08.d Wetland Conservation Act Gateway Trail Project Wetland Replacement Plan Staff Report
Date of Meeting: January 20, 2026
To: City Council
From: Kyle Morell, City Administrator
Re: Wetland Conservation Act Gateway Trail Project Wetland Replacement Plan
Background:
A Wetland Replacement Plan is required for the Gateway Trail Project, as some of the proposed
trail will require the filling in of existing wetlands. The Washington Conservation District aids the
City in its enforcement of the Wetland Conservation Act and has worked to submit the
Replacement Plan on the City’s behalf. Jay Riggs, Washington Conservation District Administrator,
will attend the meeting to present this item to Council and request their approval.
Attachments:
1) DNR Gateway Trail Extension Replacement Plan
2) Wetland Delineation Map
3) Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act Notice of Decision Document
Submitted by:
Bolton & Menk, Inc.
1960 Premier Drive
Mankato, MN 56001
P: (507) 625-4171
F: (507) 625-4177
DNR Gateway Trail Extension
Replacement Plan
City of Scandia, MN
October 14, 2025
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Table of Contents
DNR Gateway Trail Extension N13117554
Table Of Contents
PART ONE: APPLICANT INFORMATION .................................................................................... 2
PART TWO: SITE LOCATION INFORMATION ............................................................................ 2
PART THREE: GENERAL PROJECT/SITE INFORMATION ............................................................ 2
PART FOUR: AQUATIC RESOURCE IMPACT SUMMARY ........................................................... 5
PART FIVE: APPLICANT SIGNATURE ......................................................................................... 6
ATTACHMENT A ....................................................................................................................... 7
ATTACHMENT C ....................................................................................................................... 9
ATTACHMENT D ..................................................................................................................... 10
LANDOWNER STATEMENT AND CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY .......................................... 12
Appendix
FIGURE 1 LOCATION MAP
FIGURE 2-1 PROPOSED AQUATIC RESOURCE IMPACTS (OVERVIEW)
FIGURE 2-2 PROPOSED AQUATIC RESOURCE IMPACTS
FIGURE 2-2 PROPOSED AQUATIC RESOURCE IMPACTS
FIGURE 2-3 PROPOSED AQUATIC RESOURCE IMPACTS
FIGURE 2-4 PROPOSED AQUATIC RESOURCE IMPACTS
REMOVAL PLANS
EROSION CONTROL PLAN
STORM SEWER PLAN & PROFILE
STREET PLAN & PROFILE
Minnesota Interagency Water Resource Application Form February 2014 Page 2
Project Name and/or Number: DNR Gateway Trail Extension
PART ONE: Applicant Information
If applicant is an entity (company, government entity, partnership, etc.), an authorized contact person must be identified. If the
applicant is using an agent (consultant, lawyer, or other third party) and has authorized them to act on their behalf, the ag
contact information must also be provided.
Applicant/Landowner Name: MnDNR | Kent Skaar | Parks and Trails Division Senior Project Manager
Mailing Address: 500 Lafayette Road | St. Paul, MN | 55155
Phone: (651) 259-5636
E-mail Address: Kent.skaar@state.mn.us
Authorized Contact (do not complete if same as above):
Mailing Address:
Phone:
E-mail Address:
Agent Name: Bolton & Menk, Inc. | Madeline Maurer | Natural Resources Specialist
Mailing Address: 3300 Fernbrook Lane North, Suite 300 | Plymouth, MN | 55447
Phone:
E-mail Address: Maddie.maurer@bolton-menk.com
PART TWO: Site Location Information
County: Washington City/Township: Scandia
Parcel ID and/or Address: See Figure 1: Location Map
Legal Description (Section, Township, Range): 23/24, 32N, 20W
Lat/Long (decimal degrees): See Figure 1: Location Map
Attach a map showing the location of the site in relation to local streets, roads, highways.
Approximate size of site (acres) or if a linear project, length (feet): 8.7-acres
If you know that your proposal will require an individual Permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, you must provide the
names and addresses of all property owners adjacent to the project site. This information may be provided by attaching a list to
your application or by using block 25 of the Application for Department of the Army permit which can be obtained at:
http://www.mvp.usace.army.mil/Portals/57/docs/regulatory/RegulatoryDocs/engform_4345_2012oct.pdf
PART THREE: General Project/Site Information
If this application is related to a delineation approval, exemption determination, jurisdictional determination, or other
correspondence submitted prior to this application then describe that here and provide the Corps of Engineers project number.
Bolton & Menk, Inc. prepared and submitted a wetland delineation for this project on July 7, 2023. The LGU approved the type &
boundary on August 10, 2023. USACE noticed a delineation concurrence on August 18, 2023 (2023-00866-TMS).
Describe the project that is being proposed, the project purpose and need, and schedule for implementation and completion. The
project description must fully describe the nature and scope of the proposed activity including a description of all project elements
that effect aquatic resources (wetland, lake, tributary, etc.) and must also include plans and cross section or profile drawings
showing the location, character, and dimensions of all proposed activities and aquatic resource impacts.
Minnesota Interagency Water Resource Application Form February 2014 Page 3
The City of Scandia and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) are proposing to construct a paved trail,
highway underpass, and parking area/trailhead in 2026. This trail would be an extension to the existing Gateway State Trail,
which begins in St. Paul, travels northeast through the cities of Maplewood, North St. Paul, and Oakdale, through Washington
County, and ends at Pine Point Regional Park, just four miles northwest of the city of Stillwater. This project represents one half
of the segment needed to connect to the Scandia Village Center. The project will
involve clearing shrubs and trees, grading, culvert placement, and paving.
This project is located along Oakhill Road North (County Road 52), which is a bituminous-surfaced, 2-lane rural roadway with
residential housing and agricultural land surrounding the roadway. The proposed trail alignment is mostly within MnDNR right-
of-way and the existing grass shoulder and side slope. Some portions of the side slopes are relatively flat while other portions
are steeper. The proposed trail extension will run approximately 1-mile from the trail head to County Highway 52 through
MnDNR owned property (Figure 1).
Scandia is a highly popular cycling destination, and there is a community need for off-road trails to provide greater appeal and
Bringing the Gateway Trail into Scandia will allow access from the State Park to Scandia Village Center with many amenities. It
ze the
natural and historic resources of the city.
The proposed trail will be a 10-ft wide bituminous path with an adjacent 6-ft wide gravel trail. The multipurpose trail will be
accessible to pedestrians, cyclists, and hikers year-round. The trail path will cross Oakhill Road North through a precast
boxculvert underpass, turning to follow the roadway, then meander through a forested area until it reaches the Scandia Village
Center. The trail will connect to a new .
The proposed underpass will require raising the roadbed to accommodate the box culvert. This will result in the roadway slopes
extending outward to maintain a minimum 1:4 slope. The bituminous pavement of Oakhill Road North will shift west to
accommodate the paved trail along the east side. The gravel path will direct users to cross over Oakhill Road further north,
where the trail system enters the forest. The construction of the trail will also involve 4 culvert replacements and 14 new
culverts, including a 44-lf dual corrugated steel culvert conveying a tributary under the proposed trail. A stormwater
treatment basin is proposed adjacent to the parking lot.
The permanent wetland impacts a total of 0.32-acres. These impacts are associated with trail and road grading, culvert and
riprap placement, and the trail underpass construction. Temporary impacts total 0.03-acres and are due to clear & grubbing,
and culvert installation (Figures 2-2 and 2-3). The tributary permanent impact totals 55-lf (0.02-ac). This impact is due to the
trail crossing, dual culvert, and riprap placement. Temporary impacts to this tributary totals 10-lf (92-sqft) due to culvert and
riprap installation (Figure 2-4).
Mitigation
In summary, permanent impacts to jurisdictional wetlands total 0.32-acres. These impacts broken down by wetland type are
0.05-ac Type 1, 0.16-ac Type 2, and 0.11-ac Type 3. Permanent impacts to Tributary 1 total 55-lf (0.02-acres). Permanent
impacts to wetlands will be replaced and mitigated through purchasing state approved wetland bank credits. The minimum
wetland replacement ratio for the project area is 2:1 within Bank Service Area (BSA) #6. WCA siting requirements were followed
when searching for bank credits to purchase. Type 1 credits are not available with the same major watershed (37) or BSA.
Additional Type 2 credits will be purchased as substitute to Type 1 credits. Bank site #1379 was chosen because it has State
approved Type 2 and 3 credits available and is within the same major watershed.
Tree removal is proposed within the project area for trail construction. Clear and grubbing limits total 2.94 acres, including
removal of 26 mature trees. Tree removal will occur during the winter 2025-2026. Disturbed areas will be reseeded with
appropriate native seed mixes. The project area will utilize standard erosion control methods as specified in the plans.
Project Name and/or Number: DNR Gateway Trail Extension
8420.0515 Special Considerations
Subp. 1 Scope
Subp. 2 Endangered and Threatened Species
Minnesota Interagency Water Resource Application Form February 2014 Page 4
Bolton & Menk, Inc. has coordinated with MnDNR and USFWS to ensure the project is complying with all state and federal
threatened and endangered species laws. The iPaC determined that the project is not likely to adversely affect the
northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis) and tricolored bat (Perimyotis subflavus). No effect was determined for
the monarch butterfly (danaus Plexippus) and the whooping crane (grus americana). The iPaC initially determined May
Effect determination for several mussel species. However, no suitable mussel habitat or riparian areas will be impacted.
USFWS determined since there is no federal nexus, Section 7 consultation is not required. USFWS recommend some
minimization measures to mitigate potential impacts to the species but not required because there is no federal nexus.
Avoid tree clearing in the active period during the summer (April 15-Sept. 30th in MN). If this is not possible, limit tree
clearing to times outside the pup season (June 1-Aug. 15 in MN).
Subp. 3 Rare natural communities
Bolton & Menk, Inc. has quired the Minnesota Natural Heritage Information System in (MCE #2025-00493-02). State-listed
the direct vicinity of the proposed project. A turtle avoidance plan was
provided to the DNR and was approved on October 9, 2025. Other state-listed species that have been documented in the
vicinity of the project include Red-Shouldered Hawks (Buteo lineatus. Tree removal will be avoided between April 1 st and
August 15th to avoid impacts to red-shouldered hawks and potential northern long-eared bat roosting habitat. Disturbed
sites will be re-seeded with native seed mixes.
Subp. 4 Special fish and wildlife resources
No impacts to special fish or wildlife resources are anticipated.
Subp. 5 Archaeological, historic, or cultural resources sites
The cultural resources review was completed by MnDNR. While the survey work for cultural resources has been
completed, the reporting to SHPO is not yet complete. During field work, nothing of consequence was unearthed and no
historic properties were determined to be within the APE.
Subp. 6 Groundwater sensitivity
Activities at this site will not have an adverse effect on groundwater quality.
Subp. 7 Sensitive surface waters
There will not be any direct impact to sensitive surface waters.
Subp. 8 Education or research use
Not applicable.
Subp. 9 Waste disposal sites
None on site.
Subp. 10 Consistency with other plans
This project is consistent with the Park
Gateway Trail to extend through the park.
Minnesota Interagency Water Resource Application Form February 2014 Page 5
Project Name and/or Number: DNR Gateway Trail Extension
PART FOUR: Aquatic Resource Impact1 Summary
If your proposed project involves a direct or indirect impact to an aquatic resource (wetland, lake, tributary, etc.) identify each
impact in the table below. Include all anticipated impacts, including those expected to be temporary. Attach an overhead view map,
aerial photo, and/or drawing showing all of the aquatic resources in the project area and the location(s) of the proposed impacts.
Label each aquatic resource on the map with a reference number or letter and identify the impacts in the following table.
Aquatic Resource ID
(as noted on
overhead view)
Aquatic
Resource Type
(wetland, lake,
tributary etc.)
Type of Impact
(fill, excavate,
drain, or
remove
vegetation)
Duration of
Impact
Permanent (P)
or Temporary
(T)1
Size of
Impact2
Overall Size of
Aquatic
Resource 3
Existing Plant
Community
Type(s) in Impact
Area4
County, Major
Watershed #, and
Bank Service Area
# of Impact Area5
Wetland 1 Wetland Fill P 0.07 ac N/A Type 2 & 3 Washington, 37, 6
Wetland 1 Wetland Fill T (60) 331 sqft N/A Type 2 & 3 Washington, 37, 6
Wetland 2 Wetland Fill/ Excavate P 0.20 ac N/A Type 2 & 3 Washington, 37, 6
Wetland 2 Wetland Excavate T (60) 0.02 ac N/A Type 2 & 3 Washington, 37, 6
Wet Ditch 10
(Incidental) Wetland Fill P 0.08 ac N/A Type 2 Washington, 37, 6
Wetland 11 Wetland Fill P 0.05 ac N/A Type 1 Washington, 37, 6
Wetland 11 Wetland Fill T (60) 210 sqft N/A Type 1 Washington, 37, 6
Wet Ditch 12
(Incidental) Wetland Fill P 25 sqft N/A Type 2 Washington, 37, 6
Tributary 1 Tributary Fill P 55 lf
(0.02 ac) N/A N/A Washington, 37, 6
Tributary 1 Tributary Disturb T (60) 10 lf (92
sqft) N/A N/A Washington, 37, 6
1 access fill that
2Impacts less than 0.01 acre should be reported in square feet. Impacts 0.01 acre or greater should be reported as acres and rounded to the
nearest 0.01 acre. Tributary impacts must be reported in linear feet of impact and an area of impact by indicating first the linear feet of impact
along the flowline of the stream followed by the area impact in parentheses). For example, a project that impacts 50 feet of a stream that is 6
feet wide would be reported as 50 ft (300 square feet).
3This is generally only applicable if you are applying for a de minimis exemption under MN Rules 8420.0420 Subp. 8, otherwise
4Use Wetland Plants and Plant Community Types of Minnesota and Wisconsin 3rd Ed. as modified in MN Rules 8420.0405 Subp. 2.
5Refer to Major Watershed and Bank Service Area maps in MN Rules 8420.0522 Subp. 7.
If any of the above identified impacts have already occurred, identify which impacts they are and the circumstances associated
with each:
N/A
1
activities that may require approval from one or more regulatory agencies. For purposes of this form it is not meant to
indicate whether or not those activities may require mitigation/replacement.
Minnesota Interagency Water Resource Application Form February 2014 Page 7
Project Name and/or Number: DNR Gateway Trail Extension
Attachment A
Request for Delineation Review, Wetland Type Determination, or
Jurisdictional Determination
By submission of the enclosed wetland delineation report, I am requesting that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District
(Corps) and/or the Wetland Conservation Act Local Government Unit (LGU) provide me with the following (check all that apply):
Wetland Type Confirmation
Delineation Concurrence. Concurrence with a delineation is a written notification from the Corps and a decision from the LGU
concurring, not concurring, or commenting on the boundaries of the aquatic resources delineated on the property. Delineation
concurrences are generally valid for five years unless site conditions change. Under this request alone, the Corps will not address
the jurisdictional status of the aquatic resources on the property, only the boundaries of the resources within the review area
(including wetlands, tributaries, lakes, etc.).
Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination. A preliminary jurisdictional determination (PJD) is a non-binding written indication
from the Corps that waters, including wetlands, identified on a parcel may be waters of the United States. For purposes of
computation of impacts and compensatory mitigation requirements, a permit decision made on the basis of a PJD will treat all
waters and wetlands in the review area as if they are jurisdictional waters of the U.S. PJDs are advisory in nature and may not be
appealed.
Approved Jurisdictional Determination. An approved jurisdictional determination (AJD) is an official Corps determination that
jurisdictional waters of the United States are either present or absent on the property. AJDs can generally be relied upon by the
affected party for five years. An AJD may be appealed through the Corps administrative appeal process.
In order for the Corps and LGU to process your request, the wetland delineation must be prepared in accordance with the 1987
Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual, any approved Regional Supplements to the 1987 Manual, and the Guidelines for
Submitting Wetland Delineations in Minnesota (2013).
http://www.mvp.usace.army.mil/Missions/Regulatory/DelineationJDGuidance.aspx
Wetlands 1, 2, and 11 are isolated basins and are not adjacent to waters of the United States nor have continuous surface
connection to those waters. Therefore, Wetland 1, 2, and 11 should be considered non-jurisdictional to section 404.
33 CFR Part 328, Section 328.2 b. (3)- Non-Waters of the United States
Wetland 10 and 12 are confined to the roadside ditch, only connected to isolated basins. No hydric soil is mapped in these
areas. Therefore, Wetland 10 and 12 should be considered non-jurisdictional to section 404.
Minnesota Interagency Water Resource Application Form February 2014 Page 8
Project Name and/or Number: DNR Gateway Trail Extension
Attachment B
Supporting Information for Applications Involving Exemptions, No Loss
Determinations, and Activities Not Requiring Mitigation
Complete this part if you maintain that the identified aquatic resource impacts in Part Four do not require wetland
replacement/compensatory mitigation OR if you are seeking verification that the proposed water resource impacts are either
exempt from replacement or are not under CWA/WCA jurisdiction.
Identify the specific exemption or no-loss provision for which you believe your project or site qualifies:
8420.0415.H Temporary Impact
USACE St. Paul District Transportation RGP: Category 3
Provide a detailed explanation of how your project or site qualifies for the above. Be specific and provide and refer to attachments
and exhibits that support your contention. Applicants should refer to rules (e.g. WCA rules), guidance documents (e.g. BWSR
guidance, Corps guidance letters/public notices), and permit conditions (e.g. Corps General Permit conditions) to determine the
necessary information to support the application. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the WCA LGU and Corps Project
Manager prior to submitting an application if they are unsure of what type of information to provide:
8420.0415.H Temporary Impact
This project proposes 0.03-acres of temporary wetland impact associated with clearing & grubbing and culvert placement.
Physical characteristics of the effect aquatic resources will be restored to pre-project conditions. Impacted areas will be
returned to existing contours and planted with native seed mixes.
USACE Transportation RGP Category 3: New Construction Linear Transportation
The DNR Gateway Trail Extension project results in permanent tributary impacts due to fill from the trail, culvert, and
riprap. Permanent impacts total 55-lf (0.02-ac). These impacts fall under this NWP since the impacts are associated with
constructing a new multipurpose pedestrian trail. Impacts fall below activity restrictions and does not exceed PCN limits.
Erosion and sediment control measures will be taken and will remain in place until construction activities are completed.
Regarding the St. Paul Districts stream mitigation procedure, this project may be considered to fall under Impact Severity
Tier 4 since the project involves piping the stream and placing riprap at the outlet. The total proposed permanent linear
foot impact (55-linear feet) is below the Tier 4 threshold of 200-linear feet.
Minnesota Interagency Water Resource Application Form February 2014 Page 9
Project Name and/or Number: DNR Gateway Trail Extension
Attachment C
Avoidance and Minimization
Project Purpose, Need, and Requirements. Clearly state the purpose of your project and need for your project. Also include a
description of any specific requirements of the project as they relate to project location, project footprint, water management,
and any other applicable requirements. Attach an overhead plan sheet showing all relevant features of the project (buildings,
roads, etc.), aquatic resource features (impact areas noted) and construction details (grading plans, storm water management
plans, etc.), referencing these as necessary:
The City of Scandia and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) are proposing to construct a paved trail,
highway underpass, and parking area/trailhead in 2026. This trail would be an extension to the existing Gateway State Trail,
which begins in St. Paul, travels northeast through the cities of Maplewood, North St. Paul, and Oakdale, through Washington
County, and ends at Pine Point Regional Park, just four miles northwest of the city of Stillwater. This project represents one half
involve clearing shrubs and trees, grading, culvert placement, and paving.
Scandia is a highly popular cycling destination, and there is a community need for off-road trails to provide greater appeal and
Bringing the Gateway Trail into Scandia will allow access from the State Park to Scandia Village Center with many amenities. It
ze the
natural and historic resources of the city.
Avoidance. Both the CWA and the WCA require that impacts to aquatic resources be avoided if practicable alternatives exist.
Clearly describe all on-site measures considered to avoid impacts to aquatic resources and discuss at least two project alternatives
that avoid all impacts to aquatic resources on the site. These alternatives may include alternative site plans, alternate sites, and/or
not doing the project. Alternatives should be feasible and prudent (see MN Rules 8420.0520 Subp. 2 C). Applicants are encouraged
to attach drawings and plans to support their analysis:
No-build alternative: This alternative would not impact any wetlands or the watercourse features. However, it fails to address
the need for extending the Gateway trail system. The City of Scandia would remain inaccessible to pedestrians and cyclists and
also lacks those opportunities in the area.
Second Alternative: An alternative that would avoid all wetland impacts would be to eliminate the gravel trail and construct
the trail as a board walk over the wetland (rather than paved) and the road crossing would be at grade rather than an
underpass. This alternative is not practical since it would break with the existing gateway trail, that has both gravel and paved
trails to provide recreation for all users. This alternative would also present safety concerns, as CR 52 posted speeds are 55 mph
and the at-grade crossing would put trail users at risk.
Third Alternative: Another alternative that would avoid all wetland impacts would be to eliminate the gravel trail and construct
bridge crossing over CR 52. This alternative was rejected due to the inconsistent design compared to the overall gateway trail
system and the significant cost increase for design and construction.
Minimization. Both the CWA and the WCA require that all unavoidable impacts to aquatic resources be minimized to the greatest
extent practicable. Discuss all features of the proposed project that have been modified to minimize the impacts to water
resources (see MN Rules 8420.0520 Subp. 4):
Minimization was achieved by various activities to reduce impacts to the wetlands. Slopes along Oakhill Road range from 1:2 to
1:4, following minimum design standards. With consultation with the DNR, additional minimization was achieved by designing
the trail to meander around and avoid wetlands within the forested area.
Off-Site Alternatives. An off-site alternatives analysis is not required for all permit applications. If you know that your proposal
will require an individual permit (standard permit or letter of permission) from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, you may be
required to provide an off-site alternatives analysis. The alternatives analysis is not required for a complete application but must
be provided during the review process in order for the Corps to complete the evaluation of your application and reach a final
Minnesota Interagency Water Resource Application Form February 2014 Page 10
decision. Applicants with questions about when an off-site alternatives analysis is required should contact their Corps Project
Manager.
No off-site alternatives were considered since construction is taking place on the existing DNR trail easement. Trail alignment
alternatives were limited due to private property. At grade crossings were discussed at length and deemed obsolete for safety
reasons. A bridge was also briefly considered and rejected due to a significant cost increase for design and installation.
Attachment D
Replacement/Compensatory Mitigation
Complete this part if your application involves wetland replacement/compensatory mitigation not associated with the local road
wetland replacement program. Applicants should consult Corps mitigation guidelines and WCA rules for requirements.
Replacement/Compensatory Mitigation via Wetland Banking. Complete this section if you are proposing to use credits from an
existing wetland bank (with an account number in the State wetland banking system) for all or part of your
replacement/compensatory mitigation requirements.
Wetland Bank
Account # County Major
Watershed #
Bank Service
Area # Credit Type (if applicable) Number of Credits
1379 Chisago 37 6 Type 2 0.42
1379 Chisago 37 6 Type 3 0.22
Applicants should attach documentation indicating that they have contacted the wetland bank account owner and reached at
least a tentative agreement to utilize the identified credits for the project. This documentation could be a signed purchase
agreement, signed application for withdrawal of credits or some other correspondence indicating an agreement between the
applicant and the bank owner. However, applicants are advised not to enter into a binding agreement to purchase credits until the
mitigation plan is approved by the Corps and LGU.
Project-Specific Replacement/Permittee Responsible Mitigation. Complete this section if you are proposing to pursue actions
(restoration, creation, preservation, etc.) to generate wetland replacement/compensatory mitigation credits for this proposed
project.
WCA Action Eligible
for Credit1
Corps Mitigation
Compensation
Technique2
Acres Credit %
Requested
Credits
Anticipated3 County Major
Watershed #
Bank
Service
Area #
1Refer to the name and subpart number in MN Rule 8420.0526.
2Refer to the technique listed in St. Paul District Policy for Wetland Compensatory Mitigation in Minnesota.
3If WCA and Corps crediting differs, then enter both numbers and distinguish which is Corps and which is WCA.
Explain how each proposed action or technique will be completed (e.g. wetland hydrology will be restored by breaking the tile
and how the proposal meets the crediting criteria associated with it. Applicants should refer to the Corps mitigation policy
language, WCA rule language, and all associated Corps and WCA guidance related to the action or technique:
N/A
Attach a site location map, soils map, recent aerial photograph, and any other maps to show the location and other relevant
features of each wetland replacement/mitigation site. Discuss in detail existing vegetation, existing landscape features, land use
(on and surrounding the site), existing soils, drainage systems (if present), and water sources and movement. Include a
topographic map showing key features related to hydrology and water flow (inlets, outlets, ditches, pumps, etc.):
N/A
Minnesota Interagency Water Resource Application Form February 2014 Page 11
Project Name and/or Number: DNR Gateway Trail Extension
Attach a map of the existing aquatic resources, associated delineation report, and any documentation of regulatory review or
approval. Discuss as necessary:
N/A
For actions involving construction activities, attach construction plans and specifications with all relevant details. Discuss and
provide documentation of a hydrologic and hydraulic analysis of the site to define existing conditions, predict project outcomes,
identify specific project performance standards and avoid adverse offsite impacts. Plans and specifications should be prepared by
a licensed engineer following standard engineering practices. Discuss anticipated construction sequence and timing:
N/A
For projects involving vegetation restoration, provide a vegetation establishment plan that includes information on site
preparation, seed mixes and plant materials, seeding/planting plan (attach seeding/planting zone map), planting/seeding
methods, vegetation maintenance, and an anticipated schedule of activities:
N/A
For projects involving construction or vegetation restoration, identify and discuss goals and specific outcomes that can be
determined for credit allocation. Provide a proposed credit allocation table tied to outcomes:
N/A
Provide a five-year monitoring plan to address project outcomes and credit allocation:
N/A
Discuss and provide evidence of ownership or rights to conduct wetland replacement/mitigation on each site:
N/A
Quantify all proposed wetland credits and compare to wetland impacts to identify a proposed wetland replacement ratio. Discuss
how this replacement ratio is consistent with Corps and WCA requirements:
N/A
By signature below, the applicant attests to the following (only required if application involves project-specific/permittee
responsible replacement):
All proposed replacement wetlands were not:
Previously restored or created under a prior approved replacement plan or permit
Drained or filled under an exemption during the previous 10 years
Restored with financial assistance from public conservation programs
Restored using private funds, other than landowner funds, unless the funds are paid back with interest to the individual
or organization that funded the restoration and the individual or organization notifies the local government unit in
writing that the restored wetland may be considered for replacement.
The wetland will be replaced before or concurrent with the actual draining or filling of a wetland.
An irrevocable bank letter of credit, performance bond, or other acceptable security will be provided to guarantee successful
completion of the wetland replacement.
Within 30 days of either receiving approval of this application or beginning work on the project, I will record the Declaration of
Restrictions and Covenants on the deed for the property on which the replacement wetland(s) will be located and submit proof
of such recording to the LGU and the Corps.
Applicant or Representative: N/A Title:
Signature: N/A Date:
BWSR Forms 11-25-09 Page 4 of 4
3. CONTRACTOR VERIFICATION
By signing below, I verify that I have received a signed copy of this form and will be performing the indicated work as
described above.
Company and Individual Performing Proposed Work (Print)
Address
Signature Date
Phone Number and E-mail Address (Optional)
Note: The contractor is responsible for ensuring this form is mailed to the appropriate office when complete.
This statement is invalid if any of the above information is not supplied or is inaccurate. Work in violation of this
notification requirement is a separate and independent offense from other violations of Minnesota Statutes
chapter § 103G and is a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail. The State
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Commissioner also has the authority to require restoration of any work
done without the necessary permits or approvals or work that is beyond what was authorized.
4. INFORMATION AND RESOURCES
A Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) replacement plan is required for any wetland draining, excavation, or filling
activity that is not exempt under Minnesota Rules Chapter 8420.0420. A DNR Waters permit is required for any work
in public waters.
National wetland inventory maps are available for review at the County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD)
office and online at http://www.fws.gov/wetlands/Data/Mapper.html . Many wetlands are not identified on the maps but
are still restricted from draining, excavating, or filling. If you are unsure the proposed work will affect a wetland,
contact your local government unit (LGU) or SWCD for assistance.
Public Waters of the State of Minnesota include the channel to the top of the channel bank for watercourses and the
basin from the ordinary high water level waterward for public waters (i.e. lakes) and public waters wetlands. Public
waters inventory maps
and online at http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/waters/watermgmt_section/pwi/download.html.
General information about public waters, wetlands, and related regulations are available on the DNR website at
http://mndnr.gov and the MN Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) website at http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us.
5. WHERE TO SEND THIS NOTIFICATION
For work in public waters (lake, watercourse, or public waters wetland), send this completed form to the DNR
map of DNR regions can be found on the DNR website at: http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/aboutdnr/dnr_regions.pdf
For work in any wetland that is not a public waters wetland, send this completed form to the WCA LGU with
jurisdiction over the project area. The LGU is usually the County or SWCD, except in urban areas the City is
often the LGU. Contact any of these local governments or BWSR for assistance. BWSR also maintains a list of
LGUs on its website at: http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/directories/WCA.pdf.
If it is not known if the wetland is a public waters wetland, send the completed form to both the DNR Regional
Enforcement Office and the WCA LGU.
Department of Natural Resources Regional Offices
Northwest Region:
2115 Birchmont Beach Rd. NE
Bemidji, MN 56601
Phone: 218-308-2700
Northeast Region:
1201 E. Hwy. 2
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Phone: 218-327-4455
Central Region:
1200 Warner Road
St. Paul, MN 55106
Phone: 651-259-5800
Southern Region:
261 Hwy. 15 South
New Ulm, MN 56073
Phone: 507-359-6000
Prepared by: Bolton & Menk, Inc. Appendix
DNR Gateway Trail Extension N13117554
Appendix
!(!(
!(!(
!(!(
!(!(
!?
!?
!?
!?
DNR Gateway Trail Extension 2023 Exhibit F2: Wetland Delineation Map
July 2023
Legend !I
2023 Study Area
^Photo Location
!?Culvert
!(Soil Boring
Wetland Type
Type 1: Seasonally Flooded Basin
Type 2: Fresh (wet) Meadow
Type 3: Shallow Marsh
Wet Ditch
0 200
Feet
Source: WMS Imagery 2021
Wet Ditch 9
0.03 acres
Wetland 10
Type 2: 0.02 ac
Type 3: 0.01 ac
Total: 0.03 ac
Wetland 12
Type 2: 0.05 acres
Type 3: 0.02 acres
Total: 0.07 acres
Wet Ditch 13
0.07 acres
Wetland 5Wet Ditch 14
287 sqft
W12B
W12A
^
W10A W10B W9B W9A
^
^
Wetland 11
Type 1
621 sqft
W11A
W11B
Wet Ditch 10
0.08 ac
Wet Ditch 12
0.05 acres
Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act
NOTICE OF DECISION
Notice of Decision Template provided by MN Board of Water & Soil Resources – 10/13/2025
Date this Notice was sent: 10/23/2025
Local Government Unit: Scandia
County: Washington
Applicant and (if applicable) Applicant’s
Representative:
MN DNR
Project Name/Number: Gateway Trail Scandia - Wetland Replacement/2025-SCA-07
Type of Decision (check all that apply):
Note: Boundary/type, sequencing,
replacement plan, and bank plan decisions
require an associated notice of application
prior to the decision being made.
☐ Boundary/Type
☐ Sequencing (submitted separately from a replacement plan)
☑ Replacement Plan
☐ Bank Plan
☐ Exemption
Identify which exemption by Rule or Statute Citation:
☐ No-Loss
Identify which provision by Rule or Statute Citation:
Decision:
Note: All replacement plan approvals are
conditional upon confirmation from BWSR
of withdrawal of specified credits and/or
financial assurance received for project-
specific replacement.
☐ Denied
☐ Approved.
☐ Approved with Conditions
List Conditions:
LGU Representative Name & Signature: Kyle Morell
Decision Timeline
An LGU must approve or deny a request within 60 days of receiving a complete application per MINN. STAT. § 15.99.
Date Complete Application Received: 10/16/2025
Date of Decision:
If applicable, date of written extension to
60-day decision timeline & number of days
extended:
Reason for Extension (check one):
☐ Other process or decision required to occur before WCA decision.
Describe:
☐ Additional information and/or revision to application submitted.
☐ Applicant request.
☐ Other. Describe:
Decision Summary
Technical Evaluation Panel
Recommendation (check one):
☐ No Recommendation
☐ Approval or approval with conditions (attach recommendation)
Notice of Decision Template provided by MN Board of Water & Soil Resources – 10/13/2025
☐ Denial (attach recommendation)
LGU Findings (check all that
apply):
☐ Findings attached
☐ Findings: The TEP reviewed the application and reviewed the proposed
alignments with the applicant’s representative. The TEP finds the wetlands
have been avoided and impacts minimized to the extent practicable, thus
meeting sequencing requirements. The TEP recommends approval. The LGU
_________________________________________________
For Replacement Plan Decisions
Only:
Proposed wetland impacts requiring replacement (acres): 0.32
Type of wetland replacement proposed (check all that apply):
☐ Project-Specific. Number of Credits:
☑ Banking. Number of Credits by Bank Account #: 27,878 1379
Notice Distribution
Notice Recipients (check all that
apply):
☑ SWCD TEP Member (if different from LGU): Jay Riggs
☑ BWSR TEP Member: Ben Meyer
☑ DNR Representative: Dan Scollan
☑ Watershed District or WMO (if applicable): Tom Langer
☐ bank.administrator.bwsr@state.mn.us (Bank Plan Applications Only)
☑ Applicant: MN DNR
☑ Applicant’s Representative (if applicable):
☐ Members of the Public Requesting Notices (if applicable):
☐ Others:
Appeal Process
Appeal Process (check one): ☐ Local Appeal Process (if established).
☑ Board of Water & Soil Resources (see instructions below)
If there is no established Local
Appeal Process indicated
above, an appeal of this
decision may be made to BWSR
per the instructions to the right.
Note: Decisions are not final until
the 30-day appeal window ends.
Mail or email written request to appeal sent to BWSR within 30 days of date
this notice was sent. Include copy of this notice, name and contact information
of appellant(s) and their representative(s) (if applicable), a statement clarifying
intent to appeal, and supporting information as to why the decision is in error.
Mail check payable to MN Board of Water & Soil Resources for $500.
Send to:
Appeals & Regulatory Compliance Coordinator
Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources
520 Lafayette Road North
St. Paul, MN 55155
travis.germundson@state.mn.us.