04-10-2003 Long Range Planning Commission Minutes

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impervious surface, soil compaction,and the removal of aquatic and terrestrial vegetation. Nearly XX%of lakeshore property is developed,contributing significantly to these problems. (See Land Use Map)Because residents and visitors take pride in the beauty and quality of area lakes,the City of Pequot Lakes should protect developed and undeveloped shorelines with natural vegetation buffers. It must also encourage responsible future development that won't threaten the viability of these valuable resources,and promote healthier alternatives for drainage, pervious surface development and landscaping practices throughout the entire watershed. Wetlands and Streams Wetlands and streams perform invaluable functions in watershed health,providing habitat for a diversity of rare wildlife and fish species,controlling erosion and slowing surface run-off, filtering pollutants and sediments, allowing for groundwater recharge and discharge,minimizing flood damage,and providing opportunities for recreation,economic development,and education. Nearly 52%of Minnesota's wetlands have been filled in for development,which places increased pressure on existing wetlands10.Today,Pequot Lakes contains XX acres of wetlands, most of which are located around existing lakes. (Map of Wetlands from National Wetlands Inventory) The wetlands vary from inland swamps and herbaceous wetlands to ponds. Because of their contribution to environmental health,economic development,and quality of life for local citizens,the City of Pequot Lakes seeks to protect existing wetlands and work to increase their capacity to benefit the community. Soils and Geology The last glaciers to cover Central Minnesota deposited large quantities of sand and gravel over the area now occupied by Pequot Lakes and Sibley Township.Today,nearly 75%of Pequot Lakes feature sandy outwash plains over sandstone bedrock.(Map of Sore Geology) While the plains provide good building sites,the sand over sand feature is highly susceptible to groundwater contamination,which must be considered for new development that is not supported by the municipal sewer system. (Figure of Sand over Sand Infiltration)With increasing evidence that many presently operating septic systems in Crow Wing County aren't functioning properly, this issue is of critical importance". 414;11` 4. _______ _ .g':_e_,) . .... . 111 0 3 =� ,,,,,> 10 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources,2003 11 Crow Wing County Comprehensive Plan,1994 3