SAUK RIVER WATERSHED DISTRICT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Managers of the Sauk River Watershed District pursuant to Minnesota Statue 103D.605 will hold a hearing August 20th, 2024 at 6:15 p.m. or thereafter at the Sauk River Watershed District office located at 642 Lincoln Road in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. The purpose of the hearing is to consider and take comments on the 2024 Outdoor Heritage Fund “Sauk River Watershed Habitat Protection and Restoration Phase 5” Lessard Sam’s Outdoor Heritage Fund Grant, project #**361 TBD**.

Using conservation easements and fee land acquisition, we will protect approximately 387 acres of high priority habitat in Minnesota’s Prairie and Forest-Prairie Transition Area. We will restore/enhance approximately 107 acres of wetlands and accompanying uplands, creating vital habitat for waterfowl, fishes, and populations of threatened and endangered species. Properties selected will be strategically targeted using innovative site prioritization model that maximizes conservation benefit and financial leverage. 

The total estimated cost of the project is $3,965,000 to be paid from a grant from the State of Minnesota under the Lessard Sam’s Outdoor Heritage Fund; with $375,000 to Great River Greening; $1,199,000 to Sauk River Watershed District; $1,192,000 to Pheasants Forever; and $1,199,000 to Minnesota Land Trust. Up to $168,000 to Minnesota Land Trust is to establish a monitoring and enforcement fund. These funds are provided by the Clean Water Land & Legacy Amendment. Additional funds, including in-kind contributions may come from, in addition to the organizations above, local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, The Nature Conservancy, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of Natural Resources, Ducks Unlimited, the State’s Clean Water Fund program, the State’s Clean Water Partnership program or other sources.

For further information contact the Watershed District Office at (320) 352-2231.

Bill Becker, President

Aug. 12, 19