"ID","Title","Fiscal Year(s)","Fiscal Year Funding Amount","Legal Citation / Subdivision","Appropriation Language","Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)","Measurable Outcome(s)","Proposed Outcomes Achieved","Other Funds Leveraged","Source of Additional Funds","Direct Expenses","Administration Costs","Recipient Board Members","Number of full time equivalents funded","Recipient","Recipient Type","Body","About the Issue","Project Details","Start Date","End Date","Source","Status","Updates","Details/Reports","First Name","Last Name","Organization Name","Street Address","City","State","Zip Code","Phone","Email","Activity Type","Administered by","Media","Counties Affected","LSOHC Section","Watershed","URL","Advisory Group Members and Qualifications","Board Members and Qualifications","Conflict of Interest Contact","Conflict of Interest Disclosed"
2905,"County Geologic Atlases for Sustainable Water Management - Part A",2012,600000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 03b1","$900,000 the first year and $900,000 the second year are from the trust fund to accelerate the production of county geologic atlases to provide information essential to sustainable management of ground water resources by defining aquifer boundaries and the connection of aquifers to the land surface and surface water resources. Of this appropriation, $600,000 each year is to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Geologic Survey and $300,000 each year is to the commissioner of natural resources. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2015, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Work Plan"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Work Plan"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,600000,,,3.05,"University of Minnesota - MN Geological Survey","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEWThe Minnesota County Geologic Atlas program is an ongoing effort begun in 1982 that is being conducted jointly by the University of Minnesota's Minnesota Geological Survey and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The program collects information on the geology of Minnesota to create maps and reports depicting the characteristics and pollution sensitivity of Minnesota's ground-water resources and their interaction with surface waters. The information from County Geologic Atlases is used in planning and environmental protection efforts at all levels of government, by businesses, and by homeowners to ensure sound and sustainable planning, management, and protection of water resources used for drinking, agriculture, industry, and more. This appropriation will:Support completion of geologic atlases for Carlton, McLeod, Carver, Benton, and Chisago counties.Support ongoing work on geologic atlases for Anoka, Blue Earth, Clay, Nicollet, Renville, Sibley, and Wright counties;Initiate geologic atlases for three or more additional counties;Make collected data available in a digital format.",,"Work Plan",2011-07-01,2015-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund","In Progress",,,Dale,Setterholm,"U of MN - MN Geological Survey","2642 University Ave W","St. Paul",MN,55114-1057,"(612) 627-4780 x2",sette001@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Mapping, Inventory, Digitization/Online Information Access","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/county-geologic-atlases-sustainable-water-management-part,,,,
2905,"County Geologic Atlases for Sustainable Water Management - Part A",2013,600000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 03b1","$900,000 the first year and $900,000 the second year are from the trust fund to accelerate the production of county geologic atlases to provide information essential to sustainable management of ground water resources by defining aquifer boundaries and the connection of aquifers to the land surface and surface water resources. Of this appropriation, $600,000 each year is to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Geologic Survey and $300,000 each year is to the commissioner of natural resources. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2015, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Work Plan"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Work Plan"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,600000,,,3.04,"University of Minnesota - MN Geological Survey","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEWThe Minnesota County Geologic Atlas program is an ongoing effort begun in 1982 that is being conducted jointly by the University of Minnesota's Minnesota Geological Survey and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The program collects information on the geology of Minnesota to create maps and reports depicting the characteristics and pollution sensitivity of Minnesota's ground-water resources and their interaction with surface waters. The information from County Geologic Atlases is used in planning and environmental protection efforts at all levels of government, by businesses, and by homeowners to ensure sound and sustainable planning, management, and protection of water resources used for drinking, agriculture, industry, and more. This appropriation will:Support completion of geologic atlases for Carlton, McLeod, Carver, Benton, and Chisago counties.Support ongoing work on geologic atlases for Anoka, Blue Earth, Clay, Nicollet, Renville, Sibley, and Wright counties;Initiate geologic atlases for three or more additional counties;Make collected data available in a digital format.",,"Work Plan",2011-07-01,2015-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund","In Progress",,,Dale,Setterholm,"U of MN - MN Geological Survey","2642 University Ave W","St. Paul",MN,55114-1057,"(612) 627-4780 x2",sette001@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Mapping, Inventory, Digitization/Online Information Access","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/county-geologic-atlases-sustainable-water-management-part,,,,
3927,"Evaluation of Biomass Harvesting Impacts on Minnesota’s Forests",2012,175000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 03h","$175,000 the first year and $175,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to assess the impacts biomass harvests for energy have on soil nutrients, native forest vegetation, invasive species spread, and long-term tree productivity within Minnesota's forests. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,175000,,,3.98,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW Minnesota's forests are currently being viewed as potential feedstocks for the production of renewable energy. A primary concern about harvesting forest biomass to generate renewable energy is the long-term impacts these harvests will have on soil nutrients and long-term ecosystem production, such as forest growth, carbon storage, and wildlife habitat. With this appropriation, scientists at the University of Minnesota's Department of Forest Resources are evaluating the ecological impacts of forest biomass harvesting in northern Minnesota. Results from this effort will be used by the energy industry and forestry professionals in both the public and private sector to guide long-term management that maximizes harvesting without negatively impacting forest productivity and ecological integrity. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS Minnesota's forests are currently being viewed as potential feedstocks for production of renewable energy. A primary concern about harvesting forest biomass to generate renewable energy is the long-term impacts these harvests will have on soil nutrients and long-term ecosystem productivity, particularly in forests growing on nutrient poor soils. This project was designed to increase our understanding of the ecological impacts of biomass harvesting through establishment of a network of research sites in forests on nutrient poor soils. Treatments representing various levels of biomass removal and live-tree retention were implemented at four large-scale (80 acre) research sites in Becker, Hubbard, and Wadena Counties and were used to evaluate the importance of post-harvest slash and live-tree retention in maintaining the resilience and sustainability of jack pine forests under different biomass harvesting regimes. Treatments included current site-level guidelines for slash retention to allow for evaluations of the effectiveness of this practice at reducing impacts on long-term soil nutrients and forest vegetation. Field measurements from these sites were used to model the long-term effects of repeated biomass removals on ecosystem productivity. Results from this project indicate that there is no difference in post-harvest slash levels between areas in which slash was retained to meet current site-level guidelines and in places in which whole trees were harvested (i.e., no slash deliberately retained). The overall levels of slash retention in these areas were half those found after similar treatments in aspen-dominated forests on nutrient rich sites, highlighting the potential for greater nutrient depletion following biomass harvesting on nutrient poor sites and suggest a need for refinement of site-level guidelines to increase retention levels for nutrient poor soils. Long-term field data and model results indicate that biomass harvests that retain less than 40% of available residues may result in lower soil carbon stocks after several harvest rotations. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION< The results of this project have been shared on numerous occasions with resource professionals, policy makers, citizens, and scientists over the past three years in efforts to inform forest conservation decisions regarding biomass harvesting impacts. These dissemination activities have included the development of a fact sheet for LCCMR members that was distributed on the LCCMR tour of Itasca State Park on July 18, 2013. In addition, an overview of the project and results were shared with private forest landowners through a University of Minnesota Extension Webinar to private forest landowners and county, state, and federal natural resource managers on December 9, 2013, as well as through a meeting of the Forest Operations and Planning Section of the Minnesota DNR Division of Forestry on January 8, 2014. Results were also presented at the Annual Meeting of the Ecological Society of America in Minneapolis, MN on August 5, 2013. Finally, results regarding the impact of different levels of post-harvest slash retention on soil nutrients have been discussed with members of the Minnesota Forest Resources Council and are being used to inform future guideline revisions. Publications resulting from this work are available for download from the Department of Forest Resources web site (www.forestry.umn.edu). Additional publications from this work that are currently in development will also be posted on this site and shared with LCCMR staff for dissemination.",,"Final Report",2011-07-01,2014-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,Anthony,D'Amato,"U of MN","1530 N Cleveland Ave","St. Paul",MN,55108,"(612) 625-3733",damato@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Assessment/Evaluation, Inventory, Modeling, Monitoring, Research","University of Minnesota ",,"Aitkin, Becker, Beltrami, Benton, Carlton, Cass, Clearwater, Cook, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Morrison, Otter Tail, Pennington, Pine, Polk, Red Lake, Roseau, St. Louis, Todd, Wadena",,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/evaluation-biomass-harvesting-impacts-minnesota-s-forests,,,,
3927,"Evaluation of Biomass Harvesting Impacts on Minnesota’s Forests",2013,175000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 03h","$175,000 the first year and $175,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to assess the impacts biomass harvests for energy have on soil nutrients, native forest vegetation, invasive species spread, and long-term tree productivity within Minnesota's forests. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,175000,,,3.98,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW Minnesota's forests are currently being viewed as potential feedstocks for the production of renewable energy. A primary concern about harvesting forest biomass to generate renewable energy is the long-term impacts these harvests will have on soil nutrients and long-term ecosystem production, such as forest growth, carbon storage, and wildlife habitat. With this appropriation, scientists at the University of Minnesota's Department of Forest Resources are evaluating the ecological impacts of forest biomass harvesting in northern Minnesota. Results from this effort will be used by the energy industry and forestry professionals in both the public and private sector to guide long-term management that maximizes harvesting without negatively impacting forest productivity and ecological integrity. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS Minnesota's forests are currently being viewed as potential feedstocks for production of renewable energy. A primary concern about harvesting forest biomass to generate renewable energy is the long-term impacts these harvests will have on soil nutrients and long-term ecosystem productivity, particularly in forests growing on nutrient poor soils. This project was designed to increase our understanding of the ecological impacts of biomass harvesting through establishment of a network of research sites in forests on nutrient poor soils. Treatments representing various levels of biomass removal and live-tree retention were implemented at four large-scale (80 acre) research sites in Becker, Hubbard, and Wadena Counties and were used to evaluate the importance of post-harvest slash and live-tree retention in maintaining the resilience and sustainability of jack pine forests under different biomass harvesting regimes. Treatments included current site-level guidelines for slash retention to allow for evaluations of the effectiveness of this practice at reducing impacts on long-term soil nutrients and forest vegetation. Field measurements from these sites were used to model the long-term effects of repeated biomass removals on ecosystem productivity. Results from this project indicate that there is no difference in post-harvest slash levels between areas in which slash was retained to meet current site-level guidelines and in places in which whole trees were harvested (i.e., no slash deliberately retained). The overall levels of slash retention in these areas were half those found after similar treatments in aspen-dominated forests on nutrient rich sites, highlighting the potential for greater nutrient depletion following biomass harvesting on nutrient poor sites and suggest a need for refinement of site-level guidelines to increase retention levels for nutrient poor soils. Long-term field data and model results indicate that biomass harvests that retain less than 40% of available residues may result in lower soil carbon stocks after several harvest rotations. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION< The results of this project have been shared on numerous occasions with resource professionals, policy makers, citizens, and scientists over the past three years in efforts to inform forest conservation decisions regarding biomass harvesting impacts. These dissemination activities have included the development of a fact sheet for LCCMR members that was distributed on the LCCMR tour of Itasca State Park on July 18, 2013. In addition, an overview of the project and results were shared with private forest landowners through a University of Minnesota Extension Webinar to private forest landowners and county, state, and federal natural resource managers on December 9, 2013, as well as through a meeting of the Forest Operations and Planning Section of the Minnesota DNR Division of Forestry on January 8, 2014. Results were also presented at the Annual Meeting of the Ecological Society of America in Minneapolis, MN on August 5, 2013. Finally, results regarding the impact of different levels of post-harvest slash retention on soil nutrients have been discussed with members of the Minnesota Forest Resources Council and are being used to inform future guideline revisions. Publications resulting from this work are available for download from the Department of Forest Resources web site (www.forestry.umn.edu). Additional publications from this work that are currently in development will also be posted on this site and shared with LCCMR staff for dissemination.",,"Final Report",2011-07-01,2014-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,Anthony,D'Amato,"U of MN","1530 N Cleveland Ave","St. Paul",MN,55108,"(612) 625-3733",damato@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Assessment/Evaluation, Inventory, Modeling, Monitoring, Research","University of Minnesota ",,"Aitkin, Becker, Beltrami, Benton, Carlton, Cass, Clearwater, Cook, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Morrison, Otter Tail, Pennington, Pine, Polk, Red Lake, Roseau, St. Louis, Todd, Wadena",,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/evaluation-biomass-harvesting-impacts-minnesota-s-forests,,,,
2964,"Improved Detection of Harmful Microbes in Ballast Water",2012,125000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 06a","$125,000 the first year and $125,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the University of Minnesota Duluth to identify and analyze potentially harmful bacteria transported into Lake Superior through ship ballast water discharge. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Work Plan"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Work Plan"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,125000,,,1.16,"University of Minnesota - Duluth","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW Ballast water - water carried in tanks on ships to help provide stability and aid steering - is likely the single greatest source for introduction of non-native and invasive aquatic species. Ballast water is collected in one body of water and discharged into another body of water, usually large distances apart. The recent appearance of a deadly fish virus called Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) in the Great Lakes has raised awareness that some bacteria being transported in ballast water, just like certain plant and animal species, also have the potential to be harmful invasive species. Nevertheless, little is actually currently known about what bacteria are being transported and what can be done to prevent their spread. Biologists at the University of Minnesota - Duluth are using this appropriation to identify and analyze bacteria being transported in ballast water in order to determine which are of greatest concern and to inform strategies for early detection and spread prevention.",,"Work Plan",2011-07-01,2015-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund","In Progress",,,Randall,Hicks,"U of MN - Duluth","1035 Kirby Dr, SSB 207",Duluth,MN,55812,"(218) 726-8438",rhicks@d.umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Assessment/Evaluation, Inventory, Monitoring, Research","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/improved-detection-harmful-microbes-ballast-water,,,,
2964,"Improved Detection of Harmful Microbes in Ballast Water",2013,125000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 06a","$125,000 the first year and $125,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the University of Minnesota Duluth to identify and analyze potentially harmful bacteria transported into Lake Superior through ship ballast water discharge. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Work Plan"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Work Plan"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,125000,,,1.16,"University of Minnesota - Duluth","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW Ballast water - water carried in tanks on ships to help provide stability and aid steering - is likely the single greatest source for introduction of non-native and invasive aquatic species. Ballast water is collected in one body of water and discharged into another body of water, usually large distances apart. The recent appearance of a deadly fish virus called Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) in the Great Lakes has raised awareness that some bacteria being transported in ballast water, just like certain plant and animal species, also have the potential to be harmful invasive species. Nevertheless, little is actually currently known about what bacteria are being transported and what can be done to prevent their spread. Biologists at the University of Minnesota - Duluth are using this appropriation to identify and analyze bacteria being transported in ballast water in order to determine which are of greatest concern and to inform strategies for early detection and spread prevention.",,"Work Plan",2011-07-01,2015-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund","In Progress",,,Randall,Hicks,"U of MN - Duluth","1035 Kirby Dr, SSB 207",Duluth,MN,55812,"(218) 726-8438",rhicks@d.umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Assessment/Evaluation, Inventory, Monitoring, Research","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/improved-detection-harmful-microbes-ballast-water,,,,
2969,"Minnesota Junior Master Naturalist Program",2012,365000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 08b","$365,000 the first year is from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to expand the junior naturalist after-school programs. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Work Plan"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Work Plan"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,365000,,,4.85,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW Children are spending increasingly less time outdoors and are often failing to develop an appreciation and connection with nature. This has implications for children's health as well as their knowledge about science, the environment, and the world. In the long term this also impacts the broad public awareness and understanding necessary to ensure long-term protection and stewardship of our environment and natural resources. In order to help reverse this trend the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are partnering to expand and further develop an after-school program that provides outdoor, science-based educational opportunities for fourth and fifth grade students, particularly in underserved areas, to learn about the ecology and natural history of their schoolyards, neighborhoods, nearby natural areas, and the state.",,"Work Plan",2011-07-01,2015-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund","In Progress",,,Robert,Blair,"U of MN","1980 Folwell Ave, #200","St Paul",MN,55108,"(651) 644-1591",blairrB@umn.edu,"Demonstration/Pilot Project, Education/Outreach/Engagement, Planning","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/minnesota-junior-master-naturalist-program,,,,
2961,"Mississippi River Water Quality Assessment",2012,278000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 05c","$278,000 the first year and $279,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to assess water quality in the Mississippi River using DNA sequencing approaches and chemical analyses. The assessments shall be incorporated into a Web-based educational tool for use in classrooms and public exhibits. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,16670,,278000,,,4.07,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW Minnesota contains the headwaters of the Mississippi River, one of the largest and most important waterways in the world. A vital force in all life processes, microorganisms play a major role in the river's water quality through the biological and chemical processing they provide and as indicators of how human activity is impacting water quality. However, relatively little is actually known about as much as 99% of the microorganisms present in the river. Improved understanding of these microorganisms and the effects they have on water quality will greatly enhance efforts by federal, state, and local agencies to maintain and improve the Mississippi River's water quality. Scientists at the University of Minnesota are using this appropriation to use DNA sequencing and chemical analysis technologies to capture for the first time a more complete picture of the diversity and function of microorganisms in the river and how they influence water quality. As part of this effort, hands-on student and teacher participation and public engagement through educational exhibits will help improve public understanding of the importance of the river and water quality. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS A metagenomics-based sequencing approach was utilized to characterize the bacterial community at sites along the Mississippi River in Minnesota to understand how these communities were influenced by or indicative of water quality. Results of this study revealed that the bacterial community throughout the river primarily consisted of a small number of highly abundant species that comprise a ""core microbial community"" that was stable both in terms of community membership and inferred functional traits. Variation in community membership and species abundances were primarily influenced by physicochemical parameters (e.g. pH and temperature) rather than spatial distance, and a reproducible community structure occurred annually toward the late summer. Furthermore, specific bacterial orders were related to chemical concentrations that co-varied with surrounding land use, suggesting that increases in abundance of these orders may be indicative of specific types of contamination throughout the river. Therefore, assessment of the total bacterial community provides more information about water quality and contamination sources than could be previously gleaned from traditional enumeration of indicator bacteria like Escherichia coli. In addition to these findings, construction of fosmid libraries to assess resistance of the bacterial community to antibiotics and heavy metals revealed that levels of resistance to both were low throughout the river. Municipal wastewater treatment was not associated with increased antibiotic resistance, but proximity to agricultural wastewater increased the frequency of resistance to the antibiotics kanamycin and ampicillin. Furthermore, the resistances to the heavy metals Cd and Cr were significantly elevated in primarily developed (urban) areas. These results indicate the influence of anthropogenic contaminants on the distribution of functional traits throughout the river. Results of this project as well as dissemination of these results are further discussed in an attached Final Report. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION Results of this study have been presented at national meetings of the American Society for Microbiology and submitted to peer-reviewed scientific journals for publication. In addition, exhibits have been prepared at the Bell Museum, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and Itasca State Park to inform the general community about the findings of this study. Summer workshops were also held in order to disseminate details of the methodology used in this study to high school teachers.",,"FINAL REPORT",2011-07-01,2014-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,Michael,Sadowsky,"U of MN","140 Gortner Lab, 1479 Gortner Ave","St Paul",MN,55108,"(612) 626-0977",sadowsky@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Digitization/Online Information Access, Education/Outreach/Engagement, Inventory, Monitoring, Research","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/mississippi-river-water-quality-assessment,,,,
2961,"Mississippi River Water Quality Assessment",2013,279000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 05c","$278,000 the first year and $279,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to assess water quality in the Mississippi River using DNA sequencing approaches and chemical analyses. The assessments shall be incorporated into a Web-based educational tool for use in classrooms and public exhibits. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,279000,,,4.07,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW Minnesota contains the headwaters of the Mississippi River, one of the largest and most important waterways in the world. A vital force in all life processes, microorganisms play a major role in the river's water quality through the biological and chemical processing they provide and as indicators of how human activity is impacting water quality. However, relatively little is actually known about as much as 99% of the microorganisms present in the river. Improved understanding of these microorganisms and the effects they have on water quality will greatly enhance efforts by federal, state, and local agencies to maintain and improve the Mississippi River's water quality. Scientists at the University of Minnesota are using this appropriation to use DNA sequencing and chemical analysis technologies to capture for the first time a more complete picture of the diversity and function of microorganisms in the river and how they influence water quality. As part of this effort, hands-on student and teacher participation and public engagement through educational exhibits will help improve public understanding of the importance of the river and water quality. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS A metagenomics-based sequencing approach was utilized to characterize the bacterial community at sites along the Mississippi River in Minnesota to understand how these communities were influenced by or indicative of water quality. Results of this study revealed that the bacterial community throughout the river primarily consisted of a small number of highly abundant species that comprise a ""core microbial community"" that was stable both in terms of community membership and inferred functional traits. Variation in community membership and species abundances were primarily influenced by physicochemical parameters (e.g. pH and temperature) rather than spatial distance, and a reproducible community structure occurred annually toward the late summer. Furthermore, specific bacterial orders were related to chemical concentrations that co-varied with surrounding land use, suggesting that increases in abundance of these orders may be indicative of specific types of contamination throughout the river. Therefore, assessment of the total bacterial community provides more information about water quality and contamination sources than could be previously gleaned from traditional enumeration of indicator bacteria like Escherichia coli. In addition to these findings, construction of fosmid libraries to assess resistance of the bacterial community to antibiotics and heavy metals revealed that levels of resistance to both were low throughout the river. Municipal wastewater treatment was not associated with increased antibiotic resistance, but proximity to agricultural wastewater increased the frequency of resistance to the antibiotics kanamycin and ampicillin. Furthermore, the resistances to the heavy metals Cd and Cr were significantly elevated in primarily developed (urban) areas. These results indicate the influence of anthropogenic contaminants on the distribution of functional traits throughout the river. Results of this project as well as dissemination of these results are further discussed in an attached Final Report. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION Results of this study have been presented at national meetings of the American Society for Microbiology and submitted to peer-reviewed scientific journals for publication. In addition, exhibits have been prepared at the Bell Museum, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and Itasca State Park to inform the general community about the findings of this study. Summer workshops were also held in order to disseminate details of the methodology used in this study to high school teachers.",,"FINAL REPORT",2011-07-01,2014-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,Michael,Sadowsky,"U of MN","140 Gortner Lab, 1479 Gortner Ave","St Paul",MN,55108,"(612) 626-0977",sadowsky@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Digitization/Online Information Access, Education/Outreach/Engagement, Inventory, Monitoring, Research","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/mississippi-river-water-quality-assessment,,,,
2910,"Prairie Management for Wildlife and Bioenergy - Phase II",2012,300000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 03g","$300,000 the first year and $300,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to research and evaluate methods of managing diverse working prairies for wildlife and renewable bioenergy production. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,300000,,,4.91,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University"," PROJECT OVERVIEW Bioenergy, a form of renewable energy derived from biological sources such as wood or grasses, is becoming an important component of the energy production mix. As the demand for bioenergy feedstocks increases in Minnesota and elsewhere, land use changes could impact wildlife. However, with proper management strategies it is possible that bioenergy production could actually improve conditions for wildlife rather than make them worse. This appropriation is allowing scientists at the University of Minnesota to continue developing best management practices for working prairies that maximize biomass harvesting while also promoting wildlife conservation and associated habitat diversity. This project is part of a broad effort at the University aimed at figuring out how to sustain Minnesota resources while improving the rural economy and developing energy independence. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS Many wildlife areas and conservation lands were formerly marginal agricultural fields that have been converted into rich habitats of grasses and flowering plants. That habitat traditionally required maintenance by prescribed burning. However, mowing can be more feasible and can provide future commodity incentives through a carbon-negative energy source. Our prevailing question was how grassland areas could be harvested annually without upsetting their ability to support wildlife. We organized over 1,000 acres into 60 production-size, 20-acre plots spanning the temperature gradient in western Minnesota. The plots were harvested in prescribed intensities and patterns each fall from 2009-2012 after plants had senesced and migratory wildlife left. Each year, surveys of songbirds, gamebirds, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and plants were conducted and bioenergy potential calculated. Our results showed that bioenergy can be harvested sustainably without harming resident wildlife by following simple protocols developed during the project. Specifically, leaving unharvested refuges of 5-10 acres rotated annually in a 20-acre plot minimized significant impact on wildlife, and we recommend such refuges as best practices. Harvesting without any refuge negatively affected some wildlife, specifically prairie and meadow voles, a shrew, sedge wren, common yellow throat, clay-colored sparrow, swamp sparrow, waterfowl nesting, and potentially native bees. Deer mice, grasshopper sparrows, common grackles, spiders, flies and beetles increased with harvest. Plant cover and biomass did not change significantly during our harvesting tests. We cut and analyzed over 3,000 tons of biomass with yields ranging from 0.6-1.8 tons/acre and projected ethanol yields averaging 108-gallons/ton. Recommendations for best harvesting equipment are low weight-to-tire-width ratio, easily repaired, and readily cleaned between fields. The broad consensus among wildlife experts is that diverse ecosystems offer habitat that is superior for a spectrum of wildlife, The overall significance of this project is that it identified and tested better methods for maintaining such habitat on public and private grasslands of Minnesota. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION< During this six-year project the Environmental Trust Fund and other substantial federal and local funds have resulted in two graduate theses, 26 publications, posters and presentations, five outreach events and newspaper articles, nine symposia, a website, a publically available dataset carrying the raw data and metadata supporting our conclusions, and a draft Best-Management-Practices document. That draft document has been formatted professionally for publication, with release scheduled this calendar year. Some managers in the Minnesota DNR have begun using harvesting as a grassland management tool on Wildlife Management Areas and through Cooperative Farm Agreements, and we expect that this can expand and become routine as project results, including the Best-Management-Practices document, are published and disseminated broadly. Dissemination will be ongoing for some time, with new scientific papers in preparation and continuing presentations at conferences.",,"FINAL REPORT",2011-07-01,2014-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,Clarence,Lehman,"U of MN","1987 Upper Buford Cir","St Paul",MN,55108,"(612) 625-5734",lehman@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Inventory, Monitoring, Research","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/prairie-management-wildlife-and-bioenergy-phase-ii,,,,
2910,"Prairie Management for Wildlife and Bioenergy - Phase II",2013,300000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 03g","$300,000 the first year and $300,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to research and evaluate methods of managing diverse working prairies for wildlife and renewable bioenergy production. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,300000,,,4.9,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University"," PROJECT OVERVIEW Bioenergy, a form of renewable energy derived from biological sources such as wood or grasses, is becoming an important component of the energy production mix. As the demand for bioenergy feedstocks increases in Minnesota and elsewhere, land use changes could impact wildlife. However, with proper management strategies it is possible that bioenergy production could actually improve conditions for wildlife rather than make them worse. This appropriation is allowing scientists at the University of Minnesota to continue developing best management practices for working prairies that maximize biomass harvesting while also promoting wildlife conservation and associated habitat diversity. This project is part of a broad effort at the University aimed at figuring out how to sustain Minnesota resources while improving the rural economy and developing energy independence. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS Many wildlife areas and conservation lands were formerly marginal agricultural fields that have been converted into rich habitats of grasses and flowering plants. That habitat traditionally required maintenance by prescribed burning. However, mowing can be more feasible and can provide future commodity incentives through a carbon-negative energy source. Our prevailing question was how grassland areas could be harvested annually without upsetting their ability to support wildlife. We organized over 1,000 acres into 60 production-size, 20-acre plots spanning the temperature gradient in western Minnesota. The plots were harvested in prescribed intensities and patterns each fall from 2009-2012 after plants had senesced and migratory wildlife left. Each year, surveys of songbirds, gamebirds, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and plants were conducted and bioenergy potential calculated. Our results showed that bioenergy can be harvested sustainably without harming resident wildlife by following simple protocols developed during the project. Specifically, leaving unharvested refuges of 5-10 acres rotated annually in a 20-acre plot minimized significant impact on wildlife, and we recommend such refuges as best practices. Harvesting without any refuge negatively affected some wildlife, specifically prairie and meadow voles, a shrew, sedge wren, common yellow throat, clay-colored sparrow, swamp sparrow, waterfowl nesting, and potentially native bees. Deer mice, grasshopper sparrows, common grackles, spiders, flies and beetles increased with harvest. Plant cover and biomass did not change significantly during our harvesting tests. We cut and analyzed over 3,000 tons of biomass with yields ranging from 0.6-1.8 tons/acre and projected ethanol yields averaging 108-gallons/ton. Recommendations for best harvesting equipment are low weight-to-tire-width ratio, easily repaired, and readily cleaned between fields. The broad consensus among wildlife experts is that diverse ecosystems offer habitat that is superior for a spectrum of wildlife, The overall significance of this project is that it identified and tested better methods for maintaining such habitat on public and private grasslands of Minnesota. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION< During this six-year project the Environmental Trust Fund and other substantial federal and local funds have resulted in two graduate theses, 26 publications, posters and presentations, five outreach events and newspaper articles, nine symposia, a website, a publically available dataset carrying the raw data and metadata supporting our conclusions, and a draft Best-Management-Practices document. That draft document has been formatted professionally for publication, with release scheduled this calendar year. Some managers in the Minnesota DNR have begun using harvesting as a grassland management tool on Wildlife Management Areas and through Cooperative Farm Agreements, and we expect that this can expand and become routine as project results, including the Best-Management-Practices document, are published and disseminated broadly. Dissemination will be ongoing for some time, with new scientific papers in preparation and continuing presentations at conferences.",,"FINAL REPORT",2011-07-01,2014-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,Clarence,Lehman,"U of MN","1987 Upper Buford Cir","St Paul",MN,55108,"(612) 625-5734",lehman@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Inventory, Monitoring, Research","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/prairie-management-wildlife-and-bioenergy-phase-ii,,,,
2913,"Strengthening Natural Resource Management with LiDAR Training",2012,90000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 03k","$90,000 the first year and $90,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to provide workshops and Web-based training and information on the use of LiDAR elevation data in planning for and managing natural resources.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,90000,,,1.69,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW The State of Minnesota is using an optical remote sensing technology called LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) to procure high resolution digital elevation data for the entire state. Precision, efficacy, and cost efficiency of numerous types of natural resource management activities can be greatly enhanced by use of this data. Potential users include natural resource professionals at all levels of government and in the private sector. However, most potential users have not yet had experience using this type of data because it's a relatively new technology. Through this appropriation the University of Minnesota's Water Resources Center is developing and implementing a training program that will enable natural resource professionals throughout the state to effectively employ this data in a variety of different applications in natural resource evaluation, management, and protection. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS The State of Minnesota, in 2013, completed acquisition of high resolution digital elevation data using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). Full use of the data can greatly enhance natural resource management and protection, however, most natural resource managers did not have experience using this very dense data or its applications.The goal of the project was to enable natural resource managers with GIS skills to effectively use LiDAR data in restoring, protecting, and managing natural resources.The methods used were to develop six teaching modules focused on major application areas, deliver the modules as hands-on workshops in computer laboratories around the state, and then enhance the modules for web-based self-learning. An additional set of four webinars was delivered, recorded, and posted to the web to supplement the workshop modules. An on-line user Forum was established to provide answers to questions about using LiDAR data and its applications.The module subjects are Basics of LiDAR, Terrain Analysis, Hydrology Applications, Engineering Applications, Wetland Mapping, and Forestry Applications. The on-line materials for the modules include lectures and exercises in Powerpoint slide, text, and video formats.The module workshops were delivered in 34 sessions at eight locations across the state, with a total attendance of 558, (226 individuals in one or more modules).Post-workshop surveys enabled workshop presenters to make adjustments to the workshop materials and presentations as the workshops progressed.The webinars addressed the use of hydrology tools recently developed in Minnesota, hydrology applications in the Red River Basin, and LiDAR for non-technical managers and staff. Total webinar participation was 437.The user Forum currently has 24 topic areas and 121 posts answering questions from technicians employing LiDAR data.Post-workshop surveys indicated that participants increased field work efficiency and area covered, performed analyses not previously possible, better targeted practices and resources, and improved visualization of projects and communication with clients. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION< This was a training project, so advertising for and delivering the training (Activity 2) was a large part of dissemination of the project results. Announcements soliciting participants for the 34 workshop sessions and four webinars, and announcing the user Forum and on-line resources were distributed primarily as emails through organizations and associations of the target audience. Information about the project has been presented at the 2012 Minnesota Water Conference, , the USDA 2012 National Land Grant/Sea Grant Water Conference, the 2011 and 2012 annual conferences of the Minnesota GIS/LIS Consortium, and the 2013 national meetings of the Soil and Water Conservation Society. We expect that use of the on-line project resources will extend well beyond Minnesota since other states have not yet developed LiDAR training programs.",,"FINAL REPORT",2011-07-01,2013-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,Leslie,Everett,"U of MN","Water Resources Center, 173 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Ave","St Paul",MN,55108,"(612) 625-6751",evere003@umn.edu,"Digitization/Online Information Access, Education/Outreach/Engagement, Planning, Technical Assistance","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/strengthening-natural-resource-management-lidar-training,,,,
2913,"Strengthening Natural Resource Management with LiDAR Training",2013,90000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 03k","$90,000 the first year and $90,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to provide workshops and Web-based training and information on the use of LiDAR elevation data in planning for and managing natural resources.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,90000,,,1.68,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW The State of Minnesota is using an optical remote sensing technology called LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) to procure high resolution digital elevation data for the entire state. Precision, efficacy, and cost efficiency of numerous types of natural resource management activities can be greatly enhanced by use of this data. Potential users include natural resource professionals at all levels of government and in the private sector. However, most potential users have not yet had experience using this type of data because it's a relatively new technology. Through this appropriation the University of Minnesota's Water Resources Center is developing and implementing a training program that will enable natural resource professionals throughout the state to effectively employ this data in a variety of different applications in natural resource evaluation, management, and protection. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS The State of Minnesota, in 2013, completed acquisition of high resolution digital elevation data using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). Full use of the data can greatly enhance natural resource management and protection, however, most natural resource managers did not have experience using this very dense data or its applications.The goal of the project was to enable natural resource managers with GIS skills to effectively use LiDAR data in restoring, protecting, and managing natural resources.The methods used were to develop six teaching modules focused on major application areas, deliver the modules as hands-on workshops in computer laboratories around the state, and then enhance the modules for web-based self-learning. An additional set of four webinars was delivered, recorded, and posted to the web to supplement the workshop modules. An on-line user Forum was established to provide answers to questions about using LiDAR data and its applications.The module subjects are Basics of LiDAR, Terrain Analysis, Hydrology Applications, Engineering Applications, Wetland Mapping, and Forestry Applications. The on-line materials for the modules include lectures and exercises in Powerpoint slide, text, and video formats.The module workshops were delivered in 34 sessions at eight locations across the state, with a total attendance of 558, (226 individuals in one or more modules).Post-workshop surveys enabled workshop presenters to make adjustments to the workshop materials and presentations as the workshops progressed.The webinars addressed the use of hydrology tools recently developed in Minnesota, hydrology applications in the Red River Basin, and LiDAR for non-technical managers and staff. Total webinar participation was 437.The user Forum currently has 24 topic areas and 121 posts answering questions from technicians employing LiDAR data.Post-workshop surveys indicated that participants increased field work efficiency and area covered, performed analyses not previously possible, better targeted practices and resources, and improved visualization of projects and communication with clients. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION< This was a training project, so advertising for and delivering the training (Activity 2) was a large part of dissemination of the project results. Announcements soliciting participants for the 34 workshop sessions and four webinars, and announcing the user Forum and on-line resources were distributed primarily as emails through organizations and associations of the target audience. Information about the project has been presented at the 2012 Minnesota Water Conference, , the USDA 2012 National Land Grant/Sea Grant Water Conference, the 2011 and 2012 annual conferences of the Minnesota GIS/LIS Consortium, and the 2013 national meetings of the Soil and Water Conservation Society. We expect that use of the on-line project resources will extend well beyond Minnesota since other states have not yet developed LiDAR training programs.",,"FINAL REPORT",2011-07-01,2013-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,Leslie,Everett,"U of MN","Water Resources Center, 173 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Ave","St Paul",MN,55108,"(612) 625-6751",evere003@umn.edu,"Digitization/Online Information Access, Education/Outreach/Engagement, Planning, Technical Assistance","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/strengthening-natural-resource-management-lidar-training,,,,
2960,"Trout Stream Springshed Mapping in Southeast Minnesota - Phase III - Part 2",2012,140000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 05b2","$250,000 the first year and $250,000 the second year are from the trust fund to continue to identify and delineate water supply areas and springsheds for springs serving as cold water sources for trout streams and to assess the impacts from development and water appropriations. Of this appropriation, $140,000 each year is to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota and $110,000 each year is to the commissioner of natural resources.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,140000,,,2.23,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW Native trout require clean, cold water that usually originates from springs. However the groundwater springs feeding the 173 designated trout streams in southeastern Minnesota are under increasing pressure from current and expected changes in land use and increased groundwater withdrawals for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use. This joint effort by the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is working to identify and map the springs and the areas that feed them in order to understand how these springsheds might be affected by development and increased water use and determine what can be done to protect and restore their water quality. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS Trout streams depend on a steady supply of clean, cold water which comes from groundwater springs. These trout springs are under increasing pressure from changing land use, climate change, and groundwater withdrawals for domestic use, mining, agriculture, and energy production. Delineation of the recharge areas or springsheds of trout springs using dye tracing is a necessary first step in the conservation and protection of the trout stream coldwater supplies. This project focused on delineating groundwater springsheds both in the Galena Group limestone karst areas of Fillmore and Olmsted counties, where this work has been done for over 30 years, and in the Cambrian St. Lawrence Formation and Tunnel City Group bedrock across southeast Minnesota. Prior to this project, no springsheds had been delineated in the St. Lawrence or Tunnel City bedrock units. We demonstrated that springs discharging from these units receive surface water recharge from sinking streams and that this recharge moves hundreds of feet per day through the bedrock. This has rewritten our understanding of the hydrology of southeast Minnesota and has demonstrated that these springs, which we formerly believed to be well-protected from land surface activities, are much more vulnerable than we previously realized. Overall, during this project we mapped 41 groundwater springsheds (delineated by dye tracing) and 54 surface water springsheds (surface watersheds sending water to a point where it sinks underground into a groundwater springshed). Twelve of the groundwater springsheds and sixteen of the surface water springsheds are in the St. Lawrence Formation and Tunnel City Group. The groundwater springshed delineated areas total 50,708 acres and the surface water delineated areas total 124,447 acres. Prior to this project there was a total of 54,091 acres of both springshed types delineated. Springsheds were delineated in Dakota, Dodge, Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Wabasha and Winona counties. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION Information from this project was widely disseminated. A map of the delineated springsheds and a document on Spring Assessment Protocols were produced and submitted to the LCCMR and will be published by the Minnesota Geological Survey. The springshed coverage is being used by state and local governments to target areas for conservation efforts and for Clean Water Fund project ranking. The springshed mapping will be used by the DNR for Silica Sand Mining Trout Stream Setback permitting and in Water Appropriation permit review. Project information was presented to numerous groups including the SE MN Water Resources Board, Root River Technical Advisor Group, Fillmore County Local Water Planning committee, Southeast Minnesota County and State Feedlot officers, Midwest Federal Agency Senior Managers, and at Silica Sand mining forums in Red Wing, Lewiston, La Crescent, and Winona. On the ground information was presented during tours of the southeast; groups that went ""on tour"" include Minnesota Groundwater Association, MPCA/DNR field staff, SE Minnesota water advocacy groups, Geological Society of America, Minnesota Association of Professional Soil Scientists, and state and federal agency staff from Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. A paper on the St. Lawrence tracing work has been was published in the journal Carbonates and Evaporites. The springshed mapping work was the subject of two stories on Minnesota Public Radio. Project results were presented at numerous scientific meetings including the 11th and 12th Multidisciplinary Conference on Sinkholes and the Environmental and Engineering Aspects of Karst, the Minnesota Groundwater Association, the Midwest Groundwater Conference, the Geological Society of America, The Driftless area Symposium, and at a Winona State University Geology Department seminar.",,"FINAL REPORT - Part 2 [Alexander]",2011-07-01,2014-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,Calvin,"Alexander, Jr.","U of MN","450 McNamara Alumni Ctr, 200 Oak St SE",Minneapolis,MN,55455,"(612) 624-3517",alexa001@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Inventory, Mapping, Monitoring","University of Minnesota ",,"Dakota, Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Olmsted, Wabasha, Winona",,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/trout-stream-springshed-mapping-southeast-minnesota-phase-iii-part-2,,,,
2960,"Trout Stream Springshed Mapping in Southeast Minnesota - Phase III - Part 2",2013,140000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 05b2","$250,000 the first year and $250,000 the second year are from the trust fund to continue to identify and delineate water supply areas and springsheds for springs serving as cold water sources for trout streams and to assess the impacts from development and water appropriations. Of this appropriation, $140,000 each year is to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota and $110,000 each year is to the commissioner of natural resources.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,140000,,,2.22,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW Native trout require clean, cold water that usually originates from springs. However the groundwater springs feeding the 173 designated trout streams in southeastern Minnesota are under increasing pressure from current and expected changes in land use and increased groundwater withdrawals for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use. This joint effort by the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is working to identify and map the springs and the areas that feed them in order to understand how these springsheds might be affected by development and increased water use and determine what can be done to protect and restore their water quality. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS Trout streams depend on a steady supply of clean, cold water which comes from groundwater springs. These trout springs are under increasing pressure from changing land use, climate change, and groundwater withdrawals for domestic use, mining, agriculture, and energy production. Delineation of the recharge areas or springsheds of trout springs using dye tracing is a necessary first step in the conservation and protection of the trout stream coldwater supplies. This project focused on delineating groundwater springsheds both in the Galena Group limestone karst areas of Fillmore and Olmsted counties, where this work has been done for over 30 years, and in the Cambrian St. Lawrence Formation and Tunnel City Group bedrock across southeast Minnesota. Prior to this project, no springsheds had been delineated in the St. Lawrence or Tunnel City bedrock units. We demonstrated that springs discharging from these units receive surface water recharge from sinking streams and that this recharge moves hundreds of feet per day through the bedrock. This has rewritten our understanding of the hydrology of southeast Minnesota and has demonstrated that these springs, which we formerly believed to be well-protected from land surface activities, are much more vulnerable than we previously realized. Overall, during this project we mapped 41 groundwater springsheds (delineated by dye tracing) and 54 surface water springsheds (surface watersheds sending water to a point where it sinks underground into a groundwater springshed). Twelve of the groundwater springsheds and sixteen of the surface water springsheds are in the St. Lawrence Formation and Tunnel City Group. The groundwater springshed delineated areas total 50,708 acres and the surface water delineated areas total 124,447 acres. Prior to this project there was a total of 54,091 acres of both springshed types delineated. Springsheds were delineated in Dakota, Dodge, Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Wabasha and Winona counties. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION Information from this project was widely disseminated. A map of the delineated springsheds and a document on Spring Assessment Protocols were produced and submitted to the LCCMR and will be published by the Minnesota Geological Survey. The springshed coverage is being used by state and local governments to target areas for conservation efforts and for Clean Water Fund project ranking. The springshed mapping will be used by the DNR for Silica Sand Mining Trout Stream Setback permitting and in Water Appropriation permit review. Project information was presented to numerous groups including the SE MN Water Resources Board, Root River Technical Advisor Group, Fillmore County Local Water Planning committee, Southeast Minnesota County and State Feedlot officers, Midwest Federal Agency Senior Managers, and at Silica Sand mining forums in Red Wing, Lewiston, La Crescent, and Winona. On the ground information was presented during tours of the southeast; groups that went ""on tour"" include Minnesota Groundwater Association, MPCA/DNR field staff, SE Minnesota water advocacy groups, Geological Society of America, Minnesota Association of Professional Soil Scientists, and state and federal agency staff from Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. A paper on the St. Lawrence tracing work has been was published in the journal Carbonates and Evaporites. The springshed mapping work was the subject of two stories on Minnesota Public Radio. Project results were presented at numerous scientific meetings including the 11th and 12th Multidisciplinary Conference on Sinkholes and the Environmental and Engineering Aspects of Karst, the Minnesota Groundwater Association, the Midwest Groundwater Conference, the Geological Society of America, The Driftless area Symposium, and at a Winona State University Geology Department seminar.",,"FINAL REPORT - Part 2 [Alexander]",2011-07-01,2014-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,Calvin,"Alexander, Jr.","U of MN","450 McNamara Alumni Ctr, 200 Oak St SE",Minneapolis,MN,55455,"(612) 624-3517",alexa001@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Inventory, Mapping, Monitoring","University of Minnesota ",,"Dakota, Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Olmsted, Wabasha, Winona",,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/trout-stream-springshed-mapping-southeast-minnesota-phase-iii-part-2,,,,
2953,"Understanding Threats, Genetic Diversity, and Conservation Options for Wild Rice",2012,97000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 04o","$97,000 the first year and $98,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to research the genetic diversity of wild rice population throughout Minnesota for use in related conservation and restoration efforts. This appropriation is contingent upon demonstration of review and cooperation with the Native American tribal nations in Minnesota. Equipment purchased with this appropriation must be available for future publicly funded projects at no charge except for typical operating expenses. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,97000,,,2.68,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW The ecological, economic, and cultural and historical values embodied by wild rice is said to be unmatched by any other native plant species in Minnesota. However, naturally occurring wild rice in the state now faces a multitude of threats, such as loss of habitat from development, competition from invasive species, impacts from mining and other industrial activity, and hydrologic changes in lakes, rivers, and streams. It is recognized that to preserve wild rice in Minnesota it is critical to maintain its genetic diversity, yet knowledge of genetic diversity in wild rice is limited. Scientists at the University of Minnesota's Department of Plant Biology are using this appropriation to study the genetic diversity of wild rice in Minnesota in order to enhance options and inform best practices for wild rice protection and restoration. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS Wild rice (Zizania palustris L.) was studied using DNA-based single sequence repeats and the tools of bioinformatics to determine the genetic diversity of wild rice among 70 populations across the state of Minnesota. This study had two objectives: 1) to document genetic diversity of wild rice populations; and 2) assess the usefulness of genetic information for the conservation of this important wild species in Minnesota. Results showed that genetic diversity of the populations in Minnesota is relatively high with a range of 0.37 to 0.73 in heterozygosity and a mean of 0.54. Hetereozygosity can range between 0.0 to 1.0 indicating that genetic diversity among wild rice populations is reasonably high. This also means that many populations are quite unique from a genetic standpoint. Two genetic phylograms are presented. These are figures that illustrate the genetic relationships among the populations using two different genetic models. Examples are given to illustrate how genetics may be used when restoring or rebuilding populations of wild rice. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION This project will be disseminated via a website report and via seminars and presentations both nationally and regionally. The data will be useful to resource managers across the state who are managing populations of wild rice. The genetics of wild rice in Minnesota has not been explored in detail, thus resource managers will now have another tool to use when making decisions about restoration of wild rice populations. The results will be published in a nationally recognized peer reviewed journal.",,"FINAL REPORT",2011-07-01,2014-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,David,Biesboer,"U of MN","250 BioSci, 1445 Gortner Ave","St Paul",MN,55345,"(612) 625-1799",biesboer@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Inventory, Research","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/understanding-threats-genetic-diversity-and-conservation-options-wild-rice,,,,
2953,"Understanding Threats, Genetic Diversity, and Conservation Options for Wild Rice",2013,98000,"M.L. 2011, First Special Session, Chp. 2, Art.3, Sec. 2, Subd. 04o","$97,000 the first year and $98,000 the second year are from the trust fund to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to research the genetic diversity of wild rice population throughout Minnesota for use in related conservation and restoration efforts. This appropriation is contingent upon demonstration of review and cooperation with the Native American tribal nations in Minnesota. Equipment purchased with this appropriation must be available for future publicly funded projects at no charge except for typical operating expenses. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2014, by which time the project must be completed and final products delivered.","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".","Click on ""Final Report"" under ""Project Details"".",,,,98000,,,2.68,"University of Minnesota","Public College/University","PROJECT OVERVIEW The ecological, economic, and cultural and historical values embodied by wild rice is said to be unmatched by any other native plant species in Minnesota. However, naturally occurring wild rice in the state now faces a multitude of threats, such as loss of habitat from development, competition from invasive species, impacts from mining and other industrial activity, and hydrologic changes in lakes, rivers, and streams. It is recognized that to preserve wild rice in Minnesota it is critical to maintain its genetic diversity, yet knowledge of genetic diversity in wild rice is limited. Scientists at the University of Minnesota's Department of Plant Biology are using this appropriation to study the genetic diversity of wild rice in Minnesota in order to enhance options and inform best practices for wild rice protection and restoration. OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS Wild rice (Zizania palustris L.) was studied using DNA-based single sequence repeats and the tools of bioinformatics to determine the genetic diversity of wild rice among 70 populations across the state of Minnesota. This study had two objectives: 1) to document genetic diversity of wild rice populations; and 2) assess the usefulness of genetic information for the conservation of this important wild species in Minnesota. Results showed that genetic diversity of the populations in Minnesota is relatively high with a range of 0.37 to 0.73 in heterozygosity and a mean of 0.54. Hetereozygosity can range between 0.0 to 1.0 indicating that genetic diversity among wild rice populations is reasonably high. This also means that many populations are quite unique from a genetic standpoint. Two genetic phylograms are presented. These are figures that illustrate the genetic relationships among the populations using two different genetic models. Examples are given to illustrate how genetics may be used when restoring or rebuilding populations of wild rice. PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION This project will be disseminated via a website report and via seminars and presentations both nationally and regionally. The data will be useful to resource managers across the state who are managing populations of wild rice. The genetics of wild rice in Minnesota has not been explored in detail, thus resource managers will now have another tool to use when making decisions about restoration of wild rice populations. The results will be published in a nationally recognized peer reviewed journal.",,"FINAL REPORT",2011-07-01,2014-06-30,"Environment & Natural Resources Trust Fund",Completed,,,David,Biesboer,"U of MN","250 BioSci, 1445 Gortner Ave","St Paul",MN,55345,"(612) 625-1799",biesboer@umn.edu,"Analysis/Interpretation, Inventory, Research","University of Minnesota ",,Statewide,,,http://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/understanding-threats-genetic-diversity-and-conservation-options-wild-rice,,,,