Watershed Districts
Overview
MN Statutes 103A, 103B, 103C, 103D, 103E, 103F and 103G are collectively known as the Minnesota Water Law. MN Statute 103D sets forth the conditions under which the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources (BWSR) may establish a watershed district as well as the purpose and function of watershed districts. Among the requirements for watershed districts, 103D.401 requires that a district adopt a Watershed Management Plan and revise that plan once every ten years.
MN Statute 103B.235 requires that upon adoption of the watershed plan, the cities must “prepare… a local water management plan, capital improvement plan and official controls as necessary” to conform to the watershed plan. Each local plan must include:
- A description of the physical environment and the land use;
- A surface water drainage model;
- Specifications of storm water features showing them to be adequate to meet performance standards;
- A definition of water quantity and water quality protection methods adequate to meet performance standards;
- Identification of regulated areas; and
- An implementation program including ordinance and a capital improvement program.
Local Water Plan Update
With the completion of the Riley Purgatory Bluff Creek Watershed plan update the last watershed management plan has been updated. As a result, Chanhassen has begun the process of updating our local water plan.
Citizen Feedback
The city is looking for your input. Please take the time to email your thoughts on the current plan and changes you would like to see in the next plan to Surface Water Resource Coordinator, Terry Jeffery. Also keep on the watch for open houses and public hearings as we look to create an effective and efficient local water plan that protects our water resources in a balanced and sustainable manner.