1.0 Project Summary ...... 1 1.1 Eligibility for the Alternative Permitting Process ...... 1 1.2 Notice to the EQB ...... 6 2.0 Introduction ...... 7 2.1 Statement of Ownership of the Proposal ...... 7 2.2 Certificate of Need Process Summary...... 7 2.3 Project Location...... 8 2.4 Project Proposal...... 11 2.5 Project Schedule...... 11 2.6 Project Costs ...... 12 3.0 Engineering Design, Construction And Right-of-Way Acquisition...... 13 3.1 Transmission Line ...... 13 3.1.1 Transmission Structures and ROW Design...... 13 3.1.2 Design Options to Accommodate Future Expansion...... 21 3.1.3 Identification of Existing Utility and Public Rights-of-Way...... 21 3.1.4 Right-of-Way Acquisition...... 22 3.1.5 Transmission Construction Procedures ...... 23 3.1.6 Restoration Procedures...... 25 3.1.7 Maintenance Procedures...... 25 3.2 Substations...... 25 3.2.1 Design Options to Accommodate Future Expansion...... 25 3.2.2 Property Acquisition, Construction, Restoration and Maintenance Procedures...... 26 3.2.3 Substation Property Acquisition Procedures ...... 27 3.2.4 Substation Construction Procedures...... 27 3.2.5 Substation Restoration Procedures ...... 28 3.2.6 Substation Maintenance Procedures ...... 28 3.3 Electric and Magnetic Fields...... 28 3.3.1 Electric Fields ...... 28 3.3.2 Magnetic Fields...... 30 3.3.3 Stray Voltage...... 31 4.0 Environmental Information ...... 33 4.1 Route Description ...... 33 4.2 Route and Substation Site Selection Process...... 34 4.2.1 Route Selection Process...... 34 4.2.2 Substation Selection Process ...... 39 4.3 Description of Environmental Setting ...... 40 4.4 Human Settlement...... 40 4.4.1 Public Health and Safety...... 40 4.4.2 Commercial, Industrial, Residential Land Use...... 41 4.4.3 Displacement...... 41

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4.4.4 Noise...... 42 4.4.5 Aesthetics ...... 45 4.4.6 Socioeconomic ...... 46 4.4.7 Cultural Values ...... 49 4.4.8 Recreation ...... 50 4.4.9 Public Services...... 50 4.4.10 Potential Impacts ...... 51 4.5 Land-Based Economics...... 51 4.5.1 Agriculture...... 51 4.5.2 Forestry...... 53 4.5.3 Tourism ...... 53 4.5.4 Mining...... 54 4.6 Archaeological and Historic Resources...... 55 4.7 Natural Environment...... 56 4.7.1 Air Quality...... 56 4.7.2 Water Quality...... 56 4.7.3 Flora...... 59 4.7.4 Fauna...... 60 4.8 Rare and Unique Natural Resources...... 63 4.8.1 Potential Impacts ...... 64 4.8.2 Mitigative Measures ...... 65 5.0 Agency Involvement, Public Participation and Required Permits and Approvals...... 67 5.1 Agency Contacts ...... 67 5.1.1 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources...... 67 5.1.2 Minnesota SHPO...... 67 5.1.3 USFWS ...... 67 5.1.4 Tribal Groups...... 68 5.1.5 Minnesota Department of Agriculture ...... 68 5.1.6 Minnesota Pollution Control Agency ...... 68 5.2 Public Participation ...... 68 5.2.1 Information Meetings...... 68 5.2.2 The Nature Conservancy...... 69 5.2.3 Identification of Land Owners ...... 69 5.3 Required Permits and Approvals ...... 69 5.3.1 Local Approvals ...... 70 5.3.2 State of Minnesota Approvals...... 71 5.3.3 State of South Dakota Approvals...... 71 5.3.4 Federal Approvals...... 72 6.0 References ...... 73 7.0 Definitions...... 77 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 Project Overview Map ...... 10 Figure 2 115 kV Single Circuit Structure ...... 14

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Figure 3 115 kV/115 kV Double Circuit Structure ...... 15 Figure 4 Single Circuit 115 kV with 34.5 kV Underbuild ...... 16 Figure 5 Single Circuit 115 kV with Double Circuit 34.5 kV Underbuild...... 17 Figure 6 ROW When Paralleling Existing Road ...... 19 Figure 7 ROW When Route is Cross-County...... 20 Figure 8 Proposed Route Alternatives...... 37 Figure 9 Permanent Impact Area...... 52 Figure 10 Construction Mats...... 58 Figure 11 Swan Flight Diverter...... 63

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1 Completeness Checklist...... 2 Table 2 Proposed Transmission Line Locations...... 9 Table 3 Yankee Substation Sites Under Consideration...... 11 Table 4 Summary of Transmission Line Engineering Design Requirements...... 18 Table 5 Summary of Utility, Public ROW and Other Corridor Sharing ...... 22 Table 6 Calculated Electric Fields (kV/m) for Proposed 115 kV Transmission Line Designs (3 feet above ground)...... 29 Table 7 Calculated Magnetic Flux Density (milligauss) for Proposed 115 kV Transmission Line Designs (3 feet above ground)...... 32 Table 8 Common Noise Sources and Levels...... 42 Table 9 Noise Standards by Noise Area Classification ...... 43 Table 10 Location of Noise Receptors by Substation Site ...... 44 Table 11 Population and Economic Characteristics...... 47 Table 12 Estimated Numbers of Workers for Construction ...... 48 Table 13 Water Crossings by Segment ...... 57 Table 14 Butterflies Identified in the Hole-in-the-Mountain Area ...... 61 Table 15 Rare and Unique Resources...... 64 Table 16 Permits that May be Required ...... 70

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LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A Notice to EQB Appendix B CON Order Appendix C PUC Order Approving Design Change Appendix D Detailed Route Maps Appendix E Substation Figures Appendix F Impacts Tables Appendix G Lincoln County Comprehensive Development Districts Appendix H Agency Correspondence Appendix I Public Meeting Materials Appendix J Fauna Found in Buffalo Ridge – White Project Area Appendix K Landowner Names

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List of Acronyms and Abbreviations

BCE before common era BMP best management practice BPA Bonneville Power Administration CON Certificate of Need dB Decibels dBA A-weighted sound level recorded in units of decibels d/b/a doing business as DNR Minnesota Department of Natural Resources EMF electromagnetic field EQB Minnesota Environmental Quality Board G Gauss HVTL high voltage transmission line Hz Hertz kV Kilovolt MDH Minnesota Department of Health MISO Midwest System Operator MNDOT Minnesota Department of Transportation MPCA Minnesota Pollution Control Agency NAC noise area classification NESC National Electrical Safety Code NEV Neutral-to-Earth Voltage NIEHS National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences NPDES National Pollution Discharge Elimination System NRCS National Resources Conservation Service NRHP National Register of Historic Places ppm parts per million PUC Public Utilities Commission PWI Public Waters Inventory ROW Right-of-Way SFD Swan Flight Diverter SHPO State Historic Preservation Office SNA Scientific and Natural Area TLE Temporary Limited Easement USDOE United States Department of Energy USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service USGS United States Geological Survey WAPA Western Area Power Administration WPA Waterfowl Production Area WMA Wildlife Management Area

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1.0 PROJECT SUMMARY

Northern States Power Company d/b/a Xcel Energy (Xcel Energy), submits this application for a route permit from the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board (EQB) pursuant to Minnesota Rules Chapter 4400 and Minnesota Statutes Chapter 116C. The particular facility for which the permit is requested is a new 115 kV transmission line and the associated structures, electrical equipment and appurtenances to connect the Buffalo Ridge Substation in Lincoln County, Minnesota to a new Yankee Substation in Lincoln County and the White Substation in Brookings County, South Dakota. Xcel Energy also requests that the permit authorize a 1.9 mile reroute of the existing Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV line to make it possible to remove a 1.4 mile segment of that line from the Hole-in-the-Mountain Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and the Nature Conservancy’s Hole-in- the-Mountain Prairie. These improvements are collectively referred to throughout the application as “the Project.” The need for the new 115 kV line between the Buffalo Ridge and White substations was established by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC or Commission) in its March 11, 2003 Order Granting Certificates of Need Subject to Conditions (PUC Docket No. E-002/CN-01-1958) (Certificate of Need Order, a copy of which is included in Appendix B). This line will be approximately 28 miles in length, of which approximately 18.6 miles will be in Minnesota.

1.1 ELIGIBILITY FOR THE ALTERNATIVE PERMITTING PROCESS

The EQB rules provide for an Alternative Permitting Process for certain facilities. (Minnesota Rule 4400.2000, Subpart 1(A)-(G)). The Buffalo Ridge – White high voltage transmission line (HVTL) qualifies for the Alternative Permitting Process because it meets Minnesota Rule 4400.2000, Subpart 1(C), which authorizes the Alternative Permitting Process when the HVTL is between 100 and 200 kilovolts. The EQB submittal requirements are listed on Table 1 with cross-references indicating where information can be found in this application.

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Table 1 Completeness Checklist

Authority Required Information Where

4400.1150, Site Permit for LEPGP Subp. 2 2.1 Required per A. a statement of proposed ownership of the facility at the time of filing 4400.2100 the application and after commercial operation B. the precise name of any person or organization to be initially named as permittee or permittees and the name of any other person to whom the 2.1 permit may be transferred if transfer of the permit is contemplated C. at least two proposed routes for the proposed high voltage Not applicable, per transmission line and identification of the applicant's preferred route 4400.2100 and the reasons for the preference D. a description of the proposed high voltage transmission line and all associated facilities including the size and type of the high voltage 2.4, 3.1, 3.2, 4.2 transmission line See 4400.1150, E. the environmental information required under 4400.1150, Subp. 3 Subp. 3 (A)-(H) Below F. identification of land uses and environmental conditions along the 4.4; 4.5 proposed routes

G. the names of each owner whose property is within any of the proposed 5.2.3; Appendix K routes for the high voltage transmission line H. United States Geological Survey topographical maps or other maps acceptable to the chair showing the entire length of the high voltage Appendix D transmission line on all proposed routes I. identification of existing utility and public rights-of-way along or parallel to the proposed routes that have the potential to share right-of-way 3.1.3, Appendix F with the proposed line J. the engineering and operational design concepts for the proposed high voltage transmission line, including information on the electric and 3.1; 3.2; 3.3 magnetic fields of the transmission line K. cost analysis of each route, including the costs of constructing, operating, and maintaining the high voltage transmission line that are 2.6 dependent on design and route L. a description of possible design options to accommodate expansion of 3.1.2; 3.2.1 the high voltage transmission line in the future M. the procedures and practices proposed for the acquisition and restoration of the right-of-way, construction, and maintenance of the 3.1; 3.2.2 high voltage transmission line

N. a listing and brief description of federal, state, and local permits that 5.3 may be required for the proposed high voltage transmission line

O. a copy of the Certificate of Need or the certified HVTL list containing the proposed high voltage transmission line or documentation that an Appendix B application for a Certificate of Need has been submitted or is not required

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Authority Required Information Where

4400.1150, Environmental Information 4.3 Subp. 3 A. a description of the environmental setting for each site or route

B. a description of the effects of construction and operation of the facility on human settlement, including, but not limited to, public health and 4.4 safety, displacement, noise, aesthetics, socioeconomic impacts, cultural values, recreation, and public services C. a description of the effects of the facility on land-based economies, 4.5 including, but not limited to, agriculture, forestry, tourism, and mining

D. a description of the effects of the facility on archaeological and historic 4.6 resources

E. a description of the effects of the facility on the natural environment, 4.7 including effects on air and water quality resources and flora and fauna

F. a description of the effects of the facility on rare and unique natural 4.8 resources

G. identification of human and natural environmental effects that cannot be Sections 4.4 – 4.8

avoided if the facility is approved at a specific site or route in “Impacts”

H. a description of measures that might be implemented to mitigate the Sections 4.4 – 4.8 potential human and environmental impacts identified in items A to G in “Mitigative and the estimated costs of such mitigative measures Measures”

Notice of Project Will be submitted 4400.1350, within 15 days of Subp. 2 Subpart 2. Notification to persons on general list, to local officials, and to application property owners submission Subpart 1. Eligible Projects. An applicant for a site permit or a route permit for one of the following projects may elect to follow the procedures of parts 4400.2000 to 4400.2950 instead of the full permitting procedures in parts 1.1 4400.1025 to 4400.1900: high voltage transmission lines of between 100 4400.2000, and 200 kilovolts Subp. 1(C) and Subp. 2. Subpart 2. Notice to EQB. An applicant for a permit for one of the qualifying projects in subpart 1, who intends to follow the procedures of Appendix A parts 4400.2000 to 4400.2750, shall notify the EQB of such intent, in writing, at least ten days before submitting an application for the project

Contents of Application (alternative permitting process) The applicant shall include in the application the same information required in part 4400.1150, except the applicant need not propose any alternative See 4400.1150, 4400.2100 sites or routes to the preferred site or route. If the applicant has rejected Subp # 2 above alternative sites or routes, the applicant shall include in the application the identity of the rejected sites or routes and an explanation of the reasons for rejecting them

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Authority Required Information Where

Factors Considered 4400.3150 A. effects on human settlement, including, but not limited to, displacement, 4.4 noise, aesthetics, cultural values, recreation, and public services

B. effects on public health and safety 4.4.1

C. effects on land-based economies, including, but not limited to, 4.5 agriculture, forestry, tourism, and mining D. effects on archaeological and historic resources 4.6 E. effects on the natural environment, including effects on air and water 4.7 quality resources and flora and fauna F. effects on rare and unique natural resources 4.8

G. application of design options that maximize energy efficiencies, mitigate 3.1.2; 3.2.1; Section adverse environmental effects, and could accommodate expansion of 4.4 - 4.8 in transmission or generating capacity Mitigative Measures

H. use or paralleling of existing rights-of-way, survey lines, natural division 3.1.3; 4.2.1 lines, and agricultural field boundaries I. use of existing large electric power generating plant sites (not applicable) J. use of existing transportation, pipeline, and electrical transmission 3.1.3; 4.2.1 systems or rights-of-way K. electrical system reliability 2.2 L. costs of constructing, operating, and maintaining the facility which are 2.6; 3.1.2 dependent on design and route M. adverse human and natural environmental effects which cannot be 4.4-4.8 in Impacts avoided

N. irreversible and irretrievable commitments of resources 4.0

Subpart 1. Wilderness areas. No high voltage transmission line may be routed through state or national wilderness areas Subpart 2. Parks and natural areas. No high voltage transmission line may 4400.3350, be routed through state or national parks or state scientific and natural areas Not Applicable Subps. 1 unless the transmission line would not materially damage or impair the and 2 purpose for which the area was designated and no feasible and prudent alternative exists. Economic considerations alone do not justify use of these areas for a high voltage transmission line

4400.3450 Prohibited Sites Not Applicable

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Authority Required Information Where

Considerations in Designating Sites and Routes (1) Evaluation of research and investigations relating to the effects on land, water and air resources of large electric power generating plants Minn. Stat. and high voltage transmission lines and the effects of water and air 3.3; 4.1; 4.4-4.8; §116C.57, discharges and electric and magnetic fields resulting from such Appendix F Subd. 4 facilities on public health and welfare, vegetation, animals, materials and aesthetic values, including base line studies, predictive modeling, and evaluation of new or improved methods for minimizing adverse impacts of water and air discharges and other matters pertaining to the effects of power plants on the water and air environment

(2) Environmental evaluation of sites and routes proposed for future development and expansion and their relationship to the land, water, 3.1.2,; 3.2.1 air and human resources of the state

(3) Evaluation of the effects of new electric power generation and transmission technologies and systems related to power plants Not applicable designed to minimize adverse environmental effects

(4) Evaluation of the potential for beneficial uses of waste energy from Not applicable proposed large electric power generating plants (5) Analysis of the direct and indirect economic impact of proposed sites Sections 4.4 – 4.8 and routes including, but not limited to, productive agricultural land lost in “Impacts” or impaired (6) Evaluation of adverse direct and indirect environmental effects that Sections 4.4 – 4.8

cannot be avoided should the proposed site and route be accepted in “Impacts” Not applicable to (7) Evaluation of alternatives to the applicant’s proposed site or route alternative process;

proposed pursuant to subdivisions 1 and 2 see rejected routes discussion, 4.2 (8) Evaluation of potential routes that would use or parallel existing railroad 3.1.3, 4.2.1 and highway rights-of way (9) Evaluation of governmental survey lines and other natural division lines of agricultural land so as to minimize interference with agricultural 4.5.1 operations

(10) Evaluation of the future needs for additional high voltage transmission lines in the same general area as any proposed route, and the advisability of ordering the construction of structures capable of 3.1.2; 3.2.1 expansion in transmission capacity through multiple circuiting or design modifications

(11) Evaluation of irreversible and irretrievable commitments of resources 4.0 should the proposed site or route be approved (12) When appropriate, consideration of problems raised by other state and 5.1; 5.2 federal agencies and local entities

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1.2 NOTICE TO THE EQB

Xcel Energy notified the EQB by letter dated July 14, 2004 that the Company intended to pursue the Alternative Permitting Process for the proposed Buffalo Ridge – White HVTL Project. This complies with the requirement of Minnesota Rule 4400.2000 Subpart 2 to notify the EQB at least 10 days prior to submitting an application. A copy of this notice is included in Appendix A.

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2.0 INTRODUCTION

2.1 STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP OF THE PROPOSAL

The proposed Buffalo Ridge – White 115 kV Transmission Line Project is approximately 28 miles long. This project is part of a package of transmission lines and substations Xcel Energy is in the process of permitting and building to support additional wind development on the Buffalo Ridge.

Xcel Energy will construct, own, operate and maintain the proposed 115 kV transmission line, the expansion of the Buffalo Ridge Substation and the new 115/34.5 kV Yankee Substation. Xcel Energy will also construct, own, operate and maintain a 345 kV/115 kV substation adjacent to the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) White Substation. In addition, Xcel Energy will construct, own, operate and maintain a short connection between the new Xcel Energy 345 kV/115 kV substation and WAPA's 345/115 kV White Substation.

The permittee for the Project will be:

Permittee: Northern States Power Company d/b/a Xcel Energy 414 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401 Contact: Pamela J. Rasmussen Permitting Analyst Address: P.O. Box 8 Eau Claire, WI 54702-0008 Phone: (715) 839-4661 Fax: (715) 839-2480 Email: [email protected]

Xcel Energy will be the sole permittee for the Project in Minnesota

2.2 CERTIFICATE OF NEED PROCESS SUMMARY

The transmission system in and around the Buffalo Ridge landform currently has generator outlet capability of approximately 260 megawatts (MW) and is fully subscribed. More transmission capacity is needed to allow for increased wind generation in the region. On December 28, 2001, Xcel Energy filed an application with the PUC for a Certificate of Need (CON) to construct four new HVTLs in southwestern Minnesota. In addition to the preferred option, Xcel Energy identified three additional alternative transmission project options capable of improving the outlet capacity to approximately 825 MW. The 115 kV line from the Buffalo Ridge Substation to the White

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Substation was included as part of the 115/161 kV alternative submitted in Xcel Energy’s original application and was also included as part of a fifth alternative, Option 1H, that Xcel Energy developed over the course of the hearings and was ultimately approved by the Commission. Construction of these improvements is expected to increase outlet capability on the Buffalo Ridge to 825 MW.

Public and technical hearings on the application were held in May, June and July of 2002 in Worthington, Pipestone, Redwood Falls and St. Paul. On March 11, 2003, the Commission found that Xcel Energy had demonstrated the need for transmission facilities to move 825 MW of wind generation from Buffalo Ridge and granted certificates of need for the Company to build four new lines:

♦ A new 161 kV transmission line connecting Lakefield Junction to Fox Lake; ♦ A new 345 kV transmission line connecting Lakefield Junction to Split Rock in South Dakota; ♦ A new 115 kV transmission line connecting a new Nobles County Substation, located on the Lakefield Junction – Split Rock 345 kV line, with a new Fenton Substation and the existing Chanarambie Substation on Buffalo Ridge; and ♦ A new 115 kV transmission line connecting the Buffalo Ridge Substation in Lincoln County, Minnesota with the White Substation in Brookings County, South Dakota (for which this application is being made).

In granting a CON, the PUC determined that the project would support the further development of wind generation in the area and would enhance electrical system reliability. The new Lakefield Junction/Fox Lake 161 kV line is the first of the four lines scheduled to be built pursuant to the Commission’s March 11, 2003 Order. An application for the Lakefield Junction/Fox Lake 161 kV line was filed with the EQB on November 25, 2003. A joint application for the 345 kV Lakefield Junction/Split Rock and 115 kV Nobles County/Fenton/Chanarambie lines was filed with the EQB on April 30, 2004. This Project is the final component of the four projects covered by the PUC’s March, 2003 order (See Appendix B).

2.3 PROJECT LOCATION

The new 115 kV transmission line will be located in Lincoln County, Minnesota and Brookings County, South Dakota. Figure 1 shows a project overview map. More detailed route maps are shown in Appendix D. Table 2 identifies the sections in which the line will be located:

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Table 2 Proposed Transmission Line Locations

State County Township Name Township Range Sections

19, 20, 21 22, 27, Minnesota Lincoln Lake Benton 109N 45W 28, 29, 30, 31

4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, Verdi 109N 46W 16, 17, 23, 24, 25, 26, 35, 36

19, 20, 29, 30, 31, Drammen 110N 46W 32, 33 Drammen 110N 47W 24, 25 South Brookings Richland 110N 47W 6-10, 15-22, 27-30 Dakota Richland 111N 47W 30, 31

Alton 110N 48W 1, 12,13, 24, 25 Sherman 111N 48W 25, 36

The Project will also include improvements to the Buffalo Ridge Substation located in the Northwest Quarter of Section 22 of Lake Benton Township (Township 109N, Range 45W), Lincoln County, Minnesota and the White Substation, located in the Southeast Quarter of Section 36 of White Township (Township 111N, Range 48W) in Brookings County, South Dakota. Xcel Energy will construct, own, operate and maintain a short connection between the new Xcel Energy 345 kV/115 kV substation located adjacent to the White substation and WAPA’s 345/115 kV White Substation. Five potential sites have been identified for the proposed 115/34.5 kV Yankee Substation. The sites under consideration are summarized in Table 3 and located on Figure 1. Substation figures are shown in Appendix E

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Figure 1 Project Overview Map

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Table 3 Yankee Substation Sites Under Consideration

Site Township Name Township Range Section

1 Drammen 110N 46W NE ¼ Sec 30 2 110N 46W SW ¼, Sec 29 3 110N 46W SE ¼, Sec 31 4 Verdi 109N 45W NE ¼ Sec 6 5 109N 45W NW ¼, Sec 5

2.4 PROJECT PROPOSAL

The new Buffalo Ridge to White 115 kV transmission line will be approximately 28 miles long and connect the Buffalo Ridge Substation located southeast of Lake Benton in Lincoln County, Minnesota and WAPA’s White Substation in Brookings County, South Dakota. Minor modifications to the existing Buffalo Ridge substation will be required to accommodate the new line. A new substation will be built adjacent to the WAPA White substation. A new 115 kV Yankee Substation will also be constructed midway along the new Buffalo Ridge to White transmission line. The proposed route and detailed substation schematics are shown in Appendices D and E. A more detailed Project description can be found in Section 4.1. Figure 1 identifies the Project location and proposed route and substation locations described in this application. The proposed Project will support the development of wind energy in southwest Minnesota and eastern South Dakota.

Since the South Dakota portion of the Project is not subject to Minnesota’s routing process, only summary information is presented in this application.

Minn. Rules 4400.0200, subp. 16 authorizes the MEQB to grant a permit for a corridor width of up to 1.25 miles within which a right-of-way (ROW) for a high voltage transmission line can be located. Xcel Energy requests that the EQB approve a narrower corridor, 500-feet wide from the centerline of the proposed 115 kV route, for a total width of 1000 feet. Xcel Energy believes that this width will enable the Company to minimize impacts during design and construction and to address any routing issues that may occur along the proposed route.

2.5 PROJECT SCHEDULE

Xcel Energy proposes an in-service date of March 2007. A preliminary permitting and construction schedule summary is provided below:

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Submit EQB Route Permit Application August 2004 EQB Review Process Complete February 2005 Survey Permission and Survey February – June 2005 Line and Substation Design June – September 2005 ROW Acquisition September – December 2005 Transmission Line and Substation Construction 2006 – 2007 Final ROW Contacts, Damage Settlements and Cleanup Spring 2007 Commissioning March 2007

2.6 PROJECT COSTS

Xcel Energy estimates that the Project will cost approximately $24.2 million. Estimated Project costs are as follows:

Buffalo Ridge – White 115 kV Transmission Line $10,973,000 Minnesota Portion $7,512,000 South Dakota Portion $3,461,000 Buffalo Ridge Substation Modifications $2,500,000 White Substation Modifications $5,900,000 Yankee Substation 9,500,000 Total Project Costs: $28,873,000

Operating and maintenance costs for the transmission line will be nominal for several years, since the line will be new and there is minimal vegetation maintenance required. Annual operating and maintenance costs for 115 kV transmission voltages across Xcel Energy’s Upper Midwest system have averaged on the order of $500 per mile of transmission ROW of the last five years. The principal operating and maintenance cost will be inspections, usually done by fixed-wing aircraft on a monthly basis and by helicopter with infrared equipment once a year.

Xcel Energy performs periodic inspections of substations and equipment. The type and frequency of inspection varies depending on the type of equipment. Typical inspection intervals are semi- annually or annually. Maintenance and repair are performed on an as-needed basis, and therefore the cost varies from substation to substation.

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3.0 ENGINEERING DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND RIGHT-OF-WAY ACQUISITION 3.1 TRANSMISSION LINE

3.1.1 TRANSMISSION STRUCTURES AND ROW DESIGN

3.1.1.1 Transmission Structure Design Xcel Energy proposes to use single pole, galvanized steel, single and double circuit davit arm structures for the route. Single circuit structures will be used for the majority of the route. Xcel Energy anticipates that the tangent single circuit structures will be embedded directly into the soil, while double-circuit, angle and dead-end structures will be erected on concrete foundations approximately five to eight feet in diameter. The single circuit structures (See Figure 2) will have an average height of approximately 80 feet and an average span of 400 feet. The double circuit structures (See Figure 3), will have an average height of approximately 90 feet and an average span of 600 feet.

Certain portions of the route may be designed to accommodate distribution line and 34.5 kV feeder line underbuild to consolidate lines. Structures may have provisions for either single circuit 34.5 kV underbuild (See Figure 4) or double circuit 34.5 kV underbuild (See Figure 5). Xcel Energy will determine which portions of the route should have provisions for underbuild once the route and substation site are determined.

Xcel Energy proposes using a bundled 795-kcmil 26/7 (Drake) aluminum core steel supported (ACSS) conductor for the transmission line. A bundled conductor configuration consists of two conductors spaced approximately 18 inches apart at the end of each insulator string. The bundled 795 ACSS conductors are rated for 600 MVA. The capacity of the bundled conductors are 3000 amps. Average loading when the line is commissioned in 2006 is expected to be 540 amps. For lightning protection, Xcel Energy will use 3/8-inch EHS 7 stranded steel shield wire.

The Company notes that in the CON process, Xcel Energy sought and received approval to build the Buffalo Ridge to White 115 kV line using single conductors. In accordance with Minn. Rule 7849.0400, Subd. 2(H), Xcel Energy informed the PUC of the proposed change to bundled conductors on May 5, 2004. On July 13, 2004, the PUC approved this design change in its Order Approving Design Change, Encouraging Technical Discussions, and Requiring Update (PUC Docket No. E-002/CN-01-1958) (See Appendix C).

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Figure 2 115 kV Single Circuit Structure

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Figure 3 115 kV/115 kV Double Circuit Structure

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Figure 4 Single Circuit 115 kV with 34.5 kV Underbuild

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Figure 5 Single Circuit 115 kV with Double Circuit 34.5 kV Underbuild

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The proposed transmission line will be designed to meet or surpass all relevant state codes, the North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC) and Xcel Energy company standards. Appropriate standards will be met for construction and installation, and all applicable safety procedures will be followed during and after installation.

3.1.1.2 Right-of-Way Except for a 0.5 mile portion of the route along 140th Street, the entire length of the proposed route will follow existing transmission line and road rights-of-way (ROW). Where the Project parallels a road, the required ROW width will be 42.5 feet from the edge of road ROW (see Figure 6.) When the line is following a cross-country route, the ROW width will be 75 feet (see Figure 7). Table 4 provides a breakdown of the ROW requirements for each segment along the proposed route.

Table 4 Summary of Transmission Line Engineering Design Requirements

Average Average Length Structure ROW Description Structure Height Span Length (miles) Type (feet) (feet) (feet)

A 3.0 Single Circuit 80 400 42.5

B 0.2 Single Circuit 80 400 42.5

C 1.7 Double Circuit 90 600 42.5

D 2.3 Single Circuit 80 400 42.5

E 8.0 Single Circuit 80 400 42.5/75

F 3.4 Single Circuit 80 400 42.5

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Figure 6 ROW When Paralleling Existing Road

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Figure 7 ROW When Route is Cross-County

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3.1.2 DESIGN OPTIONS TO ACCOMMODATE FUTURE EXPANSION Xcel Energy is proposing to build the 115 kV Buffalo Ridge to White transmission line with bundled 795 ACSS conductors to accommodate future wind development on Buffalo Ridge. Initially Xcel Energy proposed installation of single 795 ACSS conductors for each phase, which results in a 310 MVA rating. After additional study, the Company concluded that using bundled 795 ACSS conductors for each phase, which results in a 600 MVA rating for the line, is the better electrical solution of these two lines in light of the expected demand. The “bundled” conductor configuration consists of two conductors spaced approximately 18 inches apart at the end of each insulator string.

This change to bundled conductors was prompted by the dramatic increase in wind generation interconnection requests along the proposed route for this line. With larger and larger turbines becoming the norm, the total megawatts to be interconnected along these lines is increasing even though the number of turbines or density of the turbines anticipated remains about the same. At typical Buffalo Ridge turbine densities, it is likely that more megawatts of productions capacity than can be accommodated with a 310 MVA line will develop along the Buffalo Ridge to White 115 kV line. By using bundled conductors, rather than a single conductor, more megawatts of wind generation will be able to be interconnected along the 115 kV line. This analysis reflects the existing signed contracts Xcel Energy has with wind developers and other projects in the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO) queue for interconnection studies.

By order dated July 13, 2004, the PUC approved the use of bundled 795 ACSS conductors which will double the capacity of the line (See Appendix C). Adding a second conductor per phase adds approximately $50,000 to $100,000 per mile to the cost of the proposed line. In contrast, a completely new line on new right-of-way would cost approximately $360,000 per mile to construct.

3.1.3 IDENTIFICATION OF EXISTING UTILITY AND PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY The Project follows existing utility and public ROW for the majority of the route, except where indicated on Table 5.

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Table 5 Summary of Utility, Public ROW and Other Corridor Sharing

Existing Highway New Length Segment Description Feeder ROW ROW ROW (miles) (miles) (miles) (miles)

Buffalo Ridge Substation to US 75/ A 3.0 3.0 3.0 0 Lincoln CR 9

B US 75 0.2 0 0.2 0

US 75/Lincoln County 9 to C Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV 1.7 1.7 1.7 0 transmission line

D Lincoln CR 9 & 160th Avenue 2.3 2.2 2.2 0

160th Avenue, Lincoln County 119, E 8.0 1 7.8 0.5 130th Avenue, 160th Street

F CSAH 1, CSAH 13 3.4 0 3.4 0

Note: Sum of Distribution/Feeder and Highway ROW may exceed Segment Length due to double counting.

3.1.4 RIGHT-OF-WAY ACQUISITION Xcel Energy held a public open house in the area on April 27, 2004, to meet with potentially affected landowners and to describe the Project and permitting process (See Section 5.2.)

Once the route permit is issued for the Project, Xcel Energy will initiate direct contact with landowners. The Company will consult with the landowners to discuss the Project in detail prior to conducting any necessary surveys and soil investigations. As the design of the line proceeds, contacts with the owners of affected properties will continue, and Xcel Energy will begin the negotiation and acquisition phase to obtain the necessary land or easement rights for the facilities.

During the acquisition phase, individual property owners will be advised as to the construction schedules, needed access to the site and any vegetation clearing required for the Project. The ROW will be cleared of the amount of vegetation necessary to construct, operate and maintain the proposed transmission line. It is standard practice to remove any vegetation that at a mature height would be a danger to the line. Also, any vegetation that is in the way of construction equipment may have to be removed. Wood from the clearing operation will be offered to the landowner or removed from the site. Brush will be chipped and disposed of on the ROW.

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Some structure locations may require soil analysis to assist with the design of the line. The Company will inform the landowners at the initial survey consultation that these borings may occur. An independent geotechnical testing company will take and analyze these borings. Survey crews will contact Gopher State One Call and will work with local utilities to identify underground utilities along the route to minimize conflicts with or impacts to existing utilities along the route.

Where possible, staging and lay down areas will be located within the ROW and limited to previously disturbed or developed areas. When additional property is temporarily required for construction, temporary limited easements (TLE) may be obtained from landowners for the duration of construction. TLEs will be limited to special construction access needs or additional staging or lay down areas required outside of the proposed transmission line ROW.

3.1.5 TRANSMISSION CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Xcel Energy plans to begin construction once required approvals are obtained and easement acquisition is completed. A detailed construction schedule will be developed based upon availability of crews, outage restrictions for lines that may be affected, weather conditions and any restrictions placed on certain areas for minimizing impacts from construction.

Xcel Energy construction crews or an Xcel Energy contractor will comply with local, state, National Electric Safety Code (NESC) and Xcel Energy standards regarding clearance to ground, clearance to crossing utilities, clearance to buildings, ROW widths, erection of power poles and stringing of transmission line conductors.

3.1.5.1 Transmission Construction Procedures for New Line The proposed 115 kV transmission line will be constructed at-grade for the majority of the ROW. Generally, moderately sloping terrain conditions have minimal impact on site access by most construction equipment. Flat, level terrain conditions are preferred at, and immediately around, the structure foundation location.

Each steel pole structure will require a hole drilled 12 to 30 feet deep and approximately four to eight feet in diameter, depending upon structure type. Any excess soil will be removed from the site unless otherwise requested by the landowner. The majority of structures will be direct-embedded in the soil and will require holes approximately 12 to 16 feet deep and four feet in diameter, depending upon the structure type. Double circuit, angle and dead-end structures will be anchored by a concrete foundation and would require deeper holes, approximately 15 to 25 feet for single circuit structures and 20 to 30 feet for double circuit structures. Structures located in poor or wet soil conditions may require a specially engineered foundation, such as a steel caisson that would be vibrated into the ground.

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Erosion control measures will be implemented to minimize runoff during construction. Specific measures will be determined once the final design of the route is complete and a field review is made to determine any areas of concern. Measures such as silt fencing, straw bale fencing, mulching, seeding or mesh fabric overlay would be installed when and where appropriate. Access routes to structure locations will be reviewed prior to the mobilization of equipment so erosion concerns can be avoided or minimized. Construction crews exercise caution when equipment is within fifty feet of streams and rivers and will not drive equipment through streams or rivers that the transmission line crosses.

Poles will be delivered to either the staked location or a Project storage yard. If the poles are delivered to the location where they will be installed, they will be placed on the ROW out of the clear zone of any adjacent roadways or designated pathways. Insulators and other hardware will be attached while the pole is on the ground. The pole will then be lifted, placed and secured on the foundation by a crane or similar heavy-duty equipment.

Once the structures have been erected, conductors will be installed by establishing stringing setup areas within the ROW. The stringing setup areas will usually be established every two miles along the Project route. Conductor stringing operations will also require brief access to each structure to secure the conductor wire to the insulators or to install shield wire clamps once final sag is established. Temporary guard or clearance poles will be installed as needed over existing distribution or communication lines, streets, roads, highways, railways or other obstructions after any necessary notifications are made and permits obtained. This ensures that conductors will not obstruct traffic or contact existing energized conductors or other cables.

3.1.5.2 Line Removal Procedures The proposed route involves relocating a 1.4 mile portion of the existing Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV transmission line currently located in the Hole-in-the Mountain WMA and the Hole-in-the- Mountain Prairie. The existing line, which is built on wooden H-frame structures, will be de- energized and removed once the new line is constructed. Xcel Energy’s standard procedure for taking out existing wood structures is to remove conductors from the affected portion of the line and then cut the poles off approximately five feet above the ground. Once the poles are cut down, crews move in to pull out the portion of the pole remaining in the ground.

In their July 28, 2004 comment letter DNR staff requested that Xcel undertake removal of the existing line when the ground is frozen and shear the poles off at ground level without pulling out the poles (see Appendix H). Xcel Energy will continue to work with the Department of Nature Resources (DNR) to determine the best procedure and most suitable access route for removing the

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existing line to ensure that impacts to the area are minimized. Xcel Energy will use special construction mats to minimize soil compaction in sensitive areas.

3.1.6 RESTORATION PROCEDURES During construction, crews will attempt to limit ground disturbance wherever possible. Upon completion of construction activities, landowners will be contacted to determine if any additional restoration due to construction is necessary. Disturbed areas will be restored to their original condition to the maximum extent practicable and as negotiated with the landowner. Post- construction reclamation activities include the removing and disposing of debris, dismantling all temporary facilities (including staging and lay down areas), leveling or filling tire ruts, employing appropriate erosion control measures and reseeding areas disturbed by construction activities with vegetation similar to that which was removed.

Xcel Energy will restore impacted areas within the Hole-in-the Mountain WMA using native vegetation seeding in consultation with the DNR.

3.1.7 MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES Xcel Energy will periodically use the ROW to perform inspections, maintain equipment and make repairs over the life of the line. Normal ROW inspection will occur by aerial patrol. Field inspection on foot will be done on an as-needed basis. Xcel Energy will also conduct routine maintenance approximately every five years to remove undesired vegetation that may interfere with the safe and reliable operation of the proposed transmission line.

3.2 SUBSTATIONS

This Project includes modifications to the Buffalo Ridge and White substations and construction of the Yankee Substation. Xcel Energy will pay for these changes as approved in the CON proceeding and requests that the EQB permit the expansion and improvements at the Buffalo Ridge Substation and construction of the new Yankee Substation as part of this route application.

3.2.1 DESIGN OPTIONS TO ACCOMMODATE FUTURE EXPANSION Xcel Energy has designed the proposed substations and substation improvements to anticipate opportunities to provide for future expansion.

3.2.1.1 Buffalo Ridge Substation The proposed upgrade to the Buffalo Ridge Substation will be laid out to accommodate additional lines or transformers for additional wind generation in the future.

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3.2.1.2 Yankee Substation The Yankee Substation will be designed to accommodate future wind feeders as well as potential future upgrades of 115 kV and 345 kV systems.

3.2.2 PROPERTY ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION, RESTORATION AND MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

3.2.2.1 Buffalo Ridge Substation The Buffalo Ridge Substation is located southeast of the city of Lake Benton, in the NE ¼ of Section 22, Township 109N, Range 45W (Lake Benton Township). The substation is owned and operated by Xcel Energy. Xcel Energy will convert this substation into a 115 kV ring. The work at this substation will consist of:

♦ Installation of two new 115 kV circuit breakers; ♦ Installation of one new 115 kV line termination; and ♦ Upgrading to a three-position 115 kV ring bus. Existing breaker will be reused and will remain in its location.

The site will be expanded by grading and fencing approximately 30,000 square feet (approximately 0.7 acres) immediately north and east of the existing site. The area to be used for the expansion is already owned by Xcel Energy. A drawing of the proposed changes is included as Appendix E.

3.2.2.2 Yankee Substation Xcel Energy will construct a new Yankee Substation approximately midway along the new Buffalo Ridge to White transmission line. Xcel Energy is considering five sites for the substation. The Yankee Substation will be located on a 40 acre parcel in section 29, 30 or 31 of Drammen Township or section 5 or 6 of Verdi Township. Xcel Energy anticipates that approximately five acres will be graded and fenced initially and up to 12 acres may potentially be developed if the substation is expanded in the future. Xcel Energy has talked to several landowners who are interested in selling property for the substation and those sites are included in the proposed substation sites. Xcel Energy expects to continue discussions with those landowners over the next few months and may be able to provide the EQB the final site for the substation prior to the permit being issued for this Project.

Xcel Energy requests flexibility in siting the proposed Yankee Substation and is providing environmental information on all sites under consideration in Section 4 of this application. Xcel

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Energy will be discussing substation sites with landowners as the approval process proceeds. Xcel Energy will update EQB staff of developments as they occur.

The substation will be designed to accommodate the Buffalo Ridge 115 kV line, the White 115 kV line and 34.5 kV wind collector lines. Xcel Energy will also lay out the substation to accommodate future 115 kV transmission lines and, potentially, 345 kV transmission lines.

New concrete foundations will be installed to support the control house and electrical equipment such as transmission line structures and dead ends, transformers, breakers, and switches. The control house will contain the protective relay, control and communications equipment. Potential plans for the initial and ultimate substation layout are attached as Appendix E.

3.2.3 SUBSTATION PROPERTY ACQUISITION PROCEDURES

3.2.3.1 Buffalo Ridge Substation All improvements at the Buffalo Ridge Substation will occur on property that is currently owned by Xcel Energy.

3.2.3.2 Yankee Substation Xcel Energy anticipates acquiring a parcel of up to 40 acres for the Yankee Substation to provide additional buffer and flexibility for routing transmission lines and wind collection feeders. As part of the Project, the Company will grade and develop approximately five acres initially. Xcel Energy anticipates the substation will later be expanded, as necessary, to meet growing demand.

3.2.4 SUBSTATION CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES Construction on the substations will begin once the final designs are complete and any necessary property is acquired. The construction schedules will be developed based upon availability of crews, outage restrictions for any transmission lines that may be affected, weather conditions, spring load restrictions on roads, and any restrictions placed on certain areas for minimizing permanent impacts from construction.

Approximately five acres of land will be graded to construct the Yankee Substation. Xcel Energy anticipates that up to 12 acres may eventually be graded if additional 115 kV and 345 kV lines are required. Once the site is graded, a perimeter fence will be installed to secure the site and concrete foundations will be poured to support the substation equipment and control house. At that point, erection of the control house and substation equipment would commence.

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Xcel Energy provides erosion control methods to be implemented to minimize runoff during substation construction. Xcel Energy will acquire a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, including development and implementation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for the Yankee Substation. Improvements at the Buffalo Ridge Substation will disturb less than one acre and will not require a NPDES permit.

Xcel Energy construction crews or an Xcel Energy contractor will comply with local, state, NESC and Xcel Energy standards regarding clearance to ground, clearance to crossing utilities, clearance to buildings, ROW widths, erection of power poles and stringing of transmission line conductors.

3.2.5 SUBSTATION RESTORATION PROCEDURES Upon completion of construction activities, Xcel Energy will restore the areas around the substation sites. Post-construction reclamation activities will include the removing and disposing of debris, dismantling all temporary facilities (including staging areas), employing appropriate erosion control measures and reseeding areas disturbed by construction activities with vegetation similar to that which was removed. Where appropriate, Xcel Energy will incorporate methods to screen the final site.

3.2.6 SUBSTATION MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES Xcel Energy will periodically perform inspections, maintain equipment and make repairs over the life of the substation. Xcel Energy will also conduct routine maintenance as required to remove vegetation that may interfere with the safe and reliable operation of the substation.

3.3 ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS

The term EMF refers to electric and magnetic fields that are coupled together such as in high frequency radiating fields. For the lower frequencies associated with power lines, EMF should be separated into electric and magnetic fields. Electric and magnetic fields arise from the flow of electricity and the voltage of a line. The intensity of the electric field is related to the voltage of the line and the intensity of the magnetic field is related to the current flow through the conductors. Transmission lines operate at 60 hertz (cycles per second). This is the non-ionizing band of the electromagnetic spectrum.

3.3.1 ELECTRIC FIELDS Voltage on any wire (conductor) produces an electric field in the area surrounding the wire. The electric field associated with a high voltage transmission line extends from the energized conductors to other nearby objects such as the ground, towers, vegetation, buildings and vehicles. The electric

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field from a power line gets weaker as one moves away from the line. Nearby trees and building material also greatly reduce the strength of power line electric fields.

The intensity of electric fields is associated with the voltage of the line and is measured in kilovolts per meter (kV/M). Power line electric fields near ground are designated by the difference in voltage between two points (usually one meter). Table 6 provides the electric fields at maximum conductor voltage for the proposed 115 kV transmission line. Maximum conductor voltage is defined as the nominal voltage plus five percent.

Table 6 Calculated Electric Fields (kV/m) for Proposed 115 kV Transmission Line Designs (3 feet above ground)

Distance to Proposed Centerline Type Voltage -300' -200' -100' -50' 0' 50' 100' 200' 300'

115 kV 120 kV .009 0.02 0.1 0.4 0.8 0.5 0.1 0.03 0.01

Single 115kV Circuit w/Single Circuit 120/36kV .01 0.03 0.10 0.31 0.40 0.12 0.12 0.03 0.01 Single 34.5 kV Underbuild Steel Pole Davit Arm 115 kV w/Double Circuit 120/36/36kV 0.01 0.02 0.11 0.36 0.15 0.39 0.13 0.03 0.01 34.5 kV Underbuild

115/115 kV Single Steel Pole 120/120 kV .01 .02 .04 0.13 0.87 0.1 .01 .01 .01 Davit Arm Double Circuit 115/115 kV w/ 120/120/36 Single Single circuit .01 .01 .03 .17 .39 .14 .01 .01 .01 kV Steel Pole 34.5 kV Underbuild Davit Arm 115/115 kV w/ 120/120/ Double Circuit .01 .02 .03 .12 .18 .10 .01 .01 .01 36/36 kV 34.5 kV Underbuild

The proposed 115 kV transmission line would have a maximum magnitude of electric field density of approximately 0.87 kV per meter underneath the conductors one meter above ground level in a double circuit configuration. This is significantly less than the maximum limit of 8 kV per meter that has been a permit condition imposed by the Minnesota EQB in other HVTL applications. The Minnesota EQB standard was designed to prevent serious hazard from shocks when touching large objects, such as tractors, parked under extra high voltage transmission lines of 500 kV or greater.

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3.3.2 MAGNETIC FIELDS Current passing through any conductor, including a wire, produces a magnetic field in the area around the wire. The magnetic field associated with a high voltage transmission line surrounds the conductor and decreases rapidly with increasing distance from the conductor. The magnetic field is expressed in units of magnetic flux density, expressed as gauss (G).

The question of whether exposure to power-frequency (60 Hz) magnetic fields can cause biological responses or even health effects has been the subject of considerable research for the past three decades. There is presently no Minnesota statute or rule that pertains to magnetic field exposure. The most recent and exhaustive reviews of the health effects from power-frequency fields conclude that the evidence of health risk is weak. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) issued its final report, “NIEHS Report on Health Effects from Exposure to Power-Line Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields” on June 15, 1999, following six years of intensive research. NIEHS concluded that there is little scientific evidence correlating EMF exposures with health risk.

The Minnesota State Interagency Working Group on EMF Issues, consisting of members from the Minnesota Department of Health, Department of Commerce, PUC, Pollution Control Agency and EQB conducted research related to EMF, which resulted in similar findings to the NIEHS report. The group issued A White Paper on Electric and Magnetic Field (EMF) Policy and Mitigation Options in September of 2002 wherein it stated:

Research on the health effects of EMF has been carried out since the 1970s. Epidemiological studies have mixed results – some have shown no statistically significant association between exposure to EMF and health effects, and some have shown a weak association. More recently, laboratory studies have failed to show such an association, or to establish a biological mechanism for how magnetic field may cause cancer. A number of scientific panels convened by national and international health agencies and the United States Congress have reviewed the research carried out to date. Most concluded that there is insufficient evidence to prove an association between EMF and health effects; however many of them also concluded that there is insufficient evidence to prove that EMF exposure is safe.

The group concluded:

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) concludes that the current body of evidence is insufficient to establish a cause and effect relationship between EMF and adverse health effects. However, as with many other environmental health issues, the possibility of health risk from EMF cannot be dismissed.

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The conclusions of the Minnesota State Interagency Working Group are also consistent with those reached by the Minnesota Department of Health in 2000.

While the general consensus is that electric fields pose no risk to humans, the question of whether exposure to magnetic fields potentially can cause biological responses or even health effects continues to be the subject of research and debate. In addressing this issue, Xcel Energy provides information to the public, interested customers and employees for them to make an informed decision about EMF. Xcel Energy will provide measurements for landowners, customers and employees who request them. In addition, Xcel Energy has followed the “prudent avoidance” guidance suggested by most public agencies. This includes using structure designs that minimize magnetic field levels and siting facilities in locations with the fewest number of people living nearby.

Table 7 provides the existing and estimated magnetic fields based on the proposed line and structure design. The expected magnetic field for the proposed structure type and voltage has been calculated at various distances from the center of the pole in milligauss.

3.3.3 STRAY VOLTAGE Stray voltage is defined as a natural phenomenon that can be found at low levels between two contact points in any animal confinement area where electricity is grounded. Electrical systems, including farm systems and utility distribution systems, must be grounded to the earth by code to ensure continuous safety and reliability. Inevitably, some current flows through the earth at each point where the electrical system is grounded and a small voltage develops. This voltage is called neutral-to-earth voltage (NEV). When a portion of this NEV is measured between two objects that may be simultaneously contacted by an animal, it is frequently called stray voltage. Stray voltage is not electrocution, ground currents, EMFs or earth currents.

Stray voltage has been raised as a concern on some dairy farms because it can impact operations and milk production. Problems are usually related to the distribution and service lines directly serving the farm or the wiring on a farm affecting farm animals that are confined in areas of electrical use. In those instances when transmission lines have been shown to contribute to stray voltage, the electric distribution system directly serving the farm or the wiring on a farm was directly under and parallel to the transmission line. These circumstances are considered in installing transmission lines and can be readily mitigated. The new 115 kV transmission line is not proposed to run parallel to any existing distribution line for long distances. Therefore, no stray voltage issues are anticipated with this Project.

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Table 7 Calculated Magnetic Flux Density (milligauss) for Proposed 115 kV Transmission Line Designs (3 feet above ground)

Distance to Proposed Centerline Structure Type Condition Amps -300' -200' -100' -50' 0' 50' 100' 200' 300'

Average 540 1.1 2.6 10 30 87 32 11 3.1 1.4 115 kV Peak 900 1.9 4.3 16 50 146 53 18 5.2 2.4

115kV 18. Average 540/350 0.8 1.7 6.3 20 73 6.1 1.6 0.7 Single w/Single 4 Circuit Circuit Single 34.5 kV Steel Pole Underbuild Peak 900/700 1.3 2.9 11 36 134 32 10 2.8 1.3 Davit Arm 115 kV 540/350/ Average 0.8 1.7 5.9 17 49 16 6.0 1.7 0.8 w/Double 350 Circuit 34.5 kV 900/700/ Peak 1.3 2.9 10 29 89 28 10 2.9 1.3 Underbuild 700

Average 540/46 0.8 1.8 6.8 21 50 13 4.9 1.5 0.7 115/115 kV Peak 900/76 1.3 2.9 11 36 83 22 8.2 2.4 1.1

540/46/ 115/115 kV Average 0.8 1.8 7.2 23 61 11 4.5 1.4 0.7 Double w/Single 350 Ciruit circuit Single 34.5 kV 900/76/ Steel Pole Underbuild Peak 1.3 3.1 12 40 112 19 7.5 2.4 1.1 Davit Arm 700

115/115 kV 540/46/ Average 0.8 1.7 6.5 18 31 11 4.4 1.4 0.6 w/ Double 350/350 Circuit 34.5 kV 900/76/ Peak 1.3 2.9 11 30 59 18 7.3 2.3 1.1 Underbuild 350/350

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4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION This section provides a description of the environmental setting, potential impacts and mitigative measures Xcel Energy has proposed, where necessary, to minimize the impacts of siting, constructing and operating the proposed Project. The proposed route does not require any irreversible or irretrievable commitment of resources. If the 115 kV line were removed in the future, the land could be restored to its prior condition and put to a different use. Minn. Rules part 4400.1150, subpart 3h require an applicant to provide cost estimates for the various mitigative measures proposed to address impacts. The majority of the measures proposed are part of the standard construction process at Xcel Energy. Unless otherwise identified in the following text, the costs of the mitigative measures proposed are considered nominal.

4.1 ROUTE DESCRIPTION

The proposed route is shown in the detailed route maps in Appendix D and in the Project overview map shown in Figure 1. This proposed route may also be referred to as Alternative 2 and the Feeder Line Route throughout the document and appendices. The route from the Buffalo Ridge Substation to the South Dakota border is comprised of six segments: A, B, C, D, E and F. This route is approximately 18.6 miles long and runs generally northwest from the Buffalo Ridge Substation to the South Dakota border. This alternative would remove a 1.4 mile portion of the existing Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV transmission line from the Hole-in–the-Mountain Prairie and the Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA (Sections 19 and 30 of Lake Benton Township) and double circuit that segment with the new Buffalo Ridge – White 115 kV line for approximately 1.7 miles. The South Dakota portion of the route is shown in a Project overview map, Figure 1, and in Appendix D, but not described in detail in this application.

Segment A (3 miles) exits the east side of the Buffalo Ridge Substation as a single circuit line, then wraps around the substation to the north, then west and finally will proceed south along the east side of Lincoln CR 108 for approximately one mile before turning west along the south side of Lincoln CR 9 for approximately two miles to US Highway 75. Xcel Energy anticipates that up to three structures on the existing Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV line near the Buffalo Ridge Substation may need to be modified or moved to accommodate the new Buffalo Ridge – White 115 kV line. Xcel Energy requests flexibility in making modifications to the Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV line in the vicinity of the Buffalo Ridge Substation to accommodate the Project.

Segment B (0.2 mile) reroutes the existing Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV transmission line to the south along the east side of US 75. The Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV line then joins the new Buffalo Ridge – White 115 kV line. This segment enables Xcel Energy to remove a 1.4 mile

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segment of the Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV line from the Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA (1.25 miles) and the Nature Conservancy’s Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie (0.15 miles).

Segment C (1.7 miles) double circuits with the existing Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV transmission line and proceeds south along the east side of US Highway 75/Lincoln CR 9 for approximately one mile until turning west along the south side of Lincoln CR 9 for approximately 0.7 miles and intersects with the existing Lake Yankton – Pipestone line. At this point the Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV circuit splits off and continues along the existing overland alignment proceeding southwest to Pipestone.

Segment D (2.3 miles) continues west as a single circuit line along the south side of Lincoln CR 9 for approximately 1.3 miles before turning north for one mile along the east side of 160th Avenue.

Segment E (8 miles) crosses to the west side of 160th Avenue and continues northward as a single circuit line for approximately one-half mile before crossing over to the east side of 160th Street for approximately 1.5 miles. The line then turns west along the north side of Lincoln CR 119 for approximately 1.7 miles before crossing to the south side of Lincoln CR 119 for approximately 1.3 miles. The line then turns north for two miles along the west side of 130th Avenue and west for one mile along the south side of 160th Street.

Segment F (3.4 miles) turns north along the west side of CSAH 1 for two miles, then west along the south side of CSAH 13 for approximately 1.4 miles to the South Dakota border.

4.2 ROUTE AND SUBSTATION SITE SELECTION PROCESS

The Project was originally identified during the planning process by a team of siting, right-of-way, and engineering personnel. The team reviewed the general area identified for significant routing issues that may arise. This information was included in the CON application.

4.2.1 ROUTE SELECTION PROCESS Once the significant features of the Project (endpoints of Buffalo Ridge and White substations and the new Yankee Substation) were determined, the team developed a Project corridor for the route using digital data such as aerial photographs and topographic maps. The siting group analyzed the corridor details and identified preliminary route options based on opportunities to:

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♦ Share corridors and ROW with existing transmission lines by double circuiting or paralleling an existing line; ♦ Minimize impacts to reliability (i.e., consider if existing lines can be taken out of service for construction; ♦ Parallel roads, to help decrease the amount of ROW required (the road that requires the least amount of clearing is normally chosen); ♦ Parallel field lines, property lines, or railroads, where access is adequate and the transmission line would cause minimal conflicts; and ♦ Minimize the length of the transmission line to reduce the impact area and costs for the Project.

Once preliminary route options were identified, routes were further refined by avoiding, to the extent possible, areas where an HVTL could create significant impacts. These areas include:

♦ High density residential areas; ♦ Areas where clearances are limited because of trees or nearby structures; and ♦ Environmentally sensitive sites such as: wetlands; archaeologically significant sites; areas with threatened, endangered and species of special concern; areas of significant biological or cultural significance; and state and federal lands.

Once the routes were placed and fine-tuned on the maps, the team members reviewed the routes in the field. The fieldwork allowed team members to address issues that surfaced during the initial route development and identify any new issues that became apparent while in the field. Routes and route segments were added and/or removed based on information gathered in the field.

These proposed routes and route segments were then provided to several agencies (DNR, SHPO, USFWS), the public, wind developers and other utilities for review. The routes were reviewed by these groups through a variety of methods: letters written with a general description of the proposal and maps of the proposed route, meetings with DNR and Nature Conservancy field staff, and public meetings held in the area of the proposal.

Following input received through public and agency involvement, the routes and route segments were refined. The routes in this application are the result of that work.

For the Buffalo Ridge to White transmission line, the primary routing considerations were:

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♦ Using existing linear corridors: Xcel Energy uses existing linear corridors to the extent possible to ensure good access to the line and minimize impacts to adjacent land uses. ♦ Minimizing impacts to residences: Although the area is not densely populated, Xcel Energy attempted to minimize impacts to residences to the extent possible by routing through areas with sufficient setbacks from the line and avoiding areas that would require significant tree clearing. ♦ Minimizing environmental impacts to the Hole-in-the-Mountain area: Xcel Energy has minimized impacts to the Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA and the Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie by proposing to parallel existing road ROW and by removing a 1.4 mile portion of the existing Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV transmission line from the Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA and Hole-in-the- Mountain Prairie. ♦ Siting of Yankee Substation: Part of the PUC’s CON order requires Xcel Energy to provide access to the transmission system for small locally-owned wind generators. In order to fulfill this obligation, Xcel Energy sited the proposed Yankee Substation in an area that is accessible to small wind developers. After discussions with small wind developers in the area Xcel Energy identified potential sites in southwestern Drammen Township and northwestern Verdi Township. ♦ Minimizing impacts to agriculture by paralleling road ROW or consolidating facilities where feasible.

4.2.1.1 Rejected Route Alternatives Appendix F includes all route alternatives considered by Xcel Energy, including rejected route alternatives. Xcel Energy rejected several preliminary route segment alternatives because of concerns with human and environmental impacts, cost or reliability. All rejected route alternatives considered by Xcel Energy are identified by number on Figure 8.

Xcel Energy initially proposed routing the Brookings County portion of the line north on 487th Avenue and then west on 210th Street (rejected route Segment 14). Based on comments received at the April 27, 2004 open house, Xcel adjusted the route to turn west on 211th Street.

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Figure 8 Proposed Route Alternatives

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Xcel Energy considered and then rejected Alternative 1 (also referred to as the Township Road Route). Under this alternative (rejected route segments 1, 3 and 4), Xcel Energy proposed removing a portion of the existing Lake Yankton-Pipestone 115 kV transmission line located in sections 16, 17, 19, 20, 30 and 31 of Lake Benton Township and double circuiting that line with the new Buffalo Ridge-White line between the Buffalo Ridge Substation and Lake Benton - Verdi Township border. This route would have roughly paralleled the township road separating the DNR and the Nature Conservancy Hole-in-the-Mountain parcels. The two circuits would split at the township border; with the Buffalo Ridge – White 115 kV line continuing west for approximately one mile and the Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV transmission line turning to the south and continuing for approximately 1.4 miles overland along the township border. Xcel Energy worked closely with the DNR and the Nature Conservancy when reviewing these initial routes. Initially this proposal appeared favorable to both entities. However, both the DNR and the Nature Conservancy have expressed concerns about this alternative (see Appendix H) and supported Alternative 2 (also referred to as the Distribution or Feeder Line Route). Xcel Energy has rejected Alternative 1 and proposes Alternative 2 as the Proposed Project. Alternative 2 is less expensive than Alternative 1.

Xcel Energy considered and then rejected two alternatives (Rejected route segments 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13) that proceeded north from the Buffalo Ridge Substation. These segments were considered initially since they would reduce the overall length of the line. However, they were rejected due to the amount of new cross-country right-of-way through a portion of the Nature Conservancy’s Hole- in-the-Mountain Prairie area, and the close proximity of this route alternative to the Lake Benton Airfield.

Xcel Energy considered and then rejected double circuiting the Buffalo Ridge to White 115 kV transmission line with the existing Lake Yankton to Pipestone 115 kV transmission line along the existing Lake Yankton to Pipestone 115 kV alignment (rejected route segments 8, 9, 10). This alternative was rejected since the access to the line was limited, and the line also crossed through both the DNR Hole-in-the Mountain WMA, and the Nature Conservancy’s Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie. Additionally, the existing line spans several hills, which would have required larger and taller poles in that area to meet the span requirements.

Xcel Energy also briefly considered a route segment (rejected route segment 2) running directly across the northern border of section 20 of Lake Benton Township. Xcel Energy rejected this alternative because it would require new ROW through the DNR Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA.

Xcel Energy considered and then rejected a route segment running west along 120th Street for four miles and then north along CSAH 1 for four miles (rejected route segment 5). This option was suggested by a landowner at Xcel Energy’s open house held in April. Although this segment would

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have required only one turning structure, this segment passes within 300 feet of nine homes and would require more tree clearing than segment E. Segment E passes within 300 feet of three homes and was selected as the preferred alternative in this portion of the route.

4.2.2 SUBSTATION SELECTION PROCESS After identifying potential routes the team used a set of criteria to locate the Yankee Substation along the line using general substation siting criteria and criteria specific to the requirements of the Yankee Substation.

General Substation Siting Criteria are:

♦ Proximity to primary roads: Substation construction requires use of large and heavy equipment, both for construction and for transporting equipment, such as transformers, to be installed at the substation. Smaller roads are often not adequately rated for the heavy equipment required. Such roads would need to be upgraded prior to construction, or maintained during and after construction to repair any damage caused by heavy equipment. Access after construction is also important for maintenance and operation. All of the substation sites under consideration are adjacent to CSAH 1, a primary road. ♦ Proximity to transmission lines: Xcel Energy wishes to minimize length of the transmission interconnection between the line and the substation. The sites under consideration for the Yankee Substation are all located near the proposed Buffalo Ridge to White 115 kV transmission line. ♦ Minimize impacts to residences: As with the routing process for transmission lines, Xcel Energy attempts to minimize substation impacts to residences. The primary impacts associated with substations are noise. All the substation sites under consideration for the Yankee Substation are located at least 800 feet from residences to minimize impacts (see Table 10). ♦ Avoid locating substations in low areas, wetlands, waterways and wildlife areas. Xcel Energy tries to avoid these sensitive areas, as they pose problems both for construction and operation of a substation. None of the substation sites under consideration are located in low areas, wetlands or wildlife areas. None of the substation sites under consideration are located adjacent to a waterway. ♦ Availability of a suitably sized parcel: Xcel Energy prefers to purchase sufficient land to construct the substation, provide for future expansion if necessary and provide for a buffer from residences. In the Buffalo Ridge area, a buffer between the substation operations and wind development is also desirable. Xcel Energy prefers to purchase a single parcel, rather than aggregate multiple smaller parcels for substation sites. In this case, all of the sites under consideration are large enough to meet Xcel Energy’s needs.

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♦ Availability of a willing seller: Xcel Energy prefers to work with willing sellers. Xcel Energy has been in contact with property owners of all the sites under consideration and is confident that the Company will be able to acquire the needed property through voluntary purchase. We will be discussing the purchase of a substation site with several interested landowners over the next few months and will inform EQB staff if we come to agreement with a landowner.

In addition to Xcel Energy’s general substation siting criteria, criteria specific to the Yankee Substation were:

♦ Site near wind farm projects: Xcel Energy has consulted with wind developers in the Project area to locate the Yankee Substation in an area that maximizes interconnection opportunities and minimizes costs.

4.3 DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING

The area has some of the highest elevations in Minnesota, with a topography characterized by rolling hills. The most significant physiographic feature is the Buffalo Ridge, a weathered terminal moraine feature, oriented northwest to southeast through the Project area. The route proceeds through rolling hills and farmland typical of Southwestern Minnesota and eastern South Dakota. Land use in the area is predominantly agricultural with occupied and abandoned farmsteads scattered throughout the area. The major crops in the Project area are corn and soybeans. Because of the rolling hills and steeper slopes of the Buffalo Ridge a number of pasture and Conservation Reserve Program tracts are also found in the Project area. Despite the predominance of agricultural land uses, significant areas, most notably DNR’s Hole-in-the Mountain WMA and the Nature Conservancy’s Hole-in-the- Mountain Prairie area, are maintained as natural grasslands. Operating gravel pits are located in Section 36 of Verdi Township and opposite the White substation. Maps identifying the Project area and land uses are located in Appendix D.

4.4 HUMAN SETTLEMENT

4.4.1 PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY Proper safeguards will be implemented for construction and operation of the facility. The Project will be designed with the local, state, NESC and Xcel Energy standards regarding clearance to ground, clearance to crossing utilities, clearance to buildings, strength of materials and ROW widths. Xcel Energy construction crews and/or contract crews will comply with local, state, NESC and Xcel Energy standards regarding installation of facilities and standard construction practices. Established

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Xcel Energy and industry safety procedures will be followed during and after installation of the transmission line. This will include clear signage during all construction activities.

The proposed transmission line will be equipped with protective devices to safeguard the public from the transmission line in the unlikely event that an accident occurs and a structure or conductor falls to the ground. The protective devices are breakers and relays located where the line connects to the substation. The protective equipment will de-energize the line in the unlikely event that such a situation occurs. In addition, the substation facility will be fenced and access limited to authorized personnel. The costs associated with these measures have not been tabulated separately from the overall Project costs since these measures are standard practice for Xcel Energy.

4.4.1.1 Mitigative Measures Xcel Energy’s design and construction standards incorporate safeguards to human health and safety. There are no additional mitigative measures necessary to address human health and safety.

4.4.2 COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL, RESIDENTIAL LAND USE The transmission line primarily crosses through areas zoned agriculture. Farmsteads, both occupied and abandoned, are scattered along the route. There is one operating gravel pit located in Section 36 of Verdi Township in Lincoln County.

4.4.2.1 General Impacts Avoiding areas that are primarily residential, or where the line might impact commercial or industrial operations, was a major criterion during route selection. The Project as proposed will not impact residential areas or commercial or industrial operations. The gravel pit operations will not be impacted by this Project since the line will not cross over the site.

4.4.2.2 Mitigative Measures There are no mitigative measures necessary to address commercial, industrial or residential land use.

4.4.3 DISPLACEMENT Displacement of a business or home would occur only if the final location of the transmission line would be too close and NESC requirements could not be met. The NESC identifies minimum vertical and horizontal clearances from a conductor to a building or structure. In most cases, the transmission structure can be located or configured to accommodate NESC minimum clearances to the building. In some situations, minor changes in the line route can avoid a particular building or structure. There is no building along the route of this Project that would require relocation due to the new transmission line.

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4.4.3.1 Potential Impacts The HVTL route and substation location are planned to minimize impacts on residents and businesses. Displacement of residential homes or businesses is not anticipated.

4.4.3.2 Mitigative Measures Since no relocations will occur, no mitigative measures are required.

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

Noise is measured in units of decibels (dB) on a logarithmic scale. Because human hearing is not equally sensitive to all frequencies of sound, certain frequencies are given more “weight.” The A- weighted (dBA) scale corresponds to the sensitivity range for human hearing. Noise levels capable of being heard by humans are measured in dBA, the A-weighted sound level recorded in units of decibels. A noise level change of 3-dBA is imperceptible to human hearing. A 5-dBA change in noise level, however, is clearly noticeable. A 10-dBA change in noise levels is perceived as a doubling of noise loudness, while a 20-dBA change is considered a dramatic change in loudness. Table 8 shows noise levels associated with common, everyday sources, and places the magnitude of noise levels discussed here in context.

Table 8 Common Noise Sources and Levels

Sound Pressure Level (dB) Typical Sources

120 Jet aircraft takeoff at 100 feet 110 Same aircraft at 400 feet 90 Motorcycle at 25 feet 80 Garbage disposal 70 City street corner 60 Conversational speech 50 Typical office

40 Living room (without TV) 30 Quiet bedroom at night

Source: Environmental Impact Analysis Handbook, ed. by Rau and Wooten, 1980

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Minnesota Rule 7030.0040 establishes standards to regulate noise levels by land use types. Land uses such as picnic areas, churches or commercial land are assigned to an activity category based on the type of activities occurring in each respective land use. Activity categories are then sorted based on their sensitivity to traffic noise. The Noise Area Classification (NAC) is listed in the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) noise regulations (Minnesota Rule 7030.0050) to define the categories. Table 9 identifies the established noise standards for daytime and nighttime grouped by NAC.

Table 9 Noise Standards by Noise Area Classification

Noise Area Daytime Nighttime Classification L50 L10 L50 L10 1 60 65 50 55 2 65 70 65 70 3 75 80 75 80

4.4.4.1 Potential Impacts There will be two potential sources of audible noise from the Project; the conductors and the new Yankee Substation. Although improvements will be made at the existing Buffalo Ridge and White substations, existing noise levels will not increase at either of these locations.

Conductor Noise The noise levels from the proposed line are comparable to the existing noise levels and will not have a significant impact on humans or the environment. Noise emission from a transmission line occurs during heavy rain and wet conductor conditions. In foggy, damp, or rainy weather conditions, power lines can create a crackling sound due to the small amount of electricity ionizing the moist air near the wires. During heavy rain the general background noise level is usually greater than the noise from the transmission line and few people are out near the line. As a result, people do not normally notice audible noise from a transmission line during heavy rain. During light rain, dense fog, snow, and other times when there is moisture in the air, transmission lines will produce audible noise at approximately household background levels. During dry weather, audible noise from transmission lines is barely perceptible.

Corona on transmission line conductors can generate electromagnetic noise that can cause interference with radio waves (primarily with AM radio stations and the video portion of TV signals)

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depending on the frequency and strength of a radio and television signal. Although radio and television interference sometimes occurs, Xcel Energy investigates all such problems and corrects those problems caused by Xcel Energy facilities. Xcel Energy does not expect that there will be any impacts from the operation of the new line.

Substation Noise Generally, noise levels during operation and maintenance of a substation are minimal. Transformers at substations produce noise under certain conditions. The level of noise, or its loudness, depends on conductor conditions, voltage level and weather conditions. The Project will not add any transformers to either Buffalo Ridge or White substations. As proposed, the new Yankee Substation will contain four transformers. Xcel Energy anticipates adding two new circuit breakers to the Buffalo Ridge substation and one new circuit breaker to the White substation. Xcel Energy does not anticipate that the addition of this equipment will increase the noise level at either location. The new Yankee substation and improvements at all substations will be designed and constructed to comply with state noise standards.

Residences are the nearest receptors to the substations and would fall under NAC 1. The nearest receptor to the Buffalo Ridge Substation is a residence located approximately 1280 feet west of the substation.

The nearest receptors to each of the proposed Yankee Substation sites are homes. Table 10 identifies the location of noise receptors in relation to each alternative substation site.

Table 10 Location of Noise Receptors by Substation Site

Site Nearest Receptor Distance Direction Mitigating Features

1 Home 1110 NW N/A 2 Home 2700 E N/A 3 Home 1700 E Trees

4 Home 1730 NE Trees 5 Home 800 N Trees

Because of the considerable distance from all potential substation sites to nearby receptors, impacts from noise will be minimal.

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4.4.4.2 Mitigative Measures No mitigative measures are necessary since there will be nominal corona or noise impacts from the Project. If radio or television interference occurs because of the power line, Xcel Energy will work with the affected landowner to mitigate the problems so that reception is restored.

Transformers located at the substations will comply with all industry noise standards; no further mitigation will be required.

4.4.5 AESTHETICS Transmission lines and substations alter the visual landscape. Aesthetic impacts, to a certain extent, differ according to an individual’s values.

4.4.5.1 Potential Impacts The proposed transmission line will be single steel poles between 80 and 90 feet tall depending upon the segment (see Table 4 for structure details by segment) spaced approximately 400 to 600 feet apart. The ROW required for the transmission line is approximately 75 feet when the transmission line runs cross-country or 42.5 feet when the transmission line parallels existing road ROW, as it does for most of its length. The proposed line will contrast with the open agricultural areas that dominate the landscape in the Project area and will be visible to those traveling on highways, county and township roads. Isolated trees may need to be removed for the Project, but the proposed line will not require large-scale tree clearing. The Project landscape is already dotted with wind turbines and 34.5 kV feeder lines, reducing the potential for visual intrusion from the Project. Turbines near the route are approximately three times as tall as the transmission line poles that will be used for the project and for most of the route the aesthetic impact from the transmission line will not be significant.

The area where the aesthetic impact from the route will be noticeable is in the Hole-in-the Mountain WMA and Prairie area. The Project would remove approximately 1.4 miles of the existing Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV transmission line in the Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA. Removal of this manmade feature would enhance the natural character of the DNR’s Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA and the Nature Conservancy’s Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie.

The new line constructed to the east and the south of the WMA would produce some aesthetic impact to the WMA and a minimal aesthetic impact to the Nature Conservancy’s Prairie area.

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Substations The aesthetic impact from the expansion of the Buffalo Ridge Substation will be minimal. The Yankee Substation will require the development of approximately five to twelve acres of land that is currently farmed, and the area will change from cultivated fields to a more industrial character.

4.4.5.2 Mitigative Measures Routing the line parallel to existing road and distribution ROW will help to minimize the Project’s visual disruption to the landscape. Where possible, the route was chosen to parallel existing road ROW. The entire length of the proposed route parallels existing road ROW.

The removal of approximately 1.4 miles of the existing Lake Yankton – Pipestone 115 kV transmission line from the Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA and Prairie would enhance the natural character of the DNR’s Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA and the Nature Conservancy’s Hole-in-the- Mountain Prairie. Xcel Energy estimates that these mitigative measures will add approximately $393,000 to the Project cost; approximately $49,000 to remove this portion of the Minnesota Valley – Pipestone and approximately $344,000 more than the cost of a single circuit line to construct a 1.7 mile double circuit segment around the Hole-in-the-Mountain area.

Although the new line will be a contrast to surrounding land uses, Xcel Energy has identified routes that utilize existing corridors to the greatest extent practicable. Xcel Energy will work with landowners to identify concerns related to the transmission line and aesthetics.

The new Yankee Substation is located in a sparsely populated area to minimize aesthetic impact.

4.4.6 SOCIOECONOMIC U.S. Census data shows the population in Lincoln County split between rural residents and those living within incorporated municipalities, although no towns in Lincoln County meet the U.S. Census definition of an urban area (population > 2,500). According to the 2000 U.S. Census, Lake Benton is the largest city in the Project area (Table 11). Population in the region is relatively unchanged from the 1990 Census.

According to the 2000 Census race demographics, 98.8 percent of Lincoln County residents and 96.4 percent Brookings County identified themselves as white. Minority groups in the area constitute a very small percentage of the total population of the area and none of the communities within the Project area contain disproportionately high proportions of minority or low-income populations.

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Table 11 Population and Economic Characteristics

Population Population Per Capita Percentage of Population Location 1990 2000 Income Below Poverty Level Lincoln County 6890 6,429 $16, 009 9.7 Lake Benton City 703 Lake Benton Township 234 244 Drammen Township 180 141 Verdi Township 234 240 Brookings County 25,179 28,200 $17,586 14.0 White City 530 6.3 Source: 2000 U.S. Census: General Demographic Characteristics

Approximately 12% of all individuals in the two counties of the Project corridor are considered below poverty level (Table 11).

According to the 2001 County Business Patterns U.S. Census, the major employers in Lincoln County are health services, retail and wholesale trade. In Brookings County the industries with the largest number of employees are manufacturing, (particularly food and food products, instruments, and metal products), retail trade and services, particularly health services.

4.4.6.1 Potential Impacts Short-term impacts to socioeconomic resources will be relatively minor. The construction, operation and maintenance of the transmission line will not have a significant effect on agricultural operations. Xcel Energy estimates that approximately 58 acres of agricultural land will be temporarily impacted by the Project and 13 acres will be permanently removed from production. Project construction will not cause additional permanent impacts to other industries within the Project area.

The relatively short-term nature of the Project construction and the number of workers who will be hired from outside of the Project area should result in short-term positive economic impacts in the form of increased spending on lodging, meals and other consumer goods and services. Xcel Energy anticipates that the Project will create temporary construction jobs that will provide a one-time influx of income to the area, but no new permanent jobs. The number of people Xcel Energy anticipates will be working on the Project is shown in Table 12.

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Table 12 Estimated Numbers of Workers for Construction

Type of Work Number of Employees Comments

Right-of-Way 2 Survey 2 Construction – Foundations 5 Construction – Poles 8-12 Construction – Substation 8-12 Office Personnel 4 Infrequent Visits

There will also be some long-term beneficial impacts from the new lines. These benefits include an increase to the counties’ tax base resulting from the incremental increase in revenues from utility property taxes based on the value of the Project. The availability of reliable power in the area will have a positive effect on local businesses and the quality of service provided to the general public. This transmission line will improve the capability of local wind generators to transport energy generated in the region. This in turn may increase the amount of wind development in the area and will contribute to the local economy through easement dollars and taxes generated due to wind farm construction and operation. The establishment of this area of Minnesota as an important producer of alternative energy sources, primarily wind, may also spur the development of wind-related businesses in the area, in turn contributing to economic growth in the region.

The development of wind energy in this region has been important in diversifying and strengthening the economic base of southwestern Minnesota. Northwest Economic Associates prepared a report, Assessing the Economic Development Impacts of Wind Power, that includes a case study of the Lake Benton I wind project in Lincoln County, Minnesota. The study stated that the Lake Benton I development in Lincoln County generated a total of eight jobs (direct, indirect and induced) and $98,000 in personal income from the construction phase, and a total of 31 jobs and $909,000 annually from the operation and maintenance phase.

This analysis by Northwest Economic Associates discusses the limited amount of local accommodations available in Lincoln County. As a result, Lincoln County may not have been able to capture as much of the non-resident expenditures as surrounding counties due to a lack of services available. Also, many of the direct effects on the Lincoln County economy were due to expenditures made by non-residents and income received by resident workers benefiting from the construction of the turbines. The report did not analyze effects on surrounding counties. However, it is likely that the larger towns near Lake Benton, such as Pipestone and Marshall, may have indirectly benefited from the construction of Lake Benton I.

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The Lake Benton I wind facility is designed for 20 years of operation. The major sectors affected by the Lake Benton I wind development are the trade and service sectors. In addition to the creation of jobs and personal income, the development generated $611,200 in county property taxes in 2000, representing thirteen percent of the property taxes collected in Lincoln County.

A joint report by the Minnesota Project, Windustry and Southwest Regional Development Commission stated that each 100 MW of new wind development in southwest Minnesota could be expected to generate about $250,000 per year in direct lease payments to landowners. Property taxes on wind facilities are changing as a result of tax changes enacted in 2002 by the State legislature. For example, a 100 MW wind facility will generate approximately $370,000 annually in tax revenue for the entire life of the project.

If local contractors are used for portions of the construction, total wages and salaries paid to contractors and workers in Lincoln and Brookings Counties will contribute to the total personal income of the region. Additional personal income will be generated for residents in both counties and the state by circulation and recirculation of dollars paid out by the applicant as business expenditures and state and local taxes.

Expenditures made for equipment, energy, fuel, operating supplies and other products and services benefit businesses in the counties and the state. Indirect impact may occur through the increased capability of the electric system to supply energy to commercial and industrial users, which will contribute to the economic growth of the region.

4.4.6.2 Mitigative Measures Socioeconomic impacts resulting from the Project will be primarily positive with an influx of wages and expenditures made at local businesses during the Project construction and increased tax revenue over the life of the Project. By supporting the existing wind generation in Lincoln County and the surrounding area, the Project will help to retain the jobs that have been created through wind development. Mitigative measures are not necessary.

4.4.7 CULTURAL VALUES Cultural values include those perceived community beliefs or attitudes in a given area, which provide a framework for each social group’s unity. The economy of the Project area depends mostly on agricultural opportunities. The area’s links to agriculture are reflected in the county’s comprehensive plan. The Lincoln County Comprehensive Sustainable Development Plan states that “Agriculture is the number one land use and the economic engine for the county. Agricultural production at all scales needs to be protected as a natural resource and an economic resource that fuels the county economy. Lincoln County’s past and future is linked to agriculture.”

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Lincoln County was the site of the first large scale wind farms in Minnesota and Lake Benton identifies itself as the “Windpower Capital” of the American Midwest. Residents of Lincoln County also value their pioneer roots and the history surrounding their settlement on the prairie.

4.4.7.1 Potential Impacts The Project will support the wind development in Lincoln County and the surrounding area.

4.4.7.2 Mitigative Measures No impacts are anticipated; therefore, no mitigative measures are required.

4.4.8 RECREATION There are a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities in the Project area, including: cross- country and downhill skiing, snowmobiling, biking, hiking, canoeing, boating, fishing, camping, equestrian riding, swimming, hunting and nature observation. Appendix D shows the locations of recreation and wildlife areas within the proposed Project vicinity. The Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie, managed by the Nature Conservancy is located near the Project corridor. There are two WMAs located within one mile of the proposed route. The Prairie Highland Loop bike trail is a 68-mile that runs between Lake Benton and Split Rock State Park. The route uses existing highways and county roads, and parallels the proposed route for a portion along Lincoln CR 9 between US 75 and the Buffalo Ridge Substation.

4.4.8.1 Potential Impacts No direct impacts to area recreation are anticipated. The proposed transmission line will be visible from the Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie, the Hole-in-the Mountain and Altona WMAs and the Prairie Highland Loop bike trail in the Lake Benton area but will not interfere with the use of those recreational resources.

4.4.8.2 Mitigative Measures With the exception of aesthetics, discussed in section 4.2.5.2, no other mitigation is necessary to address impacts to recreation.

4.4.9 PUBLIC SERVICES Lake Benton is the only city within the immediate vicinity of the Project. Lake Benton has a police department, first response unit and a fire department, consisting of community volunteers. These three departments are responsible for the safety of residents residing in Lake Benton and the surrounding communities. Other services offered include one public library, a post office and a school which covers grades K-12.

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4.4.10 POTENTIAL IMPACTS No impacts are anticipated to public services along the Project corridor.

4.4.10.1 Mitigative Measures Because there will be no impacts to public services from the Project, no mitigation is necessary.

4.5 LAND-BASED ECONOMICS

4.5.1 AGRICULTURE According to the 2002 Census of Agriculture, there were 761 farms in Lincoln County in 2002, 482 of those operated as full-time farms. The average size of farms Lincoln County is 357 acres.

In 2001, Lincoln County was ranked 50th among Minnesota counties in the amount of revenue generated from the agricultural products they produce, earning over 94 million dollars in the year 2000. Crops consist mostly of corn and soybeans and livestock in the county consists of hogs and cattle. According to the 2003 Minnesota Agricultural Statistics Bulletin, soybeans and corn comprise the majority of cropland harvested in 2002, approximately 44 percent and 37 percent respectively, in Lincoln County. Lincoln County ranks 31st in the number of hogs produced and 29th in the number of beef cows.

4.5.1.1 Potential Impacts The Project will result in permanent and temporary impacts to farmland. Permanent impacts will occur as a result of the new Yankee Substation, the expansion of the Buffalo Ridge Substation and pole placement along the route of the line (see Figure 9). Xcel Energy estimates permanent impacts to agricultural lands at approximately 13 acres for the entire Project: 12 acres for the Yankee Substation; 0.7 acres from expansion of the Buffalo Ridge Substation; and, 0.3 acres from permanent pole placement. During construction, temporary impacts such as soil compaction and crop damages within the ROW are likely to occur.

Xcel Energy estimates approximately 51 acres of agricultural land will be impacted temporarily by the proposed Project. Appendix F describes the land use impacts for the route in more detail.

4.5.1.2 Mitigative Measures The route was chosen to minimize the impacts to farmland in the Project vicinity by paralleling existing road ROW wherever possible. Wherever possible poles will be placed close to the field margins and adjacent to the fence, approximately five feet from the highway ROW, to minimize loss of farmland, and to ensure reasonable access to the land near the poles. Xcel Energy will attempt to

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construct the transmission line before crops are planted. Xcel Energy will compensate landowners for crop damage and soil compaction that occurs as a result of the Project. Soil compaction will be addressed by compensating the farmer to repair the ground or by using contractors to come in and chisel plow the site.

Figure 9 Permanent Impact Area

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4.5.2 FORESTRY The Project will be built in what was historically the prairie grassland region of Minnesota. The primary cover within the Project area consists of agricultural cropland, pastures, prairie grasses and flowers. There are no forested lands of economic importance in the Project area. There are scattered woodlots within the Project area, primarily in farmsteads and along creek bottoms.

4.5.2.1 Potential Impacts There are no forested land based economies within the Project vicinity that will be affected.

4.5.2.2 Mitigative Measures No mitigative measures will be necessary.

4.5.3 TOURISM Lake Benton features winter tourist attractions such as downhill skiing, snowmobiling and ice fishing. Nearby Hole in the Mountain County Park, Lakeside Park and Norwegian Creek Park offer camping, fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Other city sites include the historic Lake Benton Opera House, offering dramatic and musical productions and a variety of specialty shops that provide plenty of things to do near the scenic lake area. Community history is expressed in festivals such as the Saddle Horse Holiday/Heritage Homecoming and Benton/Fremont days which pay tribute to the explorers of the area.

The city also offers visitors the opportunity to learn more regarding wind turbines and renewable energy at the Lake Benton Heritage Center. The center, which is operated by the Lake Benton Area Historical Society, includes a visitor center, museum and wind power learning center.

The Prairie Passageway route, which passes through the region of Minnesota once covered in tallgrass prairie, passes through the Project area along U.S. Highway 75. The goal of the Prairie Passageway program is to protect and promote awareness of the remaining native grasses and wildflowers along roadside right-of-ways, to plant and restore the native grasses and wildflowers and to explain the history of the prairie in relation to the Native Americans and early settlers who inhabited the area. The Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie is a Prairie Passage Site along the Passageway route.

4.5.3.1 Potential Impacts No impacts to area tourism are anticipated from the presence of the line. The removal of the line through the Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie will help to visually enhance this site along the Prairie Passageway.

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4.5.3.2 Mitigative Measures No mitigative measures are anticipated in regard to tourism.

4.5.4 MINING The surficial deposits in the Project corridor are primarily end moraine and glacial outwash sediments associated with the Bemis End Moraine. The moraine deposits consist of silty, calcareous, shale-rich till. Sand and gravel lenses are buried at various depths within the till. In the western portion of the Project corridor, the end moraine tills are overlain with a thin covering of loess deposits. In the vicinity of Flandreau Creek, glacial outwash deposits are present in a narrow strip oriented northeast to southwest. The outwash consists of mostly shallow, bouldery, sands and gravels within the glacial outwash channels.

The depth to bedrock generally ranges from 400- to 600-feet in the Project corridor. The uppermost bedrock consists of Cretaceous bedrock made up primarily of shale and siltstone with some sandstone near the base of the unit. The sandstone beds, basal sandstone derived from the weathering of the underlying Precambrian bedrock, are thin and patchy and may range in thickness from 0 to 100 feet. The maximum thickness of the Cretaceous bedrock in this region is approximately 600 feet.

The Precambrian Sioux Quartzite underlies the Cretaceous bedrock and occurs at an elevation approximately 1100-ft AMSL. The quartzite surface is weathered in the uppermost region and is generally permeable. The unit is characterized as red and purple to light gray quartzite interbedded with red mudstone.

Mineral resources in the Project area consist of shallow sand and gravel deposits associated with the glacial outwash channels. Two active and one inactive gravel pits are located ½- to 1½-miles south of the Project corridor in the vicinity of Flandreau Creek. Underlying bedrock occurs at depths that are not economical for extraction.

4.5.4.1 Potential Impacts The proposed transmission line will not impact active sand or gravel mining operations.

4.5.4.2 Mitigative Measures No mitigative measures are necessary because the Project will not impact any active sand or gravel pits.

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4.6 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORIC RESOURCES

In the Paleoindian period (circa 10,000 to 6,000 BCE), migratory groups of people moved into what would become Minnesota as the glaciers retreated. These people were likely highly mobile, hunting large herding mammals such as elk, mammoth and now-extinct forms of large bison and also likely relied on smaller game, fish and native plants.

In the following Archaic period (circa 6000 to 800 BCE), inhabitants continued to hunt large game but appear to have been less nomadic than the Paleoindian peoples. They also developed and advanced techniques associated hunting, trapping, fishing, foraging, woodworking and plant processing. Settlements were often along lakes and rivers.

In the Woodland period (circa 800 BCE to historic contact) plant domestication was beginning. Settlement continued to focus on bodies of water. The development of pottery and use of burial mounds occurred during this time.

In the late Woodland period, most of the southern peoples in Minnesota transitioned to a way of life more typical of the Mississippian societies to the south. A primary characteristic of these Mississippian groups was the cultivation of corn. Again, the main settlements appeared to have been along major rivers or other water bodies. These newly emergent cultures appear to have been the predecessors of the Native Americans present at the time of first European contact.

The first Europeans to travel into southwestern Minnesota were likely French fur trappers and traders in the late 1600’s or early 1700’s. Joseph H. Nicollet and John C. Fremont, who traveled through the area in 1838, were the first explorers to leave a record of the area.

Settlers, many from Iceland, Denmark and Norway, began moving into the area in the 1860s. The arrival of the railroad in 1879 helped settlement really take root.

4.6.1.1 Potential Impacts Xcel Energy sent a letter to the Minnesota SHPO requesting a review of the proposed Project for known archaeological and historic resources within the Project area. The SHPO responded that a search of the current SHPO databases did not identify any known historical or architectural resources within one mile of the proposed route. Five archaeological site locations were identified within one mile of the proposed route. A copy of the SHPO response is attached in Appendix H.

The database search represents only known and recorded archaeological sites and historic architectural properties from the current SHPO databases and does not include an assessment for

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archaeological site potential or provide a listing of all potential historic architectural properties. Xcel Energy will evaluate whether further investigation of these sites is necessary.

4.6.1.2 Mitigative Measures No impacts are anticipated; therefore, no mitigation is needed.

4.7 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

4.7.1 AIR QUALITY Currently, both state and federal governments have regulations regarding permissible concentrations of ozone and oxides of nitrogen. The national standard is 0.08 ppm on an eight-hour averaging period. The state standard is 0.08 ppm based upon the fourth-highest eight-hour daily maximum average in one year. The substation as designed will generate less corona and less ozone than the transmission lines due to the use of larger conductors which results in a lower conductor surface gradient and less ozone generation than the transmission line.

4.7.1.1 Potential Impacts Temporary impacts will occur in areas where Xcel Energy is actively constructing the transmission line.

4.7.1.2 Mitigative Measures Xcel Energy will employ best management practices to minimize the amount of fugitive dust created by the construction process.

4.7.2 WATER QUALITY The Project is located in the Redwood River, Big Sioux River (Medary), and Big Sioux River (Pipestone) major surface water watersheds. Individual stream and ditch crossings are listed in Table 13. The last column of the table indicates whether the body of water crossed is identified as a DNR Public Water (PWI) on the Public Waters Inventory Maps. Public waters are designated to indicate which lakes, wetlands and watercourses the DNR has regulatory jurisdiction. The statutory definition of public waters can be found in MN Stat. §103G.005, Subdivisions 15 and 15a. There are no USFWS Waterfowl Production Areas near the Route.

Along the proposed Route the line will span eight wetlands identified by the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). Many of these wetlands are hydrologically connected to area rivers and streams. The wetlands identified on the NWI maps do not necessarily represent the actual wetlands subject to protection under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and under the Minnesota Wetland

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Conservation Act. Both the PWI and NWI information related to the proposed route is identified on the maps in Appendix E.

Table 13 Water Crossings by Segment

Segment Waterbody Name # of Crossings1 Public Water

A Tributary to East Branch of Flandreau Creek 1 X

C Flandreau Creek 1 X

C Tributary to Flandreau Creek 1 X

D Tributary to Willow Creek 1

E Spring Creek 1 X

E Tributary to Spring Creek 1

E Medary Creek 1 X

E Tributary to Medary Creek 9 X (3 crossings)

F Tributary to Medary Creek 4 X (1 crossing) 1 Indicates multiple crossings of the same stream.

4.7.2.1 Potential Impacts During construction there is the possibility of sediment reaching surface waters as the ground is disturbed by excavation, grading and construction traffic. However, once the Project is completed, it will have no impact on surface water quality.

Temporary impacts to wetlands may occur if these areas need to be crossed during construction of the transmission line. Permanent impacts to wetlands are possible along segments C and E. Xcel Energy will attempt to span any wetlands along these segments. Use of H-frame structures will allow for a longer span, 900 feet, than the single steel poles. However, due to the width of the wetlands, spanning them may not be an option. If this is the case, it is anticipated that a maximum of two poles may be placed in these wetlands, resulting approximately 120 ft2 (0.003 acres) of permanent impact.

4.7.2.2 Mitigative Measures Xcel Energy will maintain sound water and soil conservation practices during construction and operation of the Project to protect topsoil and adjacent water resources and minimize soil erosion. Practices may include containing excavated material, protecting exposed soil and stabilizing restored soil. The Company will avoid major disturbance of individual wetlands and drainage systems during

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construction. This will be done by spanning wetlands and drainage systems where possible. When it is not possible to span the wetland, Xcel Energy will draw on several options during construction to minimize impacts:

♦ When possible, construction will be scheduled during frozen ground conditions. ♦ Crews will attempt to access the wetland with the least amount of physical impact to the wetland (i.e., shortest route). ♦ The structures will be assembled on upland areas before they are brought to the site for installation. ♦ When construction during winter is not possible, construction mats will be used where wetlands would be impacted (see Figure 10). ♦ A final method to reduce impacts to wetlands is to use helicopters to access the site. This option will not be utilized for this Project. Since it is very costly, it is only used in cases of large, remote wetlands that are difficult to access and winter construction cannot be scheduled.

Figure 10 Construction Mats

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4.7.3 FLORA Much of the land adjacent to the proposed Route is cultivated land. The areas known as Hole-in- the-Mountain WMA and Prairie are an obvious exception to the surrounding agricultural land and is representative of what was historically part of the prairie grassland region of Minnesota. Other areas that may contain native species are areas near streams and rivers.

Typically the cultivated landscape includes crops such as corn and soybean. The field margins are populated primarily by common weeds such as brome grass (Bromus inermis), ragweeds (Ambrosia spp.), thistles (Cirsium spp.), stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), smartweeds (Polygonum spp.) and others. There are several well-established woodlots that are associated with homesteads along the proposed Route. These woodlots are comprised of trees typical of the Project area, such as evergreens and box elder (Acer negundo).

Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA and Prairie are primarily a dry prairie (southwest) hill subtype but also has portions that could be classified as mesic prairie. Typically dry prairies can be characterized as having big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) present in the community, with mid-height and short grasses and sedges dominating, whereas mesic prairies are dominated primarily by grasses. Typical species found in dry prairies are porcupine grass (Stipa spartea), little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), side-oats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula), prairie june-grass (Koeleria macrantha), and sun- loving sedge (Carex helophila). For the hill subtype, prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis), Indian grass (Sorgastrum nutans), and big bluestem are important species. Forbs that are common in this type of prairie are goldenrods (Solidago spp.), purple coneflower (Echinacea angustifoloia), aromatic aster (Aster oblongifolius), plains paintbrush (Castilleja sessiliflora), small white beard-tongue (Penstemon albidus), locoweed (Oxytropis lambertii), and milk-vetch (Astragalus adsurgens), among others. Mesic prairies typically have grasses such as big bluestem, prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis), little bluestem, porcupine grass, switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), and prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata).

The Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA and Prairie has ten species of trees and shrubs, 200 species of wildflowers, and over 60 species of grasses, sedges, and rushes. These lands were historically grazed by sheep and cattle, and the upland flats were cultivated. Within these areas the DNR has identified a well-established sedge meadow. Sedge meadows are dominated by sedges that grow on saturated soils. Plants normally found in sedge meadows include species of the genera Carex, Eleocharis, Scirpus, Cyperus and Juncus. Grasses may also be present in these habitats.

On the west side of the railroad near the Hole-in-the-Mountain areas, there are documented railroad prairie fragments. These fragments were identified as part of a state-wide project documenting prairies in railroad rights-of-way. The edge of Segment D will parallel with these documented fragments for approximately 1800 feet.

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The Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA and Prairie both have several types of documented flora listed as State endangered, threatened or special concern species. Details on these species are presented in Section 4.9.

4.7.3.1 Potential Impacts Flora within habitats along most of the Project corridor are typical of what will be found in an agricultural setting. Since the Project will occur along roads and agricultural lands that have been previously disturbed, no impacts to native vegetation are anticipated.

4.7.3.2 Mitigative Measures Xcel Energy has discussed impacts associated with the Project in the Hole-in-the-Mountain area with DNR and Nature Conservancy representatives (see Sections 5.1.1 and 5.2.2). The Company will continue to work with these parties to minimize and avoid impacts to sensitive flora along this portion of the Route. Xcel Energy will survey the route for threatened and endangered species prior to construction. The line will be designed to avoid any known locations and measures to avoid known species will be icorpoation into construction plans. Areas disturbed due to construction activities will be restored to pre-construction contours and will be seeded with a seed mix recommended by the local DNR management.

4.7.4 FAUNA Although most of the land adjacent to the proposed route is cultivated, there are several WMAs and a native prairie restoration in the Project area that provide habitat to a variety of animal species.

Most of the route is adjacent to cultivated land, which does not provide cover for the common organisms known to inhabit Minnesota. The primary habitats in these areas that would be used by organisms known to occur in this region are fallow farm fields, fencerows, and woodlots. A list of organisms known to occur in habitats of this region of Minnesota is included as Appendix J.

The Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA and Prairie provide a large prairie remnant habitat for organisms dependent on plant species found in the prairie. Both the DNR and the Nature Conservancy have worked to restore and maintain these areas as habitat for fauna dependent upon prairie. Butterflies are a good example of the types of organisms that are dependent on the prairie to survive both in the larval and adult stages of their life. The larvae of butterflies use their host plant as a food source during their development. Table 14 identifies the endangered, threatened and special concern butterfly species that have been identified in these managed areas, the preferred habitat of the adult and the host plant that is important for the larvae’s survival.

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Table 14 Butterflies Identified in the Hole-in-the-Mountain Area

Common Scientific Habitat Host Plant Name Name

Relatively undisturbed grasslands, Arogos Atrytone Big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii); prairies, sand prairies, and serpentine Skipper arogos likely other native grasses barrens Rolling hills of native tall-grass prairie Little bluestem (Andropogon scoparius), Dakota Hesperia and flat and moist native bluestem bluegrass (Poa pratensis), and panic Skipper dacotae prairie grass (Panicum spp.) Ottoe Fall witchgrass (Leptoloma cognatum), Hesperia ottoe Native tall-grass prairie Skipper little bluestem, and other grasses Hesperia Various perennial grasses including little Pawnee Open grassy areas including native leonardus bluestem, blue grama (Bouteloua Skipper prairies, fields, barrens, and meadows pawnee gracilis) and bent grass (Agrostis spp.) Poweshiek Oarisma Undisturbed remnants of native tall- Spikerush (Eleocharis elliptica) Skipper poweshiek grass prairie Tall-grass prairie and other open sites Regal Violets including bird’s foot violet (Viola Speyeria idalia including damp meadows, marshes, Fritillary pedata) wet fields, and mountain pastures Uncas Hesperia Short-grass prairie, sagebrush, open Blue grama grass (Bouteloua gracilis) Skipper uncas woodland and needlegrass (Stipa spp.)

4.7.4.1 Potential Impacts There is minimal potential for the displacement of wildlife and loss of habitat from construction of the Project. Wildlife that inhabit natural areas could be impacted in the short term within the immediate area of construction. The distance that animals will be displaced will depend on the species. Additionally, these animals will be typical of those found in agricultural and urban settings, and should not incur population level effects due to construction.

Impacts to the butterflies known to occur within the Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie and WMA are possible. These butterflies could be impacted either physically or by damaging their habitat or host plant during construction. No impacts are anticipated after the transmission line has been installed.

Raptors, waterfowl and other bird species may also be affected by the construction and placement of the transmission lines. Avian collisions are a possibility after the completion of the transmission line. Waterfowl are typically more susceptible to transmission line collision, especially if the line is placed between agricultural fields that serve as feeding areas, or between wetlands and open water, which serve as resting areas.

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Additionally, electrocution of large birds, such as raptors, is a concern related to distribution lines. Electrocution occurs when birds with large wingspans come in contact with either two conductors or a conductor and a grounding device. Xcel Energy transmission line design standards provide adequate spacing to eliminate the risk of raptor electrocution. As such, electrocution is not a concern related to the proposed Project.

Raptors may use the davit arm transmission structures as perches while scouting for food. Concerns have been raised in some circumstances that the raptors could impact the prairie nesting bird population due to this. There are few studies on this issue and no consistent position by the agencies. The proposed route will not go through any major prairie bird nesting area and should not provide an opportunity for raptors to predate those types of birds more than normal.

4.7.4.2 Mitigative Measures Throughout the routing process Xcel Energy representatives met and corresponded with staff from the Minnesota DNR and the Nature Conservancy about routing issues in the vicinity of the Hole-in- the-Mountain area.

To mitigate possible impacts to the butterfly populations in the Hole-in-the-Mountain areas, Xcel Energy will identify and avoid areas known to be important to species at the site. Additionally, the Company will use mats to avoid compacting the soils. Areas disturbed due to construction activities will be restored to pre-construction contours and will be seeded with a DNR recommended seed mix.

Xcel Energy has been working with various state and federal agencies over the past twenty years to address avian issues. Company personnel work to address problem areas as quickly and efficiently as possible. In 2002, Xcel Energy Inc.’s operating companies including Xcel Energy, entered into a voluntary memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work together to address avian issues throughout its territory. This includes the development of avian protection plans (APP) for each state Xcel Energy Inc. serves. Currently, Xcel Energy, Inc. is finalizing the APP for Colorado and will begin work on other states soon. Standard reporting methods of avian issues were also developed as a part of this agreement.

The primary methods Xcel Energy uses to address avian issues for transmission projects include:

♦ Working with the DNR to identify any areas that may require marking transmission line shield wires and/or to use alternate structures to reduce the likelihood of collisions; and,

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♦ Attempting to avoid areas known as major flyways or migratory resting spots. These sites are identified through consultation with the local resource agencies managing those areas.

Xcel Energy has had success in reducing collisions on transmission lines by marking the shield wires with swan flight diverters (SFD). SFDs are preformed spiral shaped devices made of polyvinyl chloride that are wrapped around the shield wire (Figure 11). Xcel Energy will work with the DNR and the Nature Conservancy to determine whether SFDs or other types of avian collision markers should be used when the line is constructed.

Figure 11 Swan Flight Diverter

Since the transmission line will not go through any major prairie bird nesting areas, measures to minimize raptor perching on this line will not be pursued.

4.8 RARE AND UNIQUE NATURAL RESOURCES

Table 15 lists the rare or unique resources identified within one mile of the Project area. These resources were identified using the DNR Natural Heritage Database.

Many of the rare and unique resources identified within the Project area are associated with remnants of prairie land, which were once abundant in this area of Minnesota. Approximately 99 percent of the prairie that was present in the State before settlement has been destroyed and one- third of Minnesota’s endangered, threatened and special concern species are dependent on the fragments of prairie that remain.

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The Project is located within a “known concentration” area of Blanding’s Turtles (Emydoidea blndingii), a state threatened species.

Table 15 Rare and Unique Resources

Number of Federal MN State Common Name Scientific Name Occurrences Status1 Status2 Rank3

Dakota Skipper 9 Hesperia dacotae THR S2 Ottoe Skipper 4 Hesperia ottoe THR S2 Arogos Skipper 2 Atrytone arogos SPC S3 Small-leaved Pussytoes 1 Antennaria parvifolia SPC S3 Red Threeawn 2 Aristida purpurea v. longiseta SPC S3 Low Milk Vetch 1 Astragalus lotriflorus Non SU Upland Sandpiper 1 Bartramia longicauda Non S4 Prairie Moonwort 1 Botrychium campestre SPC S3 Plains Reedgrass 1 Calamagrostis montanensis SPC S3 Small White Lady’s-Slipper 1 Cypripedium candidum SPC S3 Dry Prairie (Southwest) Hill 1 S3 Subtype A species of jumping spider 1 Habronattus taxanus SPC S3 Pawnee Skipper 2 Hesperia leonardus pawnee SPC S3 Uncas Skipper 1 Hesperia uncas END S1 Topeka Shiner 1 Nostropis topeka LE SPC S3 Powesheik Skipper 9 Oarisma powesheik SPC S3 A species of jumping spider 1 Phidippus pius SPC S3 Richardson’s Ground Squirrel 1 Spermophilus richarsonii Non S? Regal Fritillary 6 Speyeria idalia SPC S3 Soft Goldenrod 1 Solidago mollis SPC S3

1) LT: Listed Threatened LE: Listed Endangered 2) THR: Threatened SPC: Special Concern 3) State Rank: A rank assigned to the natural community type, which reflects the known extent and condition of that community in Minnesota. Ranks range from 1 (in greatest need of conservation action in the state) to 5 (secure under present conditions)

4.8.1 POTENTIAL IMPACTS A search of the DNR’s Minnesota Natural Heritage Database identified 13 instances of threatened species, one instance of an endangered species and 29 areas of special concern within one mile of the proposed route. Most of the instances identified by the Natural Heritage Database occur within the DNR’s Hole-in-the-Mountain WMA and the Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie managed by the Nature Conservancy. Topeka Shiners, a federally-listed endangered species, have been identified in

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area creeks and were also identified by the Minnesota Natural History Database as occurring within one mile of the proposed route. The Project will span all creeks in the area, and measures will be taken so there will be no impact to the endangered species. No impacts to rare and unique resources are anticipated for the proposed Project. A copy of the Company’s correspondence with these agencies is attached in Appendices H.

In a comment letter on the Project dated June 1, 2004 (See Appendix H), DNR staff expressed concern that the Project may impact prairie communities in the Hole-in-the Mountain area. The DNR letter also noted the presence of Topeka Shiners within several streams that will be crossed by the proposed Project and identified the eastern half of the Project area as within a “known concentration” of Blanding’s Turtles.

The project will cross portions of Medary Creek and its tributary that are listed as Critical Habitat for Topeka Shiners. Topeka Shiners are declining due to water quality changes in habitat due to sedimentation from accelerated soil runoff. Final Designation of critical habitat occurred on July 27, 2004 (50 CFR Part 17) for the Topeka Shiners in Minnesota. Critical habitats are areas designated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service that contain habitat essential for the conservation of a threatened or endangered species that may require special management considerations. The specific reaches of Medary creek that will be crossed are Reach 1a (Medary Creek) and Reach 1b (Unnamed Tributary). Reach 1a is the area from the Minnesota/South Dakota border in Section 13, Township 109N, Range 47W and extends to Section 30, Township 110N, Range 46W. Reach 1b is a tributary of Medary Creek and extends from it’s confluence in Section 18, Township 109N, Range 46W to Section 30, Township 110N, Range 46W.

Impacts to the turtles typically occur through loss of habitat and road kills during seasonal movements between April and November, peaking between June and July and again in September and October. Other potential impacts are by unintentionally trapping turtles in trenches that are created during construction and by not removing fencing (such as silt fencing) near these known concentrations of turtle nests prior to turtle hatchlings leaving the nest.

4.8.2 MITIGATIVE MEASURES Xcel Energy has worked closely with the Minnesota DNR and the Nature Conservancy to identify a route that minimizes impacts to Rare and Unique Natural Resources. Once the route was established, Xcel Energy worked with Minnesota DNR representatives to minimize impact on sensitive natural resources. Xcel Energy will survey for rare and unique natural resources along new right-of-way within the DNR and the Nature Conservancy parcels. Xcel Energy will reseed disturbed areas within the DNR and the Nature Conservancy parcels with native species. Xcel Energy does not anticipate that additional mitigative measures will be necessary.

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Xcel Energy will attempt to span any habitats where aquatic organisms and native prairie fragments have been recorded or could inhabit. All other rare and unique resources will be avoided to the greatest extent practicable. As described in Sections 3.1.5 and 4.7.2.2, Xcel Energy will maintain sound water and soil conservation practices during construction and operation of the Project to protect topsoil and adjacent water resources and minimize soil erosion. The DNR had suggested that any disturbed soil near prairie areas be revegetated with prairie species native to Minnesota. Xcel Energy will work with the DNR to comply with this request where appropriate.

In general, Xcel Energy does not place structures in streams or cross streams with mechanical equipment. Mitigative measures for Topeka shiners will involve measures that will reduce or prevent the amount of sediment reaching adjacent waterways and may include:

♦ Minimizing removal of riparian vegetation. If vegetation must be removed, Xcel Energy will mulch disturbed soils and reseed or stabilize soils promptly following construction to prevent erosion of the stream bank. ♦ Implement the use of erosion and sediment prevention measures such as silt fences. ♦ When construction operations occur over the waterway, Xcel Energy will ensure that the operations are controlled in a manner to prevent materials from falling into the water body. If materials do fall into the water, they will promptly be removed by hand or by equipment working from the stream banks.

Specific mitigative measures related to Blanding’s turtles include:

♦ Xcel Energy will survey the route to determine if any Blanding’s turtles or their habitat is present along the route. ♦ Crews will be provided information on Blanding’s turtles and their habitats. Measures to protect the turtles and their young during nesting and during movements will be provided. This will include reminders that during April and November (especially June, July, September and October) turtles may be present on-site. Also that the DNR flyer for Blanding’s Turtles will be provided to all employees working on the Project. ♦ Employees will be informed to be avoid turtles along the utility access and maintenance roads to reduce road kill potential. ♦ In turtle habitat and presence locations identified during surveys, areas disturbed during construction will be returned to original grade to ensure that any trenches that may have been created will not trap turtles. ♦ Turtle habitat areas will be revegetated with native grasses and forbs.

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5.0 AGENCY INVOLVEMENT, PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND REQUIRED PERMITS AND APPROVALS 5.1 AGENCY CONTACTS

Refer to Appendix H for agency correspondence letters. Several agencies were contacted for their input on the Project.

5.1.1 MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES Beginning in the spring of 2003, Xcel Energy has worked with staff at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to identify routing alternatives that minimize impacts to natural resources. Xcel Energy felt that, particularly given the Project’s proximity to the Hole- in-the-Mountain WMA area, the Project would benefit from DNR input. In addition to working with DNR field staff, the Minnesota DNR Natural Heritage and Non-game Research Program was contacted to review the Project area for State threatened and endangered species and rare natural features.

The Minnesota DNR, Region 4 was contacted to obtain comments on the proposed Project and to clarify DNR property information. Xcel Energy met with the DNR on June 11, 2003 and April 6, 2004 to discuss the Project. DNR staff expressed concern with the proposed Township Road Alternative in letters dated June 1, 2004 and July 28, 2004 (see Appendix H). Xcel Energy has proposed following the Distribution or Feeder Route Alternative preferred by DNR staff.

Coordination with the DNR staff has been positive and Xcel Energy has committed to continue to work with staff on addressing their issues as the Project moves through the design and construction changes.

5.1.2 MINNESOTA SHPO The SHPO was asked to review the proposed Project area for possible effects to known or potential sites of archaeological or historical significance. The SHPO did not identify any known National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) properties but did identify five archaeological site locations within one mile of the proposed route (Appendix H). Xcel Energy will evaluate whether further investigation of these sites is necessary.

5.1.3 USFWS Xcel Energy contacted the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to provide the agency with an opportunity to comment on the Project prior to filing this application. Xcel Energy did not receive a response on this Project prior to filing the application.

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5.1.4 TRIBAL GROUPS When projects require Federal permits, tribes are contacted to comply with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (and its amendments) and 36 CFR 800, procedures on the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. There are no Federal permits anticipated for this Project, but a courtesy contact was made to solicit comments. The following entities representing tribes with interests within the Project area were contacted to obtain comments in relation to the Project:

♦ Flandreau Santee Sioux ♦ Lower Sioux Indian Community Council ♦ Prairie Island Indian Community of Minnesota ♦ Santee Sioux Tribe of Nebraska ♦ Sisseton-Wahpeton Dakota Nation ♦ Spirit Lake Nation ♦ Upper Sioux Community of Minnesota

Xcel Energy did not receive responses on the Project from any of the tribes prior to filing an application.

5.1.5 MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Xcel Energy contacted the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to provide the agency with an opportunity to comment on the transmission line improvements prior to filing this application. Xcel Energy did not receive a response prior to filing the application.

5.1.6 MINNESOTA POLLUTION CONTROL AGENCY Xcel Energy contacted the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to review the Project and provide comments on the transmission line improvements prior to filing this application. Xcel Energy did not receive a response prior to filing the application.

5.2 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

5.2.1 INFORMATION MEETINGS Xcel Energy conducted a public meeting, prior to submission of the route permit application, on April 27, 2004 near Hendricks, Minnesota. Approximately 50 people registered at the meeting. The materials provided at the meeting are provided in Appendix I and included materials describing the Project, right-of-way practices and line design. Route maps were available that showed the proposed

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and rejected routes. Based on comments received at the meeting Xcel Energy made slight modifications to the proposed South Dakota portion of the route and considered, then rejected alternative segment 5.

5.2.2 THE NATURE CONSERVANCY Given the Project’s proximity to the Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie maintained by the Nature Conservancy, Xcel Energy initially contacted the Nature Conservancy in the spring of 2003 to discuss the Project and any concerns that the Nature Conservancy might have about the Project. Xcel Energy has worked with the Nature Conservancy to identify route alternatives in the vicinity of the Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie area.

In a letter dated May 25, 2004, Ron Nargang, State Director of the Nature Conservancy in Minnesota, informed Xcel Energy that the Nature Conservancy expressed strong support for the Option 2, the Distribution or Feeder Line Alternative, which would route the Project south of the DNR WMA. Xcel Energy has proposed following Option 2 alternative for the proposed Project.

5.2.3 IDENTIFICATION OF LAND OWNERS Landowner names are provided in Appendix K. There are 139 landowners along the proposed route included in this application. This list does not include landowners along the rejected route alternatives.

5.3 REQUIRED PERMITS AND APPROVALS

Table 16 shows the permits potentially required for the Project.

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Table 16 Permits that May be Required

Permit Jurisdiction Local Approvals Road Crossing Permits County, Township, City Lands Permits County, Township, City Building Permits County, Township, City Over-width Loads Permits County, Township, City Driveway/Access Permits County, Township, City State of Minnesota Approvals Route Permit Application (Alternative Process) EQB Utility Permit (highway crossings) MNDOT License to Cross Public Waters MN-DNR Division of Lands and Minerals NPDES Permit MPCA Section 401 Water Quality Certification MPCA State of South Dakota Approvals SD PUC Permit SD PUC Federal Approvals Section 404 Approval U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

5.3.1 LOCAL APPROVALS Road Crossing Permits These permits may be required to cross or occupy county, township, and city road ROW.

Lands Permits These permits may be required to occupy county, township, and city lands such as park lands, watershed districts, and other properties owned by these entities.

Building Permits These permits may be required by the local jurisdictions for substation modifications and construction.

Over-width Loads Permits These permits may be required to move over-width loads on county, township, or city roads.

Driveway/Access Permits These permits may be required to construct access roads or driveways from county, township, or city roadways.

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5.3.2 STATE OF MINNESOTA APPROVALS

Route Permit (Alternative Process) A HVTL cannot be constructed without a route permit approved by the EQB. A route permit under the Alternative Process requires the applicant to be eligible as outlined in Minnesota Rules 4400.2000.

Utility Permit A permit from the MNDOT is required for construction, placement, or maintenance of utility lines to be placed adjacent or across the highway ROW. These permits will be acquired once the line design is completed.

License to Cross Public Waters The Minnesota DNR Division of Lands and Minerals regulates utility crossings over, under, or across any state land or public water identified on the Public Waters and Wetlands Maps. A license to cross Public Waters is required under Minnesota Statute, Section 84.415 and Minnesota Rules, Chapter 6135. Xcel Energy works closely with the DNR on these permits and will file for them once the line design is complete.

NPDES Permit A National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit is required for storm-water discharges associated with construction activities disturbing soil and equal to or greater than one acre in an area. A requirement of the permit is to develop and implement a Storm-water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), which includes Best Management Practices (BMPs) to minimize discharge of pollutants from the site. Xcel Energy will apply for an NPDES permit for work at the Yankee Substation. Work at the Buffalo Ridge Substation will impact less than one acre, and will not trigger the NPDES permit.

5.3.3 STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA APPROVALS

SD PUC Permit A permit from the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission (SD PUC) will be required for the new 345/115 kV substation that will be built adjacent to the White Substation as a part of this Project. The SD PUC requires that all associated facilities (substations greater than 250 kV) apply for a permit as outlined in South Dakota Codified Law 49-41B-11.

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5.3.4 FEDERAL APPROVALS

Section 404 Approval Xcel Energy requires Section 404 approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers when filling of a wetland or water of the United States is required. Section 404 approvals are not expected to be required for this project.

Section 401 Certification Xcel Energy requires a Section 401 Water Quality Certification when federal approval for the project is obtained (i.e. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission permits or Army Corps of Engineers Individual Permit).

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6.0 REFERENCES Anderson, H.W. Broussard, W.L. Farrell, D.F. and Felsheim, P.E. Water Resources of the Rock River Watershed, Southwestern Minnesota. HIA HA-555. U.S. Geological Survey. Reston, VA. 1976

Committee to Review the Research Activities Completed Under the Energy Policy Act of 1992. Research on Power-Frequency Fields. National Research Council.

Dana, Robert. 1997. Characterization of Three Dakota Skipper Sites in Minnesota. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Farm and Home Publishers. 2004. Farm and Home County Plat and Directory: Lincoln County, Minnesota. Belmond, IA.

Farm Service Agency. 2003. NAIP Orothophotos, Lincoln County, Minnesota. Hazard, Evan B. 1982. The Mammals of Minnesota. University of Minnesota Press, Minneapolis, MN.

LeClere, Jeff. 2004. Reptiles and Amphibians of Minnesota. http://www.herpnet.net/Minnesota- Herpetology/reptiles.html

Lincoln County. Lincoln County Comprehensive Sustainable Development Plan.

LMIC. 1990. International Coalition Land Use/Land Cover, Lincoln County, Minnesota.

Lincoln County. http://www.co.lincoln..mn.us/. Retrieved March 31, 2004.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 2004. Natural Heritage Database.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 1997. Public Recreation Information Map, Marshall Area. St. Paul.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Wildlife Management Areas. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/wmas/index.html. Retrieved May 1, 2003.

Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT). Aggregate Unit. Minnesota County Pit Maps. Lincoln County Pit Map. Minnesota Department of Transportation. 2001. http://www.mrr.dot.state.mn.us/geotechnical/aggregate/maps/lincoln.pdf. Retrieved May 12, 2004

Minnesota Ornithologist’s Union. 2004. Minnesota County Checklists: Lincoln County. http://www.cbs.umn.edu/~mou/county-checklists/lincoln.html

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Minnesota Project, Windustry, Southwest Regional Development Commission. 2003. The Facts on Wind: A Proven Economic Development Tool. http://www.mnproject.org/pdf/Wind%20and%20economic%20development.pdf. Retrieved July 27, 2004

Minnesota Public Utilities Commission. July 1998. Final Report of the Science Advisors to the Minnesota Public Commission: Research Findings and Recommendations Regarding Claims of Possible Effects of Currents in the Earth on Dairy Cow Health and Milk Production. St. Paul, Minnesota

Minnesota State Interagency Working Group on EMF Issues. September 2002. A White Paper on Electric and Magnetic Field (EMF) Policy and Mitigation Options. St. Paul, Minnesota

Northwest Economic Associates. 2003. Assessing the Economic Development Impacts of Wind Power. Prepared for National Wind Coordinating Committee. http://www.nationalwind.org/pubs/economic/econ_final_report.pdf. Retrieved October 1, 2003.

Ojakangas, Richard W. and Charles L. Matsch. 1982. Minnesota's Geology. University of Minnesota Press. Minneapolis.

Olden, Kenneth. 1999. NIEHS Report on Health Effects from Exposure to Power-Line Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. 2003. Stray Voltage Website, http://psc.wi.gov/electric/newsinfo/strayvol.htm. Retrieved September 5, 2003.

Rasmussen, Pamela Jo. 2001. Problem Resolutions for Avian Interactions at Two Northern States Power Company Facilities. Proceedings of a workshop held in Charleston, South Carolina, December 2-3, 1999. EPRI Technical Report

Rau, John G. and Wooten, David C., Editors. 1980. Environmental Impact Analysis Handbook. McGraw Hill.

The Minnesota Project. 2003. The Facts on Wind: A Proven Economic Development Tool. http://www.mnproject.org/pdf/Wind%20and%20economic%20development.pdf

United States Census Bureau. Census 2000 Population, Demographic, and Housing Information, Lincoln County, Minnesota. http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/27/27081.html. Retrieved February 19, 2004.

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United States Census Bureau. Census 2000 Population, Demographic, and Housing Information, Brookings County, Minnesota. http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/46/46011.html. Retrieved June 9, 2004.

United States Census Bureau. Census 2000 Redistricting Data. GCT-PL Race and Hispanic or Latino 2000. Minnesota Place and County Subdivision. http://factfinder.census.gov/servlet/BasicFactsTable?_lang=en&_vt_name=DEC_2000_PL_U_G CTPL_ST7&_geo_id=04000US27. Retrieved June 3, 2004.

United States Census Bureau. Census 2000 Redistricting Data. GCT-PL Race and Hispanic or Latino 2000. South Dakota Place and County Subdivision. http://factfinder.census.gov/servlet/BasicFactsTable?_lang=en&_vt_name=DEC_2000_PL_U_G CTPL_ST7&_geo_id=04000US46. Retrieved June 3, 2004.

United States Census Bureau. 2003. County Business Patterns: Minnesota, 2001 http://www.census.gov/prod/2003pubs/01cbp/cbp01-25.pdf. Retrieved June 3, 2004.

United States Census Bureau. 2003. County Business Patterns: South Dakota, 2001. http://www.census.gov/prod/2003pubs/01cbp/cbp01-43.pdf. Retrieved June 3, 2004.

United States Department of Agriculture. 2002 Census of Agriculture County Profile Lincoln, Minnesota. http://www.nass.usda.gov/census/census02/volume1/mn/index2.htm. Retrieved June 10, 2003.

United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1990. National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). Verdi Quadrangle, Minnesota. St. Petersburg, Florida.

United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1990. National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). Elkton Quadrangle, Minnesota. St. Petersburg, Florida.

United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1990. National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). Lake Benton Quadrangle, Minnesota. St. Petersburg, Florida.

United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1990. National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). Lake Benton SW Quadrangle, Minnesota. St. Petersburg, Florida.

United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1990. National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). White NE Quadrangle, South Dakota. St. Petersburg, Florida.

United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 1990. National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). White SE Quadrangle, South Dakota. St. Petersburg, Florida.

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United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2003. Construction Projects Affecting Waters Inhabited by Topeka Shiners (Notropis topeka) in Minnesota. Bloomington, Minnesota. http://midwest.fws.gov/endangered/fishes/tosh-prj-rec.pdf

United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2004. Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Topeka Shiner Critical Habitat Designation. http://mountain-prairie.fws.gov/species/fish/shiner/07272004Q&Asvtedits.pdf

United States Geological Survey. 1967. Verdi Quadrangle, Minnesota, - Lincoln Co., 7.5 Minute Series Topographic Map. Reston, VA.

United States Geological Survey. 1967. Elkton Quadrangle, Minnesota – Lincoln Co., 7.5 Minute Series Topographic Map. Reston, VA.

United States Geological Survey. 1967. Lake Benton Quadrangle, Minnesota – Lincoln Co., 7.5 Minute Series Topographic Map. Reston, VA.

United States Geological Survey. 1967. Lake Benton SW Quadrangle, Minnesota – Lincoln Co., 7.5 Minute Series Topographic Map. Reston, VA.

United States Geological Survey, 1970. White NE Quadrangle, South Dakota – Brookings Co., 7.5 Minute Series Topographic Map. Denver, CO and Washington, DC.

United States Geological Survey, 1972. White SE Quadrangle, South Dakota – Brookings Co., 7.5 Minute Series Topographic Map. Denver, CO and Washington, DC.

United States Geological Survey, 1993. Digital Orthophoto Quads. White NE Quadrangle, South Dakota – Brookings Co. Sioux Falls, SD.

United States Geological Survey, 1993. Digital Orthophoto Quads. White SE Quadrangle, South Dakota – Brookings Co.. Sioux Falls, SD.

United States Geological Survey. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. Butterflies of North America: Dakota Skipper. http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/distr/lepid/bflyusa/mn/485.htm. Retrieved May 4, 2004.

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7.0 DEFINITIONS

Alluvium Detrital deposits of modern rivers and streams.

Aquifer An underground bed or layer of earth, gravel, or porous stone that yields water.

Archaic A time frame in North American pre-history spanning 7,000 years between 10,000 before present to 3,000 years before present, after Paleoindian and before Woodland times.

Avian Of or relating to birds.

A-weighted scale The sensitivity range for human hearing

Calcareous Containing calcium carbonate.

Conductor A material or object that permits an electric current to flow easily.

Corona The breakdown or ionization of air in a few centimeters or less immediately surrounding conductors.

Cretaceous The third and latest period of the Mesozoic Era, occurring from 65 to 135 million years ago.

End moraine Moraine marking the terminal position of a glacier.

Fauna The collective animals of any place or time that live in mutual association.

Flora The collective plants of any place or time that live in mutual association.

Forb A small, upright soft-stemmed or non-woody plant with broadleaves; the growth form of many common wildflowers.

Glacial meltwater channel A channel resulting from the flow of melting glacial ice.

Glacial outwash Drift deposited by meltwater streams beyond active glacial ice.

Glaciation Involving glaciers and moving ice. Usually pertaining to processes associated with glaciers.

Ground moraine The material deposited from a glacier on the ground surface over which the glacier has moved.

Ionization Removal of an electron from an atom or molecule.

Mesic Of sites or habitats characterized by intermediate moisture conditions, i.e. neither decidedly wet nor decidedly dry.

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Mississippian A cultural period of the southeastern North American Aborigine Indians dating from 1,300 to 400 before present.

Moraine Drift deposited by glaciers.

Oxide A compound of oxygen with one other more positive element or radical.

Ozone A form of oxygen in which the molecule is made of three atoms instead of the usual two.

Paleoindian A cultural period of the North American Aborigine Indians defined as 40,000 to 12,000 years before present.

Physiographic Geography that deals with the exterior physical features and changes of the earth

Precambrian The first segment of geologic time, extending from the creation of Earth (4.5 billion years ago) to the appearance of the first animals (543 million years ago). The Precambrian represents about 88% of Earth's history.

Quartzite A granulose metamorphic rock consisting primarily of quartz.

Raptor A member of the order Falconiformes, which contains the diurnal birds of prey, such as the hawks, harriers, eagles and falcons.

Riparian Pertaining to the banks of a body of water.

Scientific and Natural Area A program administered by the DNR with the goal to preserve and perpetuate the ecological diversity of Minnesota's natural heritage, including landforms, fossil remains, plant and animal communities, rare and endangered species, or other biotic features and geological formations, for scientific study and public edification as components of a healthy environment.

Shale A fissile rock that is formed by the consolidation of clay, mud, or silt, has a finely stratified or laminated structure, and is composed of minerals essentially unaltered since deposition

Stray Voltage A natural phenomenon that can be found at low levels between two contact points in any animal confinement area where electricity is grounded. Electrical systems – including farm systems and utility distribution systems – must be grounded to the earth by code to ensure continuous safety and reliability. Inevitably, some current flows through the earth at each point where the electrical system is grounded and a small voltage develops. This voltage is called neutral-to-earth voltage (NEV). When a portion of this NEV is measured between two objects that may be simultaneously contacted by an animal, it is frequently called stray voltage. Stray voltage is not electrocution and is not DC, ground currents, EMFs or earth currents. It only refers to farm animals that are confined in areas of electrical use and not to humans.

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Voltage Electric potential or potential difference expressed in volts.

Waterfowl Production Area Federally managed wetlands and surrounding uplands are open to hunting and wildlife watching. These lands are purchased and managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to provide high quality wetlands and nesting cover for waterfowl and other species of wildlife.

Watershed The area contained within a drainage divide.

Wetland Wetlands are areas that are periodically or permanently inundated by surface or ground water and support vegetation adapted for life in saturated soil. Wetlands include swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas.

Wildlife Management Area Wetlands, uplands, or woods owned and managed for wildlife by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). WMAs are managed for wildlife production and are open to the public for hunting and wildlife watching.

Woodland A cultural period of the Eastern North American Aborigine Indians dating from 3,000 - 1,300 before present.

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APPENDIX A

NOTICE TO EQB

Appendix A August 2004 EQB Docket No. 04-84-TR-XCEL

APPENDIX B

CON ORDER

Appendix B August 2004 EQB Docket No. 04-84-TR-XCEL

APPENDIX C

PUC ORDER APPROVING DESIGN CHANGE

Appendix C August 2004 EQB Docket No. 04-84-TR-XCEL

APPENDIX D

DETAILED ROUTE MAPS

Appendix D August 2004 EQB Docket No. 04-84-TR-XCEL

APPENDIX E

SUBSTATION FIGURES

Appendix E August 2004 EQB Docket No. 04-84-TR-XCEL

APPENDIX F

IMPACTS TABLES

Appendix F August 2004 EQB Docket No. 04-84-TR-XCEL

APPENDIX G

LINCOLN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS

Appendix G August 2004 EQB Docket No. 04-84-TR-XCEL

APPENDIX H

AGENCY CORRESPONDENCE

Appendix H August 2004 EQB Docket No. 04-84-TR-XCEL

APPENDIX I

PUBLIC MEETING MATERIALS

Appendix I August 2004 EQB Docket No. 04-84-TR-XCEL

APPENDIX J

FAUNA FOUND IN BUFFALO RIDGE – WHITE PROJECT AREA

Appendix J August 2004 EQB Docket No. 04-84-TR-XCEL

APPENDIX K

LANDOWNER NAMES

Appendix K August 2004

Table of Contents