow in many streams is entirely do to groundwater discharge.

Page A-2 Appendix A Glossary

Basin: A basin (or drainage basin) is an area of land that drains to a particular river or lake. A basin typically is divided into major and minor watersheds (see watershed).

Bedrock: The in-place portions of rock formations that have not been moved by surficial processes.

Bed load: The sediment that moves by sliding, rolling, or bounding on or very near the streambed.

Best Management Practice (BMP): The management practice or combination of practices that is determined to be the most effective and most technically and economically practicable after problem assessment, examination, of alternative practices, and appropriate public participation (EPA Regulation 40CFR).

Biological monitoring: The measuring of biological parameters to evaluate the condition of some portion of the environment.

Biomass: 1. The total amount of living material per unit area in a particular habitat. 2. An expression of the total weight of a given population of organisms.

Biota: The flora and fauna of a region.

Biological oxygen demand (BOD): A measure of the oxygen used in meeting the metabolic needs of aerobic microorganisms in water (particularly in water rich in organic matter); also called biochemical oxygen demand.

Blue-Green algae: Algal form that may cause water to turn green, gray or brown during late summer periods. Some forms may be toxic in large concentrations.

Cation: An ion with a net positive charge.

Channel: A natural stream or excavated ditch that conveys water.

Channel stabilization: Erosion prevention and control of velocity distribution in a channel using jetties, drops, revetments, vegetation, and other measures.

Chloride: The common anionic form of chlorine carrying one net negative charge. A common anion in many waters.

Page A-3 Appendix A Glossary

Chemical oxygen demand (COD): A measure of the amount of oxygen required to oxidize the organic and oxidizable inorganic compounds in water. The COD test, like the BOD test, is used to determine the amount of pollution in an effluent.

Chlorophyll A: A green photosynthetic pigment present in many plant and some bacterial cells. It is used to measure aquatic productivity.

Climate: The long term average of the meteorological parameters, temperature, moisture, wind, pressure, and evaporation, of a specific point or region. Climate determines the nature of an area's vegetation and influences its landforms, soils and land use. Climate can and has changed on time-scales of decades to centuries.

Cohesion: The tendency of a material to hold together. The force of attraction between like molecules in solids and liquids. This force generally decreases with increasing temperature.

Colluvium: 1. In geology, material consisting of alluvium and coarse angular fragments of bedrock; also talus and cliff debris. 2. In soils, material that has moved downhill and has accumulated on lower slopes and/or at the bottom of the hill; the downhill motion is produced by the force of gravity and to some extent by frost action, erosion, and biological activity.

Composting: A controlled process of degrading organic matter by microorganisms.

Conduit: Any open or closed channel whose intended purpose is the conveyance of water.

Confined aquifer: An aquifer that is overlain by an aquitard. Some, but not all, confined aquifers are artesian aquifers.

Control: In research studies, an object or group of objects known to be, or intentionally caused to be, isolated from certain factors which influence other objects in the study. The control group is used as a comparison standard in the evaluation of the impact of the experimental factors upon the non-control objects.

Cone of depression: The lowering of a water table or potentiometric surface by the extraction of water from a well. In homogeneous aquifers, a cone of depression is roughly conical in shape.

Confining layer: See aquitard.

Conservation tillage: Any tillage system that reduces loss of soil or water compared to conventional tillage.

Page A-4 Appendix A Glossary

Cretaceous: The geologic period of time between 135 and 65 million years ago. The end of the period was marked by the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Cross-section: A representation of a surface or line cutting through an object. In hydrogeology, cross- sections typically show the vertical structure along a line or in a boring.

Cover: Any vegetation or other material, which provides protection from erosion, predators, weather, etc.

Debris: The loose material arising from the disintegration of rocks and vegetative materials; transportable by streams, ice or floods.

Deciduous plant: A plant that sheds all its leaves every year at a certain season.

Decomposition: The breakdown of organic waste materials by biological or chemical processes.

Deep percolation: In soil science, water which moves below the root zone and can not be utilized by plants, and eventually may recharge groundwater.

Demonstration area: An area of land with definite boundaries and of sufficient size to illustrate, usually to the public, the results of specific practices in soil and water conservation and land use.

Denitrirication: The chemical or biochemical reduction of nitrate or nitrite to gaseous molecular nitrogen or oxides of nitrogen.

Deuterium (2H or D): A rare, stable isotope of hydrogen, which has one proton and one neutron in its nucleus, and thus has an atomic weight close to 2.

Discharge: In hydraulics, the rate of flow, specifically fluid flow; a volume of fluid passing a point per unit time. Often represented by the symbol Q.

Dispersion: The act of separating, spreading or scattering. In hydrogeology, it is the dilution of a parameter by mixing into a larger volume of water.

Dissolved oxygen: State of oxygen that is available to fish and other aquatic life. Produced by aquatic vascular plants and algae.

Page A-5 Appendix A Glossary

Dissolved solids: Dissolved material, organic or inorganic, contained in water or wastes. Excessive dissolved solids make water unpalatable for drinking and unsuitable for industrial uses.

Drainage: 1. The removal of excess surface water or groundwater from land by means of surface runoff or subsurface infiltration. 2. Soil characteristics that affect natural runoff or infiltration.

Drainage basin: A region or area bounded by a surface runoff divide from which the water is removed by a integrated system (usually a river or stream depending on the scale). More specifically, it is the area that gathers water from precipitation and contributes it to a particular stream channel, system of channels, or to a lake, reservoir, or other body of water.

Draw down: A lowering of the water table of an unconfined aquifer or the piezometric surface of a confined aquifer by the pumping of ground water from wells.

Drift: 1. In geology, a catchall term that includes all geologic materials that were deposited by glaciers (or their meltwater streams). Drift is composed of stratified and unstratified materials ranging in size from clay to boulders. 2. In agriculture, the unwanted spread, usually by wind, to adjacent fields of pesticides during application.

Easement: A limited right over land owned by someone else. An easement may be for a certain number of years or be perpetual in duration. An affirmative easement gives the owner the right to use the land for a stated purpose. A negative easement is an agreement with a private property owner to limit the development of his land in specific ways.

Ecoregion: An area with similar soils, land surface, natural vegetation, and current land use.

Elevation: The vertical distance of an object from a known datum plane (usually mean sea level or NGVD [National Geodetic Vertical Datum]).

Emergent vegetation: Aquatic vegetation growing in shallow water, standing up and above the surface; e.g., bulrush, tule grass, cattail.

Equivalent weight: In chemistry, the molecular weight divided by the valence.

Erosion: 1. The wearing away of the land surface by running water, wind, ice, or other geological agents, including such processes as gravitational creep. 2. Detachment and movement of soil or rock fragments by water, wind, ice or gravity.

Page A-6 Appendix A Glossary

Eutrophication: The aging process by which lakes are fertilized with nutrients. Natural eutrophication will very gradually change the character of the lake. Cultural eutrophication is the accelerated aging of a lake as the result of human activities.

Evapotranspiration: The combined loss of water from a given area and during a specific period of time, by evaporation from a soil and/or water surface and transpiration by plants on that surface.

Facultative: A life form or process that can proceed in either the presence or absence of oxygen (air).

Fall overturn: A physical phenomenon that may take place in a body of water during early autumn. The sequence of events leading to fall overturn include: 1) cooling of surface waters, 2) a density increase in surface waters which produces an unstable density inversion in the water column, and 3) convective mixing of the surface and deep waters often aided by wind action. The overturn mixes and homogenizes the physical and chemical properties of the entire water mass.

Farm management: The organization and administration of farm resources, including land, labor, crops, livestock, and equipment.

Fault: A fracture or fracture zone of the earth along which there has been displacement of one side with respect to the other.

Fauna: The animal life in a region.

Fecal coliform: A group of bacteria normally present in large numbers in the intestinal tract of humans and other warm-blooded animals.

Fecal streptococcus: A group of bacteria normally present in large numbers in the intestinal tracts of warm- blooded animals other than humans. By assessing the ratio of coliforms to streptococci in a water sample, a rough estimate can be made of the relative contribution of fecal contamination from human versus animal sources.

Feedlot: Any area where livestock are fed that concentrates manure and prevents vegetation from growing. Also referred to as a livestock operation.

Fertilizer: Organic and inorganic materials of natural or synthetic origins that are added to soil to supply elements essential to plant growth.

Page A-7 Appendix A Glossary

Filamentous green algae: Algal form that in severe bloom conditions creates long strings or floating mats.

Flocculation: The process by which suspended colloidal or very fine particles, are assembled into larger masses or floccules which eventually settle out of suspension.

Flood: An overflow or inundation that comes from a river or other body of water and causes or threatens damage.

Flora: The plant life in a region.

Flushing rate: Time required for a lake to exchange its water; may be days, months or years.

Fluvial: Of or pertaining to rivers; growing or living in streams or ponds, produced by river action, as a fluvial plain.

Forage fish: Minnows and other small fish that are food for larger predator fish.

Formation: Any igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic body of rock or other geologic materials sufficiently homogeneous or distinctive to be represented as a unit.

Geochemistry: All parts of geology that involve chemical changes. The study of: 1) the relative and absolute abundances of the elements and isotopes in the earth and 2) the distribution and migration of elements or chemical compounds in the various parts of the earth (the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, etc.) and in minerals and rocks.

Geologic time: Scale of time from the formation of the earth to the present.

Grab sampler: A device that collects sediment from the bottom of a body of water.

Graded stream: A stream, which over a period of years, delicately adjusts it profile to provide, with available discharge and with prevailing channel characteristics, just the velocity required for the transportation of the load (of sediment) supplied from the drainage basin.

Gradient: The change of elevation, velocity, pressure, concentration or other characteristics per unit length.

Ground truthing: On-site inspection of features located on a map.

Page A-8 Appendix A Glossary

Groundwater: The water located below the water table in an unconfined aquifer or located in a confined aquifer. (Phreatic water or subsurface water in the zone of saturation).

Groundwater discharge: That part of the groundwater that is discharged into a stream channel as spring or seepage water (also known as groundwater runoff).

Half-life: The period of time during which one half of the atoms of a radioactive element or isotope will disintegrate.

Hardness: In hydrology, the dissolved materials in water that cause the formation of an insoluble residue when the water is used with soap or that form a scale if the water is heated or allowed to evaporate. Hardness is primarily due to the presence of calcium and magnesium ions but in lesser degrees other ions in solution also contribute. Hardness of water is generally expressed as ppm or mg/l as CaCO3. For example, 40 ppm of Ca produces a hardness of 100 ppm as CaCO3, while 24 ppm of Mg produces the same hardness.

Hazardous waste: Waste materials, which by their nature are inherently dangerous to handle or dispose of, such as old explosives, radioactive materials, some chemicals, and some biological wastes. Hazardous wastes are produced not only in industrial operations and institutions but are an increasing problem in household and agricultural wastes.

Head: In hydrogeology, 1) the height of water above some plane of reference. 2) The energy, either kinetic or potential, possessed by each unit weight of a liquid, expressed as the vertical height through which a unit weight would have to fall to release that energy; used in various compound terms such as pressure head, velocity head, and lost head. 3) The internal pressure expressed in feet (of water) or pounds per square inch of an enclosed conduit.

Heavy metals: Metals present in municipal and industrial wastes that pose long term environmental hazards; they include: boron, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, mercury, nickel, lead, and zinc. These toxic metals accumulate in the tissues of animals.

Heterogeneous: Variable; differing in kind; having unlike qualities; possessing different characteristics. The opposite of homogeneous.

Homogeneous: Uniform; off the same kind or nature; consisting of similar parts or of elements of a like nature. The opposite of heterogeneous. Very few things in nature are truly homogeneous on any scale.

Page A-9 Appendix A Glossary

Humidity: The actual quantity or mass of water vapor present in a given volume of air, generally expressed in grams per cubic foot or in grams per cubic meter. Synonym: absolute humidity.

Hydrocarbons: Chemical compounds, which contain hydrogen and carbon. Hydrocarbons are subdivided into many groups based on their chemical activity and atomic structure.

Hydrograph: In surface water, a record of the variation in stage (depth) or discharge of a stream over period of time. In ground water, a record of the water level or piezometric surface in an aquifer over a period of time.

Hydraulic communication: Interconnection between distinctively different aquifers. Water levels within different aquifers change in direct response to water level changes of another aquifer.

Hydraulic conductivity: The rate of flow of water through a unit cross-section under a unit hydraulic gradient, at the prevailing temperature (or adjusted to a standard temperature).

Hydrologic cycle: The circuit of water movement from the atmosphere to the earth and return to the atmosphere through various stages or processes as precipitation, runoff, infiltration, percolation, storage, evaporation, and transpiration.

Hydrostatic pressure: The force per unit area exerted by a liquid at rest.

Infiltration: The downward flow of water from the surface through soil to ground water and water table reservoirs.

Inorganic: In chemistry, chemical compounds that do not contain carbon. in situ: In place and undisturbed.

Interflow: That portion of rainfall that infiltrates into the soil and moves laterally through the upper soil horizons until intercepted by a stream channel or until it returns to the surface at some point down slope from its point of infiltration.

Invertebrate: Animals without backbones: e.g., insects, mollusks, crustaceans, etc.

Ion: An atom or group of atoms, which have become electrically charged either by loss or by gain of one or more electrons.

Page A-10 Appendix A Glossary

Irrigation: Application of water to lands for agricultural purposes.

Isotopes: Atoms of the same element that have different numbers of neutrons in their nuclei. (Since all atoms of a given element have the same number of protons the difference in atomic mass within an element is due to the variation in the number of neutrons in the nucleus).

Joint: A fracture or parting that abruptly interrupts the physical continuity of the rock mass and along which no relative movement has occurred.

Lacustrine: In or pertaining to lakes.

Lacustrine deposit: Material deposited in lake water and later exposed either by lowering of the water level or by the elevation of the land.

Lamination: A layer of bedding less than one cm thick in sedimentary rocks.

Light attenuation: Absorption of light by water.

Limnology: Scientific study of the physical, chemical and biological factors that influence the productivity of fresh waters.

Littoral area: The shallow areas around a lake’s shoreline where light can penetrate the water to the bottom.

Livestock operation: See feedlot.

Lysimeter: A device to measure the quantity or rate of water movement through or from a block of soil, usually undisturbed and in situ, or to correct such percolated water for analysis.

Maximum depth: Deepest point of a lake basin.

Mean depth: In hydraulics, the average depth of a body of water. In a stream or channel it is the cross- sectional area divided by its surface or top width. In a lake it is the volume divided by the surface area. Also referred to as median depth.

Median depth: See mean depth.

Page A-11 Appendix A Glossary

Molality (m): The number of moles of a substance per kilogram of solvent. The concentration unit use in most geochemical calculations.

Molarity (M): The number of moles of a substance per liter of solution. A concentration unit commonly used in analytical chemistry.

Mole: A chemical unit that is the mass (in grams) of a specific number (Avogadro's number = 6.023 x 1023) of the atoms or molecules in a given sample of matter. The number of moles in a sample can be obtained by dividing the mass of the sample (in grams) by the substance's molecular weight.

Monitoring well: A well used to obtain water quality or level information.

Montmorillonite: A clay mineral with a layer structure that expands when hydrated.

Moraine: An accumulation of till with an initial topographic expression of its own, built by the direct action of glacial ice.

Morphometry: Physical feature of a lake basin or stream bed, e.g., surface area, shape, maximum depth, etc.

Muck: Highly decomposed organic material in which the original plant parts are not recognizable. Contains more mineral matter and is darker than peat.

Nitrate: The N03 anion. Nitrate is the most oxidized form of nitrogen and is a form readily used as a nutrient by plants.

Nitrate-nitrogen: The weight or concentration of the nitrogen in the nitrate ion. The ppm (or mg/1) of nitrate- nitrogen = 0.226 times the ppm of nitrate. The ppm of nitrate = 4.43 times the ppm of nitrate-nitrogen.

Nitrate reduction: The chemical or biochemical reduction of nitrates to the nitrite form.

Nitrite:

The N02 anion.

Nitrification: The biological oxidation of ammonium to nitrite and the further oxidation of nitrite to nitrate.

Page A-12 Appendix A Glossary

Nitrogen (N): A chemical element, which makes up about 78 percent of the atmosphere and which is essential for life.

Nitrogen assimilation: The incorporation of nitrogen compounds into cen substances by living organisms.

Nitrogen fixation:

The conversion of elemental nitrogen (N2) to organic or inorganic compounds readily usable in biological processes.

Nitrogen to phosphorus ratio (N:P): Comparison of the concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in lake water.

Nonpoint source pollution: Pollution whose sources can not be pinpointed; the sources for this type of pollution are thought to be a series of many small sources or sources spread out across the landscape such as agricultural pollution.

Normality (N): The number of equivalent weights of a substance per liter of solution. A concentration unit commonly used in analytical chemistry.

Nutrients: 1. Elements or compounds, essential as raw materials for organism growth and development such as carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, etc. 2. More generally, the essential elements and compounds as dissolved solids and gases in the water.

Nutrient loading: Input of nutrients to a waterbody from all natural and cultural sources.

Observation well: A well, ideally nonpumped, used to observe the ground water level or piezometric surface in an aquifer.

Organic: In chemistry, a chemical compound containing carbon atoms. In agriculture, farming techniques that use no or limited amounts of artificial fertilizers and pesticides. The original root of use of the word means derived from or pertaining to life processes.

Outwash: Stratified drift deposited by melt water flowing from a glacier. It is mostly sand and gravel, but clay to boulder sizes may be included.

Oxidant: Elements or compounds, which are capable of oxidizing other compounds.

Page A-13 Appendix A Glossary

Oxidation: In chemistry, any process in which an atom or molecule loses an electron and thereby becomes more positively charged. A very common form of oxidation is the chemical reaction of a substance with oxygen to form an oxide.

Oxygen: The reactive gas that makes up about 21 percent of air. Oxygen is the most common element in the surface of the Earth and rocks and soils are about half oxygen by weight.

Oxygen 18 (180): A rare, stable isotope of oxygen, which has eight protons and ten neutrons for a total atomic weight of about 18. It is heavier than the more abundant form, oxygen 16 (160).

Paleozoic: The geologic era between 600 and 230 million years ago. The Paleozoic was characterized by the extensive development of shells by marine life forms and the first fish, amphibians, reptiles and land plants appeared during this era.

Parent material: In soil science, the unconsolidated, more or less chemically weathered mineral or organic matter from which the solum of soils has developed by pedogenic processes. The C horizon may or may not consist of materials similar to those from which the A and B horizons developed. perched water table: The surface of a local zone of saturation held above the main water table by an aquitard, often clay or shale, and separated from the main body of groundwater by an unsaturated zone.

Peat: Unconsolidated soil material consisting largely of undecomposed or only slightly decomposed organic matter accumulated under conditions of excessive moisture.

Permeability: The capacity of a porous rock, sediment, or soil to transmit fluid, it is a measure of the relative ease of fluid flow in response to a pressure gradient.

Pesticide: The general term for agents used for control of unwanted organisms or pests. The term includes insecticides used to control insects, herbicides used to control plants, fungicides used to control fungi, etc. pH: A numerical measure of the hydrogen ion activity or acidity in a solution. The pH is the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion activity and each unit represents a ten fold decrease in the hydrogen ion activity (pH = -log [H]). Neutral pH is 7, pH values below 7 are acidic, pH values above 7 are basic or alkaline.

Phosphate: An essential nutrient containing phosphorous (P) and oxygen. Phosphates occur in a number of different chemical forms, the simplest is the phosphate anion, P04, which carries a -3 charge. Phosphate is often a critical nutrient in lake eutrophication management.

Page A-14 Appendix A Glossary

Phosphate fixation: In soils, the process or processes by which phosphate are converted from a soluble or exchangeable form to a much less soluble or nonexchangeable form in a soil.

Phosphorus: A nutrient essential to plant growth. It is abundant in the environment and usually the limiting nutrient in lakes.

Phreatic zone: See saturated zone.

Phytoplankton: Algae, the base of a lake’s food chain, it can also produce oxygen.

Piezometer: A tube for measuring the pressure head or water level in ground water or some other fluid.

Piezometric surface: The imaginary surface that is the height to which water would rise in wells completed in an aquifer. Synonym: potentiometric surface.

Plankton: Free-floating and swimming microscopic aquatic plants and animals.

Point source pollution: Specific sources of nutrients or polluted discharges to a water body: e.g., storm water outlets, wastewater discharges, etc.

Pollution: The condition caused by the presence in the environment of substances of such character and quantities that the quality of the environment is impaired or rendered offensive to life.

Potentiometric surface: See piezometric surface.

Pore space: The total space not occupied by solid particles in a bulk volume of soil, sediment, or rock, commonly expressed as a percentage.

Porosity: The ratio of the volume of void spaces in a rock or sediment to the total volume of the rock or sediment, usually expressed as a percentage.

Prairie: A tract of level to hilly land whose vegetation is dominated grasses and forbs with scarce shrubs and which is treeless. The natural plant community consists of various mixtures of tall, mid, and short growing native species, also known as true prairie, mixed prairie, and shortgrass prairie, respectively.

Page A-15 Appendix A Glossary

Precipitation: A general term for all forms of moisture which falls from the atmosphere to the surface including: rain, snow, hail, and sleet.

Predator fish: Generally the game fish that prey on smaller fish; e.g., bass, northerns, walleye, etc.

Productivity: Measure of the relative fertility of a lake.

Radioactive isotope: An unstable isotope whose nuclei spontaneously decay at an exponential rate to one or more other isotopes. These daughter isotopes may be either stable or radioactive. The spontaneous exponential decay can be described in terms of a half-life. Each radioactive isotope has a characteristic half-life that is immutable.

Rating curve: Generally, a graphic or tabular representation of performance or output under a stated series of conditions. In hydraulics, it is a graph that relates volumes of flow per unit time to various stages or depths of flow.

Recharge: Water added to the saturated zone; the main source of recharge is precipitation.

Recharge area: An area from which infiltrating water eventually reaches the zone of saturation in one or more aquifers.

Redox: Acronym for oxidation-reduction potential. Generally, it is a substance's potential to oxidize (accept electrons) or reduce (donate electrons). Specifically, it is the activity of the electrons in a substance.

Reducing environment: An environment conducive to the addition of electrons, often via the removal of oxygen.

Reduction: In chemistry, the addition of electrons to an atom or molecule.

Regolith: The unconsolidated mande of weathered rock and soil material on the earth's surface; loose earth materials above solid rock.

Relative humidity: The ratio of the amount of water vapor present in the portion of the atmosphere under consideration to the quantity that would be there if the air were saturated at the given temperature.

Remedial action: Corrective measures to actively deal with a problem area; e.g., rip rap, chemical treatments, dredging, etc.

Page A-16 Appendix A Glossary

Restoration: The process of returning site conditions to the condition they were in before a disturbance.

Root zone: The part of the soil that is penetrated by plant roots.

Runoff: In hydraulics, that portion of the precipitation on a drainage area that is discharged from the area in stream channels. Types include: surface water runoff and ground water runoff, or seepage.

Siltation: Particle movement in water or wind where particles slip or bounce along the stream bed or soil surface.

Sand lens: A lenticular band of sand in heterogeneous deposit of sedimentary material.

Saturated zone: The zone in which all the voids in the rock or soil are filled with water at a pressure greater than atmospheric. The water table is the top of the saturated zone in an unconfined aquifer.

Saturation point: In soil science and hydrogeology, that point at which a soil or an aquifer will no longer absorb any amount of water without losing an equal amount of water. In biology, the maximum organism density under which a species can normally live.

Scour: To abrade or wear; used to describe the wearing away of terraces, channels or stream beds.

Secchi disc: A simple device to measure the depth of light penetration in the water of a lake.

Sediment: Fine particles of soil and organic material that are easily transported by water.

Sedimentation: The process or manner in which mineral, dissolved, or organic material comes to rest on the earth's surface after being transported by a fluid.

Seepage velocity: The rate at which seepage water is discharged through a porous medium per unit area of pore space perpendicular to the direction of flow.

Septic tank and drain Field: An underground tank used for the disposal of domestic wastes. Bacteria in the wastes decompose the organic matter to sludge in the septic tank. The sludge settles to the bottom and should be pumped out at regular intervals. The effluent flows through drain field into the ground.

Page A-17 Appendix A Glossary

Sewage: The total organic waste and wastewater generated by residential and commercial establishments.

Soil: 1. The unconsolidated mineral and organic material on the immediate surface of the earth that serves as a natural medium for the growth of land plants. 2. The unconsolidated mineral matter on the surface of the earth that has been subjected to and influenced by the genetic and environmental factors of parent material, climate, (including moisture and temperature effects), macro- and micro-organisms and topography. Over time these factors produce a soil material which differs physically, chemically, biologically, and morphologically from the parent material.

Solid waste: Unwanted or discarded material with insufficient liquid content to be free flowing.

Spring overturn: A physical phenomenon that may take place in a body of water during the early spring. The sequence of events leading to spring overturn include: 1) melting of ice cover, 2) warming of surface water, 3) density changes in surface waters producing convection currents, 4) circulation of the total water volume by wind action, and 5) vertical temperature homogenization. The overturn mixes the water mass and results in a lake that is physically and chemically more uniform.

Stabilized grade: The slope of a channel at which neither erosion or deposition occurs.

Stable isotope: An isotope of an element whose nucleus does not spontaneously decay to nuclei of other elements.

Static head: Pressure resulting strictly from elevation differences for given volumes of water.

Static water level: The water level in a well that is not being affected by withdrawal of groundwater.

Stratigraphy: A branch of geology that deals with the definition and interpretation of stratified rocks (especially sedimentary rocks); the conditions of their formation, character, arrangement, sequence, age, and distribution, and especially their correlation by use of fossils and other means.

Stream: Any body of running water that moves under gravity to progressively lower levels, in a relatively narrow but well defined channel on the surface of the ground, in a subsurface cavern, or beneath or in a glacier. Streams carry a mixture of water, and dissolved, suspended or entrained material.

Page A-18 Appendix A Glossary

Stream gauging: The quantitative determination of stream flow using: gages, current meters, weirs, or other measuring instruments at selected location.

Submergent vegetation: Aquatic plants growing below or up to the surface of the water: e.g., coontail, pondweed, milfoil, etc.

Surface runoff: Water that flows over the surface of the land during storm events and spring snowmelt.

Surface to volume ratio: Comparison of the surface area of a lake to its volume of water.

Suspended solids: Small particles that hang in the water column and create turbid, or cloudy, conditions.

Terrestrial: Things that are on the land. In the case of plants, those that are not aquatic.

Till: In geology, unstratified glacial sediments deposited directly by ice which contain clay, sand, gravel, and boulders mixed in any proportion. In agriculture, to plow and prepare for seeding, to seed or cultivate the soil.

Titration: The determination of the volume of a solution needed to react with a known volume of a sample, usually involving the progressive addition of the solution to the sample until the sample has reacted fully.

Total coliform: The Escheria coli and other gram negative bacteria that are normal inhabitants of fecal material. The total coliform group is a recognized indicator of fecal contamination in drinking water for public health purposes.

Topographic map: A map that displays elevations by means of contour lines.

Total dissolved solids (TDS): The sum of all of dissolved solids in a given water sample. TDS is usually expressed in ppm or mg/l and is a very generalized measure of water quality.

Transpiration: The photosynthetic and physiological process by which plants release water into the air in the form of water vapor.

Tributary: A secondary part or branch of a stream, drain, or channel that contributes flow to the main channel.

Page A-19 Appendix A Glossary

Tritium (3H): A radioactive isotope of hydrogen, which has a half-life of 12.43 years. The isotope is used in a wide variety of hydrogeologic, chemical, and biological tracer applications.

Trophic: Relating to the processes of energy and nutrient transfer from one or more organisms to others in an ecosystem.

Trophic status: The level of growth or productivity of a lake as measured by phosphorus concentration, algae abundance and light penetration.

Trophic Status Index: A numeric scale from 1 to 100 covering, ranking the trophic status of a lake.

Unconfined aquifer: An aquifer connected with the atmosphere either directly or through the unsaturated zone above the water table. Synonym: water table aquifer.

Unsaturated zone: The zone between the land surface and the water table. The pore spaces contain water at less than atmospheric pressure as well as other gases. Saturated areas, such as perched groundwater, may exist within the unsaturated zone. The thickness of the unsaturated zone ranges from zero to thousands of feet. Synonyms: zone of aeration, vadose zone.

Vadose zone: See unsaturated zone.

Valence: The capacity of an element to form chemical bonds with other elements. In ionic bonding, valence can be expressed as the number of hydrogen atoms the element can accommodate. In covalent bonding, valence can be expressed as the number of electron pairs the element is sharing.

Vegetation: Plants in general or the sum total of plant life in the area.

Voids: A general term for pore space or other openings in rock. In addition to pore spaces, the term includes vesicles, solution cavities, or any openings, either primary or secondary; also called interstices.

Waste: Unwanted byproducts of human or biological metabolism or activities; damaged or defective articles of manufacture or superfluous or rejected matter or refuse.

Water quality standards: Minimum requirements of purity of water for various uses; for example water for agricultural use in irrigation systems should not exceed specific levels of sodium bicarbonates, pH, tow dissolved salts, etc..

Page A-20 Appendix A Glossary

Water resources: The supply of ground and surface water in a given area. water table: The surface in an unconfined aquifer or soils below which the pores are water filled.

Watershed: The surrounding land area that drains into a lake, river or river system.

Water table aquifer: See unconfined aquifer.

Winterkill: A condition of low dissolved oxygen causing fish to die. Usually associated with shallow lakes during winters of heavy snow accumulation.

Woodland: Any land used primarily for growing trees and shrubs. Woodland includes, in addition to what is ordinarily termed forest or forest plantations, shelter-belts, windbreaks, wide hedgerows containing woodland species for wildlife food or cover, stream and other banks with woodland cover, etc. It also includes farm and other lands on which woody vegetation is to be established and maintained.

Zone of aeration: See unsaturated zone.

Zooplankton: Microscopic aquatic animals.

Page A-21 Appendix B

Acronyms

Acronyms were invented to save time and space in written communications. As long as they are explicitly defined when they are used, they accomplish their purpose. Unfortunately, acronyms are often used without definition in written communications and are almost never defined when used in verbal communications. In such situations, acronyms can quickly become an arcane jargon that hinders rather than facilitates the exchange of information.

To prevent the misuse and abuse of acronyms a few simple rules should be followed.

1) In written text the first occurrence of an acronym must be preceded by the full, written version.

For example, this set of acronym rules is provided by the Acronym Abusers Anonymous (AAA). Following references to the AAA can be typed as AAA. This rule should be followed in all written text; including short memos.

2) Verbal communications should avoid acronyms.

It does not take much longer to say the entire phrase and insure that everyone understands what you are talking about. As a listener it is your responsibility to ask what an acronym stands for. Don't feel dumb that you don't know what it is. Remember that acronyms where invented to simplify written text. Since they tend to produce an unintelligible jargon they really have n . o place in oral communication.

Perhaps the ultimate test of a good acronym is its acceptance into everyday language as a word. Two examples of this are RADAR and SCUBA; RAdio Detection And Ranging and Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus, respectively.

3) Acronyms are most effective when they spell out a word with relevance to the term.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is a particularly effective acronym. A corollary to this rule is that acronyms that are already in use for something else should be avoided. Two extreme examples of this are CD and PM.

AA Atomic Adsorption AAA Acronym Abusers Anonymous AAA American Automobile Association AAA AntiAircraft Artillery ACT Accelerated Column Testing AGNPS Agriculture Non-Point Source (model) AOC Administrative Order on Consent ARARs Applicable or Relevant and Appropriate Requirements ARCS Alternative Remedial Contracting Strategy ASIWPCA Association of State and Interstate Water Pollution Control Agencies

Page B-1 Appendix B Acronyms

ASTSWMO Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials ATSDR Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry BANANA Build Absolutely Nothing Anywhere Near Anything BMP Best Management Practice BOD Biological Oxygen Demand BOWSR Board of Water and Soil Resources BWSR Board of Water and Soil Resources BTEX Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, Xylene BTU British Thermal Unit CA Cooperative Agreement CAA Clean Air Act CBI Confidential Business Information CD Certificate of Deposit CD Compact Disc CD Consent Decree CD Contract for Deed CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act CERCLIS Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Information System CFR Code of Federal Regulations CLP Contract Laboratory Program CO Commanding Officer Consent Order Contracting Officer COD Chemical Oxygen Demand CPAHs Carcinogenic Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons CPM Critical Path Method CPSR Contract Procurement System Review CRP Community Relations Plan-Conservation Reserve Program CWA Section 319 - Nonpoint Source Section of the Federal Clean Water Act of 1988 CWAP Clean Water Action Plan CWP Clean Water Partnership DBMS Database Management System DCE Dichloroethylene DCF Document Coding Forms DCP Direct Current Plasma (Atomic Emission Spectroscopy) DCP/AES Direct Current Plasma / Atomic Emission Spectroscopy DIR Determinations of Inadequate Response DL Detection Limits DNAPL Dense Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid (sinkers) DNR Department of Natural Resources DO Dissolved Oxygen ERLA Environmental Response and Liability Act ERRIS Emergency Response and Recovery Information System ERT Emergency Response Team ESD Environmental Services Division (U.S. EPA) ESI Expanded Site Investigation ESP ElectroStatic Precipitator ESP Extra Sensory Perception FAR Federal Acquisition Regulations FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency

Page B-2 Appendix B Acronyms

FFA Federal Facility Agreement FIFRA Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act FIT Field Investigation Team (U.S. EPA) FOIA Freedom of Information Act FS Feasibility Study FSP Field Sampling Plan FTS Federal Telephone System GAC Granular Activated Carbon GC Gas Chromatography GC/MS Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry HAP Hazardous Air Pollutants HHE Human Health and Environment HPLC High Performance Liquid Chromatography HRA Health Risk Assessment HRL Health Risk Limit HRS Hazard Ranking System HSCD Hazardous Site Control Division (U.S. EPA) HSED Hazardous Site Evaluation Division (U.S. EPA) HSL Hazardous Substance List IC Ion Chromatography ICP Inductively Coupled Plasma (Atomic Emission Spectroscopy) ICP/AES Inductively Coupled Plasma/Atomic Emission Spectroscopy IFB Invitation for Bid IRM Interim Remedial Measure ISTS Individual Sewage Treatment Systems LCMR Legislative Commission on Minnesota Resources LGU Local Government Units LMIC Land Management Information Center LNAPL Light Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid (floaters) LOD Limit of Detection LOQ Limit of Quantification LSI Listing Site Inspection LSP Land Stewardship Project LTRA Long Term Remedial Action LULU Local Undesirable Land Use LUST Leaking Underground Storage Tank LWRPMP Local Water Resource Protection and Management Program MCAR Minnesota Code of Administrative Rules MCL Maximum Contaminant Level MCLG Maximum Contaminant Level Goal MDA Minnesota Department of Agriculture MDF Minnesota Department of Finance MDH Minnesota Department of Health MDNR Minnesota Department of Natural Resources MEEB Minnesota Environmental Educational Board MEK Methyl Ethyl Ketone MERLA Minnesota Environmental Response and Liability Act MES Minnesota Extension Service (or MnExt) MGS Minnesota Geological Survey

Page B-3 Appendix B Acronyms

MNDOT Minnesota Department of Transportation (also Minot) MN Minnesota MOA Memorandum of Agreement MOU Memorandum of Understanding MPCA Minnesota Pollution Control Agency MRAP Minnesota River Assessment Project MSCA Multi-Site Cooperative Agreement MSPA Minnesota State Planning Agency MWCC Metropolitan Waste Control Commission N Nitrogen (chemical element) NBAR Non-Binding Preliminary Allocation of Responsibility NCP National Contingency Plan (National Oil and Hazardous Substances NCP Pollution Contingency Plan-40 CFR Part 300) NEIC National Enforcement Investigation Center NFRAP No Further Remedial Action Planned NGVD National Geodetic Vertical Datum (sea level for elevations) NIABY Not in Anybody’s Back Yard NIMBY Not In My Back Yard NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NPL National Priorities List NPS National Park Service MPS Nonpoint Source NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service O&M Operation and maintenance OARM Office of Administration and Resources Management (U.S. EPA) OECM Office of Enforcement and Compliance Monitoring OERR Office of Emergency and Remedial Response OPM Office of Program Management (U.S. EPA) ORC Office of Regional Counsel (U.S. EPA) ORP Oxidation Reduction Potential OSC On-Site Coordinator (U.S. EPA) OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration OSI On-Site Inspector OSWER Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response OVA Organic Vapor Analyzer OWPE Office of Waste Programs Enforcement P Phosphorus (chemical element) PAH Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons PA/SI Preliminary Assessment/Site Inspection PCA Pollution Control Agency PCA Production Credit Association PCB Polychlorinated Biphenyls PCP Pentachlorophenol PIC Planning Information Center PLP Permanent List of Priorities PM Personnel Manager PM Post Meridian PM Project Manager

Page B-4 Appendix B Acronyms

PM Prime Minister POTW Publicly Opeated Treatment Works ppb Parts per billion PPM Parts per million ppt Parts per trillion ppt Parts per thousand PRP Potential Responsible Party PSI Pounds per Square Inch QAO Quality Assurance Officer QAPP Quality Assurance Project Plan QA/QC Quality Assurance/ Quality Control RA Remedial Action RA Research Assistant RA Resident Assistant RACT Reasonably Available Control Technology RAL Recommended Allowable Limit RAP Remedial Action Plan RAS Routine Analytical Services RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act RD Remedial Design RDV Reference Dose Values REM Roentgen Equivalent, Man RFI Request for Information RFP Request for Proposals RFQ Request for Qualifications RFRA Request for Response Action RI/FS Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study ROD Record of Decision RP Responsible Party RPM Regional Project Manager (U.S. EPA) RPM Remedial Project Manager RPM Revolutions per minute RPO Regional Project Officers SAP Sampling and Analysis Plan SAR Search and Rescue SAR Structural Activity Relationship SARA Superfund Amendments Reauthorization Act SAS Special Analytical Services (U.S. EPA) (CLP) SAS Statistical Analysis System (a common statistical package) SCAP Superfund Comprehensive Accomplishments Plan SCS Soil Conservation Service (USDA) SDWA Safe Drinking Water Act SETS Site Enforcement Tracking System SFFAS Superfund Financial Assessment System Si Site Inspection System International (metric system) sic Standard Industrial Classification SMOA Superfund Memorandum of Agreement SOP Standard Operating Procedure SOW Statement of Work

Page B-5 Appendix B Acronyms

SSM Synthetic Soil Matrix STORET STOrage and RETrieval (of water quality data, a computer data system) ST/SAS Septic Tank/Soil Absorption Systems SW Solid Waste SWCD Soil and Water Conservation District TA Teaching Assistant TA Technical Analyst TAT Technical Assistance Team (U.S. EPA) TCA Trichloroethane (III, trichloroethane; 1 12, trichloroethane) TCE Trichloroethane (I 1 1, trichloroethane; 1 12, trichloroethane) TCE Tetrachloroethane (111,2 tetrachloroethane, 11,22, tetrachloro-ethane) TCE Tetrachloroethylene (I 1,22 tetrachloroethene) TCE Trichloroethylene (I 12, trichloroethene) TCLP Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure TDS Total Dissolved Solids TEGD Technical Enforcement Chemicals Guidance Document TES Technical Enforcement Support TFS Total Fixed Solids TKN Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen TLP Temporary List of Priorities TMC Toxicity, Mobility and Volume TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load TNTC Too Numerous To Count (bacteria colonies) TOC Total Organic Carbon TOH Total Organic Hydrocarbons TOX Total Organic Halides TPH Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon TS Total Solids TSCA Toxic Substances Control Act TSD Treatment, Storage and Disposal TSS Total Suspended Solids TVS Total Volatile Solids UCC Universal Commercial Code U of M University of Minnesota US United States USDA United States Department of Agriculture USGS United States Geological Survey UV Ultraviolet VOC Volatile Organic Compound VOH Volatile Organic Hydrocarbons WD Watershed District VMP Wellhead Protection WAG Wild Ass Guess WRPA Water Resource Protection Area WRPR Water Resource Protection Requirements WUPN December 1988 "a strategy for the wise use of pesticides and nutrients." XRD X-Ray Diffraction XRF X-Ray Fluorescence

Page B-6 Appendix C

Data Source List (DSL)

The Data Source List (DSL) is available as a Microsoft Access 97 database on the 3 1/2” diskette attached to the document cover. Also available in a searchable format on the Rainy River Basin web page, at: http://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/basins/rainy.

Page C-1 Appendix D

Data Source List (DSL)

GIS data is available on request by contacting the Rainy River Basin Coordinator at:

Nolan Baratono P.O. Box 61 International Falls, MN 56649 218-283-2240 [email protected]

Page D-1