Comment period begins for pollution study on Pope County lakes

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is inviting comments on a pollution study (TMDL report) conducted for eight lakes in Pope County that are impaired with excess phosphorus. The lakes are Ann, Emily, Gilchrist, Leven, Malmedal, Pelican, Reno and Strandness. Comments must be sent in writing to the MPCA by August 22.

Phosphorus was identified as the primary pollutant leading to excessive growth of plants, such as algae, in these lakes. Sources of phosphorus include feedlots and wastewater treatment facilities; stormwater runoff; loading from upstream waters; atmospheric deposition; subsurface sewage treatment systems; groundwater, internal loading, and in-stream erosion.

State and local action will implement the TMDL. Water quality restoration efforts will be led by the Pope County Soil and Water Conservation District, Pope County, the Chippewa River Watershed Project, and through lake associations and the Pope County Coalition of Lakes Association.

Copies of the TMDL report are available for review at the MPCA office in Detroit Lakes and on the MPCA website.

Written comments must include a statement of interest in the draft TMDL report, a statement of the action the MPCA should take and the reasons supporting the chosen position.

Mail comments to Tim James, MPCA, 714 Lake Ave., Ste. 220, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501 or e-mail to tim.james@state.mn.us.

For more information about the report or to learn how to submit a comment, check the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency website or call Tim James at (218) 846-8103.

Tags: local news, news, pollution, lakes