News

Cover Crops and Soil Temperature

NRCS cover cropDo cover crops that survive the winter keep the soil colder than fall tilled soils?  Results of a study appear to indicate the answer is NO.  Don Robison measured soil temperatures in March 2013 and compared fall-tilled soil, no-till soil, no-till soil with cover crop annual ryegrass, and a lawn.  His results indicate that this common idea may only be a myth.  He observed no difference between the soil temperatures in all the above surface conditions.  For the full article and more on cover crops, click the link to http://plantcovercrops.com/myths-debunked-on-cover-crops-and-colder-soil-temperatures-final-report/

2013 Scholarship Recipients

scholarshipThis year we awarded five $1000 scholarships to:  Brittany Austin (GHS), Janessa Courtney (WHS), Ryan Ek (FHS), Kylee Gibson (FHS), and Shea Stevens (GHS).  Congratulations and good luck to them all!

Northwest Montana Fair

fairlogo[1]Come see our booth at the Northwest MT Fair.  We will be in the Search & Rescue building.  The Fair runs August 14-18.

May 13, 2013 310-Stream Permit Meeting Minutes

CALL TO ORDER & ATTENDANCE: Chairman Ronald Buentemeier called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M. in the conference room.

Members present: Ronald Buentemeier, Chairman; Ken Meckel, Secretary/Treasurer; Pete Woll, Supervisor; Frank De Kort, Supervisor; Dean Sirucek, Supervisor; being a quorum of the Board.

Members not in attendance: Mark Siderius, Vice-Chairman. Absence is excused.

 

Also in attendance were: Patti Mason and Ginger Kauffman, FCD staff; Mark Deleray and Leo Rosenthal, MFWP; Brian Mahoney; Eric Mulcahy; Dave McLean; Jody Bakker.

 

 

MINUTES: Frank De Kort made a motion “to approve the minutes of the April 22, 2013 business meeting as amended.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

 

CORRESPONDENCE:

1. May 9, 2013 “Watershed News”

2. May 16, 2013 Whitefish City-County Planning Board meeting agenda

3. Notice – GIS & GPS Training for Watershed and Wetland Managers, June 4-5,

Montana State Library, Helena. Contact Laura 406-444-0549

4. Notice – Clark Fork River Basin Water Year 2013 Climate & Water Supply

Outlook meeting, Tuesday, May 28, The Double Tree Inn, Missoula, 10:30 AM –

1:00 PM. Contact Jesse Aber, 406-444-6628

5. “Nutrient Digest” Spring 2013 issue

6. Email from Jeff Tiberi – HB 6 was officially sign into law by Governor Bullock. 15 CD projects will be funded.

7. Email from PayneWest Insurance regarding volunteers/supervisors and Work Comp Insurance.

8. Letter from Ray Nickless, National Weather Service, confirming the change in flood stage for the USGS stream gage on the Flathead River at Columbia Falls from 14 feet to 13 feet.

9. Notice – 2013 Spring Board Meeting is scheduled for May 30-31, Montana State Capitol, Helena.

10. May 6, 2013 issue of “The Montana Conservationist”

11. Notice – GPS & GIS training for Watershed and Wetland managers is scheduled for June 4-5, Montana State Library, Helena. Contact Montana Watershed Coordination Council, 406-444-0549.

12. Notice – Judith Basin CD is hosting the Judith Basin County Range School, June 6, at the Hill Simmental Ranch, Stanford MT. Contact Judith Basin CD 406-566-2311.

13. Montana Envirothon 2013 Score Sheet

14. April 26, 2013 Whitefish City-County Planning board meeting agenda

15. Thursday, April 25 issue of “News from the Front”

16. Email – NACD Government Update dated April 25, 2013

17. Notice – NACD Urban & Community Conservation webinar, May 16, 11:00 AM EST. Contact Debra Bogar deb-bogar@nacdnet.org

18. Email – NRCS National Water & Climate Center updates

19. Notices – Storm Water Management during Construction workshop, August 20, Events Center at the Richland County Fairgrounds in Sidney;

BMP 201 –SWPP Administrator workshop, August 21-22, Events Center at the Richland County Fairgrounds in Sidney. Contact Christopher Romankiewicz, DEQ, 406-475-2138.

20. Photo from Debbie Pierson (Flathead County) of the Bigfork Stormwater System “Jellyfish”

21. Explanation from Angel Rosario, NRCS, regarding the 30 year average on snowpack.

 

FINANCIAL: The following bill was due and paid prior this meeting:

1. FFA $5000.00

2. MayDay Design Studio $363.00

 

The following bills were reviewed:

1. Anders Business Solutions $3035.00

2. Byte Savvy $30.00

3. Flathead Beacon $264.00

4. MayDay Design Studio $25.00

5. Mountain States Leasing – Kalispell $758.27

6. RLK Hydro Inc. $2052.95

7. Montana State Fund $365.16

8. VISA $170.97

Pete Woll made a motion “to approve the bills as presented.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: Ryan Mahoney, of the Samuel R. Land Trust in Bigfork, read a complaint letter and showed videos of work regarding the 310-permit for Bakker on Swan River. Discussion held. Mr. Mahoney was informed that the district only deals with the 310-law; he would have to go through court in regards to other issues.

 

 

(310):

BAKKER, FL2012016, Swan River, permit ext. request: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to approve a one-year permit extension.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

CHICKERING, FL2012052, Flathead River, permit ext. request: Discussion held. Ronald Buentemeier made a motion “to approve a one-year permit extension.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

CONSULTING INV., FL2013009, Whitefish River, dock & path: Discussion held. Ken Meckel made a motion “to approve the application as submitted & per Ken Meckel’s and Mark Deleray’s team member reports.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

EDGEWATER RV, FL2012062, Bierney Creek, culvert: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to continue to table until the June 310-meeting.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

FOLEY, FL2013013E, Swift Creek, notice of emergency: An on-site inspection was set for Wednesday, May 22, 9:00 AM at the site.

 

FOURTEEN WEST, FL2013010, Whitefish River, dock: Discussion held. Ken Meckel made a motion “to approve the application as submitted and per Mark Deleray’s and Ken Meckel’s team member reports. Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

GREEN, FL2012012, Flathead River, permit ext. request: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to approve a one-year permit extension.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

HARTLEY, FL2010047C, Unnamed, violation/restoration: Discussion held. Frank De Kort made a motion “to table until the on-site has taken place.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

NW ENERGY, FL2013014, E. Spring Creek, utilities: Discussion held. Dean Sirucek made a motion “this is not a project. They do not need a 310-permit for this activity as long as it is installed according to the application.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

NOWACZYK, FL2013008, Patrick Creek, culverts/utilities: Discussion held. Dean Sirucek made a motion “to approve the application with modifications per addendum received 4/16/2013, and per Dean Sirucek’ s and Mark Deleray’s team member reports.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

SARGENT, FL2012061, Sickler Creek, culvert: Discussion held. Ken Meckel made a motion “to table until requested information is received.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

SILKETT, FL2013011E, Whitefish River, notice of emergency: Discussion held. Ronald Buentemeier made a motion “to withdraw the notice of emergency since a permit has been issued.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

STALOWY, FL2011069, Bear Creek, permit extension request: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to approve a one year permit extension.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

STROMSTED, FL2012059, Flathead River, permit ext. request: Discussion held. Ronald Buentemeier made a motion “to approve a one year permit extension.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

THE HOMESTEAD, FL2013002, Unnamed, pond/fish hab/wetland alt: Discussion held. Frank De Kort made a motion “to withdraw the application as requested.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

 

 

WAGNER LANE, FL2012047, Flathead River, bank stabilization: Discussion held. Ken Meckel made a motion “to table until further information is received.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

WEAVER, FL2012015, Flathead River, permit extension request: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to approve a one year permit extension.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

 

NEW BUSINESS:

DRAFT ADOPTED RULES: Staff will work on updating the draft Adopted Rules for Board and FWP review at the June business meeting.

 

EASEMENTS: The board was updated on Eagle Bend/Harbor Village canal easements. Information is to be sent to the county attorney’s office for review.

 

FRC – FLOOD PHOTOS ARCHIVE REQUEST: Flathead River Commission asked if the Flathead CD could be the “reservoir” for replies/photos documenting farm flood photos. Discussion held. The board agreed the CD office could do this.

 

BEACON AD: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to put an additional ad in the Beacon for $220.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

TRUMBULL CREEK: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to approve the phone poll for the Trumbull Creek solicitation.” Dean Sirucek seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

Ronald Buentemeier made a motion “to write a letter to RDG regarding the limited solicitation for the Trumbull Creek project, and notify them that we are looking at funding avenues due to the cost.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

CLARIFICATION ON TRUMBULL CREEK MOTION: Discussion held. Ronald Buentemeier made a motion “to include the upper Trumbull Creek analysis in the letter to John Tubbs, DNRC Director; and to correct the original motion (made at the April business meeting) to read “where that portion of the creek only runs part of the year, but it is classed as a perennial stream.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

CLARK FORK TASK FORCE ALTERNATE REP 7/3: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to appoint Ronald Buentemeier and Dean Sirucek as alternates for Mark Spratt at the Clark Fork Task Force meetings when he is out of town.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

5/16 COLUMBIA RIVER TREATY MTG ATTENDANCE: Discussion held. Ken Meckel made a motion “to accept the 2 points Patti Mason discussed, which Mark Siderius will present at the Columbia River meeting.” Dean Sirucek seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

WATER AVAILABILITY STUDY FUNDING DISCUSSION: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to instruct staff to being looking for funding to support a water availability study for the Flathead.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

 

MATTERS OF THE BOARD/STAFF

- Floodplain/FEMA meeting update

- May business meeting: Pete Woll made a motion “to cancel the May business meeting.” Dean Sirucek seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

- New job description will be on the June business meeting agenda

- High School scholarship awards

 

The next 310- meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 10, 2013, 7:00 P.M. in the conference room of the USDA building at 133 Interstate Lane, Kalispell.

 

ADJOURNMENT: Pete Woll made a motion “to adjourn.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously. As there was no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:25 P.M.

 

Submitted By:         Ginger Kauffman, Administrator

 

Minutes approved by FCD Board motion made on:

 

_6/10/2013____ ___Ronald Buentemeier____________ ______Chairman__________________

     (Date)                           (Signature)                                                      (Title – Chairman, Vice-Chairman, etc.)

 

 

June 10, 2013 310 Stream Permit Agenda

7:00PM    CALL TO ORDER & ATTENDANCE

MINUTES, CORRESPONDENCE & FINANCIAL

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD

 

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS:   Mason

BIG SKY WATERSHED CORP:   Constanza von der Pahlen

 

(310: Listed Alphabetically. This order may change):

EDGEWATER RV, FL2012062, Bierney Creek, culvert:   Woll

FOLEY, FL2013013E, Swift Creek, Notice of Emergency:   Meckel

HARTLEY, FL2010047C, Unnamed, violation:   De Kort

RIEKE, FL2013016, Flathead River, bank stabilization:   Woll

ROBBINS, FL2013018, Flathead River, irrigation structure:   Sirucek

SARGENT, FL2012061, Sickler Creek, culvert/ford:   Meckel

TERRY, FL2013015E, Mount Creek, Notice of Emergency:   Sirucek

TERRY, FL2013017, Mount Creek, bridge:   Sirucek

WAGNER LN, FL2012047, Flathead River, bank stabilization:   Meckel

 

NEW BUSINESS:

NOTICE OF EMERGENCY DISCUSSION:   Sirucek

FLATHEAD RIVER COMMISSION GAGE OPERATIONS:   Siderius

2013/2014 BUDGET MEETING DATE:   Board/Staff

END OF MONTH BUDGET REPORT (April 2013):   Kauffman

CIP FUND RESOLUTION:   Kauffman

FLATHEAD RIVER COMMISSION BY-LAW CHANGES:   Kauffman

310 ADMINISTRATION GRANT:   Staff

WEED SPRAYER FUNDING REQUEST:   Mason

COMPUTER:   Mason

MEETING AGENDAS – Watershed groups:   Mason

REQUESTS FOR COMMENTS:   Staff

 

MATTERS OF THE BOARD/STAFF

MEETING NOTICES:   Siderius/Woll

 

10:00PM    ADJOURN

 

April 22, 2013 Business Meeting Minutes

CALL TO ORDER & ATTENDANCE: Chairman Ronald Buentemeier called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M. in the conference room.

Members present: Ronald Buentemeier, Chairman; Mark Siderius, Vice Chairman; Frank De Kort, Supervisor; Pete Woll, Supervisor; Dean Sirucek, Supervisor; being a quorum of the Board.

Members not in attendance: Ken Meckel, Secretary/Treasurer. Absence is excused.

 

Also in attendance were: Marc Spratt, Associate Supervisor; Patti Mason and Ginger Kauffman, FCD staff; Angel Rosario, NRCS.

 

 

MINUTES: Frank De Kort made a motion “to approve the minutes of the April 8, 2013 310-meeting as presented.” Dean Sirucek seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

 

CORRESPONDENCE:

1. April 22, 2013 issue of “The Montana Conservationist”

2. April 19, 2013 legislative updates from Jeff Tiberi, Montana Association of Conservation

Districts (MACD)

3. April 2013 issues of “River 2 Lake News”

4. Notice: As of 4/19/2013, MACD will be in their new office at 1101 11th Avenue, Helena,

MT 59601

5. Email from Linda Brander, DNRC, deadline for applications to Resource Conservation Advisory Council (RCAC) council for FY 2013 is April 26. Applications will be reviewed May 29th in Helena at the DNRC building, Bannack Room, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

6. Two recent issues of “Inside Agroforestry”

7. Email from Jeff Tiberi, MACD, regarding Coal Bed Methane Protection Act

8. Information from Missoula Conservation District regarding removal of streambank

vegetation in that county.

9. April 2103 issue of “Forestry Notes”

10. Notice: 2014 NACD Annual meeting will be February 2-5, Anaheim, CA.

11. April 12, 2013 issue of “News from the Front”

12. Whitefish City-County Planning Board April 18, 2013, meeting agenda.

13. Notice: The 310 committee meeting is set for April 30, 10:00 AM, DNRC conference

room in Helena. The committee will be looking at the definition of a natural perennial-

flowing stream.

14. Montana Conservation Corps (MCC) 2012 Annual Report

 

 

FINANCIAL:

The following bill was due and paid prior to this business meeting:

1. Montana State Treasurer $52.50

The following bills were reviewed:

1. Byte Savvy $251.00

2. CenturyLink $226.91

3. Gold Rush Clothing $1077.49

4. VISA $126.26

5. River Design Group $1245.00

6. Insty Prints of Kalispell $39.95

Mark Siderius made a motion “to approve the bills as presented.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT: No one was present to comment on items not on the agenda.

 

 

310’s

SILKETT, FL2013012, Whitefish River, bank stabilization/emergency: Discussion held. Ronald

Buentemeier made a motion “to approve the application as submitted per Ronald Buentemeier’s

and Mark Deleray’s team member reports. The 15-day waiting period is waived with

concurrence by FWP.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

 

BUSINESS

NRCS REPORT: Angel Rosario reported:

EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentive Program)

- Three more applications approved for funding for a total of nine approved so far ($200,573).

- Had six contracts signed and approved.

- Completed a tree planting project last Thursday on Lower Valley with MCC crew and partners.

WRP (Wetland Reserve Program)

- Completed one monitoring visit today and monitoring underway on another.

Other

- Budget Issues (No changes since last meeting).

- Snow Report

 

STAFF REPORT: Patti Mason reported:

Conservation

1. On-sites. 1) Oldenburg’s to make some erosion measurements with Dean Sirucek on the 4th, 2) Swift Creek, 3) Whitefish River docks, 4) Whitefish River emergency on the 11th.

2. Seedling Program. Distributed the seedlings ordered through my program and also many that were ordered directly from the MT Conservation Seedling Nursery, with help from Ginger Kauffman and Kirsten Gruver.

3. Pine Grove Pond. Worked with Girl Scout leader and Kirsten Gruver to plant 25 Ponderosas at Pine Grove Pond on the 20th.

Outreach

1. Oral History Project. Met with Flathead High School teachers for a conference call with Linda Brander of DNRC on 3/28. Had a lengthy phone conversation with Linda the following Friday discussing details of how to make this happen in the schools.

2. Crown of the Continent Ecosystem Education Consortium (COCEEC) met on 4/9. I presented a review of the Project WET workshop from last October, and we looked at the native plant gardens at Glacier High School, one put in 3 years ago and the other installed last fall.

The board asked staff to gather information and photos for an article in the MT Conservationist, and to contact DNRC to make up a poster for the fall MACD meeting.

 

3. Flathead Community of Resource Educators (CORE). Next general meeting is 6/13. CORE website work is completed, and the website committee will meet on 4/30 for training and review.

Watershed Education Committee (WEC). Work is progressing on the Flathead Watershed Sourcebook curriculum project. Dr. Michael Brody from MSU has continued to express interest in the project. The group met on 4/17 and is setting up a visit by Dr. Brody for a meeting in July. The intent is for MSU student(s) to begin work next fall semester. WEC will be looking for funding this summer.

4. Flood Awareness Day is Wednesday.

5. Arbor Day. Received the plant delivery on the 18th, and began staking out planting locations on the 19th. Planting is this Friday, the 26th. CSKT (Confederated Salish Kootenai Tribe) Native Plant Nursery donated and delivered the plants this year.

Other

1. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Nutrient Technical Advisory Group meeting was 4/18. I have a copy of the PowerPoint presentation if anyone is interested in viewing it. They are planning a Watershed Advisory Group meeting this summer, with preliminary target loads for the headwaters (Phase 1) and a calibrated model for the rest of the basin (Phase 2).

2. Area V Administrators meeting in Missoula is 5/1.

3. Trumbull Creek Flood Remediation Project. We now have all the landowner permission forms and will be submitting permit applications next week.

Office

1. Website. Still working out invoice questions with Robert Johnson.

2. Performance reviews in the works.

3. Working on gathering Conservation District Policies

4. Adopted rules still under review

5. Purchased new stamp computer

 

FLATHEAD BASIN COMMISSION REPORT: Dean Sirucek reported a meeting was held April 10th – agenda included waste management & disposal sites; EPA presentation on Somers Tie Plant area, chemical tracking and clean up; Columbia River Treaty review – a public meeting will be held May 16th. The next Flathead Basin meeting is scheduled for September 17th.

Note: Dean Sirucek, Mark Spratt, Mark Siderius, Pete Woll and Patti Mason will develop a statement to present at the 5/16 meeting, and bring it to the 5/13/13 310-meeting for FCD board approval.

 

MACD REPORT: Pete Woll reported MACD is in the new office, some construction items still continue; CD related legislative updates including budgets; the 310-committee will be looking at the definition of a natural perennial-flowing stream.

Note: Dean Sirucek will send the USGS definition to Patti Mason for the FCD board.

 

 

WHITEFISH CITY-COUNTY PLANNING BOARD: The FCD office received a copy of the April 18th meeting agenda; items included a request for a conditional use permit, and an application for a zoning map amendment. Information is available on the City of Whitefish website.

 

FLATHEAD RIVER COMMISSION: Mark Siderius reported an agency meeting was held regarding Flathead River flood level – which has been changed back to 13’ (feet). Action stage will be 12’ (feet). USGS will proceed with installing a gage at Foys Bend, with installation being completed in the fall. National Weather Service will compile data. Flathead River Commission and the agencies would like to meet annually, preferably after the Water Quantification meeting, to continue working together on details and operations.

 

CLARK FORK TASK FORCE: Marc Spratt reported a meeting was held April 15 in Missoula. The agenda included approval of hiring a Facilitator, discussion on the Water Supply Conference, Scope of Work for RRGL grant; election of new officers & review terms were tabled. The Spring Water Supply conference is upcoming, and the next Clark Fork Task Force meeting is scheduled for May 6th.

 

 

NEW BUSINESS

BUDGET: Ginger Kauffman reviewed the following with the FCD board:

End of Month reports ending March 31, 2013:

Balance Sheets

Profit & Loss (P&L) Sheets

P&L Budget Performance/General Budget Items sheets

P&L Budget Performance/Grants sheets

Pete Woll made a motion “to approve the “End of Month Report” ending March 31, 2013.” Mark Siderius seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

RECORDS DISPOSAL: Discussion held. Frank De Kort made a motion “to approve and send in the Request for Records Disposal of old employee files.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

WEED SPRAYING EQUIPMENT: The County Weed Dept. will submit a letter of request. No action at this time.

 

EQUIPMENT FUNDING REQUEST: Patti Mason reported she was contacted by the Vo-Ag Center regarding the purchase of a grain drill. Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to send FFA $5000 out of the educational supplies fund.” Mark Siderius seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS: Discussion held. Mark Siderius made a motion “to give Stevens, Gibson, Courtney, Ek, and Austin $1000 scholarship each.” Dean Sirucek seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

COST SHARE CONTRACT: Discussion held. Mark Siderius made a motion “to approve the Schaefer cost-share contract extension with a deadline of June 15th; invoice to be submitted by June 20th.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

PLANNING GRANT: Patti Mason reported there has been no further information on DNRC planning grants, application forms will be available the middle of May.

 

TRUMBULL CREEK PROPOSAL: Patti Mason reported a request for bids was sent to 5 companies, only one response was received. Discussion held. Ronald Buentemeier made a motion “to send a letter to John Tubbs, cc’ing Ray Beck (DNRC), Flathead County Planning & Zoning and the Flathead County Commissioner, expressing “our disbelief” of the cost of the floodplain permit & related expenses to put in a relief culvert on a section of Trumbull Creek that only runs water part of the year.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

TRUMBULL CREEK FLOOD REMEDIATION PROJECT: Discussion held. Mark Siderius made a motion “to pay RLK Hydro an additional $2618.60 from Watershed Other funds to complete Task 1 of the Trumbull Creek project.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

457 ACCOUNT: Discussion held. Frank De Kort made a motion “to pass a resolution to participate in the State of Montana 457 deferred compensation plan administered by Montana Public Employees Retirement Association (MPERA).” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

Frank De Kort made a motion “to approve the Adoption Agreement for the 457 plan.” Dean Sirucek seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

JOB DESCRIPTION: Copies of the draft job descriptions were given to the board. Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to review the draft job descriptions and discuss them at the May 310-meeting.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

STAFF TRAINING: Discussion held regarding developing a training plan for the Resource Conservationist.

 

 

MATTERS OF THE BOARD/STAFF

- Upcoming payroll

 

The next 310-meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 13, 2013, 7:00 P.M. in the conference room of the USDA building at 133 Interstate Lane, Kalispell, MT.

 

ADJOURNMENT: Mark Siderius made a motion “to adjourn.” Dean Sirucek seconded. Motion carried unanimously. As there was no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:14 P.M.

 

Submitted By:

 

 

Ginger Kauffman, Administrator

 

 

Minutes approved by FCD Board motion made on:

 

__5/13/2013____ ____Ronald Buentemeier__________ _____Chairman___________________

           (Date)                        (Signature)                                                    (Title – Chairman, Vice-Chairman, etc.)

 

April 8, 2013 310 Stream Permit Minutes

CALL TO ORDER & ATTENDANCE: Chairman Ronald Buentemeier called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M. in the conference room.

Members present: Ronald Buentemeier, Chairman; Mark Siderius, Vice Chairman; Ken Meckel, Secretary/Treasurer; Pete Woll, Supervisor; Frank De Kort, Supervisor; Dean Sirucek, Supervisor; being a quorum of the Board.

 

Also in attendance were: Patti Mason and Ginger Kauffman, FCD staff; Mark Deleray, MFWP; Dave Mc Lean; Rude Knudsen, Wagoner’s Sand & Gravel.

 

 

MINUTES: Mark Siderius made a motion “to approve the minutes of the March 25, 2013 business meeting and the April 4, 2013 special meeting as presented.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

CORRESPONDENCE:

1. Email from Laurie Zeller – The 310 Committee will convene to work on the definition of a natural perennial-flowing stream. When the date is set, an agenda will be sent out.

2. April 8, 2013 issue of “The Montana Conservationist”

3. Notice: Western States Insurance & Payne Financial Group have merged into Payne West Insurance.

4. Meagher CD March 2013 newsletter

5. Notice from Montana Public Employees Retirement Administration (MPERA) regarding proposed rule changes/amendments. i.e. Payroll reports must be submitted no later than five working days after each regularly occurring payday; delinquent payroll reports are subject to a $10 per day penalty fee.

6. Jeff Tiberi’s “March 2013 report to Montana Conservation District’s (CD’s)” re: visit to Washington, D.C.

7. Email regarding HB 7 , four CD’s were awarded Reclamation & Development grants

8. Email from Jeff Tiberi, Montana Association of Conservation District’s (MACD), the Dept. of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management has put out a call for nominations for Resource Advisory Councils (RACs). Contact Lauren Luckey, US. Dept. of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), 202-208-3806.

9. Email – The next National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) Urban & Community Conservation webinar is scheduled for April 18, 11:00 A.M., eastern time. Contact Deb Bogar deb-bogar@nacdnet.org.

10. March 22nd issue of “News from the Front”

11. Lewis & Clark CD Winter 2013 newsletter

12. Notice: Whitefish Planning & Zoning meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April

18, 2013, 6:00 P.M.

13. 223-grant & Mini Education grant applications are due April 26.

14. Call for applications for MT Aquatic Invasive Species grants; contact Alicia

Stickney, Dept. of Natural Resources (DNRC) 406-444-6668.

15. Jeff Tiberi – Request for a letter of support regarding funds for conservation districts in the DNRC budget.

Ken Meckel made a motion “to have staff prepare a letter of support with

Chairman review.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

16. Email from Karl Christians, DNRC, regarding Planning Grants; applications will

be available in May.

17. Spring issue of “Big Sky Small Acres”

 

FINANCIAL: The following bills were reviewed:

1. Byte Savvy $30.00

2. Flathead Beacon $324.00

3. Mountain States Leasing – Kalispell $758.27

Mark Siderius made a motion “to approve the bills as presented.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

 

PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: No one was present to comment on items not on the agenda.

 

 

(310:)

14 WEST SECOND ST, FL2013010, Whitefish River, dock: An on-site inspection was set for Thursday, April 11, 10:00 AM at the site.

 

CONSULTING INVEST. MGMT, FL2013009, Whitefish River, dock/path: An on-site inspection was set for Thursday, April 11, 10:00 AM at the site.

 

EDGEWATER RV, FL2012062, Bierney Creek, culvert: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to table until the May 310-meeting.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

HARTLEY, FL2010047C, Unnamed stream, violation restoration: Discussion held. Frank De Kort made a motion “to table until the May 310-meeting.” Mark Siderius seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

NOWACZYK, FL2013008, Patrick Creek, culverts: An on-site inspection was set for Monday, April 15, 1:30 P.M. at the site.

 

PASSMORE, FL2012008, Unnamed, permit ext. request: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to approve a one-year permit extension.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

PEJUAN, FL2012053, Flathead River, permit ext. request: Discussion held. Dean Sirucek made a motion “to approve a one-year permit extension.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

SARGENT, FL2012061, Sickler Creek, culvert: Discussion held. Ken Meckel made a motion “to table until further information is received.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

SILKETT, FL2013011E, Whitefish River, notice of emergency: An on-site inspection was set for Thursday, April 11, 11:00 AM at the site.

 

THE HOMESTEAD, FL2013002, Unnamed, dam: An on-site inspection was set for Tuesday, April 16, 9:00 AM at the site.

 

WAGNER LANE, FL2012047, Flathead River, bank stabilization: Discussion held. Ken Meckel made a motion “to table until further information is received.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

WAGONER, FL2013007, Flathead River, gravel removal: Discussion held. Mark Siderius made a motion “to approve the application as submitted. The on-site inspection is waived with concurrence by Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP).” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

WILD GOOSE IS., FL2013006, Flathead River, bank stabilization: Discussion held. Dean Sirucek made a motion “to approve the application with modifications per Dean Sirucek’ s and Mark Deleray’s team member reports.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

 

NEW BUSINESS:

HASKILL BASIN REIMER PROJECT QUARTERLY REPORT: Discussion held. Mark Siderius made a motion “to approve submitting the quarterly report to Dept. of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for the Haskill Basin Reimer project under grant #211083.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

GAUGING STATION CONTRACT: Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to approve the contract with the USGS for a gauging station on Foys Bend.” Mark Siderius seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

FLOOD AWARENESS DAY: Patti Mason reported Flood Awareness Day is April 24th. Discussion held. Mark Siderius made a motion “to approve the contract with the Flathead County Fairgrounds for Flood Awareness Day.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

PINE GROVE POND GIRL SCOUT PROJECT: Patti Mason reported that the seedling planting project will be April 20th. Discussion held. Pete Woll made a motion “to approve $52.50 for pine trees for the Girl Scouts to plant at Pine Grove Pond.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

AREA V ADMINISTRATORS MEETING: Discussion held. Mark Siderius made a motion “to approve sending Ginger Kauffman and Patti Mason to the Area V Administrator’s meeting in Missoula on May 1st.” Ken Meckel seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

RESOURCE CONSERVATIONIST POSITION: Discussion held. Mark Siderius made a motion “to approve hiring Patti Mason for the Resource Conservationist position.” Dean Sirucek seconded. Motion carried unanimously

 

Mark Siderius made a motion “to approve staff sending out letters to the other applicants regarding the position being filled, and note another position will be open in the future. The letters will be signed by the Chairman.” Pete Woll seconded. Motion carried unanimously.

 

 

MATTERS OF THE BOARD/STAFF

- Ashley Creek update

- Upcoming Payroll

- Draft proposal for the Trumbull Creek culvert for Price/Steig. The board asked Patti Mason to research elevation on the Price property at lowest point, then go straight east to Flathead River & see what elevation is there.

- Resource Conservationist training & other job description

- Patti Mason stated a web cast regarding Total Maximum Daily Load’s (TMDL’s) will be held April 17th in Whitefish, and asked if any board members were interested in attending.

- Discussion held regarding Dean Sirucek taking Ronald Buentemeier’s place on the Statewide TMDL Advisory Group (STAG) Committee. MACD would have to appoint Dean.

- Flood Day, April 24th, Flathead County Fairgrounds Expo building, 9:00 AM.

- Family Forestry Expo schedule – May 6-10

 

The next business meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 22, 2013, 7:00 P.M. in the conference room of the USDA building at 133 Interstate Lane, Kalispell.

 

ADJOURNMENT: Ken Meckel made a motion “to adjourn.” Frank De Kort seconded. Motion carried unanimously. As there was no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:48 P.M.

 

Submitted By:

 

 

Ginger Kauffman, Administrator

 

Minutes approved by FCD Board motion made on:

 

__4/22/2013____ ___Ronald Buentemeier___________ ____Chairman_____________________

       (Date)                          (Signature)                                                     (Title – Chairman, Vice-Chairman, etc.)