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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06(C) - Consider a resolution authorizing the distribution of the Seven Acres Environmental Assessment Worksheet (Project 2020-10) Report ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET SEVEN ACRES PROPERTY Prior Lake, MN 55372 December 18, 2020 Proposer: Highmark Builders, Inc. 8720 Eagle Creek Parkway Savage, MN 55378 RGU: City of Prior Lake 4646 Dakota Street SE Prior Lake, MN 55372 WSB PROJECT NO. 016563-000 page 1 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET This Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) form and EAW Guidelines are available at the Environmental Quality Board’s website at: http://www.eqb.state.mn.us/EnvRevGuidanceDocuments.htm. The EAW form provides information about a project that may have the potential for significant environmental effects. The EAW Guidelines provide additional detail and resources for completing the EAW form. Cumulative potential effects can either be addressed under each applicable EAW Item, or can be addresses collectively under EAW Item 19. Note to reviewers: Comments must be submitted to the RGU during the 30-day comment period following notice of the EAW in the EQB Monitor. Comments should address the accuracy and completeness of information, potential impacts that warrant further investigation and the need for an EIS. 1. Project title: Seven Acres EAW 2. Proposer: 3. RGU Contact person: Jim Moras Contact person: Nick Monserud Title: Highmark Builders Inc. Title: Assistant City Engineer Address: 8720 Eagle Creek Parkway Address: 4646 Dakota St. SE City, State, ZIP: Savage, MN 55378 City, State, ZIP: Prior Lake, MN 55372 Phone: 952-882-8904 Phone: 952-447-9834 Fax: Fax: Email: jim.m@highmarkcos.com Email: nmonserud@cityofpriorlake.com 4. Reason for EAW Preparation: (check one) Required: Discretionary: EIS Scoping Citizen petition X Mandatory EAW RGU discretion Proposer initiated If EAW or EIS is mandatory give EQB rule category subpart number(s) and name(s): MN Rules 4410.4300 subpart 27B (Public waters, public water wetlands, and wetlands): For projects that will cause an impact to a total of one acre or more of wetland, regardless of type, within a shoreland area. 5. Project Location: County: Scott City/Township: Prior Lake PLS Location (¼, ¼, Section, Township, Range): 30, 115, 21 Watershed (81 major watershed scale): 33 Minnesota River-Shakopee GPS Coordinates: 44.735595, -93.389028 Tax Parcel Number: 258010500, 251180010 page 2 At a minimum attach each of the following to the EAW: • County map showing the general location of the project (Figure 1); • U.S. Geological Survey 7.5 minute, 1:24,000 scale map indicating project boundaries (Figure 2) and • Site plans showing all significant project and natural features. Pre-construction site plan (Figure 3) and post-construction site plan (Figure 4). 6. Project Description: a. Provide the brief project summary to be published in the EQB Monitor, (approximately 50 words). The proposed project includes the demolition of two residential homes and their garages along the shore of Upper Prior Lake and the construction of one single-family home and a detached outbuilding in their place. The 1.01-acre wetland in the eastern half of the property will be filled and graded. b. Give a complete description of the proposed project and related new construction, including infrastructure needs. If the project is an expansion include a description of the existing facility. Emphasize: 1) construction, operation methods and features that will cause physical manipulation of the environment or will produce wastes, 2) modifications to existing equipment or industrial processes, 3) significant demolition, removal or remodeling of existing structures, and 4) timing and duration of construction activities. The proposed project is for the redevelopment of two parcels in order to construct a new single- family home and a detached outbuilding located along Cove Avenue SE in Prior Lake, MN. As part of the project, ongoing drainage issues will also be addressed. The project includes demolition of two existing single-family homes and their garages located at 14756 (PID 258010500) and 14744 (PID 251180010) Cove Avenue SE, as well as the demolition of an additional detached garage on the 14756 parcel. The project proposer will then construct one home, attached garage, detached outbuilding, new bituminous driveway, and stormwater management best management practices (BMPs). The home will be constructed in the location of the existing homes on these parcels. A garage will be constructed in the location of the existing detached garage on the 14756 parcel, east of Cove Avenue SE. The new home and the garage will be attached. A portion of Cove Avenue SE south of Seven Acres Street and across from PID 251180010 will be vacated extending from 14744 Cove Avenue north to Seven Acres St. The project will also fill the 1.01-acre wetland that is located north of Kneafseys Street SE to re-route surface water that drains to the wetland and causes ongoing flooding and drainage issues. To accommodate stormwater runoff from the surrounding drainage area, stormwater management BMPs will be constructed on the east side of the parcel adjacent to Oakland Beach Avenue SE. Following wetland fill, an approximately 7000 square foot outbuilding and driveway will be constructed. Demolition is planned to be completed in spring 2021 and the house and outbuilding construction will be completed by fall 2021. page 3 c. Project magnitude: Total Project Acreage 2.71 Linear project length N/A Number and type of residential units 1 single family Commercial building area (in square feet) N/A Industrial building area (in square feet) N/A Institutional building area (in square feet) N/A Other uses – specify (in square feet) N/A Structure height(s) 2 stories d. Explain the project purpose; if the project will be carried out by a governmental unit, explain the need for the project and identify its beneficiaries. This project is being proposed by the property owner. The project will consist of the construction of a single residential home and a detached building in the place of two existing homes. In addition, a wetland currently exists on the property and causes drainage issues in the area, including flooding of Kneafseys Street to the south. The project proposes to fill the wetland and treat stormwater using new stormwater BMPs that will be located on the eastern portion of the property. This project will benefit the homeowners to the south of the project by addressing existing flooding issues and improving water quality by providing stormwater treatment. e. Are future stages of this development including development on any other property planned or likely to happen? Yes x No If yes, briefly describe future stages, relationship to present project, timeline and plans for environmental review. f. Is this project a subsequent stage of an earlier project? Yes x No If yes, briefly describe the past development, timeline and any past environmental review. 7. Cover types: Estimate the acreage of the site with each of the following cover types before and after development: Before After Before After Wetlands 1.01 0 Lawn/landscaping 0.55 1.30 Deep water/streams 0 0 Impervious surface 0.15 0.50 Wooded/forest 1 0.21 Stormwater BMPs 0 0.70 Brush/Grassland 0 0 Other (describe) 0 0 Cropland 0 0 TOTAL 2.71 2.71 page 4 8. Permits and approvals required: List all known local, state and federal permits, approvals, certifications and financial assistance for the project. Include modifications of any existing permits, governmental review of plans and all direct and indirect forms of public financial assistance including bond guarantees, Tax Increment Financing and infrastructure. All of these final decisions are prohibited until all appropriate environmental review has been completed. See Minnesota Rules, Chapter 4410.3100. Unit of government Type of application Status Federal US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Section 404 Permit To be obtained State Pollution Control Agency (PCA) NPDES Construction Stormwater Permit (NPDES CSW) To be obtained Section 401 Certification To be obtained Demolition/Renovation notification To be obtained Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Water Appropriation Permit To be obtained Local Prior Lake/Spring Lake Watershed District (PLSLWD) Watershed District Permit To be obtained City of Prior Lake Wetland Conservation Act Replacement Plan To be obtained Demolition Permit To be obtained Excavating and Grading Permit To be obtained Building Permit To be obtained Driveway Permit To be obtained Right-of-way Permit To be obtained Preliminary/Final Plat Application To be obtained Vacation of Easement/Right-of-way To be obtained MS4 Stormwater Compliance To be obtained Cumulative potential effects may be considered and addressed in response to individual EAW Item Nos. 9-18, or the RGU can address all cumulative potential effects in response to EAW Item No. 19. If addressing cumulative effect under individual items, make sure to include information requested in EAW Item No. 19 9. Land use: a. Describe: i. Existing land use of the site as well as areas adjacent to and near the site, including parks, trails, prime or unique farmlands. This project is located along the shoreline of Upper Prior Lake within the city of Prior Lake, MN. The primary land use within the area is residential single-family housing on the western half and storm water drainage on the eastern side. The adjacent area also includes page 5 single-family housing as well as the lake adjacent to the west of the property area. Oakland Beach Park is located approximately 3 blocks northeast from the site. ii. Plans. Describe planned land use as identified in comprehensive plan (if available) and any other applicable plan for land use, water, or resources management by a local, regional, state, or federal agency. The City of Prior Lake developed a comprehensive plan that would guide the city through 2040. The 2040 Comprehensive Land Use Plan indicates the area as R-LD Urban Low Density. The land use is shown on Figure 6. iii. Zoning, including special districts or overlays such as shoreland, floodplain, wild and scenic rivers, critical area, agricultural preserves, etc. The zoning map is included in Figure 7. The project area is currently zoned as R-1: Low Density Residential. The zoning of the property will not change with progression of this project. The land to the east, north, and west of the project is zoned as single family residential by the City of Prior Lake. The 100-year floodplain covers a portion of the property, but proposed work appears to be taking place outside the 100-year floodplain boundary. The majority of the property is located within the 500-year flood zone (Figure 11). The property is located within the shoreland district of Upper Prior Lake. The lake is classified as a General Development lake and requires a 75-foot structural setback from Upper Prior Lake. b. Discuss the project’s compatibility with nearby land uses, zoning, and plans listed in Item 9a above, concentrating on implications for environmental effects. The proposed project will be compatible with the current uses of the surrounding area. The property should not require rezoning as it will continue to be residential. The wetland located in the eastern half of the property will be filled and graded. Stormwater BMPs will be constructed to the east of where the existing wetland is located. The proposed outbuilding size does not meet the City rules. The design will need to be reviewed through the Community Development group and a variance may be necessary. c. Identify measures incorporated into the proposed project to mitigate any potential incompatibility as discussed in Item 9b above. Permitting through the WCA, USACE, and MPCA will be required for filling of the wetland area. Compensatory mitigation will be required for wetland impacts. Additional permitting through the PLSLWD and DNR will be required for development and dewatering. 10. Geology, soils and topography/land forms: a. Geology - Describe the geology underlying the project area and identify and map any susceptible geologic features such as sinkholes, shallow limestone formations, unconfined/shallow aquifers, or karst conditions. Discuss any limitations of these features for the project and any effects the project could have on these features. Identify any project designs or mitigation measures to address effects to geologic features. page 6 According to the Minnesota Geologic Survey, surface geology at the project area consists of till deposits from Altamont Moraine of the Des Moines Lobe (Figure 8, Appendix A). These surface deposits consist of gray to reddish brown calcareous, shale rich, clayey till that occur in irregular, elongated hills with rounded tops and steep sides. Bedrock at the project area consists of sandy dolomite with thin beds of quartzose sandstone of the Lower Ordovician Series in the Prairie du Chien Group (Figure 9, Appendix A). Bedrock is estimated to be approximately 160 feet below grade based upon findings from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Minnesota Well Index which identified one well ~1,500 feet south of the Project area (unique well ID 109909) that encountered bedrock at a depth of 160 feet below grade. The Minnesota DNR Aggregate Resource Web Map did not identify any gravel pits at the project area or within 1,000 feet and the sand and gravel quality was identified as blank with no potential. According to the Minnesota Karst Land Map, the project area is not located in a region that is prone to surface karst feature development. Based upon these findings, the potential for geologic conditions to be problematic for future development is low. b. Soils and topography - Describe the soils on the site, giving NRCS (SCS) classifications and descriptions, including limitations of soils. Describe topography, any special site conditions relating to erosion potential, soil stability or other soils limitations, such as steep slopes, highly permeable soils. Provide estimated volume and acreage of soil excavation and/or grading. Discuss impacts from project activities (distinguish between construction and operational activities) related to soils and topography. Identify measures during and after project construction to address soil limitations including stabilization, soil corrections or other measures. Erosion/sedimentation control related to stormwater runoff should be addressed in response to Item 11.b.ii. The site topography is generally flat in the areas where houses have been developed with a gradual decrease in elevation sloping towards the central wetland on the site. The western-most part of the site slopes to the west, between the homes and Prior Lake. Site elevations range from 904 to 916 feet above sea level (AMSL). The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Web Soil Survey depicts five mapped soil types within the project area (Table 10-1, Figure 10). Site topography is not expected to be problematic. Table 10-1: Scott County Soil Survey for the Belzer Wetland Project area. Map Symbol Soil Name % Slope Ba Beach materials, sandy HaB Hayden loam 2 to 6 HaC Hayden loam 6 to 10 INT Water, intermittent Ma Marsh Much of the site perimeter consists of sand and gravel (Ba) shoreland soils that are moderately well drained and not classified as prime farmland. These soils may contain 10 percent minor components of poorly drained hydric soils. The larger central part of the site is classified as very poorly drained Marsh (Ma). page 7 NOTE: For silica sand projects, the EAW must include a hydrogeologic investigation assessing the potential groundwater and surface water effects and geologic conditions that could create an increased risk of potentially significant effects on groundwater and surface water. Descriptions of water resources and potential effects from the project in EAW Item 11 must be consistent with the geology, soils and topography/land forms and potential effects described in EAW Item 10. 11. Water resources: a. Describe surface water and groundwater features on or near the site in a.i. and a.ii. below. i. Surface water - lakes, streams, wetlands, intermittent channels, and county/judicial ditches. Include any special designations such as public waters, trout stream/lake, wildlife lakes, migratory waterfowl feeding/resting lake, and outstanding resource value water. Include water quality impairments or special designations listed on the current MPCA 303d Impaired Waters List that are within 1 mile of the project. Include DNR Public Waters Inventory number(s), if any. The project site is adjacent to Lower Prior Lake (DNR PWI No. 70002600). Lower Prior Lake has an EPA-approved impairment for fishes bioassessments and mercury in fish tissue on the MPCA 303d Impaired Waters List. These impairments are considered to be construction-related parameters and require additional best management practices (BMPs) found in items 23.9 and 23.10 of the NPDES/SDS CSW permit. Six additional public waters basin are located within one mile: unnamed basin (DNR PWI No. 70017300), unnamed basin (DNR PWI No. 70017200), Cate’s Lake (DNR PWI No. 7001800), unnamed basin (DNR PWI No.70026400), unnamed basin (DNR PWI No. 70017400), and unnamed basin (DNR PWI No. 70017500). The Credit River (DNR PWI No. 105605) is located one mile southeast of the site and is impaired for benthic macroinvertebrate bioassessments, chloride, Escherichia coli, and fishes bioassessments. These impairments are also considered construction related. One wetland is mapped by the DNR National Wetlands Inventory in the eastern half of the project site. This wetland was classified as a deep marsh during the wetland delineation. This wetland is isolated within the parcel and likely receives hydrology from groundwater lake levels and stormwater runoff. Surface waters near the site are shown on Figure 11. ii. Groundwater – aquifers, springs, seeps. Include: 1) depth to groundwater; 2) if project is within a MDH wellhead protection area; 3) identification of any onsite and/or nearby wells, including unique numbers and well logs if available. If there are no wells known on site or nearby, explain the methodology used to determine this. Depth to groundwater within the site is mapped as being 0 to 10 feet below the ground surface. The wetland located within the parcel is likely connected via groundwater to Prior Lake given the permeable sand and gravel soils of the site. During high water level periods, wetland water overtops Seven Acres Street and flows north via a 40-foot wide overflow point to a pond. The project site is not located within a Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) wellhead protection area or a drinking water supply management area. Wellhead protection area 87701 page 8 is located southeast of the project area. According to the Minnesota Well Index, no wells are located within the project site and three wells are located within 500 feet of the site (Table 11-1, Figure 12). Table 11-1. Verified Wells within 500 Feet of the Project Area. Well ID Type Location from Project Area Status Well Depth (ft) Static Water Level (ft) Aquifer 207080 Domestic S Active 118 65 Quaternary undiff. 207236 Domestic SE Active 115 70 Quat. Buried unconf. Aquif. 207084 Domestic NE Sealed 130 90 Quat. Buried unconf. b. Describe effects from project activities on water resources and measures to minimize or mitigate the effects in Item b.i. through Item b.iv. below. i. Wastewater - For each of the following, describe the sources, quantities and composition of all sanitary, municipal/domestic and industrial wastewater produced or treated at the site. 1) If the wastewater discharge is to a publicly owned treatment facility, identify any pretreatment measures and the ability of the facility to handle the added water and waste loadings, including any effects on, or required expansion of, municipal wastewater infrastructure. The existing homes will be disconnected from the sanitary system and the new house will connect to the District 1 municipal sewer system. Wastewater from the Project Area will be discharged to the Blue Lake Wastewater Treatment Facility located in nearby Shakopee, MN. The facility has the capacity to treat 32 million gallons of wastewater per day and treats on average 27 million gallons a day. The project will disconnect one home from the system; therefore, it will not exceed the treatment facility’s capacity or require any additional expansion of the existing municipal wastewater infrastructure. 2) If the wastewater discharge is to a subsurface sewage treatment systems (SSTS), describe the system used, the design flow, and suitability of site conditions for such a system. Wastewater will not discharge to a subsurface sewage treatment system. 3) If the wastewater discharge is to surface water, identify the wastewater treatment methods and identify discharge points and proposed effluent limitations to mitigate impacts. Discuss any effects to surface or groundwater from wastewater discharges. page 9 Wastewater will not be discharged to surface waters. Blue Lake Wastewater will meet state and local standards to ensure adequate treatment and separation from groundwater ii. Stormwater - Describe the quantity and quality of stormwater runoff at the site prior to and post construction. Include the routes and receiving water bodies for runoff from the site (major downstream water bodies as well as the immediate receiving waters). Discuss any environmental effects from stormwater discharges. Describe stormwater pollution prevention plans including temporary and permanent runoff controls and potential BMP site locations to manage or treat stormwater runoff. Identify specific erosion control, sedimentation control or stabilization measures to address soil limitations during and after project construction. Existing Conditions In existing conditions, the site consists of two residential homes, a garage, and a wetland. Land use is classified as residential, which has surface water and trees within the parcels. According to floodplain revisions done in 2018 and approved by FEMA, the 100-year floodplain boundary covers about 10 percent of the site. Approximately 80 percent of the site sits within the 500-year FEMA floodplain and the remaining 10 percent of the site is outside of the FEMA flood boundary. Existing stormwater runoff flows to two collection points: an existing wetland north of Kneafsey Street and directly to Lower Prior Lake. Stormwater enters these receiving waters directly without water quality treatment. The east portion of the site, 9.11 acres including offsite drainage, flows to the existing wetland via storm sewer and overland flow. Approximately 2.70 acres of the wetland drainage area is impervious surface. During periods of high water, water from the wetland overtops Seven Acres Street and flows north via a 40-foot wide overflow point to a pond. From that pond, water flows through a channel to Lower Prior Lake. However, the overflow elevation of Seven Acres Street is higher than the elevation of Kneafsey Street SE, so flooding occurs on Kneafsey Street before the wetland overflows to the north. This flooding occurs when long-term precipitation is above average, or during lake flooding events. Recent flooding occurred in both 2014 and 2019 and is present for a longer duration (not during precipitation events). The west portion of the site, 0.35 acres, overland flows directly to Lower Prior Lake, 0.08 acres of which is untreated impervious surface. Existing runoff rates from the site, determined from a preliminary analysis and subject to change as additional survey is obtained, are shown in Table 11-2. Table 11-2. Existing Runoff Rates Storm Event Runoff Rate (cfs) 2-year 0.53 10-year 1.11 100-year 31.97 page 10 Proposed Conditions Post development, the site will consist of a single-family home and outbuilding. The existing wetland will be filled; a new stormwater basin with a piped outlet following the existing drainage route will be located adjacent to Oakland Beach Avenue. The stormwater basin will capture 8.98 acres of total drainage with 2.98 acres of the drainage area as impervious surface. The drainage area to Lower Prior Lake will be increased from existing conditions to 0.48 acres with 0.15 acres being impervious surface. From existing to proposed conditions, there will be a net increase of impervious surface of 0.35 acre. Proposed runoff rates have not yet been determined for the project because the best management practices have not been finalized, but proposed runoff rates are required to be less than or equal to existing runoff rates as outlined in the requirements below. Relevant Regulations and Considerations Stormwater quality and quantity to receiving waterbodies will be improved upon from existing to proposed conditions because required best management practices will be designed in accordance with governing agency regulations. Because total disturbance exceeds one acre, the project will be required to apply for permits regulating stormwater discharge from Prior Lake/Spring Lake Watershed District (PLSLWD), the City of Prior Lake, and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The site must follow the most stringent criteria from the agencies. • Proposed peak runoff rates may not exceed existing runoff rates for the 2-, 10-, and 100-year events. • No net increase from pre-project conditions on an annual average basis of stormwater discharge volume, total suspended solids, and total phosphorus. o Retain a runoff volume equal to one-inch times the area of the proposed increase of impervious surfaces on-site. • Provide a 60 percent reduction in total phosphorus and a 90 percent reduction in total suspended solids from the proposed development draining to the best management practice to meet the water quality treatment standard. Stormwater BMPs will be designed adjacent to Oakland Beach Avenue to provide rate control, volume control, and water quality requirements for the site redevelopment. The total net new impervious amount for the proposed development is 0.35 acres. Retaining one inch of runoff from net new impervious surfaces requires 1,270 cubic feet of volume control to meet the requirement. Further investigation into the site conditions and soil infiltration rates will be done during the final design phase to ensure the volume control requirement is met. Stormwater management practices will be designed to meet governing agency requirements and mitigate negative environmental effects from stormwater discharge. Currently, Lower Prior Lake (PWI ID# 70-0026-00) is listed as impaired for fish bioassessments and for uses including aquatic consumption and aquatic life. A TMDL has been approved for mercury in fish tissue. The impairments show that Lower Prior Lake has poor aquatic health. If not properly managed, stormwater runoff can contribute to poor aquatic health by introducing nutrients and excess sediment into surface waters, causing algal blooms, low dissolved oxygen levels, and increased turbidity. page 11 Temporary and permanent stormwater management practices have not yet been designed for the site, but final design will include a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) and a stormwater management plan. The SWPPP and associated runoff controls will be designed in accordance with the NPDES permit. Sediment control practices will be established on all downgradient perimeters of the site. Erosion control practices will be initiated immediately when construction activity has temporarily or permanently ceased. A permanent stormwater basin will be located north of Kneafseys Street and will collect 95 percent of the total site runoff. To address soil limitations during project construction, sediment laden runoff will be managed by temporary sediment control practices such as sediment control logs, silt fence, storm drain inlet protection, and street sweeping. Runoff from exposed areas will be prevented by immediate stabilization using erosion control blankets, sod, and native plantings. Following construction, a permanent stormwater basin will manage stormwater runoff and limit the discharge of sediment to downstream waterbodies. iii. Water appropriation - Describe if the project proposes to appropriate surface or groundwater (including dewatering). Describe the source, quantity, duration, use and purpose of the water use and if a DNR water appropriation permit is required. Describe any well abandonment. If connecting to an existing municipal water supply, identify the wells to be used as a water source and any effects on, or required expansion of, municipal water infrastructure. Discuss environmental effects from water appropriation, including an assessment of the water resources available for appropriation. Identify any measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate environmental effects from the water appropriation. Water appropriation will be needed during construction to remove water from the wetland area. The inlet of the pump will be protected to prevent the transport of latent sediments. The outlet will be protected with best management practices that prevent erosion and scour from flowing water. Discharge must be free from sediment and turbidity must be checked throughout the operation. The contractor will need to apply for a water appropriation permit during construction if they will be pumping more than 10,000 gallons of water per day or 1 million gallons per year. Best management practices outlined in the NPDES permit will be followed. iv. Surface Waters a) Wetlands - Describe any anticipated physical effects or alterations to wetland features such as draining, filling, permanent inundation, dredging and vegetative removal. Discuss direct and indirect environmental effects from physical modification of wetlands, including the anticipated effects that any proposed wetland alterations may have to the host watershed. Identify measures to avoid (e.g., available alternatives that were considered), minimize, or mitigate environmental effects to wetlands. Discuss whether any required compensatory wetland mitigation for unavoidable wetland impacts will occur in the same minor or major watershed and identify those probable locations. page 12 The National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) identifies a single wetland located within the property (Figure 11). A wetland delineation was conducted within the project parcel and classified this 1.01-acre wetland as a deep marsh. This wetland currently stores stormwater runoff for the surrounding residential area; however, the wetland often overtops and leads to flooding of Seven Acres Street and residential homes nearby each year. The wetland will be permanently filled and graded during construction and stormwater runoff will be relocated to a constructed pond located to the east. The project will impact 1.01 acres of wetland. Mitigation will be required at a 2:1 ratio through either on-site mitigation or the purchase of USACE-approved wetland banking credits. This wetland’s functions likely include protection of water quality in Prior Lake through capture excess nutrients from stormwater runoff, provide a carbon sink, provide habitat for wildlife, maintain surface water flows, and store flood waters. These functions will be replaced through the construction of the stormwater pond. Loss of wetland may temporarily result in loss of wildlife habitat in the project area, but this will be replaced once the stormwater pond is constructed and vegetated. During final design of the project the developer will apply for WCA, USACE Section 404, and MPCA Section 401 approvals. The developer will provide a detailed alternatives analysis for the proposed project and outline mitigation measures to offset the impacts. These approvals must be obtained prior to construction. b) Other surface waters- Describe any anticipated physical effects or alterations to surface water features (lakes, streams, ponds, intermittent channels, county/judicial ditches) such as draining, filling, permanent inundation, dredging, diking, stream diversion, impoundment, aquatic plant removal and riparian alteration. Discuss direct and indirect environmental effects from physical modification of water features. Identify measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate environmental effects to surface water features, including in-water Best Management Practices that are proposed to avoid or minimize turbidity/sedimentation while physically altering the water features. Discuss how the project will change the number or type of watercraft on any water body, including current and projected watercraft usage. Upper Prior Lake is also located within the Project Area but will not be impacted by the project. The homes along the shoreline on the property will be demolished and a new single residence will be constructed in their place. Although this construction will be taking place close to the shoreline of the lake, there is no modification planned for the shoreline or the lake itself at this property. The property will adhere to the shoreland district requirement by providing a 75-foot setback from the ordinary high-water level to the proposed structure. Best management practices (BMPs) will be in place to avoid any contamination of the water or surrounding ecosystems. This project will not affect the amount of watercraft on Upper Prior Lake as there are two single-family homes currently there and the project will replace those with one single-family home. page 13 12. Contamination/Hazardous Materials/Wastes: a. Pre-project site conditions - Describe existing contamination or potential environmental hazards on or in close proximity to the project site such as soil or ground water contamination, abandoned dumps, closed landfills, existing or abandoned storage tanks, and hazardous liquid or gas pipelines. Discuss any potential environmental effects from pre-project site conditions that would be caused or exacerbated by project construction and operation. Identify measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects from existing contamination or potential environmental hazards. Include development of a Contingency Plan or Response Action Plan. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) databases were reviewed to identify verified and potentially contaminated sites that may be encountered during the proposed project. The following databases were reviewed: 1. MPCA “What’s in My Neighborhood?” (WIMN) website search 2. MDA “What’s in My Neighborhood?” website search No MDA sites were identified within 1,000 feet of the Project area. Additionally, no MPCA WIMN sites were identified at the project area, but two construction stormwater sites (sites 142669 and 214569) and one multiple activity listing (site not depicted in Figure 13) were identified within 1,000 feet of the project area (Figure 13). This multiple activity listing consists of an active hazardous waste generator, an inactive leak site, and an active above ground storage tank site. All MPCA WIMN listings are approximately 950 feet southeast of project area. Based on the type of listings, regulatory status, and distance from the project area, the potential to encounter contaminated soil and/or groundwater is low. If contaminated materials are encountered during construction, construction activities will cease and a Construction Contingency Plan (CCP) will be implemented. Two single-family homes will be demolished during the project. A demolition permit will be required by the City of Prior Lake and a Demolition/Renovation notification will be submitted to the MPCA asbestos program 10 days prior to applying for this permit. b. Project related generation/storage of solid wastes - Describe solid wastes generated/stored during construction and/or operation of the project. Indicate method of disposal. Discuss potential environmental effects from solid waste handling, storage and disposal. Identify measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects from the generation/storage of solid waste including source reduction and recycling. Project activities will generate wastes and debris typical of construction operation. All waste and unused materials will be properly contained and disposed of off-site and not allowed to be carried by runoff to receiving waters. Post-development, the home will be serviced by licensed waste haulers and trash will be disposed of in a landfill. Recycling service is also offered by several garbage haulers in Prior Lake and will be available to the residence following construction. c. Project related use/storage of hazardous materials - Describe chemicals/hazardous materials used/stored during construction and/or operation of the project including method of storage. Indicate the number, location and size of any above or below ground tanks to store petroleum or other materials. Discuss potential environmental effects from accidental spill or release of page 14 hazardous materials. Identify measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects from the use/storage of chemicals/hazardous materials including source reduction and recycling. Include development of a spill prevention plan. Products, materials, or wastes typical of construction sites will be present during the construction of this project (e.g. gasoline, diesel fuel, oil, hydraulic fluid, portable toilets, etc.). In compliance with NPDES Construction Stormwater permit, products that have the potential to leach pollutants will be stored under cover; hazardous materials will be stored in sealed containers and will have secondary contaminant to prevent spills, solid wastes will be collected and disposed of properly, and vehicle and equipment washing will not be allowed on site. d. Project related generation/storage of hazardous wastes - Describe hazardous wastes generated/stored during construction and/or operation of the project. Indicate method of disposal. Discuss potential environmental effects from hazardous waste handling, storage, and disposal. Identify measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse effects from the generation/storage of hazardous waste including source reduction and recycling. The proposed project is not expected to generate any hazardous wastes during construction or operation. If hazardous wastes are generated by contractor, it will be the responsibility of the contractor to recycle and/or dispose of the waste in accordance with State and Federal regulations. page 15 13. Fish, wildlife, plant communities, and sensitive ecological resources (rare features): a. Describe fish and wildlife resources as well as habitats and vegetation on or in near the site. Habitat within the site is very limited. The parcel contains a wetland surrounded by a few large trees which may provide minimal foraging and resting habitat for migratory birds, such as ducks and geese. Another pond is located 200 feet to the north and may provide similar habitat. Fish species within the pond are unknown and likely absent, as the pond freezes through each winter. Large trees surrounding the wetland may provide nesting or roosting habitat to medium to small birds and bats. Approximately 75 – 100 trees will be cleared with the construction of this project. Parcels 251180010 and 258010500 each contain a single-family residence. The yards of the homes may provide some habitat for small mammals, birds, and insects. These parcels contain shoreline of Upper Prior Lake which provides habitat for birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians, small invertebrates (such as crustaceans and insects), as well as a water source for animals such as deer or raccoons, and a possible food source for birds and small mammals. b. Describe rare features such as state-listed (endangered, threatened or special concern) species, native plant communities, Minnesota County Biological Survey Sites of Biodiversity Significance, and other sensitive ecological resources on or within close proximity to the site. Provide the license agreement number (LA-____) and/or correspondence number (ERDB 20210057) from which the data were obtained and attach the Natural Heritage letter from the DNR. Indicate if any additional habitat or species survey work has been conducted within the site and describe the results. A query of the DNR Natural Heritage Information System (NHIS) database identified one species of concern (red shouldered hawk, Buteo lineatus), and one threatened species (Blanding’s turtle, Emydoidea blandingii) within one mile of the project site. Correspondence from the DNR is available in Appendix B and summarized below. Red shouldered hawk Red shouldered hawks typically nest in broadleaved forests, often in trees located near a pond, stream, or swamp. Nests can be found in suburban neighborhoods and parks. A majority of the trees surrounding the wetland on the project site are medium sized ash trees that may provide nesting habitat. If these trees are to be removed between April and July they should be surveyed for active nests. If active nests are present, the developer should contact the DNR. General construction disturbance should also be avoided near active nests between April and May. Blanding’s turtle The project also has the potential to impact Blanding’s turtles through habitat disturbance such as dewatering, fill, or construction activities. Efforts to minimize impacts to the turtle should be implemented during construction such as: • avoiding wetland impacts between October 15 and April 15 • use of only natural erosion control netting • providing the DNR’s Blanding’s turtle fact sheet to contractors working on the site • monitoring for turtles during construction and reporting of any sightings to the DNR. page 16 Federal species were also identified within Scott County via the USFWS online IPaC application. The northern long-eared bat (Myotis septenrionalis) is a federally threatened species located in Scott County, MN. According to the DNR, no known hibernacula or maternity roost trees are located within the project township. No impacts to northern long-eared bat are expected. Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), Black Terns (Chlidonias niger), Dunlins (Calidris alphina arcticola), Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes), Semipalmated Sandpipers (Calidris pusilla), Short- billed Dowitchers (Limnodromus griseus), and Wood Thrushes (Hylocichla mustelina) are migratory birds found within the Scott County. The Black Tern, Dunlin, Lesser Yellowlegs, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Short-billed Dowitcher, and Wood Thrush are on the US Fish and Wildlife Service’s Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) list and the Bald Eagle is protected by the Eagle Act. While the project may cause some temporary disturbance, it is not expected to impact these species or their habitats. c. Discuss how the identified fish, wildlife, plant communities, rare features and ecosystems may be affected by the project. Include a discussion on introduction and spread of invasive species from the project construction and operation. Separately discuss effects to known threatened and endangered species. Development of residential housing on the existing residential land will not likely affect wildlife that are currently present in the area. Filling in the wetland has the potential to temporarily displace species which use the wetland for habitat and food sources. There are other similar wetlands nearby, as well as Upper Prior Lake, to help with any displacement caused from this project. This project will remove 1.01 acres of wetland from the site. No ecologically sensitive habitats are located within or adjacent to the project area, and therefore will not likely be impacted by this project. Noted rare species include the red shouldered hawk and blanding’s turtle. Measures to minimize disturbance to these species are summarized in Item 13b. d. Identify measures that will be taken to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects to fish, wildlife, plant communities, and sensitive ecological resources. Mitigation for plant communities (wetland) will occur through the WCA program using the 2:1 ratio mitigation. For fish and wildlife resources using/in the ponded area will likely migrate to the next nearest wetland area or Upper Prior Lake itself. The project will also construct stormwater management BMPs just east of the existing wetland. Though they will not be used as direct mitigation for the wetland losses, the design of the BMPs will be such that they will provide habitat for area wildlife. The area surrounding the BMPs will be vegetated with native species. Measures to minimize disturbance to the red shouldered hawk and blanding’s turtle are summarized in Item 13b. 14. Historic properties: Describe any historic structures, archeological sites, and/or traditional cultural properties on or in close proximity to the site. Include: 1) historic designations, 2) known artifact areas, and 3) architectural features. Attach letter received from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). Discuss any anticipated effects to historic properties during project construction and operation. page 17 Identify measures that will be taken to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects to historic properties. The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) database query indicated no archaeological records within the project area (Appendix B). One historic property was listed approximately one-half mile north along Rutgers Street, but this property will not be affected by the project. If unknown historical or archaeological resources are encountered during project construction the City and SHPO will be informed and consulted. 15. Visual: Describe any scenic views or vistas on or near the project site. Describe any project related visual effects such as vapor plumes or glare from intense lights. Discuss the potential visual effects from the project. Identify any measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate visual effects. No scenic vistas are present at this site. The proposed home will be constructed across two existing parcels which currently contain homes. 16. Air: a. Stationary source emissions - Describe the type, sources, quantities and compositions of any emissions from stationary sources such as boilers or exhaust stacks. Include any hazardous air pollutants, criteria pollutants, and any greenhouse gases. Discuss effects to air quality including any sensitive receptors, human health or applicable regulatory criteria. Include a discussion of any methods used assess the project’s effect on air quality and the results of that assessment. Identify pollution control equipment and other measures that will be taken to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects from stationary source emissions. No stationary sources of emission such as boilers or stacks are planned with this project. b. Vehicle emissions - Describe the effect of the project’s traffic generation on air emissions. Discuss the project’s vehicle-related emissions effect on air quality. Identify measures (e.g. traffic operational improvements, diesel idling minimization plan) that will be taken to minimize or mitigate vehicle-related emissions. The project consists of a single-family residence and will not impact traffic in the area. The project will not change the number of vehicles in the area since homes and vehicle-users already occupy the area. The project will not impact air quality as a result of vehicle-related emissions. c. Dust and odors - Describe sources, characteristics, duration, quantities, and intensity of dust and odors generated during project construction and operation. (Fugitive dust may be discussed under item 16a). Discuss the effect of dust and odors in the vicinity of the project including nearby sensitive receptors and quality of life. Identify measures that will be taken to minimize or mitigate the effects of dust and odors. During construction, particulate emissions will temporarily increase due to generation of fugitive dust. The nearest and most sensitive receptors to the construction activity are the residential properties that immediately surround the project area. Construction dust control is required to be in conformance with the NPDES Construction Stormwater permit that will be required for this project. page 18 The construction of the proposed project is not anticipated to involve processes that would generate odors. 17. Noise Describe sources, characteristics, duration, quantities, and intensity of noise generated during project construction and operation. Discuss the effect of noise in the vicinity of the project including 1) existing noise levels/sources in the area, 2) nearby sensitive receptors, 3) conformance to state noise standards, and 4) quality of life. Identify measures that will be taken to minimize or mitigate the effects of noise. The proposed location is located within a suburban area and is surrounded by low- and medium- density residential areas as well as some commercial and open/park spaces. Existing noise sources are those typical of suburban residential areas and consist mainly of traffic on the area roadways, which includes State Highway 13 to the east and surrounding residential streets. Construction noise levels and types will be typical of construction equipment and will occur as a result of this project. Construction noise will be limited to daytime hours consistent with the City of Prior Lake construction and noise ordinances. Construction equipment will be fitted with mufflers that will be maintained throughout the construction process. The table below, Table 2, summarizes the peak noise levels of common types of roadway construction equipment. Table 2: Typical Roadway Construction Equipment Noise Levels at 50 Feet Equipment Type Manufacturers Sampled Total Number of Models in Sample Peak Noise Level Range Average Backhoe 5 6 74-92 83 Front Loader 5 30 75-96 85 Dozer 8 41 65-95 85 Grader 3 15 72-92 84 Scraper 2 27 76-98 87 Pile Driver N/A N/A 95-105 101 Source: United States Environmental Protection Agency and Federal Highway Administration There are no sensitive receptors (such as hospitals) near the site which raise special concerns for further study. The project is not anticipated to generate noise other than that typical of residential areas once construction is complete 18. Transportation a. Describe traffic-related aspects of project construction and operation. Include: 1) existing and proposed additional parking spaces, 2) estimated total average daily traffic generated, 3) estimated maximum peak hour traffic generated and time of occurrence, 4) indicate source of trip generation rates used in the estimates, and 5) availability of transit and/or other alternative transportation modes. The site is currently developed and located northwest of State Highway 13 in a residential neighborhood. There is no transit service in the immediate area. There are no existing trails or dedicated bike lanes in the area. The project will vacate a portion of Cove Avenue SE in front of existing PID 251180010 and PID 251180020. page 19 A traffic study has not been completed for this project and it is not expected to affect the level or timing of traffic in the area. b. Discuss the effect on traffic congestion on affected roads and describe any traffic improvements necessary. The analysis must discuss the project’s impact on the regional transportation system. If the peak hour traffic generated exceeds 250 vehicles or the total daily trips exceeds 2,500, a traffic impact study must be prepared as part of the EAW. Use the format and procedures described in the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s Access Management Manual, Chapter 5 (available at: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/accessmanagement/resources.html) or a similar local guidance, A traffic study has not been completed for this project. The project is a single-family residence. The existing Project Area contains two occupied homes. Following construction only one occupied home will exist. The number of vehicles associated with the Project will be reduced by one occupied home. c. Identify measures that will be taken to minimize or mitigate project related transportation effects. No new traffic will come from the project. 19. Cumulative potential effects: (Preparers can leave this item blank if cumulative potential effects are addressed under the applicable EAW Items) a. Describe the geographic scales and timeframes of the project related environmental effects that could combine with other environmental effects resulting in cumulative potential effects. The effects of this project are not anticipated to combine with other environmental effects. b. Describe any reasonably foreseeable future projects (for which a basis of expectation has been laid) that may interact with environmental effects of the proposed project within the geographic scales and timeframes identified above. The City’s Capital Improvement Program has not identified any future projects that would interact with the proposed project at this time. c. Discuss the nature of the cumulative potential effects and summarize any other available information relevant to determining whether there is potential for significant environmental effects due to these cumulative effects. Areas of environmental effect for this project include: • Conversion of wetland habitat to upland. o This conversion will temporarily impact wildlife habitat in the area. This habitat will be replaced at the proposed stormwater pond. o Wetland losses will be reviewed by the applicable regulatory agencies and mitigated at a 2:1 ratio. • Stormwater quality and treatment volumes will improve in the area once runoff is managed and directed to the new stormwater management BMPs, which will be designed to manage the volume and will reduce flooding in the area. page 20 Environmental effects from this project are not expected to combine with those of other projects. 20. Other potential environmental effects: If the project may cause any additional environmental effects not addressed by items 1 to 19, describe the effects here, discuss the how the environment will be affected, and identify measures that will be taken to minimize and mitigate these effects. This project will not cause additional environmental effects that were not addressed previously in this document. page 21 RGU CERTIFICATION. (The Environmental Quality Board will only accept SIGNED Environmental Assessment Worksheets for public notice in the EQB Monitor.) I hereby certify that: • The information contained in this document is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. • The EAW describes the complete project; there are no other projects, stages or components other than those described in this document, which are related to the project as connected actions or phased actions, as defined at Minnesota Rules, parts 4410.0200, subparts 9c and 60, respectively. • Copies of this EAW are being sent to the entire EQB distribution list. Signature ________________________________ Date _______________________________ Title ________________________________ APPENDIX A Figures APPENDIX B Agency Coordination COUNTY CITYTWP PROPNAME ADDRESS TOWNSHIPRANGESECTIONQUARTERSUSGS REPORTNUMNRHPCEFDOEINVENTNUM Scott Prior Lake house 14329 Rutgers St.115 21 30 SW-NW-NE Prior Lake SC-PLC-014