The University of Minnesota's Landscape Arboretum is the largest and most diverse horticultural site in Minnesota. It features gardens and natural areas representative of Minnesota and the upper-Midwest that can be explored using several miles of trails. Additionally it conducts fruit and plant breeding research to develop cultivars that have particular desired characteristics, such as cold hardiness or disease resistance. The arboretum has a long-term goal of protecting the entire watershed of which it is a part. This appropriation is being used by the arboretum to acquire approximately 80 acres of land surrounding Lake Tamarack in Carver County, which will protect a variety of habitat types and 1,300 feet of shoreline in an area threatened by development. This new portion of the arboretum will have free public access and provide additional land for future research that may pertain to restoration ecology, crop production, bio-energy, or wildlife habitat.

The University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum purchased the property at 400 Arboretum Boulevard, Victoria, (previously known as the Kerber Farm or Lano Burau Property), effective Friday, November 1, 2013. The property consists of 78.13 acres in Carver County. This is the final property purchase identified in the Arboretum's 1995 Boundaries Plan. Over 300 acres have been added to the Arboretum during the last 18 years.

The property is north of State Highway 5 and directly adjacent to the Horticultural Research Center. The property contains native forest, wetlands, tillable land, and 1,300 feet of lakeshore on Lake Tamarack. Current structures on the property will be evaluated for condition and safety and some will likely be retained for unheated storage while others may be demolished.

The property will be used in the future for research; protection of wildlife, wetlands and water quality; protection of big woods, oak savanna and upland meadow; and educational and public low impact recreational purposes. Research uses have not been determined and roads, fencing, and irrigation will be installed in the 10 acre area designated for research. Some of the current soybean fields could also be used for alternative crop, forage crop, or restoration research projects, and the Arboretum is considering partners from across the University of Minnesota or other conservation and natural resources groups.

Funding for this purchase was provided by the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) - recommended by the Legislative Citizens Commission for Minnesota Resources (LCCMR), the Lessard Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) and the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Foundation. Because we received LCCMR and LSOHC funding to purchase the property, the Arboretum will provide FREE public access. The University of Minnesota is charging the City of Victoria $1 for the 50 year Use License Agreement for the Trail that crosses the Lake Tamarack Property and $1 for the Use License Agreement for Temporary Construction Access for this trail. There are no fees beyond the $2 for the entire trail including the sections that do not cross the Lake Tamarack Property. Finally, the Arboretum will work over the next several months to develop public access policies and install signage.

The acquisition was successfully publicized by the Arboretum with a press release issued on November 11, 2013 and was also covered in the Arboretum E-News with 10,000 subscribers. It was then covered in the local media:

• U to expand arboretum with 78-acre purchase, Minnesota Daily, January 28, 2013
• U Arboretum expands base in Chanhassen by 78 acres, Star Tribune, November 12, 2013
• Minnesota Landscape Arboretum grows by 78 acres, Finance & Commerce, November 13, 2013
• Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Grows By 78 Acres, WCCO-CBS News Online, November 13, 2013

Enrollment of private lands in conservation programs can provide important natural resource and other public benefits by taking the lands out of production so that they can provide various wildlife, water quality, and ecological benefits. This appropriation is enabling the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources to continue to provide grants to local soil and water conservation districts for employment of technical staff to assist private landowners in implementing conservation programs. This effort is expected to assist with the enrollment, retention, and management of 170,000 private acres of grasslands, wetlands, and forests in federal and state conservation programs, particularly in areas expected to lose enrollments in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP).

During this project a total of 42,474 private landowner contacts were made resulting in 8,235 contracts on 160,258 acres of land positively impacted (restored, enhanced or managed) with grassland and wetland programs. A contact is defined as a personal interaction between the Farm Bill Assistance Partnership (FBAP) staffer and a landowner. It may be a phone conversation discussing program benefits and opportunities, office visit to review plan documents or an in-field visit to stake out a practice. In order for a contract to be completed it takes several contacts to move a landowner through the process, once again demonstrating the value of these positions.

89,544 acres of this total were critical wetland and riparian CRP contracts and this exceeded our goal of 80,000 acres. With this project, targeted local outreach, enrollment and implementation has occurred which directly led to the project accomplishments.

The primary environmental benefits tied to the land use conversion from row crops to perennial vegetation due to CRP and other programs, includes the reduction of sediment and nutrient pollutants to water bodies as well as increased habitat for resident and migratory species.

The new Federal Farm Bill reduced the national CRP acreage limit and drastically curtailed General CRP sign-ups and encouraged more focused Continuous CRP (CCRP). This allowed local staff hired through this project to assist landowners who wanted to focus on CCRP, management of existing CRP contracts to optimize the environmental benefits as well as other programs to reach the goals of this project. Due to these facts local staff were still able to accomplish 94% of the overall acreage goal for the project (160,258 acres compared to 170,000 goal).

This project is built upon the framework of a multi partner group called the Farm Bill Assistance Partnership (FBAP) created in 2002 to accelerate private lands conservation program implementation. Emphasis is on the maximum use of federal and state conservation programs to retain and restore grasslands and wetlands on private lands primarily in the agricultural region of MN. At the core of the project is the hiring of Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) or Pheasants Forever (PF) staff to engage and lead landowners through conservation practice enrollment and implementation. At the close of this project there were 47 counties participating with 30.40 full time staff equivalents hired (18 SWCD and 12 PF employees housed in SWCD offices).

This $3M ENTRF funded project was leveraged with $873,737 of local and non ENTRF funds to bring the grand total for the project to nearly $3.9M.

The work of this project, past, present and future is tracked as part of the MN Conservation Lands Summary. This document is the only accounting of our collective private and public conservation estate here in MN. As CRP comes and goes and as we add permanently protected lands it is imperative that we have a foundation of our conservation estate. This report is updated annually and is posted on the BWSR web site at http://www.bwsr.state.mn.us/easements/CLS%20Statewide%20Summary%20August%2013%202015.pdf

The Farm Bill Assistance Partnership has been a model for local-state-federal agency and NGO cooperation and has been used for other conservation related acceleration projects. At the local level biologists utilize past successes and future goals to provide widespread and one-on-one outreach to landowners in their covered areas.

Moose, one of Minnesota's most iconic wildlife species, are dying at increasingly higher rates in Minnesota and there is uncertainty as to why. Estimates suggest the population declined 35 percent just between 2012 to 2013, and projections suggest moose could be nearly gone from the state by 2020 if this trend is not halted and, ideally, reversed. Scientists at the University of Minnesota are using this appropriation to identify appropriate management and habitat needs and the sorts of actions that can be implemented to help slow or prevent continued population declines amongst Minnesota's moose populations. The project is a continuation and expansion of work completed and underway by two other past Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund supported projects on determining the cause for the increasing mortality.

The main outcome of this project was documenting browse species regeneration after the Ham Lake, Cavity Lake and Pagami Creek fires in the BWCA, and after forest harvest, shearing, and smaller prescribed burns. These results were used in part to inform habitat restoration decisions for an Outdoor Heritage Fund project. Differences in browse species production were similar to variation in moose range across Minnesota and across North America. About 5 species usually comprise 80% of the browse eaten in summer and in winter.

Winter and summer browsing was measured. At each site 5 transects were walked and browse species use and availability was recorded at 20 plots along each transect. We measured 176 stands covering 11,536 acres that were harvested, sheared, or burned, and 66 sites in the BWCA burns. Browse availability increased within 4 years of treatment, and leveled off within 10 years. Browse species were similar in harvested stands, sheared stands, burned stands, and the large BWCA fires. The most common browse species were hazel, aspen, and paper birch. Other species were mountain maple, willow, balsam fir, pin cherry, chokecherry, juneberry, red osier, and red maple. Mountain ash, a highly preferred browse species, was present on about 10% of stands.

Browsing intensity is affected by species composition and by moose density. All browse species were eaten, with the less common species eaten more frequently. Low browsing levels would be expected with low moose densities in Minnesota. About 2% of twigs were browsed in summer, and about 15% of twigs were browsed in winter. Regardless of whether a stand was harvested, sheared, or burned, browsing level by moose was similar. It is unlikely that browse is limiting the moose population. MN DNR projects show low moose survival rates. Adult mortalities are caused by predation and by health-related issues, calf mortalities are primarily caused by predation. If survival rates increase, browse could be more limiting.

Overall this project resulted in significant outreach to the public and to resource management agency personnel. Over the course of the project we had 71 presentations to different audiences, ranging from professional conferences, college courses, and the public. There were 5 M.S. graduate students who were supported in part by this project and have already graduated, and 1 Ph.D. student who defended in spring 2018. Publications arising from this project include 5 M.S. theses, 1 Ph.D. thesis (not quite completed), 9 technical reports, and 9 peer-reviewed publications. There were also at least 8 different media contacts which appeared in print, on the radio, or on television.

Goal 3 identified in the work plan was to continue to involve the public, biologists, and organizations in a coordinated effort to slow or prevent a continuing decline of the NE MN moose population. This is important because of the combined research effort among biologists, agencies, and organizations. Concern about moose in Minnesota is real, and is evident in the way moose research transcends agency jurisdiction and even the international boundary. Collectively, the research project, the meetings of Minnesota moose biologists, and involvement of the public made it possible to meet this goal.

Bees play a key role in ecosystem function and in agriculture, including more than one hundred U.S. crops that either need or benefit from pollinators. However, bee pollinators are in dramatic decline in Minnesota and throughout the country. One of the potential causes appears to be a scarcity of bee-friendly flowers, particularly in urban areas, which is leading to nutritional deficiencies, chronic exposure to pesticides, and debilitating diseases and parasites. Scientists at the University of Minnesota are using this appropriation to assess options that can be broadly implemented in urban areas to enhance bee pollinator habitat and counteract declining populations and bee health. The effort will examine ways to supplement traditional turfgrass landscapes, particularly in areas that primarily serve an aesthetic purpose, with flowering plants that can provide increased nutrition and less potential exposure to pesticides.

Our goal was to develop an innovative way of helping bee pollinators by enhancing turf areas with native flowering plants. Planting "bee lawns" could help reduce intensive inputs (pesticides and fertilizers) and provide low-growing floral areas, which would beautify Minnesota and provide a creative model for a simple yet effective way to help pollinators and protect our natural resources. First, we identified turf grasses that are well suited to incorporating flowering plants. We found that hard fescue, Festuca brevipila, like other fine leafed fescues, demonstrates drought tolerance, slow vertical growth rate, and excellent winter hardiness making it suitable for a lower-input lawn species. Next, we found that native floral species, Prunella vulgaris spp. lanceolata and Astragalus crassicarpus established well in hard fescue, with Prunella establishing better in loamy soil and Astragalus in sandy soil. We also found that Symphyotrichum lateriflorum (native calico aster) would bloom at a low height under light mowing pressure, making it a third native species for incorporation into turf. These experiments were important first steps in identifying native plants to diversify lawns that are both attractive to pollinators and can withstand mowing pressure. To assist homeowners in establishing flowers in their own existing home lawns, we subjected turf areas in two locations to scalping and/ or aeration and then seeded them with native flowers. The flowers established at higher rates at the location that used minimal turfgrass management (infrequent mowing and no fertilizer use) compared to the more intensively managed site. This latter finding indicates that flowering lawns will do best with lower inputs, which will contribute to more sustainable landscapes that are beneficial to pollinators. Ian Lane, graduate student that conducted this work, defended his Master's degree in May 2016.

This project reached a broad audience with research-based information about bee lawns. Professional audiences have been reached through articles in trade journals. Hobbyist audiences have been reached through presentations at local, regional, and national meetings. Scientific audiences have been engaged through departmental seminars and national scientific meetings. Ian Lane, graduate student, will produce at least three peer-reviewed publications from this project. Most importantly, the general public has been reached in a number ways: we hosted five field days, 3,000 copies of a new brochure on Bee Lawns were distributed, and a new page on the Bee Lab website at the University of Minnesota was developed with information on planting and maintenance of Bee Lawns: https://www.beelab.umn.edu/ A pdf copy of the brochure and evaluations from attendees of the 2016 field day are included as an Addendum to this report.

Grassland ecosystems evolved to depend on periodic disturbances, such as fire and grazing, to maintain their health and stability. Periodic disturbances help control invasive species, add nutrients back into the soil, germinate plant seeds, enhance wildlife habitat, and more. In Minnesota habitat managers have used fire as a disturbance tool for decades but the use of grazing has been much rarer, mostly because of a lack of necessary infrastructure such as fencing. This appropriation is being used by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to provide the infrastructure needed to support conservation grazing on 10,000 acres of targeted wildlife management areas to demonstrate that grazing can be effectively and cost-efficiently implemented to improve grassland habitat quality and ecological integrity in Minnesota.

The intent was to use conservation grazing as an added ecological disturbance to the traditional practice of prescribed fire. With this appropriation we were able to install permanent fence 2832 acres on eight Wildlife Management Areas. These units are near major roadways where permanent fencing is required. In more rural areas on gravel township roads we are primarily using temporary electric fencing. Those who have hunted grazed WMAs have reported a high success rate and state that they have seen an abundance of game and nongame wildlife.

We did do some pre-grazing data collection on some sites as well as assessments to determine if grazing was a suitable management tool for a WMA. The conservation community (DNR, FWS, TNC, others) is still working to develop monitoring protocols that can be shared that meet multiple uses. Some of the monitoring was simply comparing different methods and protocols to decide on a plan for moving forward with large-scale monitoring under the Prairie Plan. This was a much more challenging issue than anticipated and this work continues.

Due to staff turnover in the DNR and after continued conversations with educators we were not able to complete any of the education component of this project.

We have used several outreach strategies for our overall conservation grazing initiative. DNR staff have published articles on conservation grazing in three national and one statewide magazines (Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, American Waterfowler, and Minnesota Conservation Volunteer). DNR staff have also given talks at the Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association and have worked with USFWS staff to present at Pheasants Forever state conventions. We have also devoted entire afternoons to fencing/grazing issues at the last DNR Wildlife School. This fall, the Wildlife Chief (Paul Telander) and Prairie Habitat Supervisor (Greg Hoch) will visit with each DNR Region to encourage more grazing on WMAs.

The Avon Hills area is a unique 65,000-acre glacial moraine landscape located in Stearns County just west of St. Cloud. It has been identified as having statewide ecological significance and includes the highest concentration of native plant communities in the county - including oak and maple-basswood forests, tamarack and mixed-hardwood swamps, and wet meadows - and several rare plants and animal species, including American ginseng, cerulean warbler, red-shouldered hawk, and Blanding's turtle. This appropriation is being used by the St. John's Arboretum at St. John's University to secure permanent protection, via conservation easements, for an additional 350-550 acres of high quality habitat in the Avon Hills area, prepare conservation management plans for the easement lands, and provide public outreach on the significance of the Avon Hills landscape and options for its protection. St. John's Arboretum previously used a 2008 Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund appropriation to permanently protect more than 1,000 acres in the area.

Conservation easements to permanently protect private land from development are the main goal of this project located in the Avon Hills 10 miles west of St. Cloud, MN. We tested a reverse bidding system termed the MN Multi-faceted Approach for Prioritizing Land Easements (MMAPLE) to rank submitted easement locations. MMAPLE ranks proposed easements by comparing the land's inherent ecological features to the cost per acre for the easement, thereby focusing on the best value. Land which has many inherent ecological values receives a higher score. Conversely, landowners who bid a higher price per acre for the easement receive a lower score.

The MMAPLE process resulted in seven bids for easements. Pursuit of easements was discontinued with five of these landowners due to concerns with future tax implications, or land use restrictions imposed by the easement itself. In this regard, MMAPLE proved effective as a ranking tool in identifying the next highest-scoring eligible landowner within the candidate pool; this enable the Land Trust to move quickly in engaging the landowner. MMAPLE also proved its ability to efficiently leverage the grant funding under this phase of the project; both easement acquisitions were bargain sales by the landowners. On the first easement acquisition of 170 acres, the easement was purchased for $126,100 below its full market value; the second easement of 61 acres was purchased for $67,800 below its full market value. Total appraised value of the two purchased easements was $635,300, with the grant providing $441,400 towards acquisition; donated value of these bargain sales amounted to $193,900.

The grant also funded outreach and education to increase landowner awareness of easements and land protection as well overall conservation. Landowner conferences held at Saint John's University were the main vehicle for this outreach with 559 total attendees.

The Land Trust shared news of the easement acquisitions on both the Avon Hills (Riesner) and (Dwyer) parcels on its website and Facebook page. MMAPLE was also featured as a new model for acquiring conservation easements in the Fall 2015 publication of the academic journal, Natural Resources & Environment. The MMAPLE model was being advocated for use in other grants by advisors and staff of the LCCMR and other funders such as the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council.

The Frogtown area of St. Paul is a culturally diverse, low-income neighborhood having less green space per child than any other neighborhood in the city and was recently identified as an area in need of a new park. This appropriation is being used by The Trust for Public Land, in partnership with the City of St. Paul, to acquire a portion of twelve acres of a currently vacant space in the area to establish the multi-purpose Frogtown Farm and Park. The vision for the space is to provide a safe space for neighborhood children to experience nature and families to recreate while simultaneously acting as a demonstration urban farm for community members to learn about growing food locally as a vehicle for advancing self-sufficiency, environmental stewardship, healthy living, and community collaboration.

On December 4, 2013, The Trust for Public Land acquired +/- 13 acres from the Wilder Foundation and conveyed it to the City of Saint Paul. The land will be used to create Frogtown Farm and Park - a much-needed public green space for this culturally diverse, low-income neighborhood. The new Frogtown Farm and Park will include a six-acre urban demonstration farm, a recreation area, and a nature sanctuary that preserves a grove of large mature oak trees. When complete, this urban park will be the site of a variety of activities demonstrating green and sustainable inner-city living and providing exceptional educational opportunities.

The land was purchased for $2,200,000. Of that, $1,498,000 was from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund and $702,000 was from the City of St. Paul.

Creation of this public park and demonstration farm will advance environmental and social justice, and strengthen residents' self-sufficiency, environmental stewardship, healthy living and community collaboration. The project furthers the LCCMR Six-Year Strategic Plan in multiple ways including: protecting important land resources (especially the oak grove), supporting research and demonstration projects of natural resources, supporting community based conservation, encouraging outdoor recreation, and promoting public education and dissemination of information about natural resources (for both students and community residents).

The City of Saint Paul has put the project out to bid, and construction is expected to begin on the initial park and farm improvements in the summer of 2015.

This project is highlighted on The Trust for Public Land's website at: http://www.tpl.org/our-work/parks-for-people/frogtown-park-and-farm

The Trust for Public Land also issued a press release with the City of Saint Paul: http://www.tpl.org/media-room/frogtown-park-deal-finalized

• http://www.minnpost.com/political-agenda/2013/12/deal-finalized-new-park-st-pauls-frogtown-neighborhood
• http://www.twincities.com/stpaul/ci_24654416/st-pauls-frogtown-park-and-urban-farm-set
• http://kstp.com/news/stories/S3296801.shtml?cat=1

There have also been a number of news stories covering this project.

Ecological restorations aim to aid the recovery of native ecosystems that have been degraded or lost. However, very seldom are restorations evaluated past the initial implementation phase to determine whether the efforts achieved their goals and the funds spent were a strategic conservation investment. Monitoring and evaluation of restorations can teach what works and what does not in order to advance restoration practices and increase the likelihood of success for future projects. The Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund has funded restoration activities on hundreds of thousands of acres since its inception. The University of Minnesota is using this appropriation to evaluate the outcomes and effectiveness of some of those restoration efforts in order to inform and improve future land restoration techniques and best practices and future state investments in restoration activities.

In 2013 LCCMR requested an evaluation of ENRTF restorations, from 1990-2010, to assess ecological outcomes of past projects, to determine factors tied to successful outcomes, and to develop evaluation criteria for proposed and completed projects. Our evaluation was based on information gathered from LCCMR files (450 projects), project manager files (78 projects), project manager interviews (59 projects) and field surveys (59 projects). Project managers were interviewed to gain insight into restoration process and organizational capacity to implement restorations. To quantify the extent of ecological recovery of each site we calculated: 1) proportion of plant species considered part of the potential natural vegetation following DNR Native Plant Community manuals (%PNV) and 2) an index of abundances of invasive species (CISA). These two parameters were used to classify ecological condition as high, medium or low quality. High quality restorations were those with greater than average %PNV and lower than average CISA; low quality restorations have the opposite scores, i.e., lower than average %PNV and higher than average CISA. 32% of projects evaluated were deemed high quality and 27% low quality. Using contingency analysis, we screened a variety of factors related to site history, organizational capacity, and type of ecosystem to determine which have the greatest potential to predict post-restoration ecological condition. This analysis found that starting condition, type of ecosystem, and an organization's internal capacity have the strongest effect on restoration outcome. Restorations of highly altered sites are much riskier than those undertaken on remnant natural areas, and so are less likely to result in high quality outcomes. Restorations of forests are riskier than prairie or wetland restoration. Common problems hindering restoration teams' capacity to keep their ecological restoration projects on track are inadequate staffing and expertise, insufficient funds, incomplete records, and leadership change: Evaluation guidelines, monitoring protocols, planning tool documents are included with the final report.

The results of this project have been (or will be) disseminated in several ways:

1. A summary report (i.e., Restoration Evaluation Guidelines) that outlines the key findings of the evaluation has been developed. The guidelines will be posted on the Ecological Restoration Practitioners network and website (https://cceevents.umn.edu/restoring-minnesota).
   
2. Two webinars summarizing key elements of restoration project planning and recordkeeping were hosted in winter 2016. The webinar "Planning to Avoid Pitfalls: The Key to Restoration Success", with guests Dan Shaw from the Board of Water and Soil Resources and Wiley Buck from Great River Greening was hosted on February 23, 2016. The webinar "Learning by Doing: Why Restoration Records Matter" with guests Mark Cleveland from the Department of Natural Resources and Karen Schik from Friends of the Mississippi River was hosted on March 29, 2016. The target audience for the webinars were the project managers as well as other restoration professionals. Each webinar was viewed by approximately 55 professionals. The webinars began with a summary of the results of the restoration evaluation presented as an introduction and context for each topic. The invited expert guests for each webinar presented the perspectives of a state agency and a non-profit engaged in ecological restoration respectively. The webinars are archived on the Ecological Restoration Practitioners website (https://cceevents.umn.edu/restoring-minnesota). In partnership with the DNR, we offered a webinar to agency staff in November 2014.
3. Presentations describing the evaluation process and preliminary findings were made at 3 professional meetings: the Eighth SER Midwest Great Lakes Chapter meeting in Bloomington, IN in April 2016, the Society for Ecological Restoration 6th World Conference on Ecological Restoration in Manchester England in August 2015, and the Seventh SER Midwest Great Lakes Chapter meeting in Glencoe, IL in March 2015.
4. The results of the restoration evaluation will be summarized and submitted for publication in at least two peer-reviewed journals.
5. Content in the Site Assessment and Monitoring courses of the online Ecological Restoration Training Consortium will be reviewed and updated to reflect recommendations and best practices developed as outcomes of the restoration evaluation project.

Minnesota's environment is changing in response to a variety of stressors - including population growth, residential development, industry, agriculture, invasive species, and climate change - and the state's iconic lakes, and the goods and services they provide (e.g., fishing and water recreation), are an important part of what's being impacted. To manage effectively for these changes it is important to understand how the state's many lakes respond to these stressors. This includes knowing baseline habitat conditions, observing long-term changes to the baseline, and developing models that can forecast the risks posed and expected impacts of various stressors. In 2009 the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) began an ambitious long-term monitoring effort of 24 "sentinel" lakes throughout the state specifically identified to represent the breath of basic conditions (e.g., water chemistry, habitat conditions, fishery types, surrounding ecosystem types) present in Minnesota's most common aquatic environments. The DNR is using this appropriation to continue and expand on that effort to develop and implement improved monitoring, modeling, and reporting protocols that will provide timely information on lake trends, reduce uncertainty about potential causes, and guide conservation approaches for improving water quality, reversing problematic trends, and preventing further degradation into the future.

Phase 2 of the Sentinel Lakes Long-Term Monitoring Program comprised a wide variety of monitoring and research activities on the 25 Sentinel Lakes selected to provide representation of Minnesotass major lake-types. During 2013-2016, the Sentinel Lakes Program continued to integrate the activities of key, collaborative agencies and partners (e.g. DNR, MPCA, USGS, and universities) which focus on determining the effects of large-scale ecological stressors (e.g., eutrophication, invasive species, and climate changes) on lake ecosystems. Highlights include:

• Detailed summaries of fish and aquatic plant sampling activities were prepared to guide future data analyses and monitoring activities.
• High-resolution water column temperature and dissolved oxygen tracking reveals progression of oxythermal-habitat changes for important fish species in Elk Lake.
• Continuation of specialized sampling of Cisco population in 3 Sentinel Lakes further enhanced our understanding of the relationships between Cisco and climate change and the presence of invasive species.
• Evaluations of biological indicators of lake status including pupal skins of aquatic midges, and White Sucker biology. Results indicate aquatic fly composition reflects lake nutrient status, while assessing White Sucker biology proved difficult. At least 141 species of midge were detected.
• A detailed report of phytoplankton and zooplankton composition, seasonal cycling, and interactions in 13 Sentinel Lakes was completed.
• Food web research conducted to understand impacts of zebra mussels finds that lake biota (insects and fish) shifted to alternative food sources.
• Long-term water quality and baseline aquatic plant surveys at Shaokotan Lake detected a major shift in 2015 from algae-dominance to clear water, aquatic plant-dominance due to watershed restoration and BMP implementation.
• New biophysical lake models were developed Pearl and Madison lakes, while previous models were used to simulate impacts of future climate conditions in Elk and Trout lakes. Surface water temperatures increase dramatically under future climate scenarios and oxygen depletion dynamics differed between lakes.
  
  

The information gathered during the second phase of Sentinel Lakes sampling continues to provide insights useful to lake managers. The continued ability to collect water quality, zooplankton, fisheries, aquatic vegetation, and land use data over consecutive years from a set suite of lakes has added to the strong foundation of long-term monitoring that was established during the first phase of the project (2009 to 2013). Refining metrics and more fully developing our understanding of how they react to specific ecological stressors will continue to assist managers faced with developing management strategies and practices in lakes. The value to fisheries and lake managers is perhaps most evident in the Department of Natural Resource's commitment to hire and fund a full-time Sentinel Lakes coordinator position. That internally funded position was filled in May of 2016 and will provide project continuity going forward.

As was the case in Phase 1 we again included partner institutions with different areas of expertise, thus the project was able to gain valuable insights into 1) how lake systems in agricultural zones function (USGS), 2) how Chironomid (midge) populations may serve as important indicators of trophic status (University of Minnesota), and 3) how stable isotope analysis can lead to fuller understanding of the effects invasive species such as zebra mussels have on lake food webs (University of St. Thomas). The techniques developed by partners as well as their final results should provide valuable tools and information for some time to come.

Continued, consecutive, sampling of Cisco populations has not only furthered our understanding of their population dynamics and their vulnerability to climate change and invasive species but has also added to the development of specific methods for monitoring this important climate- and land-use sensitive species in lakes across the state.

Finally, the project has become an excellent training tool for undergraduates, graduate students, and professionals. More than a dozen undergraduates have been able to gain valuable field experience and mentoring from research staff over the course of the project. The project has also served as a valuable entry point into fisheries for early-career professionals.

Much of the focus of disseminating information gathered during the project has been focused on a scientific audience but with an emphasis on making that information relevant to lake and fisheries managers. To that end, all collaborators past and present were invited to attend and present their findings at a Sentinel Lakes Summit which was held in Brainerd in 2015. Over 50 managers from DNR and PCA attended the event. A similar event is being planned for 2017. Additionally, a number of manuscripts covering a wide variety of topics are currently being prepared for submission to peer-reviewed publications. Already a number of presentations have been made at national, regional, and state-level professional meetings.

For general audiences the Department of Natural Resources maintains a series of Sentinel Lakes-related pages on their website (http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fisheries/slice/index.html) and the Pollution Control Agency hosts Sentinel Lake Assessment reports on their website (https://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/sentinel-lakes).

Large deposits of copper, nickel, cobalt, and other minerals in northeastern Minnesota could provide huge economic and employment benefits to the state while becoming an important source of important metals for the country. However, the mining required to extract them could have significant water quality impacts in a region that includes the Boundary Water Canoe Area Wilderness and other environmentally sensitive watersheds. Up-to-date and accurate geochemical data is needed In order to assess and predict water quality impacts of potential mining and inform decision-making to protect water quality and sensitive ecosystems. Scientists at the University of Minnesota are using this appropriation to gather baseline data for assessing how existing concentrations of these metals in rocks, streambeds, and soils currently influence regional water quality. This information is a critical component for examining the risks posed by any potential future mining.

The Natural Resources Research Institute, the U. S. Geological Survey, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources conducted a three-year study to 1) assess copper, nickel, and other metal concentrations in surface water, bedrock, streambed sediments, and soils in watersheds where the basal part of the Duluth Complex is exposed or near the land surface; and 2) determine if these concentrations, and metal-bearing deposits, are currently influencing regional water quality in areas of potential base-metal mining. The data will be used by Federal, State, local, and tribal entities to better assess background water-quality in watersheds with existing mineralization and where mining could occur. Surface-water, streambed sediment, soil, and bedrock samples were collected and analyzed in three largely undisturbed watersheds with different mineral-deposit settings: (1) copper-nickel-platinum group metal mineralization (Spruce Road deposit - Filson Creek watershed), (2) iron-titanium-oxide mineralization (Skibo deposit - upper part of the St. Louis River watershed), and (3) no identified mineralization (Keeley Creek watershed). Streamflow also was monitored in the three watersheds at continuous streamflow gages and through discharge measurements to determined estimates of trace metal and inorganic constituent loads.

The geochemistry of surface waters and streambed sediments reflects the geochemistry of underlying rock types and glacially transported unconsolidated material. Water-quality data also suggest that streamflow influences concentrations of major constituents, such as Ca, Mg, and K, with lower concentrations during high flow, but has little apparent influence on metal concentrations. Copper-nickel mineralization in the northern Filson Creek watershed contributes both metals to stream waters and streambed sediment. All trace metals concentrations in all surface-water samples were below human-health guidelines and aquatic life standards established by the state of Minnesota and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Dissolved and total organic carbon (DOC and TOC) concentrations in surface waters are very high compared to most surface waters in Minnesota, ranging from 13.7 to 41.4 milligrams per liter (mg/L) in all watersheds. Results from biotic-ligand modeling suggest that the high DOC content may exert some control on copper concentrations in water, such that complexation with DOC may reduce the bioaccessibility of copper.

A U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report (SIR) is being completed for colleague and USGS review that will summarize analytical results, present interpretations of bedrock, soil, streambed sediment, and water-quality data, and describe conceptual hydrology for the three watersheds (once published, the report will be available through the USGS Publication Warehouse at https://pubs.er.usgs.gov/). A draft of the report will be completed for review by June 30, 2017, and an on-line version of the report will completed by December 31, 2017. At that time, a pdf version of the report will be sent to LCCMR staff.

Numerous oral and poster presentations were given at geologic, water-quality, and hydrologic conferences in the State outlining project results. These presentations also were given at meetings with federal (U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency), state (Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Minnesota Department of Health), local, and tribal agencies, mining companies, and university researchers.

All of the data collected and complied during this study is too large to be included in the appendix tables of the final LCCMR report, however the data is available in several databases. Geochemical data for bedrock, soils, and streambed samples were entered and stored in the USGS National Geochemical Database (http://minerals.cr.usgs.gov/projects/geochem_database/index.html). Metal and major constituent concentrations for water samples collected in the project were entered and stored in the USGS National Water Information System (NWIS) (http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis). All continuous streamflow data and streamflow measurements were entered and are available in USGS National Water Information System (NWIS) at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis.

Once known for its clean water, fertile soil, and healthy habitat, in more recent times the Heron Lake Watershed in southwestern Minnesota has been heavily impacted by pollution from intensive agriculture, feedlots, non-compliant septic systems, and urban stormwater runoff. The Heron Lake Watershed District is using this appropriation for public outreach and installation and monitoring of water quality improvement projects aimed at reducing sediment and nutrient loading for the benefit of public health, recreation, and wildlife habitat.

The Heron Lake watershed, approximately 472 square miles, is located within portions of Nobles, Jackson, Murray, and Cottonwood Counties in southwestern Minnesota. Heron Lake, a public water of the State of Minnesota, is impaired for phosphorus. Decreasing the amount of phosphorus and sediment entering Heron Lake would be valuable for reducing water pollution. The Heron Lake Watershed District Watershed Management Plan and county water plans recognize on-the-ground projects as the most effective way to address phosphorus and sediment.

Funding from the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund was used to install projects in Nobles, Jackson, and Murray Counties. They included a biodetention basin, multiple water and sediment control basins, a bioretention basin, and a streambank stabilization. The purpose of these projects was to reduce sediment and nutrient loads into streams and lakes. The projects affected more than 300 acres and have an estimated reduction rate of 620 pounds of phosphorus and 575 tons of sediment per year. The grant dollars covered 75 percent of the project costs, with the landowner paying 25 percent.

Funds were also used to gather water samples at three sites in the watershed - Jack Creek, Okabena Creek, and the Heron Lake Outlet. The water samples were analyzed and compared to data gathered since 1996. The Jack Creek and Okabena Creek sampling sites decreased in phosphorus. Okabena Creek showed an increase. All sites showed a reduction in sediment.

Plans were made to visit three project sites in April of 2016. A newsletter summarizing the grant activities and promoting the project site tour was distributed to approximately 3,500 watershed residents, agency personnel, and legislators. Attending the event were eleven members of the general public, one Board of Water and Soil Resources staff, two news reporters, two Heron Lake Watershed District board members and three employees.

Over the course of the grant period, information about the grant was presented at many meetings and events. Each year annual reports contained a project summary. The grant activities were summarized in a newsletter which was distributed to approximately 3,500 watershed residents, agency personnel, and legislators. In addition, reporters published articles regarding the project site tour in the Daily Globe, Tri County News, and Fulda Free Press.

Lakes and streams located in Blue Earth, Le Sueur, and Waseca Counties provide important public benefits such as hydrologic storage, economic and recreational opportunities, and regional water quality improvement. However, several of the lakes and streams have been listed as impaired because of excess nutrients and sediment from runoff. Le Sueur County is using this appropriation to install shoreland and agricultural best management practices such as wetland enhancements, infiltration basins, stream restoration, and native plantings to improve the water quality of up to 11 lakes in the region.

The Grant consisted of 14 projects spread out in a region that covered Le Sueur, Blue Earth and Waseca Counties and provided environmental benefits to a number of different bodies of water.

In Blue Earth County, one project on Madison Lake was completed.

1. Bray Park Ravine Stabilization was a highly visible project that provided reductions of 30.3 T/yr. TSS, 30.3 T/yr. Soil and 34.8 lbs./yr. Phosphorus from entering Madison Lake.

In Waseca County, two shoreline projects were completed on Clear Lake.

1. Clear Lake Park Shoreline Restoration resulted in the reduction of TSS by 37.13 T/yr., Soil by 37.13 T/yr. and Phosphorus by 31.56 lbs./yr.
2. Kanewischer Shoreline Restoration provided reductions of 11.55 T/yr. TSS, 11.55 T/yr. Soil and 9.82 lbs./yr. Phosphorus. In Le Sueur County, eleven projects were constructed.

Five projects total were completed in the City of Waterville and resulted in reduced pollutant loads to a number of different waterbodies. A stream shoreline stabilization project and two retention areas were constructed along White Water Creek which directly flows into Upper Sakatah Lake. Two large stormwater projects were completed near the City's water tower that discharges to the Cannon River directly before it enters Upper Sakatah Lake.

1. Lions Park retention project reduced TSS by 110.08 T/yr., Soil by 127.05 T/yr. and Phosphorus by 126.59 lbs./yr.
2. Mini Park restoration resulted in reductions of 42.0 T/yr. TSS, 42.0 T/yr. Soil and 48.3 lbs./yr. Phosphorus.
3. Streambank work and retention project at the WEM School District Bus Garage resulted in the reduction of 55.04 T/yr. TSS, 63.53 T/yr. Soil and 63.29 lbs./yr.
4. Water Tower A & B Reduced TSS by 1.36 T/yr. (72% Removal Efficiency), Soil by 1.36 T/yr. (72% Removal Efficiency) and Phosphorus by 2.35 lbs./yr. (11% Removal Efficiency). Water Tower Area (due to their high level of interconnection, reduction numbers for both Water Tower Area and Water Tower A & B are combined.

Six additional projects were done throughout Le Sueur County. Including wetland enhancements were completed at two Waterfowl Production Areas (WPA). These projects created enhanced areas for waterfowl as well as providing pollutant reductions.

1. Vail Ravine Stabilization resulted in reduction loads of 31.43 T/yr. TSS, 31.73 T/yr. Soil and 89.10 lbs./yr. Phosphorus from Upper Sakatah Lake.
2. The Rain Garden located at Lake Washington County Park removes 35.0 T/yr. TSS, 35.0 T/yr. Soil and 40.25 lbs./yr. Phosphorus from stormwater runoff before it ultimately reaches Lake Washington.
3. The Elysian City Park Shoreline Restoration Project on Lake Francis resulted in reductions of 19.620T/yr. TSS, 17.0 T/yr. Soil and 19.62 lbs./yr. Phosphorus.
4. The Koppelman Ravine Stabilization provided reductions of 76.5 T/yr. TSS, 153.0 T/yr. Soil and 76.5 lbs./yr. Phosphorus from entering Lake Jefferson.
5. The Pruess WPA resulted in reductions of 31.43 T/yr. TSS, 31.43 T/yr. Soil and 47.14 lbs./yr. Phosphorus.
6. Rice Lake WPA enhancements reduced loads by 59.40 T/yr. TSS, 59.40 T/yr. Soil and 89.10 lbs./yr. Phosphorus.

Information about the projects has been discussed at numerous city, county and lake association meetings. Information on the projects and the grant are posted on Le Sueur County's website and has been submitted to local papers for publication. The City of Waterville will be sending out an informational insert in upcoming water bills. A science teacher at the Waterville public school utilizes the rain garden for his classes. Articles have been published in the Waterville paper about the different projects being constructed. The City also is in the planning stages to hold an on-site open house celebration for the City Water Tower Projects.

Since 2000, a diverse group of partners has been collectively working in northwestern Minnesota on one of the largest prairie-wetland restorations in the world. Spanning 22,000 acres and adjacent to an additional 16,000 acres of public and private conservation land, the goal of the Glacial Ridge Project has been to demonstrate whether large-scale habitat restoration is a viable way to reduce flooding and improve water quality. Prior to beginning restoration efforts on the project, a comprehensive baseline hydrologic study of the area was completed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The Red Lake Watershed District and USGS are using this appropriation to conduct a post restoration study that will quantify and evaluate the amount of flood reduction, water-quality improvement, and ecosystem-function change that has resulted from the wetland and prairie restoration efforts at Glacial Ridge. This information will be used to guide future restoration efforts throughout the state and beyond.

A comparison between the hydrology of the Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge before and after wetland and prairie restoration shows substantial changes in flows of water through the hydrologic cycle, in behavior of overland runoff and ditch flow during storms, and in water quality. Within the 6 basins measured for this study, the area of cropland decreased by 14 percent, the area of wetlands increased by 6 percent, and the area of native prairie increase by 19 percent between 2002 and 2015 due to restorations. During the same period, hydrologic changes had the benefits of decreasing runoff rate (-33 percent, as a proportion of precipitation) and ditch flow rate(-23 percent) and improving water quality as measured by nitrate concentration (surficial groundwater median: -79 percent, ditchwater median: -53 percent) and suspended sediment in ditchwater (-64 percent) within the study area. Peak ditch flow from storms decreased, ditch flow recessions lengthened, and base flow from groundwater discharge increased, though only a small amount. These changes reduce the amount of water leaving the study area through ditches, reducing flows that contribute to flooding.

Neither the density of restorations nor the beneficial changes in hydrology were evenly distributed throughout the study area. Amount of hydrologic benefits within an individual ditch basin did not correlate directly with amount of restoration in that basin. This is likely because of complicating factors within each basin like the kind of land restored, the amount of surficial aquifer, the amount of remaining ditches, and the density of closed wetland and lake basins.

An analysis of landscape characteristics that correlated with hydrologic benefits in the study area showed that area of surficial aquifer and area of drained wetlands are most important. Surficial aquifers provide a groundwater reservoir that can reduce runoff and slowly release water as base flow to streams. Drained wetlands simply provide the opportunity for restoration of closed basins, which reduces streamflow. Areas with the highest density of surficial aquifers and drained wetlands have the highest potential for hydrologic benefits from prairie and wetland restoration. In western Minnesota, these areas are the uplands the Alexandria Moraine Complex and the beaches of Glacial Lake Agassiz on the eastern side of the western third of Minnesota, north of Wilmar, MN (Cowdery and others, 2017).

Cowdery, T.K., Christenson, C.A., and Zeigwied, J.R., 2017, The hydrologic benefits of wetland and prairie restoration in western Minnesota: lessons learned at the Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge, 2002–15: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2017-xxxx, in preparation.

The information generated by this grant will be documented in a U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report that is in preparation. A draft of the report is attached to the project work plan. We expect the final draft of the report will be completed by 15 August. 2017. The report must be reviewed and approved, which we expect will occur by 31 October 2017. Once published, we will issue press announcements of the project results regionally and nationally. Additionally, the information in this report will be presented at several scientific meetings including that of the Minnesota Groundwater Association, the Minnesota Water-Resources Conference, and at annual conference of either the Geological Society of America or the American Geophysical Union. Presentations of interim result from this project have already been presented at meetings of the Minnesota Groundwater Association, the past Minnesota Water-Resources Conferences.

Lake Superior, the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area, is amongst Minnesota's greatest natural resources providing drinking water, shipping, recreation, and tourism. Recently the lake has been undergoing significant changes including increasing water temperatures, decreasing ice cover, increasing nutrient loads, decreasing biological productivity, increasing invasive species, and changes in species abundance and distribution. The reasons behind these changes and the interactions amongst them are not well understood. Scientists at the Large Lakes Observatory at the University of Minnesota - Duluth are using this appropriation to gather critical baseline data on Lake Superior to evaluate the impacts these changes are having on the lake and how natural resource managers and scientific and regulatory entities can best respond to the changes. No prior large lake study has ever included the breadth of measurements, geographic range, and span of seasons to be examined by this study.

Although Lake Superior seems timeless, it has been changing dramatically—with shifting temperatures, ice cover, storminess, and biological activity. This project worked to build our knowledge of how the lake responds to external processes, including climate change and the introduction of invasive species. This will help us to protect and foster this resource during a time of unprecedented change.

We used state-of-the-art techniques to evaluate the lake’s behavior from Fall 2013 through Fall 2016. This included an extreme range of winters—the “Polar Vortex” of 2013-14 and the mild conditions of 2015-16. Our field strategy included shipboard sampling (12 stations occupied four times each year) as well as use of autonomous gliders and moored instruments. These unmanned technologies provide cost-effective measurements at more places and times than possible with ship operations.

Major results include:

Lake circulation. Building on observations in the lake, we created a hydrodynamic numerical model of the St. Louis Estuary/Duluth Harbor/Lake Superior system that runs in real-time, providing estimates of currents and water levels across Lake Superior. Such information is useful to boaters and fishermen, and is being used in St. Louis River Estuary wastewater studies, and for studies of riverine nutrient dispersion and of nearshore wave action around the Apostle Islands

Lake acidity. We quantified seasonal shifts in lake pH due to river runoff, atmospheric inputs, and biological activity. Increased atmospheric CO2 has acidified many lakes. In Lake Superior this appears to be mitigated by reductions in acid rain after clean air legislation of the 1990s.

Algae and plankton. We now have measurements of biological productivity from 2006 through 2016. Broadly, we see increased productivity in warmer years, with lower biomass of small algae that photosynthesize rapidly. These productive small algae might dominate a future, warmer Lake Superior. Such a shift could lead to significant changes for animals higher on the food chain.

Exotic species. Our work demonstrates that the invasive spiny water flea has damaged Lake Superior’s lower food web. Our data provide a baseline for future evaluation of shifts in zooplankton.

Fish. We assessed historical patterns in growth of lake herring (cisco) using archived ear bones in combination with our current data. It appears that climate change and invasion by the spiny water flea have not greatly affected cisco growth rates to date. Nevertheless, spiny water fleas are a relatively poor prey item and could reduce growth rates of cisco that consume them.

Data obtained through this project have been utilized in proposals to the US National Science Foundation. Three successful proposals yielded ~$2.0M for Lake Superior research including 70 days of ship time. A large proportion of this funding supports personnel and thus has a real impact on our local economy.

We have worked to disseminate our results and information about Lake Superior science to the general public and the scientific community in several ways. These include: news reports on our work through print, television and radio; an ongoing social media presence; outreach events with public tours of UMD’s research vessel; and publication of results in the scientific literature.

Waste streams often contain unutilized resources that if properly extracted or otherwise utilized could be used to provide additional sources of renewable energy or other benefits. Wastewater is one of the primary candidate waste streams because of its nutrient content and researchers have been developing technologies such as microbial fuel cells and algal-based biofuel production in order make use of these nutrients. Researchers at the University of Minnesota are using this appropriation to develop, test, and optimize another new technology that can be used to extract energy from wastewater, specifically a polymer membrane embedded with select bacteria that could be used to simultaneously improve wastewater treatment while generating renewable energy in the form of hydrogen. If effective the technology is likely to be scalable with broad application potential for use with any biodegradable liquid waste stream.

In this project we developed a technology that could extract energy from wastewater: a polymer film containing bacteria that generate hydrogen (a clean energy source) while cleaning the wastewater. The system also contained a mesh of small, permeable tubes ("fibers") for efficient hydrogen collection. A finding of this study was that the wastewater treated needed to be high strength to generate adequate quantities of hydrogen. This type of high strength wastewater is produced by food and sugar beet processing facilities, and dairies, among other industries, and is plentiful throughout Minnesota. This technology efficiently produced and collected hydrogen in the laboratory with synthetic wastewater and wastewater from a dairy and a sugar beet processor. When used with vacuum gas collection, the exit gas was approximately 51% hydrogen, which is suitable for use in a fuel cell or for direct combustion. The system was also deployed at a pilot-scale at a brewery and was able to produce and collect hydrogen from the brewery wastewater. After further optimization for ease of scale-up and manufacture, the composite membrane system could allow the extraction of high-quality energy from wastewater while also saving industries on their treatment fees and reducing the need for expensive centralized treatment. In fact, based on our (un-optimized) results, the hydrogen generated in the Metro area would yield approximately $82,000/yr through electricity generation. This same assumption yields over $312,000/yr from the sugar beet industry in the state through electricity generation. This does not include the cost savings associated with reduced treatment fees, which for two Metro area processors alone exceeds $1,000,000/year/company. A patent application was submitted on this technology and has been approved; the University of Minnesota is exploring commercialization and licensing options. A peer-reviewed manuscript was published from this work and has been submitted to the LCCMR.

Information from this project has been shared with several large water technology companies in Minnesota who may have the interest and capability to assist in optimizing and eventually deploying this technology for large-scale energy production from wastewater. Information from this project has also been shared with personnel from the Metropolitan Council Environmental Services, who treat the high strength wastewater of many large food- and beverage-processing plants, the sugar beet industry, and the brewery at which the pilot study was performed. As stated above, a peer-reviewed manuscript was published from this work and has been submitted to the LCCMR. Multiple presentations about the research have been given at both regional and national/international conferences. Additional funding has been obtained from the Minnesota Department of Commerce to study and improve the scalability and manufacturability of the technology and optimize it for deployment.

The occurrences of contaminants including antibiotics, other pharmaceuticals, and personal care products in the environment have gained increasing attention in recent years because of their potential health and ecological impacts. However, serious gaps remain in our understanding of these contaminants and the significance of the threats they may pose, such as to drinking water. Through this appropriation scientists at the University of St. Thomas, Gustavus Adolphus College, and the University of Minnesota will continue work focused on the threats posed by antibiotics to understand which antibiotics are of the most concern - for example, because of their potential to increase antibiotic resistance - and to delineate their urban and rural sources. The first phase focused on antibiotics in the Minnesota River and this phase will focus on the Mississippi River. Findings will help develop strategies to manage threats and minimize future impacts posed by antibiotics to human and ecological health.

This project was Phase 2 of a two-part ENRTF-funded study designed to examine the significance of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance in Minnesota surface waters. Both phases of the study analyzed the following:

• Antibiotic concentrations. Cutting-edge analytical techniques were developed to measure antibiotics at concentrations as low as parts per trillion.
• Antibiotic resistance genes. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to quantify several antibiotic resistance genes.
• Antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Culture-based techniques were used to compare ability of bacteria from various sites to grow in the presence of elevated concentrations of antibiotics.

Phase 1, which ended in 2013, focused on a portion of the Minnesota River basin. The results showed that municipal wastewater treatment plants were a significant source of antibiotics, resistance genes, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria; elevated levels of all three were found in waters impacted by wastewater treatment plant effluent. These findings motivated Phase 2, where the focus shifted to surface waters that serve as drinking water sources and tap water samples and therefore a more direct potential connection to human health impacts. Based on the results of Phase 1, we decided to focus primarily on antibiotics used in human rather than agricultural medicine.

Phase 2 initially focused on the Mississippi River, including St. Cloud, Minneapolis, and St. Paul. Discussions with the Drinking Water Protection section of the Minnesota Department of Health about sites potentially impacted by wastewater led us to expand our study to Ely (Burntside Lake), Grand Marais (Lake Superior), Moorhead (Red River) and Burnsville (Kramer quarry). In general, no measurable antibiotic concentrations, no elevated levels of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and no antibiotic resistance genes were found in drinking water sources. Development of a new membrane filtration technique allowed us to find antibiotic resistance genes in tap water samples at extremely low levels; the importance of these exceptionally low levels with respect to human health is unclear.

Four St. Thomas undergraduate students have presented this work at American Chemical Society national meetings; two in 2014, one in 2015, and one in 2016. Dwight Stoll (Gustavus Adolphus) presented at the Quality Assurance meeting of Region 6 of the Environmental Protection Agency in Fall 2015. Kris Wammer (St. Thomas) has presented this work at two national meetings; the Fall 2015 Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry meeting in Salt Lake City, and the Fall 2016 ACS meeting in Philadelphia. A manuscript detailing the findings from this work is also currently in preparation. In addition, we have in the past and will continue to engage relevant personnel at the state level, in particular from state agencies such as MDH, through meetings and formal talks. The MN One Health Antibiotic Stewardship Collaborative, which both Tim LaPara and Kris Wammer participate in, will help facilitate continued interactions with Minnesota stakeholders.

Aquatic invasive species pose critical ecological and economic challenges for the entire state and beyond. They can cause irreparable harm to fisheries and aquatic habitat as well as damage to infrastructure. The problems posed by aquatic invasive species continue to grow as existing infestations expand and new exotic species arrive, most of which are poorly understood. New ideas and approaches are needed to develop real solutions. In 2012 the Minnesota Legislature provided the University of Minnesota with $3,800,000 ($2,000,000 from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund; $1,800,000 from the Clean Water Fund) to launch a new, first-of-its-kind research center specifically focused on developing and implementing solutions to control aquatic invasive species. This appropriation provides this new center with additional initial operating funds for conducting research aimed at slowing the spread, reducing, controlling, and/or eradicating aquatic invasive species including Asian carp, zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, and more. Proven tools and techniques developed at the center are intended to be implemented statewide.

This project established the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) at the University of Minnesota. Through this appropriation, MAISRC has supported 32 subprojects on many of Minnesota’s most important aquatic invasive species, significantly advancing our scientific understanding and ability to manage AIS, and engaging thousands of stakeholders and partners.

This project successfully established the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) at the University of Minnesota, a vibrant and durable research program that develops research-based solutions to Minnesota’s aquatic invasive species (AIS) problems. MAISRC has quickly become a global leader in the field and a go-to resource for managers, the public and researchers. In total, 32 subprojects were supported from this project – significantly advancing our scientific understanding and ability to manage AIS. New tools have been developed and knowledge gaps filled on many of Minnesota’s most important AIS, including: zebra mussels, bigheaded and common carps, starry stonewort, non-native Phragmites, Eurasian watermilfoil, curlyleaf pondweed, Heterosporosis, and spiny waterflea. The results of this work have been broadly disseminated to end-users via research reports, peer-reviewed manuscripts, fact sheets, white papers, news media, newsletters and presentations (on the MAISRC website). An annual Research and Management Showcase has been held since 2014, with 700+ unique attendees in total. MAISRC has also created an award-winning and sustainable citizen science program (“AIS Detectors”) that has trained hundreds of people from across the state. This project supported efforts to ensure effectiveness and efficiency of a Center-based research model, including a 10-year strategic plan, a comprehensive process for prioritizing research needs, increased collaboration and coordination between researchers and managers, an annual competitive and peer-reviewed request for proposals, the formation of external and internal advisory boards, research dissemination and outreach, support of a world class research facility, and creation of communication and development plans. Minnesota is much better equipped to address our AIS problems than we were prior to this project – MAISRC has significantly advanced the science of AIS management and engaged thousands of stakeholders and partners from across the state and world. This project will continue with Phase II and III appropriations awarded in 2017 and 2019.

PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION

MAISRC currently has a social media following of just under 2,300 and an e-newsletter list with just under 3,500 recipients. Social media posts about research findings, events, AIS Detector workshops, and general invasive species news are posted daily. An e-newsletter goes out every other month and includes more in-depth stories about our research projects. In addition, MAISRC has recorded consistent growth in the number of unique visitors and total website views since the website launch in February 2016. This increase shows that MAISRC is growing in name recognition and being seen as an important resource for different stakeholders around the state. Over the course of the last six years, MAISRC has been in approximately 350 news stories in roughly 117 different outlets. The most common outlets have been the Star Tribune¸ Minnesota Public Radio, and KSTP-TV. Other notable outlets include The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Minnesota Bound. Nine videos were created highlighting MAISRC subproject research. Six AIS Research and Management Showcases were held with 700+ unique attendees. The AIS Detectors program was formally launched in March 2017 and we now have 299 certified Detectors around the state.

● The nine videos highlighting MAISRC subproject research included:
   ○ AIS Detectors
   ○ Starry stonewort research
   ○ Spiny waterflea research
   ○ Impacts of AIS on walleye
   ○ Using pathogens to control invasive carp
   ○ Novel methods for controlling common carp
   ○ Valuing AIS management
   ○ Genetic control of invasive carp
   ○ Using the Whooshh fish transport system

Sub-Projects M.L. 2013, 06a:

• 02: Phase 1: Metagenomic Approaches to Develop Biological Control Strategies for Aquatic Invasive Species - $299,363
  
• 02.2: Metagenomic Approaches to Develop Biological Control Strategies for Aquatic Invasive Species, Phase II: Development of Potential Microbiological Control Agents for AIS - $303,217
  
• 03: Attracting Carp so Their Presence can be Accurately Assessed - $682,969
  
• 04: Common Carp Management using Biocontrol and Toxins - $384,232
  
• 04.2: Common Carp Management using Biocontrol and Toxins, Phase II - $406,000
  
• 05: Developing and Evaluating New Techniques to Selectively Control Invasive Plants Phase I: Manipulating Sunfish to Enhance Milfoil Weevils and Factors Influencing Selective Herbicide Control of Curlyleaf Pondweed - $194,415
  
• 06: Determining Heterosporosis Threats to Inform Prevention, Management, and Control - $111,889
  
• 07: Developing Eradication Tools for Invasive Carp Species. Phase I: Understanding the Virome of Carp Species in the Upper Midwest - $206,754
  
• 07.2: Developing Eradication Tools for Invasive Species Phase II: Virus Discovery and Evaluation for Use as Potential Biocontrol Agents - $445,210
  
• 08: Risk Assessment, Control, and Restoration Research on Aquatic Invasive Plant Species - $822,000
  
• 09: Population Genomics of Zebra Mussel Spread Pathways, Genome Sequencing and Analysis to Select Target Genes and Strategies for Genetic Biocontrol - $380,318
  
• 10: Citizen Science and Professional Training Programs to Support AIS Response - $525,389
  
• 11: Reducing and Controlling AIS: Risk Analysis to Identify AIS Control Priorities and Methods – Phase 1: Problem Formulation - $93,343
  
• 11.2: Reducing and Controlling AIS: Risk Analysis to Identify AIS Control Priorities and Methods – Phase 2: Risk Analysis - $126,677
  
• 12: Characterizing Spiny Water Flea Impacts Using Sediment Records - $212,266
  
• 13: Eco-epidemiological Model to Assess Aquatic Invasive Species Management - $195,249
  
• 14: Cost-Effective Monitoring of Lakes Newly Infested with Zebra Mussels - $266,500
  
• 15: Determining Highest Risk Vectors of Spiny Waterflea Spread - $92,932
  
• 16: Sustaining Walleye Populations: Assessing Impacts of AIS - $198,700
  
• 17: Building Scientific and Management Capacity to Respond to Invasive Phragmites in Minnesota - $283,568
  
• 18: Eurasian and Hybrid Watermilfoil Genotype Distribution in Minnesota - $221,375
  
• 19: Decision-Making Tool for Optimal Management of AIS - $172,465
  
• 20: A Novel Technology for eDNA Collection and Concentration (Year 1) - $94,599
  
• 21: Early Detection of Zebra Mussels Using Multibeam Sonar - $96,549
  
• 22: Copper-Based Control: Zebra Mussel Settlement and Non-Target Impacts (Year 1) - UMN - $54,438 / USGS - $12,428
  
• 23: AIS Management: An Eco-economic Analysis of Ecosystem Services (Year 1) - $131,845
  
• 24: Genetic Method for Control of Invasive Fish Species (Year 1) - $110,112
  
• 25: What’s In Your Bucket? Quantifying AIS Introduction Risk (Year 1) - $111,642
  
• 26: Updating an Invasive and Native Fish Passage Model for Locks and Dams - $90,827
  

Invasive carp pose a real and serious threat to Minnesota's aquatic ecosystems. While there are a few instances of individual carp being found in Minnesota waters, including the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers, it is not presently believed that there are significant established populations in the state. In order to quickly and effectively respond to threats posed by Asian carp in the future, though, detailed information about the fish themselves is needed. The DNR is using this appropriation to establish an aggressive search and monitoring program directly targeting Asian carp to determine existing distribution and abundance, measure current reproductive success, and evaluate impacts on native fish populations. The information will inform rapid response efforts aimed at control and removal of Asian carp as they emerge.

Invasive Carp, especially Bighead Carp and Silver Carp, pose an imminent and serious threat to Minnesota's aquatic ecosystems. From the 2013 appropriation, the MN DNR was able to appoint three non-classified positions to monitor and remove Invasive Carp from Minnesota waters, assist with environmental DNA collection, and collect groundbreaking native species biological data to determine the effects to native species if Invasive Carp become established. As a result, the MN DNR has established and developed the state's Invasive Carp management, monitoring, and detection program including all life stages. The program collected data from 255,750 feet of contracted commercial gill net, 18 commercial seines, 55,800 feet of gill net, 168 hours electrofishing, 422 larval samples, 622 hoop net and 223 fyke net sampling nights.

We would prefer to catch no Invasive Carp, however it is irresponsible not to be prepared. From the funding, the program caught 7 Invasive Carp via contract commercial fishing, 1 Bighead Carp from targeted sampling, and process an additional 5 Invasive Carp caught by other commercial fishermen and anglers. Sampling has also allowed researchers to determine areas to target from an increased understanding of their biology, associations with native species, and catch records. Specifically, Lower Grey Cloud Slough and the King plant on the St. Croix River were identified as target areas after more than one fish was captured. The program has implemented processing protocols and gained the ability to work-up fish in-house including ageing, determining sex and maturity, and collect all structures necessary for microchemistry analysis. The results can be accessed from the MN DNR 2012 - 2015 Invasive Carp Sampling Reports.

The project furthers the LCCMR Six-Year Strategic Plan in multiple ways including: protecting important water resources, management of invasive species, supporting research of natural resources, and promoting public education and dissemination of information about natural resources.

Project plans and results have been disseminated through annual MN DNR reports including, In addition, results have been presented at numerous conferences and meetings including Minnesota's American Fisheries Society annual meetings, the Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference, U.S. Fish and Wildlife annual meetings, and many others.

This project is highlighted on the MN DNR website at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasive-carp/index.html

The project is described in the:

• Minnesota Invasive Carp Action Plan, online at: http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/natural_resources/invasives/carp-action-plan-draft.pdf
• The First Annual Report to Congress: Summary of Activities and Expenditures to Manage the Threat of [Invasive] Carp in the Upper Mississippi and Ohio River Basins, June 2012 to June 2014, online at: https://www.fws.gov/midwest/fisheries/asian-carp/WRRDA2014.pdf
• 2015 Annual Report to Congress: 2nd Annual Summary of Activities and Expenditures to Manage the Threat of [Invasive] Carp in the Upper Mississippi and Ohio River Basins, July 2014 through September 2015, online at: https://www.fws.gov/midwest/fisheries/asian-carp/WRRDA2015.pdf

Project Overview

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive insect that has been decimating ash trees throughout the Great Lakes states. It was first discovered in Minnesota in 2009 and is now found in four counties (Hennepin, Houston, Ramsey, and Winona). EAB poses a particularly serious threat to Minnesota because it is home to nearly 1 billion ash trees that occur throughout the state - the second most of any state. Loss of these trees would devastate ecosystems throughout Minnesota and have major economic impacts for the forest products industry as well as through the costs associated with treatment, removal, and replacement of lost trees. Much work has already been done to stem the spread of EAB in Minnesota, including education, quarantine, detection surveys, and biological control efforts. Effective detection remains a key obstacle, though, as current detection tools have not been calibrated to estimate population densities. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the University of Minnesota are using this appropriation to attempt to fill this critical information gap necessary for best determining how and where to implement control measures. The effort will evaluate a range of detection tools and measure their ability to detect EAB at different population densities in order to improve and implement better detection practices.

PART A: OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS

Emerald ash borer (EAB) was first discovered in Minnesota in 2009 in St Paul and has since spread to 15 counties. Minnesota has more ash than any other area of the U.S. and it’s an important component of our rural and urban forests. Detection is a key obstacle to controlling EAB and many of the detection tools have not been calibrated to provide an estimate of what population density of EAB they are able to detect. This is a critical information gap as EAB population density is a critical parameter in determining how and where to implement control measures. This project was undertaken to evaluate detection tools and measure their ability to detect EAB at different population densities and to determine whether these detection tools can inform EAB management in urban areas. Methods included: visual inspection of ash trees during winter months, purple prism trapping during active EAB flight periods and branch sampling under a range of emerald ash borer population densities at 8 sites for three consecutive field seasons throughout the state. This work was conducted in close cooperation with local city governments

A total of 840 trees were visually inspected, 615 purple prism traps set, 1724 branches and 48 whole trees sampled. Results showed branch sampling was more sensitive than visual observation but the labor costs were approximately four times greater. Visual sampling provided the most positive detections at all levels of EAB densities in the least amount of time and at the lowest cost. However, all survey methods evaluated had some utility at detecting EAB at sites before significant canopy decline had occurred. This is important information as the project demonstrated the value of monitoring to prevent opportunities for EAB management from being lost.

PART B: OVERALL PROJECT OUTCOME AND RESULTS

The emerald ash borer is an extremely challenging insect to manage because (1) there is a long lag phase between initial infestation and tree decline/mortality and (2) the insect is difficult to monitor and detect. There are several detection tools available, such as laboriously peeling the bark from branches harvested from trees, visual inspection of trees for evidence of woodpecker feeding, and attraction to purple prism traps hung in ash trees during periods of adult flight. We calibrated these detection tools to provide an estimate of the efficacy of these tools across different population densities of emerald ash borer. We found that visual evaluations to monitor trees for woodpecker damage are an effective method for identifying EAB at low densities prior to wide-spread tree decline. We found that 50 to 78% of trees at an infestation site will show signs of woodpecker damage before larval densities are high enough to cause irreparable damage to the tree. Visual inspections during leaf-off conditions are more inexpensive than other methods, and can be used by local communities to detect and respond to populations early.

We were able to use these project funds to leverage a federal grant to investigate the impact of strategic and targeted tree removals if emerald ash borer is detected early in a community. We published a scientific paper (Fahrner, Abrahamson, Venette, and Aukema 2017 “Strategic removal of host trees in isolated, satellite infestations of emerald ash borer can reduce population growth” Urban Forestry & Urban Greening 24:184-194) that found that removal of two thirds of the trees in the Twin Cities area where EAB was first detected in 2009 reduced populations by just over one half over the course of five years. These strategic removals slowed population growth considerably, and set populations back by at least one year. The most significant impact was achieved by targeting trees with evidence of woodpecker feeding.

Finally, studying potential tradeoffs between Minnesota’s colder climate (than other places in emerald ash borer’s range) and dispersal capacity, we found that overwintering location affects survival rates, but not energy reserves or flight capacity. In other words, Minnesota might be cold, but surviving insects do not appear to be less capable of dispersing in the spring.

PART B: PROJECT RESULTS USE AND DISSEMINATION

This was a joint partnership with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. The primary audience for this work was disseminated to municipalities and other entities responsible for managing EAB at the local level. Information was conveyed through meetings held throughout the year, both at MDA through the EAB Forum (bimonthly meeting) and also through conferences, meetings and workshops held around the state and also at professional and technical conferences.

New invasive plant species continue to emerge in Minnesota and will pose ongoing threats to Minnesota's economy, ecology, and environment if able to spread across the state. It is cheapest, easiest, and least harmful to find and control small populations of invasive plants before they become widespread. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is using this appropriation to increase the state's flexibility and rapid response to newly emergent terrestrial invasive plant species by training professionals and volunteers to find, control, and monitor certain invasive plants that presently exist only as small, isolated populations in the state. Targeted species include Dalmatian toadflax (NW MN), cutleaf teasel (various isolated areas of state), Japanese hops (SW MN), Oriental bittersweet (Areas along St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers), and Grecian foxglove (Washington County).

The goals of the Elimination of Target Invasive Plants species were 1) Train volunteers and professionals to find target species; 2) Control these species before they spread; and 3) Monitor to prevent reinfestation. Target species are invasive plants that cause severe ecological harm. There are localized infestations of these plants and controlling them will prevent them from becoming widespread. Target species include Dalmatian toadflax, cutleaf teasel, Japanese hops, Oriental bittersweet and Grecian foxglove. We completed Phase 1 of this project and will expand the effort in Phase 2.

University of Minnesota Extension led education and outreach. A total of 34 workshops educated 772 people about target plants. Invasive Blitz was a workshop with 12 sessions across the state that trained volunteers to organize and conduct invasive species removal events. Volunteers reported 434 service events with management activities that impacted 9,582 acres in 30 counties.

Minnesota Department of Agriculture led survey and project coordination. A total of 1,542 road miles and 125 river and trail miles were surveyed with a multitude of volunteers and agency partners. Distribution data for target species can be accessed at http://www.eddmaps.org/. Coordination with private landowners and crew leaders was necessary. An agreement was written with each private landowner where crews worked to ensure clarity about expectations and activities. We wrote agreements with 162 landowners.

Conservation Corps Minnesota led the effort to control target invasives. There were 144 unique and 194 total (some returning members) crew members who worked on this project. Together, they treated 1,360 acres of target invasives.

This project was about eradicating plants, but people were key to success. Project achievements were due to the involvement of hundreds of volunteers, landowners, crew members and state and local partners. Engaging people has vital for long-term success.

In addition to 34 workshops with 772 participants, there were 4 field tours, 10 presentations, 8 articles, 3 media events and mailings to hundreds of private landowners. Weed of the Month articles were run in local papers throughout the state. Overall, this dissemination reached thousands of Minnesotans.

Other Extension materials created to support this work, often funded with other grant and internal Extension funds including those generated from participant fees from workshops sponsored by the this project include:

• Oriental Bittersweet Fact Sheet (Extension produced)
• Bittersweet ID for Crafters (short version) (Joint funded: Extension & ENRTF)
• Bittersweet ID for Crafters (long version) (Joint funded: Extension & ENRTF)
• Defeating a Killer Vine: Oriental bittersweet (Farm Bill funded, via MDA)
• Going Rogue: The Story of Japanese Barberry (Farm Bill funded, via MDA)
• Keep a Lookout for New Invasive Plants in Minnesota flyer (MDA funded)
• Five 3D printed invasive plant models of Grecian foxglove (2), Japanese hops (2) and black swallow-wort (1) were produced (Farm Bill funded via MDA). To our knowledge, this is the first time 3D printing has been used to generate invasive plant models. This work is being received very well in by natural resource professionals.

If the live links to videos do not work, please go to the University of Minnesota Extension YouTube channel.

Garlic mustard is a non-native, invasive plant species that is severely threatening native plant communities and degrading wildlife habitat in forest and riparian zones throughout the state. The plant is considered the highest priority species for development of long-term management solutions such as biological control, which involves using natural enemies of a non-native species from its native region to control or reduce the impact of the species in the areas where they are invasive. Introducing one non-native species to control another, though, is something that must be done with care so that the introduction does not have unintended consequences. This appropriation is enabling the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the University of Minnesota to continue ongoing research and evaluation of biological control options for garlic mustard. With this phase the aim is to be able to release multiple biological control inserts and monitor their effectiveness.

This project advanced the goal of having effective biological control insects for garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata). Host-specificity testing focused on the potential biocontrol insects Ceutorhynchus scrobicollis (a crown feeding weevil) and C. constrictus (a seed-feeding weevil). Monitoring garlic mustard populations in Minnesota provided information on garlic mustard populations in the absence of biocontrol. C. scrobicollis host specificity testing was completed for 15 plant species. Based on these results, C. scrobicollis has the host specificity to be a successful biocontrol agent of garlic mustard. The researchers wrote a petition for release which summarizes the 18 years of C. scrobicollis host specificity testing. The petition was submitted to the USDA-APHIS Technical Advisory Group in June 2016. Rearing protocols, release methods, and biocontrol manuals were developed for C. scrobicollis. C. constrictus host specificity testing was completed for 19 plant species. The results show that C. constrictus continues to show the host specificity to be a successful biocontrol agent for garlic mustard. Approximately 30 more species need to be tested and then a petition for release of C. constrictus can be submitted to the USDA. Garlic mustard is a biennial and long-term monitoring shows that its populations can fluctuate widely from year to year. When the plots were established in 2005 and 2006, garlic mustard was present in 100% of the plots. Garlic mustard is still present in 88% of the plots as of June 2016. Garlic mustard is currently experiencing very little herbivory in Minnesota with an average amount of leaf removed due to herbivory ranging from 0.6 to 4.5% in 2014 - 2016. It is expected that after biological control release, garlic mustard cover and density will decrease and shoot heights and silique production of individual plants will decrease as well.

• Dr. Jeanie Katovich and Dr. Roger Becker presented a poster on this project at the Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference in Duluth, MN held October 20-22, 2014.
• Dr. Jeanie Katovich gave a presentation on the project to the "Invasive Plant Management" class at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities during the spring 2015 and 2016 semesters.
• Dr. Roger Becker gave a presentation titled "Petition to release Ceutorhynchus scrobicollis for biological control of garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata)" at the 2015 Midwest Invasive Plant Network Invasive Plant Symposium (part of the North Central Weed Science Society annual meeting) in Indianapolis, IN on December 9, 2015.
• Dr. Jeanie Katovich gave a presentation on the project to Northeast Region US Forest Service researchers and staff at a meeting in Roseville, MN on March, 3, 2016.
• Dr. Jeanie Katovich presented the host-specificity data for Ceutorhynchus scrobicollis to the USDA APHIS Technical Advisory Group at their annual meeting in Greenbelt Maryland on April 6, 2016.
• Monitoring data has been shared with a consortium of researchers led by Dr. Bernd Blossey of Cornell University. This group will work together to produce a peer-reviewed publication on the results of garlic mustard monitoring plots in the Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States. The paper is currently being written.
• Dr. Laura Van Riper will give the presentation "Perspectives on Garlic Mustard Biocontrol in the Midwest" at the Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference in La Crosse, WI held October 17-19, 2016.
• The petition for release for C. scrobicollis was submitted to the USDA APHIS Technical Advisory Group.
• Title: A Petition for the Introduction, Experimental Release and Open-Field Release of the Root-Mining Weevil Ceutorhynchus scrobicollis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) for the Biological Control of Alliaria petiolata (Garlic Mustard) in North America.
• Authors: Laura Van Riper, Esther Gerber, Hariet L. Hinz, Ghislaine Cortat, Elizabeth Katovich, Roger Becker, Mary Marek-Spartz
• Date submitted: June 21, 2016

Zebra mussels are an aquatic species that are invasive in Minnesota and severely threaten native fish and other aquatic species by disrupting food webs and damaging spawning habitat. Their range continues to expand within Minnesota lakes and rivers, where they are spread through the transporting of water, vegetation, or equipment from an infested water body. Once established zebra mussels are very difficult to control and there is an immediate need for safe and effective control measures to reduce their impacts in the state. Scientists at the United States Geological Survey are using this appropriation to assess the ecological impacts of a commercially available mollusicide formulation (Zequanox) showing some promise for the control of zebra mussels. Findings will be used to determine the extent to which this product can and should be used in Minnesota waters and, if so, to optimize treatment protocols and techniques to maximize zebra mussel control while minimizing undesirable impacts.

Zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) continue to rapidly expand their range within Minnesota's lakes and rivers disrupting aquatic food webs, threaten native species, and damage infrastructure. Zequanox©, which contains killed cells of Pseudomonas fluorescens as the active ingredient, is a potential tool for controlling dreissenid mussels (zebra and quagga mussels D. rostriformis bugensis. The project goals were to determine the safety and efficacy of Zequanox for controlling zebra mussels and to evaluate the use of molecular tools to inform control efforts. Project studies are summarized in supplemental attachments with the final report.

The Zequanox non-target animal impacts database was expanded by evaluating the exposure-related impacts on three life stages of fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas), and on the survival of adult scuds (Gammarus lacustris) and mayfly nymphs (Hexagenia sp.) after applications were conducted in outdoor 1,000-L mesocosm tanks. No significant treatment related impacts were observed in survival of invertebrates or fathead minnows or in hatchability and growth of fathead minnows.

Detailed maps were prepared for portions of Lake Le Homme Dieu and Maple Lake (Douglas County), which had different zebra mussel infestation levels. Maps of depth, substrate hardness, and submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) depth and biovolume were generated using side-scanning sonar and parallel sonar data transects were collected and processed into component data categories. Processed sonar data and resulting maps are available on the vendor's cloud-based server network and could be combined with new or existing data to generate additional mapping products. Sonar data were used to generate a geospatial database of map characteristics in ArcGIS, and spatial analyses of the data were used to generate additional map products in ArcMap. Conversion to ArcGIS allowed for spatial analysis and sharing in GIS format. Zebra mussel populations were correlated with depth and substrate and submerged aquatic vegetation was found to be an important component of zebra mussel habitat in shallow areas in Lake Le Homme Dieu.

The use of environmental DNA to detect and identify application locations for Zequanox that might have the greatest impact on zebra mussel populations was also evaluated. The use of eDNA could assist management agencies to identify infestations, however, eDNA was found to not be effective for targeting control efforts.

Methods to apply Zequanox under the surface were first evaluated in controlled laboratory and pond-scaled mesocosm studies and further evaluated in 27-m2 enclosures placed in Robinson's Bay (Lake Minnetonka, MN). Whole water column and subsurface applications were evaluated by comparing zebra mussel mortality and biomass reduction between treated and control groups. Approximately 73 and 56% of the zebra mussels in contained samples were killed in the highest whole water column and subsurface Zequanox applications, respectively, and the similarly the adhering zebra mussel biomass was reduced ~79 and 57%, respectively.

Overall, we found that Zequanox has the potential to be used as a management tool for zebra mussels in quiescent water environments, however, Zequanox is not likely to be effective for eradication of zebra mussels in an open water environment. Additionally, eDNA may have utility as a tool for the detection of zebra mussels in a waterbody but it is not an effective tool for determining the biomass of zebra mussels present or for prioritizing the location of zebra control efforts.

Three oral presentations describing study methods and results were prepared and disseminated at professional scientific meetings including the Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference and the Annual Conference of the International Association of Great Lake Research. One webinar entitled "The potential use of eDNA to guide site selection for zebra mussel control treatments" was presented during a USGS hosted Environmental DNA Webinar Series. One peer-reviewed manuscript entitled "Safety of the molluscicide Zequanox© to nontarget macroinvertebrates Gammarus lacustris (Amphipoda: Gammaridae) and Hexagenia spp. (Ephemeroptera: Ephemeridae)" was prepared and published online on June 23, 2016 in the Management of Biological Invasions and is included as a supplemental attachment to the project final report. Five peer-reviewed reports that summarize study methods and results were prepared and are supplemental attachments to the project final report.

A model was developed for selecting the proper concentration (w/v) of Zequanox to be used in stocks prepared for subsurface applications waters between 7 and 22℃. This prediction model is described in supplemental attachments with the final report.

Molecular markers for the detection of zebra mussels were found to be highly specific to zebra mussels. A water sampling protocol was also developed to improve the probability of detecting zebra mussels. The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) did correlate with zebra mussel biomass. Zebra mussel DNA did accumulate in depositional areas. This suggests that our zebra mussel eDNA assay could assist management agencies to identify infestations, but not inform control efforts. The molecular markers, sampling protocol and depositional areas are described in supplemental attachments with the final report.

Terrestrial invasive plants such as buckthorn, wild parsnip, garlic mustard, and others are becoming widespread threats throughout many sites in Minnesota. Present chemical and mechanical control methods tend to be costly, effective only in the short-term, or have other negative environmental impacts. However, an alternative practice of using grazing animals for invasive species management is used successfully in many parts of the western United States. Grazing animals can help put target plant species at a competitive disadvantage if plants are grazed at times when they are most vulnerable in order to prevent flower and seed production. The Hiawatha Valley Resource Conservation & Development Council is using this appropriation to develop and demonstrate cost effective and environmentally friendly best management practices for using grazing as a component of invasive species management in Minnesota.

The Hiawatha Valley Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc., (HVRCD) began implementation of a program to control terrestrial invasive species through grazing with a pilot project in 2011. With the help of the USDA-NRCS a baseline inventory of selected sites was initiated along with documenting the effects of grazing on terrestrial invasive species.

In 2013 HVRCD received funding through the Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF). The project goals were: (1) develop a cost effective and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical and mechanical control methods for these species, (2) demonstrate that multi-species grazing techniques can be used effectively to control invasive plants, (3) distribute results during field day demonstrations to connect livestock producers with landowners and (4) develop a Best Management Practice for invasive species control using grazing management as a component.

Three sites were selected as part of this project; Gamehaven Boy Scout Camp, approximately 10 miles southeast of the City of Rochester; River Bend Nature Center in the City of Faribault; and Eden Acres, roughly 5.4 miles southeast of the City of Faribault.

Results show little change in seasonal buckthorn sapling density, an increase in buckthorn seedlings, and variable results for adult buckthorn mortality. However, result show a change in the age stand of buckthorn within treatment areas as fewer live adult and large saplings were documented within the treatment sites. This change makes further treatments by various means more attainable.

Garlic mustard density was dramatically reduced in two growing seasons at the River Bend site, showing a 94% decrease in density by 2016.

Additional documents included with this report: Prescribed Grazing (Goat) Project Final Report Covering Years 2014, 2015, and 2016; Final Project Report Gamehaven Boy Scout Camp; Minnesota Practice 528 Biological Brush Management Implementation Guide; Minnesota Practice Implementation Guide Biological Herbaceous Weed Control 528.

1. We were very fortunate to have one of our sites within the River Bend Nature Center near Faribault, MN. Small grazing animals created a great deal of interest amongst their visitors and staff. Handouts were available explaining the project, local newspapers did feature stories, and River Bend shared photos and explanations on their website. Signs were posted at the River Bend Nature Center grazing site appropriately crediting the project and to provide basic information of why there are goats there. These signs also had qr code allowing cell phone users more detailed information on the project. This kept the project in the news during 2015 and 2016 on a regular basis.
2. Tours were conducted involving garden clubs, Soil and Water Conservation District employees, USDA-NRCS, other professionals, public land managers, farmers and potential grazers.
3. The project has been featured on several radio and television stations in the Twin Cities market over the projects timeframe
4. Project information was shared through brochures at annual conferences of the Association of MN Counties and also the MN Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts through the MN Association of RC&D Councils exhibit booth.

Many of the most experienced conservation practitioners at local soil and water conservation districts throughout the state are nearing retirement, and with their departure will go much of their practical, on-the-ground knowledge, experience, and skills. Meanwhile, college students seeking to be the next generation of conservation practitioners have knowledge of emerging technologies and other innovations that can improve and contribute to current conservation efforts. Through this appropriation the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources will work with the Minnesota Conservation Corps to continue a program that places students in apprenticeship positions with county soil and water conservation district offices throughout the state. This unique program provides an opportunity for interns to gain valuable in-the-field experience from current practitioners while sharing their knowledge with those practitioners about the newest ideas and solutions for meeting today's natural resource challenges.

Familiarizing future conservation leaders with Minnesota's various land-use practices, water and soil resources, plant and animal habitats, and landowner concerns is needed to maintain the capacity of local organizations to deliver conservation on the ground. Many of the conservation districts' most experienced conservation professionals and practitioners are nearing retirement age but due to budget constraints will not be replaced until they have left employment. Consequently, Minnesota is missing a great opportunity to transfer professional knowledge and experience to the next generation.

While university graduates with conservation-related degrees are knowledgeable in technology, theory, and research methods, their practical, on-the-ground skills need development. Communicating with landowners and adjusting designs for field nuances are vital to the success of conservation projects and best learned alongside seasoned professionals. In turn, apprentices bring knowledge of emerging technologies to improve the quality and productivity of conservation efforts.

This program funded the placement of 37 conservation apprentices in 35 SWCDs in 2014. During this time, the apprentices stabilized erosion on 7 million square feet of slopes, planted 28,001 plants, trees, shrubs and seedlings, maintained 3.5 million square feet of restored areas, collected 2,465 water samples, spent 2,110 Hours collecting data and mapping using GPS and GIS, and impacted 1,265 people through environmental education and outreach.

This program has benefits to both students and conservation districts. 100% of apprentices indicated they felt more prepared to work in the conservation industry as a result of the program and would recommend it to others. 96% of the Districts were satisfied with the work their apprentices completed, and 100% indicate they would participate in the program again. Managers also indicated that the work conducted by the apprentices increased the amount of conservation practices delivered by their districts during the program period.

This was the third grant awarded to the Apprentice Academy through LCCMR. Grant one addressed the cohorts working during the summers of 2011 and 2012. The state government shutdown of 2011 produced a small balance in the 2010 grant that was used to fund additional positions in 2012 and 2013; this in turn allowed a small balance the second grant (M.L. 2011) to fund additional positions in the this, the M.L. 2013, Chp. 52, Sec. 2, Subd. 07a plan, and carried funding into the early portion of 2014.

Information from the project has been disseminated through reports to LCCMR, press releases by BWSR, local press releases by SWCDs, and through the Conservation Corps newsletter, website and annual report. Information was used to recruit apprentices and increase awareness of the project.

Communication and outreach activities include the aforementioned reports, press releases, and electronic newsletters. Additionally, BWSR and Conservation Corps staff conducted outreach to SWCDs to find optimal matches between districts and apprentices. Through the course of their work, the apprentices conducted significant outreach to land owners and residents in topics ranging from easement protection, to water quality education, to plant biodiversity.

There has been a sharp decline in participation in outdoor recreation and education amongst youth, particularly in urban areas. Some argue that youth who have meaningful outdoor education experiences are more likely to become engaged in environmental stewardship and invested in outdoor resources as adults. Wilderness Inquiry - in partnership with state and federal agencies, non-profits, and local school districts - is using this appropriation to expand an environmental education and recreation program that provides youth with hands-on educational and recreational experiences of the Mississippi River. Funds enable the program to offer canoe experiences to an additional 6,000 youth and to expand the types of experiences provided to include overnight camping, aquatic sampling and monitoring, and conservation-related internships. The program is also expanding geographically to serve additional communities in the Twin Cities and outstate, including Grand Rapids, St. Cloud, Hastings, and Red Wing.

Youth in Minnesota and across the country are spending less time outdoors than ever before. Minnesota is home to beautiful wilderness areas and our youth are missing out on opportunities to experience it. The goal of the Youth Outdoors project is to bring more youth outside to experience the wilderness -- urban and remote -- and gain a new appreciation for their environment and community through guided outdoor experiences.

Between July 1, 2013 and September 1, 2015 Wilderness Inquiry (WI) engaged 12,000 youth in outdoor programming. More than 11,000 youth joined WI for an introductory outdoor day experience and more than 830 youth participated in an overnight camping experience. Additionally, 31 youth were employed as interns with job responsibilities including supporting participants, leading educational stations, and creating new activities. On single day events, youth canoed, fished, hiked, explored, and collected data from lakes and rivers for hands-on water quality tests. Youth worked in teams to paddle 24-foot Voyageur canoes on urban waterways such as the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers and Minneapolis Chain of Lakes as well as remote lakes and rivers across the state such as Voyageurs National Park and Lake Itasca. Outdoor Educators, with the support of partner organizations, facilitated activities to engage students with each other and the outdoors. On overnight camping experiences, youth set up tents, built fires, and cooked outside. We reached out to schools, formalized district partnerships, and engaged a variety of groups to offer these experiential and educational opportunities.

The University of Minnesota's Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI) collected data from the project as part of a 5-year plan to evaluate the program outcomes. We are continuing our relationship with CAREI to determine best practice and next steps. By engaging thousands of Minnesota youth in the outdoor educational experiences, we are energizing the next generation of environmental stewards.

We disseminated information about the project and its outcomes through a variety of media including our website, social media networks, quarterly newsletter, partner website, and news sources. We have shared our educational resources with schools in an effort to support the continued engagement of their students in the outdoors. Our program has been highlighted in a number of local newspapers.

Per M.S. 116P.09, up to 4% of the amount available for appropriation from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) for a biennium is available for expenses related to LCCMR administration. These expenses include the LCCMR's project selection and approval process and its ongoing oversight of projects funded by the ENRTF, including both new projects funded during the biennium and existing projects funded in previous bienniums. Historically, LCCMR has always used less than 3% of available funds for administration. This appropriation, which represents 1.46% of the amount available for the biennium, funds LCCMR administration expenses for FY 2014-15.

Appropriations to non-state entities must be made through a formal contract with a state entity that manages all of the funds for the project on a reimbursement basis. This appropriation to Minnesota's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) funds the expenses incurred by the DNR in contracting, contract management, and expense re-imbursement for most of the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund appropriations made to non-state entities, including both new projects funded during the biennium and existing projects funded in previous bienniums.

This appropriation, in conjunction with Outdoor Heritage Fund appropriations, was used to support the contract management program, which ensured ENRTF funds were expended in compliance with state law, session law, approved work plans, and Office of Grants Management grants policies.

Services provided under this appropriation included the following:

• Contract Management Services
• Prepared grant agreements and amendments
• Encumbered/Unencumbered Funds
• Executed Use of Funds Agreements
• Advanced funds for land acquisition (if approved)
• Communicated regularly with LCCMR staff and grant recipients
• Contract management documentation, including file management
• Training and Communications
• Trained recipients on state grant requirements
• Worked with recipients to ensure grantees understood the state's reimbursement procedures and requirements
• Provided ongoing technical assistance/guidance to recipients
• Reimbursement Services
• Reviewed reimbursement requests
• Arranged for prompt payment once expenses were verified eligible for reimbursement
• Detailed accounting by pass-through appropriation for each grant recipient
• Fiscal, Audit, and Close-out Services
• Financial reconciliation
• Financial reporting
• Contract management reporting (fund balance/expenditures)
• Examined or audited records of recipients
• Worked with recipients to successful close out of grants
• Worked closely with and responded to requests from the Office of the Legislative Auditor
  
  

Project personnel were in frequent contact with appropriation recipients and LCCMR staff. Information was disseminated through manuals, training sessions, orientations, meetings, memos, letters, emails, newsletter, and phone.