As development around lakes and rivers increases, so does the threat posed by stormwater runoff.
Impervious surfaces like roofs, driveways, and even lawns don't allow water to penetrate and be absorbed into the soil. As the water runs off it can pick up pollutants like lawn fertilizer, vehicle
oil and fluids, pet wastes, grass clippings, sediments, and even bacteria and viruses. These are then carried to the lowest points on the landscape-usually a lake, stream, or wetland. How lakes, streams, and properties be protected?
A workshop in Garrison will focus on capturing and using rainwater. The session is 10-11:30 a.m. July 17 at the Andrew F. Kokesh VFW Post No. 1816, 27234 Monroe St. in Garrison.
Topics include: Why we should care about rainwater/runoff, rain gardens, rain barrels, shoreline buffers, and financial assistance available to landowners. Participants will be provided with the
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information and ideas needed to implement these simple tools that manage stormwater.
There is no charge for the workshop, and one participant will win a rain barrel they can take home. All participants will receive excellent handouts and resources.
Cost share assistance is available to help landowners in the Mille Lacs Lake Watershed implement practices that will protect and improve water resources.
Landowners may be eligible to receive up to 50 percent off the cost of a rain garden or shoreline buffer. Everyone can receive $50 off the cost of a rain barrel when purchased through the Mille Lacs Lake Watershed Management Group.
The workshop is sponsored by the Mille Lacs Lake Watershed Management Group. Funding is provided by a Clean Water Partnership Grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. For more information call 218-927-6565.
