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7.1. SR 02-21-2017 EGty1� ,.,�� Request for Action River To Item Number Mayor and City Council 7.1 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Public Hearin s February 21, 2017 BrieAnna Simon, Planner Item Description Reviewed by Zone Change and Conditional Use Permit to Allow Zack Carlton,Planning Manager Gravel Mining,Max Steminger,Inc. Reviewed by Cal Portner, City Administrator Action Requested Adopt,by motion, an ordinance amending the Zoning Map to add the Mineral Excavation Overlay District to a certain property when Conditional Use Permit CU 17-02 is approved and all conditions met prior to recording. Approve,by motion, the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) with the following conditions: 1. If the proposed work described in the application and CUP is not substantially completed within two years of the CUP's date of approval, the permit shall expire and become void. 2. The CUP shall expire if the authorized use ceases for more than six months. Failure to obtain an annual license will be evidence of cessation of use. 3. The applicant must apply for and receive approval of all required permits before any construction may begin. 4. A Mineral Extraction License shall be obtained annually. 5. Setbacks of 50 feet from Baldwin Ave and the northern property line shall be maintained. Setbacks of 30 feet from US Hwy 169 shall be maintained. Setback of 30 feet from the southern property line, unless mining collaboration agreement across property lines is confirmed. No mining activity shall be permitted within the setback area without staff approval. 6. The need of buffering and/or screening in light of surrounding land uses shall be evaluated at the time of annual license renewal and shall be installed when directed by the city to protect surrounding land uses. 7. The applicant shall be responsible for the cost and construction of all road improvements,including turn lanes, as required by the township, Sherburne County or MnDOT. The city reserves the right to require the applicant to pay for road maintenance of haul routes. 8. The applicant shall work with the city engineer to locate the berming along Baldwin Street NW. 9. Wash operations shall not be permitted unless a plan for protecting ground water and surrounding environment is approved by the city's environmental consultant. 10. Dust control is required for all roads and within the site in accordance with air pollution standards and to ensure dust does not create a public nuisance or otherwise adversely affecting adjacent properties. 11. All activities on the site shall be conducted in a manner that is consistent with operating permits issued by the city, county, state,federal and other agencies. A copy of any and all permits related to the operation of the site shall be submitted to the city for their reference. 12. Vehicles and equipment not in operable condition or materials not associated with the mineral extraction/excavation activity shall not be kept or stored at the site. POWERED 6T A IR 13. The site shall be mowed or maintained to control noxious weeds and other vegetation. Existing trees and ground cover shall be preserved to the maximum extent possible. 14. Fencing shall be installed during extraction operations to ensure the safety of the public and environment as determined by the city engineer and environmental staff. 15. Hours of operation shall be allowed to be six (6) days a week, 24 hours a day, Sundays and holidays excluded. 16. A reclamation plan that reflects the 61.3 acres operation shall be approved by the city and completed within six months of cease of operation. 17. A letter of credit or bond in the amount of$153,250 shall be provided to ensure reclamation is completed within six months of cease of operation. Background/Discussion Case Nos. ZC 17-02 and CU 17-02 The applicant is seeking a zone change to Mineral Excavation Overlay and a CUP for mineral excavation on approximately 61.3 acres along Baldwin Avenue near the northern limits of Elk River. Site operations will include stripping, extraction,processing, and recycling of concrete and asphalt reclamation. Materials suitable for reclamation will also be blended onsite with excavated aggregates. Zoning The property is currently zoned Commercial Reserve Transition (CRT) and the applicant is proposing to add the Mineral Excavation Overlay District to the site. The Mineral Excavation Overlay District designation allows for mining operations with approval of a CUP. Surrounding properties are used for mining and residential uses. Staff does not have any concerns with impacts to the surrounding area. Transportation/Access Access to the site will be via Baldwin Avenue,which borders the eastern side of the project area. This access point will be shared with the mining operation to the north. Most traffic will travel south along Baldwin and turn onto 225I Ave NW,which intersects Highway 169. All operation activities will meet road restriction rules. Hours of Operation The proposed hours of operation are 24 hours a day except for Sundays and holidays. The site will be subject to the State of Minnesota noise standards and will comply with the stricter night time standards during the period from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. as defined by MN Rules Chapter 7030, Noise Pollution Control. Setbacks The setbacks to this project are 50 feet along Baldwin Ave. and the northern property line along Livonia Township. Also, the setback of 30 feet is required along the property line adjacent to US Hwy 169. Because mining is occurring on properties to the south,it is suggested that mining is permitted within the setback areas to avoid a windrow situation along the property lines in collaboration with mining operations to the south. Setback from the property line to the south will be 30 feet, unless mining collaboration agreement across property lines is confirmed. Environmental Review An Environmental review was completed for a gravel mine operation on November 7, 2016. N:APublic Bodies\Agenda Packets\02-21-2017\Final\7.1 sr CU 17-02 11ax Steininger CC Report.docx Applicable Regulations Zone Change Sec. 30-1835 describes the process for establishing a Mineral Excavation Overlay District. The zone change shall only be approved upon a finding that: (i) the requirements set forth in section 30-575 of this article have been met; (ii) the proposed zone change is consistent with the city's Comprehensive Plan; (iii) the proposed mineral extraction activities will fully comply with the applicable standards and requirements set forth in chapter 42, article II, division 2 of this code; and (iv) the proposed activities will not be dangerous or otherwise detrimental to persons residing or working in the vicinity thereof, or to the public health, safety or welfare, and will not impair the use, enjoyment or value of any neighboring property or use. Staff's analysis shows compliance with the findings above. If a motion of denial is made, specific concerns must be stated. Conditional Use Permit The issuance of a Conditional Use Permit can be ordered only if the use at the proposed location: 7. 1Vill not endanger, injure or detrimentally affect the use and enjoyment of otberpropegy in the immediate vicinity or thepublic health, safety, morals, comfort, convenience orgeneral nvr fare of the neighborhood or the city. The proposed use will not detrimentally affect nearby property as the use fits with the intended use of the development and is located adjacent to other mineral excavation establishments. The annual permitting process takes neighboring properties into account. 2. 1Vill be consistent Pith the comprehensive plan. The use is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. The proposed use fits the mineral excavation guidance for the property through the Gravel Mine Area Study completed in 2014. 3. 1Vill not impede the normal and orderly development and improvement of surrounding vacantproperty. The proposed use will not affect the surrounding Commercial Reserve Transition (zoning district) and Development Reserve (land use). This area of Elk River and the surrounding Livonia Township land is largely used for gravel mining and landfill operations. 4. 1Vill be served adequately by and Pill not adversely affect essential public facilities and services including streets,police and fire protection, drainage, refuse disposal, Pater and sen)er systems,parks and schools;and V)ill not, in particular, create traf c congestion or interference Pith traf c on adjacent and neighboring public thoroughfares. The facility will not be served by city services and there does not appear to be any other potential impacts to public facilities or services. Baldwin St. NW and 225th Avenue NW are currently used for gravel mine hauling from neighboring operations. This operation will meet road restriction rules. 5. 1Vill not involve uses, activities,processes, materials, equ pment and conditions of operation that Pill be detrimental to any persons orproperty because of excessive traffic, noise, smoke,fumes,glare, odors, dust or vibrations. This proposal underwent an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) with the city to determine the potential environmental effects of the operation. The city determined the proposed operation would not result in non-reclaimable environmental degradation. The conditions outlined in this CUP are in place to minimize the effects of noise, odors, and dust that are common for gravel mine operations. N:APublic Bodies\Agenda Packets\02-21-2017\Final\7.1 sr CU 17-02 11ax Steininger CC Report.docx 6. 1Vill not result in the destruction, loss or damage of a natural, scenic or historic feature of major importance. The EAW determined the proposed operation would not result in non-reclaimable environmental degradation. The reclamation plan developed by the operation will return the property to environmental standards. No historic features were identified through the EAW process. 7. LVill fully comply Pitb all other requirements of this code, including any applicable requirements and standards for the issuance of a license orpeimit to establish and operate the proposed use in the city. The applicant is required to comply with all other sections of the code and must apply for all required building permits in addition to the CUP. If denial of such a permit should occur,it shall accompany findings or a report stating how the proposed use does not comply with the standards set forth in Section 30-654. In the review of the standards for CUP as outlined,it appears that the request is consistent with all of these standards. Financial Impact None Planning Commission Meeting No one spoke for or against the request and staff has not received any comments from the public. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval. Attachments ■ Location Map ■ Zoning Map ■ Zone Change and CUP Application December 2016 ■ Phase Map ■ Setback Map ■ Reclamation Map ■ EAW Resolution November 7, 2016 ■ EAW April 2007 ■ Ordinance N:APublic Bodies\Agenda Packets\02-21-2017\Final\7.1 sr CU 17-02 11ax Steininger CC Report.docx Steininger Inc. Case No: ZC 17-02 & CU 17-02 Zone Change & Conditional Use Permit Ever Existing Zoning Map Proposed Zoning Map Consulting Civil Engineers Sunde Engineering, PLLC 10830 Nesbitt Avenue South • Bloomington, Minnesota 55437-3100 Phone: (952) 881-3344 • Fax: (952) 881-1913 • E-Mail: info@sundecivil.com     December, 2016  MAX STEININGER, INC.    APPLICATION FOR   ZONE CHANGE TO MINERAL EXTRACTION OVERLAY   AND A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT  FOR MINERAL EXCAVATION  ELK RIVER, MINNESOTA    Max Steininger, Inc.:  Elk River Sand and Gravel Mine    1 | Page  Zone Change & Conditional Use Permit Application   December 2016  MAX STEININGER, INC.    APPLICATION FOR   ZONE CHANGE TO MINERAL EXTRACTION OVERLAY   AND A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT  FOR MINERAL EXCAVATION  ELK RIVER, MINNESOTA    1.0 INTRODUCTION/PROJECT SCOPE    Max Steininger, Inc. (Steininger) is requesting a Zone Change to Mineral Extraction Overlay and a  Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Mineral Extraction on property located in the very northern portion  of Elk River. Site operations will include stripping, extraction, processing, recycling of concrete and  asphalt, and reclamation. The property encompasses 61.3 acres and includes two separate parcels  (Site).  Figure  1,  General  Location  Map,  illustrates  the  location of the Site with respect to the  community.       2.0 SITE INFORMATION    2.1 Legal Description of Property:       See Attachment 1     2.2 Name and Address of Operator:    Max Steininger, Inc.  3080 Lexington Ave S, Eagan, MN 55121   (651) 454‐6620    2.3 Name and Address of Property Owner:    3080 Lexington Ave LP  1521 Lone Oak Road Eagan, MN 55121   (651) 454‐6620    2.4 Names and addresses of all adjacent land owners within 350 feet of the Site:       See Attachment 2     3.0 Zone Change Request     3.1 Purpose of Zone Change:  The zoning change will allow the issuance of a CUP for Mineral Extraction. The proposed mineral  extraction activity is described fully in Sections 4.0‐6.0 below.    Max Steininger, Inc.:  Elk River Sand and Gravel Mine    2 | Page  Zone Change & Conditional Use Permit Application   December 2016  3.2 What has changed to warrant the Zone Change:    The property was not part of the original Mineral Extraction Overlay district.  It was later purchased  by Max Steininger, Inc.  after verifying that is contained a high quality deposit of sand and gravel with  the intention of mining the property.  Therefore, it is an appropriate time to request a zone change  to the Mineral Extraction Overlay.    3.3 Consistency with City of Elk River Comprehensive Plan:    The planned land use of the Site is designated as Mining/Development Reserve on the Future Land  Use Plan of the Elk River Comprehensive Plan. The Elk River Comprehensive Plan serves as a guide  for the City to make decisions regarding the type, location, and density of future development within  Elk River. It also serves as the foundation for updating the City’s Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map.  The primary objective of these land use categories is to allow mining the land and to subsequently  address  future  land  use  when  development  becomes  appropriate.  Figure  2:  Future  Land  Use,  illustrates the future land use of the Site and surrounding area as adopted by the Comprehensive  Plan.    According to the Comprehensive Plan, areas designated Mining are currently being mined or, in the  case of the Site, are set aside for future mining. The Elk River Comprehensive Plan indicates that the  majority of the mining resources in these areas will be extracted over the next 10 to 40 years. The  Project will be active for an estimated 30 years or more based on market demand. Areas designated  Development Reserve are outside of the urban service area and will have various development  opportunities  in  the  future  when  mining  is  complete  and  services  are  available.  The  Project,  therefore, is consistent with the goals and guidelines established by the Elk River Comprehensive  Plan.    The Comprehensive Plan also addresses natural resources. The plan includes a guideline to continue  to allow gravel mining in the designated mining areas to make full use of these natural resources.  The  Natural  Resources  Plan  indicates  that  the  Site  is  not  located in an area with biodiversity  significance.     The City of Elk River completed a Gravel Mining Area Land Use, Transportation and Utility Plan in  20151. (Gravel Mine Area Study) The Gravel Mine Area includes the Site. The purpose of the plan was  to develop a vision for future land use, transportation and utility plans for the gravel mining area to  be relied upon as mining operations draw to a close and transition into final development. The study  is intended to be utilized in conjunction with the City of Elk River’s Comprehensive Plan. The Project  is compatible with the goals of the Gravel Mine Area Study. The study included the timing of  availability of urban services and divides the Gravel Mine Area into two Urban Services Areas: 20  Years, and Beyond 20 Years. The Site is located in the Beyond 2 0 Years designation which is consistent  with the anticipated 30 year life of the Project.      Planned transportation improvements include long term plans of converting US 169 to a freeway  system. This includes the construction of interchanges, including one at 221st Street, and a network                                                                 1 City of Elk River, April 6, 2015. Gravel Mining Area Land Use, Transportation, and Utility Plan retrieved on  line at http://elkrivermn.gov/index.aspx?nid=1239. Max Steininger, Inc.:  Elk River Sand and Gravel Mine    3 | Page  Zone Change & Conditional Use Permit Application   December 2016  of  frontage  and  backage  roads  to  connect  to  freeway  access  points.  The  plan  includes  a  new  alignment for a frontage/backage road through the Project Area to be constructed beyond 2040. The  Reclamation Plan for the Project has been developed to accommodate  the  future  roadway  alignment.     3.4 Compatibility with Surrounding Properties;     Surrounding  properties  are  characterized  by  mining,  open  space,  agricultural  operations,  rural  residential land uses, and landfill.  The proposed use is compatible with surrounding property uses.    3.5 Benefits to the City of Elk River:    The zone change and approval of a CUP are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and Gravel Mine  Area Study. In addition, the Project will allow the mining and processing of a high quality deposit of  sand and gravel that will be processed for use as construction aggregates to serve the growing  demand within the local area and the City of Elk River.    4.0 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT REQUEST    4.1 Purpose of Extraction:    The purpose of the extraction is to remove and process high quality deposits of sand and gravel to  provide aggregate material for use in various construction materials and projects throughout the  northwestern metropolitan area. The aggregate produced at the Site will be used for roads and  buildings in both the public and private sectors. Aggregate from  the  Site  may  be  used  in  the  production of hot and warm mix asphalt, ready‐mix concrete, pre‐cast concrete, aggregate base,  general fill, and ice control.      4.2 Estimated Time Required to Complete the Proposed Extraction:    The Project will be active for an estimated 30 years or more based on market demand. This time  frame is consistent with the Elk River Comprehensive Plan      4.3 Transportation Routes:    Access from the Site will be to Baldwin, which borders the eastern boundary of the Site. The access  will be shared with the mining operation to the south once they begin their operations. The majority  of traffic is anticipated to go south on Baldwin to 225th Avenue NW just over one‐half mile to United  States Highway 169 (US 169). At the intersection with 225th Avenue NW, US 169 has northbound and  southbound right and left turn lanes, and northbound and southbound acceleration lanes. Traffic  from the Site will go both north and south on US 169.  Steininger will work with the Minnesota  Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and the City of Elk River in developing US 169 corridor  improvements, including the need for a new interchange and frontage/backage roadways that may  be necessary in the future through or near the Site.    4.4 Site and Surrounding Area:     Physical relationship of Site with respect to the community:  Max Steininger, Inc.:  Elk River Sand and Gravel Mine    4 | Page  Zone Change & Conditional Use Permit Application   December 2016    The Site is located in the very northern portion of the City of Elk River and immediately east of  US 169. The surrounding area is characterized by mining operations, the Elk River Landfill,  agricultural operations and rural residential land use. Figure 3: Site and Surrounding Area, is  an aerial photograph that illustrates the Site and surrounding area.    Site analysis:    The Site has irregular topography characterized by open space w ith brush, grassland, and some  wooded areas. The US 169 highway corridor borders the western perimeter of the Site. A five  foot wide ATV trail and overhead electric lines run along the western boundary of the Site.  Baldwin  St.  NW.  runs  to  the  east  of  the  Site.  Overhead  electric  and  underground  communications lines run along the eastern boundary of the Site.     The elevation of the Site varies from about 978 to 1,046 feet above mean sea level (msl).  Naturally occurring slopes range from 4‐74 percent across the Site. The average depth of  topsoil is approximately one foot with three to five feet of silty overburden over the sand and  gravel deposit. The Site is not located within a floodplain and there are no watercourses or  wetlands on‐site.         There is a residence and associated outbuildings located in the northeastern portion of the  Site. The existing house is to remain until the final mining Phase. Figure 4: U.S.G.S. Quad Map  Excerpt, illustrates natural features of the Site and surrounding area.    Estimate of Quantity of Material to be Mined:    The estimated net quantity of material to be excavated is approximately 9 million cubic yards.      Depth of Water Table:    The elevation of the water table ranges from about 957 feet above msl in the southwestern  portion of the Site to about 959 feet above msl in the northeastern portion of the Site. The  direction of groundwater flow is towards the southwest. Mining is proposed top extend into  the water table.    Average thickness of overburden    The average thickness of overburden is estimated to be three to five feet, based on soil borings  taken across the extent of the Site.    Detailed Map of Haul Routes    Figure 5: Haul Routes, illustrates the extent of the haul routes within the City limits. Local roads  will be used for approximately ¼ mile to access US 169. County and state highways will be used  for the majority of hauling.  Local roads, beyond Baldwin to 225th Avenue NW, will be used only  as needed for local deliveries.       4.5 Plan of Operation:  Max Steininger, Inc.:  Elk River Sand and Gravel Mine    5 | Page  Zone Change & Conditional Use Permit Application   December 2016    Active mining will begin by stripping topsoil and overburden from a portion of the Site. Overburden  and topsoil will be shaped into perimeter berms. To reduce exposed soils and the potential, dust,  sedimentation and erosion, stripping and construction of berms will occur in phases as mining  progresses through the Site. Berms will be constructed to maintain existing drainage patterns.  Extraction of the aggregate deposit will be accomplished with loaders and excavators.     Mining will extend into the water table. Sand and gravel will be mined below the water table using  wet mining methods; a backhoe, drag line or dredge. The depth of excavation below the water table  will be an average of 25 feet but may extend to 50 feet or more depending upon the quality of  aggregates encountered and equipment utilized. Mining below the water table may occur over any  portion of the floor of the mine. Portions of the excavation below the water table will be backfilled  after mining as part of Site reclamation activities.     Processing equipment; crushing, screening and wash plants, will be located in recessed areas of the  Site to provide screening and reduce dust and sound emissions from the Site. The primary crusher  will typically be located  adjacent to the active face where materials will be crushed and then  conveyed or hauled to the main processing area for additional crushing, screening and or washing.  Material stockpiles will be established around the processing plants.    The washplant will operate seasonally during nonfreezing weather conditions (generally April –  November). The washplant will discharge process water into a series of on‐site ponds that will be  established on the floor of the mine. These ponds will allow fine sediments that are in the washwater  discharge to settle. Clarified washwater will be returned to the washplant for reuse.  Washwater will  not be discharged from the Site. Portable toilets will be used at the Site to serve employees.    Mining  and  processing  will  be  subject  to  setbacks  established  by  the  City  of  Elk  River  Mining  Ordinance. Proposed setbacks include a 30‐foot setback from all road right‐of‐ways and parcels not  permitted for mining operations. The northern border and a majority of the southern border are  adjacent to permitted or future mining operations and therefore do not require a setback.     No explosives will be used at the Site.    4.6  Drainage, Erosion Control, Sedimentation, Dust, Access Control and Security:    The majority of the Site drains internally.  Sheet C‐1: Existing Conditions, illustrates the current  topography and drainage patterns of the Site. Disturbed areas of the Site will be graded to drain  internally.  The  Site  will  operate  under  the  General  Minnesota  National  Pollutant  Discharge  Elimination System Permit (NPDES) permit for non‐metallic mining mineral mining and associated  activities. Prior to commencing operations, a site specific Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan  (SWPPP) will be prepared for the Site as required by the NPDES permit. Best management practices,  such  use  of  silt  fence,  drainage  swales  and  diversions  and  progressive  reclamation  will  be  implemented at the Site to control erosion and off‐site sedimentation. Perimeter berms may be  constructed within setback areas, shaped, and stabilized with vegetation.    Based on information from the National Wetland Inventory Maps, there are no wetlands located on  the Site. Information from the NSC soil survey indicates that there are no hydric soils on the Site.  According  to  the  Natural  Resources  Conservation  Service  Soil  Survey,  Site  soils  consist  of  the  Max Steininger, Inc.:  Elk River Sand and Gravel Mine    6 | Page  Zone Change & Conditional Use Permit Application   December 2016  Stonelake‐Sandburn soil complex and Sandburn fine sandy loam. Both the Stonelake and Sandburn  soils are in Hydrogeological Soil Group (HSG) A. HSG A soils have a high infiltration rate (low runoff  potential), consisting mainly of deep, well drained to excessively drained sands or gravely sands.     Mining activity will create steep slopes on a temporary basis. The active mine face is not vegetated  and therefore is subject to erosion. The active face will slope towards the interior of the mining  operation  with  no  potential  for  off‐site  sedimentation.  Infiltration  areas  and  temporary  sedimentation basins will be used as needed to manage stormwater on the mine floor. The locations  of these stormwater management features will move as mining progresses  through  the  Site.  Establishment of vegetation through seeding and mulching will be conducted as soon as reclaimed  areas have reached final grade. Erosion control matting, sediment logs, and other erosion and  sediment control practices will be used as needed throughout the mining operations. Erosion of  finished slopes will be minimized by backfilling to a minimum slope of 3:1 and seeding and mulching  in accordance with the Reclamation Plan.     Crushing equipment is fitted with spray bars to mitigate the generation of dust during processing.  Processing operations are located within recessed portions of the Site which further reduces fugitive  dust emissions associated with the processing equipment. Washplants are not a significant source  of fugitive dust emissions. Many of the stockpiles will have sufficient moisture content from the  washing process to keep fugitive dust levels low during loading operations. Fugitive dust from  internal haul roads will be controlled by use of dust suppressants such as calcium chloride or by  watering. A water truck will be available on‐site to water as needed. Fugitive dust from exposed  soils and stockpiles will be minimized by establishing permanent vegetation on perimeter berms  and disturbed areas where reclamation grading has been completed.     Visual impacts, noise impacts, and fugitive dust will be minimized by the construction of perimeter  berms and maintenance of wooded setback areas as mining progresses through the Site. Weeds  and  other  unsightly  or  noxious  vegetation  will  be  controlled  as necessary to preserve the  appearance of the area. The Site will be operated in a manner to minimize any land use conflicts  and to comply with all applicable local, state, and federal permits, standards, and regulations.  Access to the Site will be controlled through a combination of locking gate, berms, signs and fencing.      5.0  Reclamation Plan    Mining will occur in four phases throughout the lifetime of the  mine as illustrated on Sheet C2: Mine  Plan. The floor of the mine will remain active for processing and stockpiling and will not be reclaimed  until the completion of each mining operation. Perimeter areas, where mining has been complete,  will be reclaimed in a progressive manner as mining advances through the Site. Excess clean soils  from various construction projects will be backhauled to the Site and used to backfill areas to the  final reclamation grades. Reclamation will be completed within 12 months of final extraction activity.  Reclamation activities at the Site will consist of backfilling, shaping, slopping, and seeding. Final  grades will range from 1% to 33%. Final reclamation grades are shown on Sheet C3: Reclamation  Plan.    Topsoil shall be placed on graded areas. Topsoil will come from on‐site sources and be placed in a  layer that is a minimum of three inches thick in accordance wit h the City ordinance. After placement  of topsoil is complete, the area will be seeded and mulched.    Max Steininger, Inc.:  Elk River Sand and Gravel Mine    7 | Page  Zone Change & Conditional Use Permit Application   December 2016  5.1 Reclamation Standards    Schedule:    Reclamation will occur upon completion of mining activity. Reclamation will be completed  within one year of final extraction activity.     Slopes:    Slopes will be reclaimed in accordance with the reclamation plan. Finished slopes will not  exceed 3:1 (H:V).     6.0 STANDARDS    6.1 Boundary:    Extraction operations shall be conducted within the confines of the boundaries indicated within this  application.    6.2 Setbacks:    The Site will operate in compliance with setbacks established in the Mineral Excavation section of  the City of Elk Rivers Code of Ordinances. Extraction operations shall not be conducted within five  feet of the right‐of‐way of an existing public utility; 50 feet of the boundary of any zone where such  extraction operations are not permitted, 30 feet of the boundary of an adjoining property which is  not being used for extraction operations or within any required buffer zone or setback area on the  applicants or any adjoining property. Setbacks are illustrated on Sheet C2, Mine Plan.     6.3 Fencing:     During extraction operations, access to any areas where collections of water are one and one‐half  feet in depth or more, or where extraction slopes are steeper than one foot vertical to one and one‐ half feet horizontal, and any other areas where obvious danger to the public exists shall be controlled  by a four foot tall fence with support posts spaced every ten feet.     6.4 Appearance and Screening:    All equipment will be kept operational. Abandoned equipment and rubbish will be periodically  removed from the Site. Reclamation will begin as soon as practicable after each mining phase is  complete. The Site will be graded in accordance with the reclamation plan.    A screening berm will be constructed, seeded, mulched and maintained along the boundaries of the  Site. Maintenance of the wooded setback areas will minimize visual impacts. Screening berms may  be removed as part of final reclamation.      6.5 Noise:    Max Steininger, Inc.:  Elk River Sand and Gravel Mine    8 | Page  Zone Change & Conditional Use Permit Application   December 2016  The mining operation will operate in compliance with all State noise standards. State standards have  been established for daytime hours, defined as 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and nighttime hours defined  as 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Nighttime standards are more restrictive for residential receptors. The  project is proposing 24 hour operations and will therefore be subject to both daytime and nighttime  residential standards.     Table 1.1 Minnesota Noise Standards for Residential Land Uses   Daytime    Nighttime   L50 L10   L50  L10  60 dBA   65 dBA   50 dBA  55 dBA    Steininger is seeking 24 hour operations except for Sundays and holidays at the Site. Studies have  shown that facilities with similar processing equipment and residential receptors at similar distances  can operate in compliance with the daytime and nighttime noise standards       Sound level mitigation will be adopted at the Site, including screening berms with additional height  as needed adjacent to residential properties. Mining and processing will be recessed on the floor of  the active mining area to reduce sound levels. Perimeter berms will be constructed to attenuate  noise. Maintenance of operating equipment and use of standard noise control equipment such as  mufflers will reduce sound levels at the Site.    6.6 Dust:    Fugitive dust will be minimized by recessed operations, spray bars on processing equipment, dust  suppressants on internal haul roads, and the establishment of permanent vegetation on perimeter  berms and reclaimed areas.  Fugitive dust will not exceed air pollution standards established by the  Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Processing equipment is subject to a MPCA air emissions  general permit for non‐metallic mineral mining which includes standards for fugitive dust emissions.     6.7 Hours of Operation:     The project is proposing 24 hour operations except Sundays and holidays.    6.8 Water Pollution:    The Site will be operated in compliance with all applicable Minnesota Pollution Control Agency  (MPCA) and Department of Natural Resources standards. The Site will operate under the General  Non‐Metallic Mineral Mining National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater  permit and Site specific Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. There are no surface waters including  lakes, streams, wetlands, intermittent channels, and county/judicial ditches on the Site. The mining  operations will not discharge washwater or untreated stormwater from the Site. Washwater will be  treated on‐site and recycled.  Stormwater will be drained and handled internally. There will be no  direct or indirect physical effects or alterations to surface water features.     Typically, equipment will be fueled by a fuel service truck. The fuel service truck carries a spill  containment kit. If on‐site fuel storage is needed, the fuel storage tank will be an above ground  double‐walled tank and will meet all MPCA petroleum storage tank requirements. If tanks with  Max Steininger, Inc.:  Elk River Sand and Gravel Mine    9 | Page  Zone Change & Conditional Use Permit Application   December 2016  capacities that require registration are brought to the Site, the operator will register the tanks and  comply with the applicable MPCA regulations.    6.9 Topsoil:    All topsoil will be retained on the Site until the completion of reclamation.  Topsoil will be used to  create screening berms. The berms will subsequently be removed as part of the reclamation process.    6.10 Slopes:        The active mine face is typically at a slope that ranges from 1:1 to 2:1 (H:V). Reclaimed slopes will be  backfilled to a maximum slope of 3:1 (H:V).      7.0 CERTIFICATION    I hereby certify that this plan, specification of report  was prepared by me or under my direct supervision  and that I am a duly Registered Engineer and duly  Registered Geologist under the laws of the State of  Minnesota.           ___________________________________  Kirsten Pauly, PE/PG  Reg. No. 21842     Date 12/20/2016                              General Project Location Haven Palmer Santiago Blue Hill Baldwin Clear Lake Becker Orrock Livonia Big Lake Elk River NOT TO SCALE Engineering, PLLC. Sunde Figure 1 General Location Map Site NOT TO SCALE Engineering, PLLC. Sunde Figure 2 Future Land Use Elk River Comprehensive Plan Mining/Development Reserve Landfill Residential Open Space Wetlands and 100 year Floodplain Public/Institutional Image courtesy of USGS Earthstar Geographics SIO © 2016 Microsoft Corporation Site Mining Mining Mining Mining Mining Mining Landfill Agricultural Agricultural Agricultural Residential Livonia Township City of Elk River Open SpaceUS 169 1000 2000 SCALE IN FEET 0 Engineering, PLLC. Sunde Figure 3 Site and Surrounding Area Site 28 27 33 34 4 3 26 35 2 1000 2000 SCALE IN FEET 0 Engineering, PLLC. Sunde Figure 4 U.S.G.S. Quad Map Excerpt Site US 169 US 10 US 10 225th Ave NW Baldwin St. NW NOT TO SCALE Engineering, PLLC. Sunde Obtained from Sherburne County GIS https://beacon.schneidercorp.com/?site=SherburneCountyMN Figure 5 Haul Routes 545375Elk River LandfillMonitoring Well498324US 169225th Ave NW958957City of Elk RiverPermitted Mining OperationPermitted Mining OperationWind Turbine456081Ba l d w i n S t N WProposed Mining OperationLivonia Township958SHEET NO:DATE:DRAWN BY:CHECKED BY:SCALE:APPROVED BY:PROJECT NO.:REG. NO.:DATE:I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS PLAN,SPECIFICATION, OR REPORT WAS PREPAREDBY ME OR UNDER MY DIRECT SUPERVISIONAND THAT I AM A DULY LICENSEDPROFESSIONAL ENGINEER UNDER THE LAWSOF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA.DESCRIPTION:INFORMATION:REVISIONDATEEngineering, PLLC.CONSULTING CIVIL ENGINEERS10830 NESBITT AVENUE SOUTHBLOOMINGTON, MINNESOTA 55437(952) 881-3344 TELEPHONE(952) 881-1913 FAXwww.sundecivil.comSundeKirsten Pauly of2184212/20/2016Max Steininger, Inc.Elk River Sand &Gravel MineExistingConditionsC1Notes:1.Topographic information from TwinCities Metro Region LiDAR datacollected during the Spring and Fall of2011.2.Parcel information from SherburneCounty GIS data.Building FootprintMinnesota Well Index Well LocationProbable Well LocationWater Table Contour (Dashed Where Inferred)Drainage PatternsDrainage Divide US 169Permitted Mining OperationProposed Mining OperationPhase 1Phase 2Phase 3Phase 4Permitted Mining OperationLivonia TownshipCity of Elk RiverScreening BermHaul RoadScreening BermScreening BermSite AccessBa l d w i n S t N W225th Ave NWStockpileAreaTrees to remainas screening30' Setback30' Setbackfrom ROWCommon Mining BorderCommon Mining BorderDrivewayScreening BermSHEET NO:DATE:DRAWN BY:CHECKED BY:SCALE:APPROVED BY:PROJECT NO.:REG. NO.:DATE:I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS PLAN,SPECIFICATION, OR REPORT WAS PREPAREDBY ME OR UNDER MY DIRECT SUPERVISIONAND THAT I AM A DULY LICENSEDPROFESSIONAL ENGINEER UNDER THE LAWSOF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA.DESCRIPTION:INFORMATION:REVISIONDATEEngineering, PLLC.CONSULTING CIVIL ENGINEERS10830 NESBITT AVENUE SOUTHBLOOMINGTON, MINNESOTA 55437(952) 881-3344 TELEPHONE(952) 881-1913 FAXwww.sundecivil.comSundeKirsten Pauly of2184212/20/2016C2Mine PlanNotes:1.Once the Site has been opened up and the minefloor has been established, stockpiles andprocessing areas to be recessed below grade.2.Stockpile Area is approximate in size andlocation. Stockpiles and mining equipment maymove with progression of the mine.3.Existing vegetation within the setback area thatprovides sufficient screening will be maintainedinstead of a perimeter berm.4.Phase limits are approximate and may beadjusted as needed to accommodate marketdemand and variations in the materialsencountered.5.Baldwin St. NW may be lowered and/or realignedin the future in cooperation with MnDOT, the Cityof Elk River, adjacent mine operators and landowners.6.Site Access is conceptual in nature and may bealtered as site conditions/city authorizationsdictate.7.It is expected that common mining borders withadjacent properties will be mined as part of eachindividual Phase.8.Reclamation will move easterly as each Phase iscompleted and additional land is stripped inpreparation for mining.9.Mining into the groundwater may occur in amanner that will accommodate blendingmaterials from another Phase that are above thegroundwater.10.Materials may be transferred and stockpiled onadjacent Permitted Mining Operations and viceversa.11.Existing residence to be removed prior to finalphase of mining.Max Steininger, Inc.Elk River Sand &Gravel Mine 970 98099010001010102010301040 96397098 0 9 9 0 10 0 0 10 1 0225th Ave NWUS 169 Ba l d w i n S t N W Future Frontage Road (Concept)Livonia TownshipProposed Mining OperationCity of Elk RiverPermitted Mining OperationSHEET NO:DATE:DRAWN BY:CHECKED BY:SCALE:APPROVED BY:PROJECT NO.:REG. NO.:DATE:I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS PLAN,SPECIFICATION, OR REPORT WAS PREPAREDBY ME OR UNDER MY DIRECT SUPERVISIONAND THAT I AM A DULY LICENSEDPROFESSIONAL ENGINEER UNDER THE LAWSOF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA.DESCRIPTION:INFORMATION:REVISIONDATEEngineering, PLLC.CONSULTING CIVIL ENGINEERS10830 NESBITT AVENUE SOUTHBLOOMINGTON, MINNESOTA 55437(952) 881-3344 TELEPHONE(952) 881-1913 FAXwww.sundecivil.comSundeKirsten Pauly of2184212/20/2016ReclamationPlanC3Notes:1.Final grades at common mining borderswill be coordinated with adjacent landuse.2.Areas mined below the water table willbe backfilled as part of final reclamation.3.Reclamation grades at common miningborders may be adjusted based oncoordination with adjacent mineoperators.4.Reclamation slopes shall not exceed 3:1(H:V) unless otherwise approved by theCity.5.Reclaimed upland areas will be coveredwith a minimum of 3" of topsoil andseeded and mulched to establishvegetative cover.6.Baldwin St. NW may be lowered and /orrealigned in the future which will requirereclamation grades in affected area tobe modified.7.Final Grades to be coordinated withmine operations to the north and southof the Site.Max Steininger, Inc.Elk River Sand &Gravel Mine ATTACHMENT 1 – LEGAL DESCRIPTION  Parcel 1:     North Half of the Northeast Quarter, lying westerly of the centerline of Baldwin Street,  and the Northeast Quarter of the Northwest Quarter lying easterly of the easterly line of  Trunk Highway No. 169, all in Section 3, Township 33, Range 26, Sherburne County  Minnesota, EXCEPT that part of the North Half of the Northeast Quarter of Section 3,  Township 33, Range 26, Sherburne County, Minnesota, embraced within the plat of  Timberland.    AND    Parcel 2:     Lot 1, Block 1, Timberland Addition      ATTACHMENT 2:  Names and Addresses of Adjacent Land Owners within 350 Feet of the Site          3080 LEXINGTON AVE LP  1521 LONE OAK RD  EAGAN, MN 55121    ELK RIVER LANDFILL, INC  C/O WASTE MANAGEMENT  PO BOX 1450  CHICAGO, IL 60690‐1450    JFT RESOURCES LLC  1023 MANOR PLACE  ELK RIVER MN 55330    NORTH FAMILY FARM LIMITED   PARTNERSHIP  C/O MARCELLA SCHULZE  43611 236TH LANE  AITKIN, MN 56431    SCHULZE FAMILY FARM LMTD  43611 236TH LANE  AITKIN, MN 56431  ■4 `r 41 :10-3 QQ 1401 ` - - ■< - ,'� 30 FOOT SETBACK 50 FOOT SETBACK - "` - P: Ole ,r ir .J FWI 'j 75-103-130( si( s :4 .,City of Elk ......„ River Resolution 16- 72 A Resolution of the City of Elk River Regarding the Environmental Assessment Worksheet for Tiller Corporation and Max Steininger, Inc. WHEREAS, Tiller Corporation and Max Steininger, Inc. Sand and Gravel Mines is proposing to extract and process aggregate from a 142 acre area; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Rules, Part 4410.4300, Subpart 12,item B,a mandatory Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) was prepared; and WHEREAS, the City of Elk River, as the responsible governmental unit (RGU) under Environmental Quality Board (EQB) Rules,prepared an EAW as required by EQB Rules; and WHEREAS, notice of availability of the EAW was published in the EQB Monitor on September 12,2016;a press release was provided in the Elk River Star News on September 10,2016; copies were provided for review at Elk River City Hall on August 29,2016; and copies of the EAW were supplied to all persons and agencies on the EQB official EAW distribution list on August 31, 2016; and WHEREAS, Written comments were received from the US Army Corps of Engineers, the MN Department of Transportation (MnDOT), the MN Historical Society (MnHPO), the Minnesota.Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and the MN Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Verbal comments included the MPCA;and WHEREAS, all substantive comments have been responded to appropriately by the City as RGU; and WHEREAS, the environmental review process mandated by the Minnesota Environmental Policy Act and implemented through the EQB Rules has been followed and this resolution shall be the city's record of its compliance with the EQB Rules and decision in this matter;and WHEREAS, the city, as RGU, shall order the preparation of an EIS if the Project has the potential for significant environmental effects;and WHEREAS, in deciding whether a project has the potential for significant environmental effects, the city is to apply the criteria set forth in Section 4410.1700 subparts 6 & 7 of the EQB Rules. PU ' EAEO BI NATURE NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Elk River,Minnesota,as follows: Based on the information contained in the EAW,the comments received and the EAW, and the responses thereto,the City Council of the City of Elk River finds the project does not require the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement for the following reasons: A. The environmental effects of the Project will not adversely affect the area. B. The project will be subject to ongoing regulator authority of the City of Elk River and other state agencies. C. Future development in the area of the Project will be subject to the requirements of the EQB rules and will be subject to the ongoing regulatory authority of the City and other governmental agencies. Passed and adopted this 7th day of November 2016. 1 J.1, J. Dietz, a or ATTEST:4 om Tina Allard, City Clerk Th VflhvtRLI 81 NATURE Consulting Civil Engineers Sunde Engineering, PLLC 10830 Nesbitt Avenue South • Bloomington, Minnesota 55437-3100 Phone: (952) 881-3344 • Fax: (952) 881-1913 • E-Mail: info@sundecivil.com APRIL 2007 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET TILLER CORPORATION SAND AND GRAVEL MINING FACILITY ELK RIVER, MINNESOTA Revised 2/05 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET Note to preparers: This form is available at http://www.eqb.state.mn.us. EAW Guidelines will be available in Spring 1999 at the web site. The Environmental Assessment Worksheet provides information about a project that may have the potential for significant environmental effects. The EAW is prepared by the Responsible Governmental Unit or its agents to determine whether an Environmental Impact Statement should be prepared. The project proposer must supply any reasonably accessible data for — but should not complete — the final worksheet. If a complete answer does not fit in the space allotted, attach additional sheets as necessary. The complete question as well as the answer must be included if the EAW is prepared electronically. Note to reviewers: Comments must be submitted to the RGU during the 30-day comment period following notice of the EAW in the EQB Monitor. Comments should address the accuracy and completeness of information, potential impacts that warrant further investigation and the need for an EIS. 1. Project title Tiller Corporation Sand and Gravel Mining Operation 2. Proposer Tiller Corporation 3. RGU City of Elk River Contact person Mike Caron Contact person Rebecca Haug Title Director of Land Use Affairs Title Environmental Administrator Address PO Box 1480 Address 13065 Orono Parkway City, state, ZIP Maple Grove, MN 55311-6480 City, state, ZIP Elk River, MN 55330 Phone 763-425-4191 Phone 763-635-1068 Fax 763-425-7153 Fax 763-635-1090 E-mail mikec@tillercorp.com E-mail rhaug@ci.elk-river.mn.us 4. Reason for EAW preparation (check one) ____ EIS scoping X Mandatory EAW ____ Citizen petition ____ RGU discretion ____Proposer volunteered If EAW or EIS is mandatory give EQB rule category subpart number 4410.4300 Subpart 12. Item B and subpart name Non Metallic Mineral Mining. 5. Project location County Sherburne City/Township Elk River NE ¼ SE ¼ Section 21 Township 33 North Range 26 West Attach each of the following to the EAW: • County map showing the general location of the project (See attached Figure 1); • U.S. Geological Survey 7.5 minute, 1:24,000 scale map indicating project boundaries (photocopy acceptable); (See attached Figure 2) • Site plan showing all significant project and natural features.(See attached Figures 3,4) 6. Description a. Provide a project summary of 50 words or less to be published in the EQB Monitor. The project involves the extraction and processing of aggregates from a 20 acre parcel of property (subject property) adjacent to an existing sand and gravel mining operation. Stripping, extraction, limited processing and reclamation activities will occur on the proposed expansion area. Mining and reclamation of the property will facilitate overall end use grades of the area. b. Give a complete description of the proposed project and related new construction. Attach additional sheets as necessary. Emphasize construction, operation methods and features that will cause physical manipulation of the environment or will produce wastes. Include modifications to existing equipment or industrial processes and significant demolition, removal or remodeling of existing structures. Indicate the timing and duration of construction activities. The proposed project involves adding approximately 20 acres to an existing mining operation owned and operated by Tiller Corporation (Tiller). The project will allow the removal of a deposit of sand and gravel that will be processed into construction aggregates to serve the growing demand within the local area and the City of Elk River. Mining the additional twenty acres will improve overall end use grades for the area. Portions of the existing site have been in operation since the 1950’s. The existing operation, as well as several other operations in the vicinity, were the subject of an Elk River Mining District Environmental Impact Statement completed in June, 1994. Initially the subject parcel was included within the gravel mining district boundary, but was removed because it was not controlled by a mining operator at that time. Active mining will begin by stripping topsoil and overburden from the site using scrapers and dozers. Extraction of the aggregate deposit will be accomplished with loaders working from the floor of the existing mining operation. A primary crushing unit will be operated adjacent to the active face on the floor of the mining operation. Equipment will be placed to insure compliance with both daytime and nighttime noise standards. Material will be conveyed to Tiller’s main operations and stockpiling area located to the northwest of the subject parcel for further processing. Product stockpiling will also occur in the existing processing and operations area and all hauling of aggregates will occur from the main processing area. There will be no access to Proctor Road NW which abuts the subject property to the east, from the proposed expansion area during the mining operation. This project will not impact the number of trucks trips to and from the facility. Truck traffic is a function of demand. The project is expected to increase the overall life of the facility by approximately 5-10 years. The actual increase will depend upon market demand. c. Explain the project purpose; if the project will be carried out by a governmental unit, explain the need for the project and identify its beneficiaries. The purpose of the project is to provide aggregate material for use in various construction materials and projects throughout the northwestern metropolitan area. The aggregate produced from this site will be used for roads and buildings in both the public and private sectors. Aggregate from the site may be used in the construction of bituminous asphalt, ready-mix concrete, aggregate base, general fill and ice control. d. Are future stages of this development including development on any outlots planned or likely to happen? __Yes _X_No If yes, briefly describe future stages, relationship to present project, timeline and plans for environmental review. e. Is this project a subsequent stage of an earlier project? _X_Yes __No If yes, briefly describe the past development, timeline and any past environmental review. The subject property is adjacent to an existing mining facility owned and operated by Tiller. The existing operation as well as several other properties were the subject of an Elk River Mining District Environmental Impact Statement completed in June, 1994. Initially the subject parcel was included in the gravel mining district boundary, but was ultimately removed because it was not controlled by a mining operator. Portions of the existing operation have been active since the 1950’s. 7. Project magnitude data Total project acreage: 36.6 A (19.53 A of which will be actively mined. The remainder of the parcel will be setback and buffer area.) Number of residential units: unattached NA attached NA maximum units per building NA Commercial, industrial or institutional building area (gross floor space): total square feet NA Indicate areas of specific uses (in square feet): Office Manufacturing Retail Other industrial 19.53 A* Warehouse Institutional Light industrial Agricultural Other commercial (specify) Building height ** If over 2 stories, compare to heights of nearby buildings *Aggregate mining ** While there will be no large buildings on site, there may be aggregate and overburden stockpiles on the site. The height of these stockpiles may be up to 40 feet. The stockpiles will be located on the pit floor approximately 90 feet below existing grade and should not be visible to homes to the east or south of the site. Nearby buildings are residential structures that are 15 to 25 feet high. 8. Permits and approvals required. List all known local, state and federal permits, approvals and financial assistance for the project. Include modifications of any existing permits, governmental review of plans and all direct and indirect forms of public financial assistance including bond guarantees, Tax Increment Financing and infrastructure. Unit of Government Type of Application Status City of Elk River Rezoning applied for City of Elk River Mining CUP applied for MPCA Air Emission Permit obtained MPCA NPDES Permit obtained 9. Land use. Describe current and recent past land use and development on the site and on adjacent lands. Discuss project compatibility with adjacent and nearby land uses. Indicate whether any potential conflicts involve environmental matters. Identify any potential environmental hazards due to past site uses, such as soil contamination or abandoned storage tanks, or proximity to nearby hazardous liquid or gas pipelines. The current and recent past land use at the site is brush/grassland/woodland. The site is currently zoned Single Family Residential (R1a). The portion of the site to be mined is located in a rural residential future land use category. The southern portion of the site, which is not to be mined, is located in an open space future land use category. The future land use category map for the City of Elk River indicates that the portion of the site proposed to be mined lies within the Mineral Extraction Overlay District as defined by the City of Elk River (Figure 5). The land use map was adopted on August 16, 2004 as part of the Comprehensive Plan Update. The map guides the current and future land uses of the city through the year 2025. The land use map provides the foundation for the zoning of parcels within the city. Rezoning of the subject parcel to Mineral Extraction Overlay District, consistent with the future land use map, will be required as part of the project approvals. Land use surrounding the site is residential single family housing to the south and east of the subject parcel. Aggregate mining occupies the adjacent property to the west, north and northeast of the subject parcel. There is a high pressure natural gas pipeline within the Proctor Road right-of-way. The gas line is located along the east side of the right-of-way and will not be impacted by the proposed project. The pipeline is owned and operated by CenterPoint Energy. 10. Cover types. Estimate the acreage of the site with each of the following cover types before and after development: Cover Type Before Mining After Mining and Reclamation Types 1-8 wetlands 0 A Wooded/Forest 18.49 A 10.69 A Brush/Grassland 18.11 A 25.91 A Cropland 0 A 0 A Lawn/Landscaping 0 A 0 A Impervious surfaces 0 A 0 A Other (describe) 0 A 0 A Total 36.6 A 36.6 A If Before and After totals are not equal, explain why: 11. Fish, wildlife and ecologically sensitive resources a. Identify fish and wildlife resources and habitats on or near the site and describe how they would be affected by the project. Describe any measures to be taken to minimize or avoid impacts. An Oak forest native community is located immediately west of the southern portion of the subject parcel and partially within the southern and western portions of the existing sand and gravel facility. Although the project will not directly impact this woodland community, indirect impacts from runoff and the introduction/spread of invasive species should be considered. Runoff from the proposed mining area will be controlled and contained on site through the implementation of Best Management Practices as outlined in the site’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. Untreated stormwater contacting exposed soils will not be discharged off site. These practices include silt fence, stormwater diversion berms, establishment of vegetation, temporary sedimentation basins and infiltration areas and vegetation of reclaimed areas. The City of Elk River has acquired and designated the area south and west of the existing facility as parkland. This parkland contains the majority of the Oak forest native community and will be managed in accordance with the City’s management plan to minimize invasive species impacts. There are a number of isolated wetland basins within other portions of the park area that provide a diverse habitat for wildlife. The City is also acquiring the southern portion of the subject parcel for parkland purposes. b. Are any state-listed (endangered, threatened or special concern) species, rare plant communities or other sensitive ecological resources such as native prairie habitat, colonial waterbird nesting colonies or regionally rare plant communities on or near the site? _X_Yes __No If yes, describe the resource and how it would be affected by the project. Indicate if a site survey of the resources has been conducted and describe the results. If the DNR Natural Heritage and Nongame Research program has been contacted give the correspondence reference number: ERDB 20070327. Describe measures to minimize or avoid adverse impacts. The DNR Natural Heritage and Nongame Research program was contacted for a review of the MN Heritage data base to determine if any rare plant or animal species are known to occur within approximately one mile of the site. The database also includes information regarding native plant communities, noteworthy geologic features and animal aggregates. The review indicates that there have been two observations of a Blandings Turtle, a state threatened species within approximately 1 mile of the subject parcel. Blandings Turtles live in shallow wetland areas and nest in sandy uplands, up to 1 mile from wetlands. The subject property is not within one of fifteen known concentration priority areas determined by the DNR to be relied upon to maintain the species’ security within the state. However, the DNR recommends that certain guidelines be followed during all construction activity in the area. The Red Shouldered Hawk, a special Concern Species, and a Uncas Skipper, an endangered butterfly, has also been observed within approximately 1 mile of the subject property. However, based upon the review by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, these elements are not likely to be impacted by the proposed project. A copy of the MNDNR review letter and the list of recommended measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to Blandings Turtle are included as Attachment 1. 12. Physical impacts on water resources. Will the project involve the physical or hydrologic alteration — dredging, filling, stream diversion, outfall structure, diking, and impoundment — of any surface waters such as a lake, pond, wetland, stream or drainage ditch? __Yes X No If yes, identify water resource affected and give the DNR Protected Waters Inventory number(s) if the water resources affected are on the PWI: . Describe alternatives considered and proposed mitigation measures to minimize impacts. 13. Water use. Will the project involve installation or abandonment of any water wells, connection to or changes in any public water supply or appropriation of any ground or surface water (including dewatering)? __Yes X No If yes, as applicable, give location and purpose of any new wells; public supply affected, changes to be made, and water quantities to be used; the source, duration, quantity and purpose of any appropriations; and unique well numbers and DNR appropriation permit numbers, if known. Identify any existing and new wells on the site map. If there are no wells known on site, explain methodology used to determine. No new wells will be installed onsite. Material extracted from the expansion area will be conveyed to an aggregate processing area in the adjacent existing mining operation. The existing mining facility operates a washplant. The well associated with the washplant operates under DNR Water Appropriations Permit # 1991-3086. There is also a potable well located in the operations area which serves the scale building. The proposed additional mining area will not impact or require any changes to the existing permit. 14. Water-related land use management district. Does any part of the project involve a shoreland zoning district, a delineated 100-year flood plain, or a state or federally designated wild or scenic river land use district? __Yes X No If yes, identify the district and discuss project compatibility with district land use restrictions. The Flood Insurance Rate Map for Sherburne County indicates the site is not located within any delineated 100-year flood plain. The site does not fall within a shoreland zoning district or a state or a federally designated wild or scenic river land use district. 15. Water surface use. Will the project change the number or type of watercraft on any water body? __Yes X No If yes, indicate the current and projected watercraft usage and discuss any potential overcrowding or conflicts with other uses. 16. Erosion and sedimentation. Give the acreage to be graded or excavated and the cubic yards of soil to be moved: acres 20; cubic yards 400,000 cy net quantity of material to be removed. Describe any steep slopes or highly erodible soils and identify them on the site map. Describe any erosion and sedimentation control measures to be used during and after project construction. The on site soils are in general susceptible to erosion. Historically, they have been subjected to wind and water erosion, with between one-third and two-thirds of the original surface layer removed from erosion. Slopes on the subject property range from 2-18%, with the majority of slopes less than 10%. Mining will create steeper slopes with an excavation face of 1.5:1 (Horizontal to vertical). Erosion from the excavation slopes is inconsequential. Surface water drainage from active mining areas will be directed to low areas within the Tiller mining operation. Collected surface water infiltrates into the underlying soils and/or evaporates and there is no site discharge. Surface water drainage will not be directed off-site. As part of restoration, excavated slopes will be backfilled to a maximum of 4:1 (25%). Reclamation grades over the entire subject parcel will range from 2% - 25%. Reclaimed slopes will be covered with topsoil and seeded to establish vegetation and stabilize the surface. 17. Water quality: surface water runoff a. Compare the quantity and quality of site runoff before and after the project. Describe permanent controls to manage or treat runoff. Describe any stormwater pollution prevention plans. Both the quantity and quality of site runoff will remain similar before and after construction. During active mining, the runoff from the subject property will be managed internally and will not drain off the site. The existing mining facility operates under a Minnesota NPDES permit for gravel mining facilities. The Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for the existing site will be amended to include the subject property. The SWPPP includes best management practices including spill prevention, fuel storage, erosion control and eliminating site discharges of stormwater. b. Identify routes and receiving water bodies for runoff from the site; include major downstream water bodies as well as the immediate receiving waters. Estimate impact runoff on the quality of receiving waters. The site is located within the Elk River Watershed that ultimately drains to the Mississippi River. During active mining, stormwater will be handled internally. Sedimentation basins, diversion berms, silt fence and other appropriate controls are actively utilized to control sedimentation and treat stormwater. After final reclamation of the subject property and the existing mining facility, reclamation grades will direct water to the west towards several small landlocked isolated wetland basins, with overflow continuing to the west under the abandoned Great Northern railbed into a small creek that is tributary to Elk River. Elk River eventually flows into the Mississippi River located approximately 2.5 miles south of the subject property. 18. Water quality: wastewaters a. Describe sources, composition and quantities of all sanitary, municipal and industrial wastewater produced or treated at the site. Operations on the subject parcel will not generate any sanitary or municipal or industrial wastewater. The existing facility generates washwater discharge from the washing operation and small quantities of sanitary wastewater. b. Describe waste treatment methods or pollution prevention efforts and give estimates of composition after treatment. Identify receiving waters, including major downstream water bodies, and estimate the discharge impact on the quality of receiving waters. If the project involves on-site sewage systems, discuss the suitability of site conditions for such systems. The existing permitted facility generates industrial wastewater from the aggregate washing process. The washing process does not utilize any chemicals. Washwater discharge is directed into a series of sedimentation ponds and the water is recycled back into the plant. Washwater is not discharged off- site. There is an office with a septic tank and drainfield located within the processing area of Tiller’s existing facility. c. If wastes will be discharged into a publicly owned treatment facility, identify the facility, describe any pretreatment provisions and discuss the facility's ability to handle the volume and composition of wastes, identifying any improvements necessary. NA d. If the project requires disposal of liquid animal manure, describe disposal technique and location and discuss capacity to handle the volume and composition of manure. Identify any improvements necessary. Describe any required setbacks for land disposal systems. NA 19. Geologic hazards and soil conditions a. Approximate depth (in feet) to ground water: 143’ minimum 160’ average before mining Approximate depth (in feet) to ground water: 60’ minimum 63’ average during mining* Approximate depth (in feet) to ground water: 115’ minimum 130’ average after reclamation* to bedrock: 370’ minimum 390’ average before mining to bedrock: 290’ minimum 295’ average during mining* to bedrock: 345’ minimum 360’ average after reclamation* *Over the actively mined portion of the subject property Describe any of the following geologic site hazards to ground water and also identify them on the site map: sinkholes, shallow limestone formations or karst conditions. Describe measures to avoid or minimize environmental problems due to any of these hazards. There are no known sinkholes or shallow limestone deposits or karst conditions at this site. The first bedrock unit beneath the glacial deposits is the Eau Claire Formation, consisting of alternating sandstone and shale layers. The Eau Claire formation is generally considered a confining unit. b. Describe the soils on the site, giving NRCS (SCS) classifications, if known. Discuss soil granularity and potential for groundwater contamination from wastes or chemicals spread or spilled onto the soils. Discuss any mitigation measures to prevent such contamination. According to the Sherburne County Soil Survey, the predominant soil types located on the site are fine sandy loams, sandy loams, and loamy sands. The subject property is comprised predominantly of the Emmert-Hayden complex soils. Chetek sandy loams, Emmert and Chetek soils and Milaca fine sandy loams are also found on site. All of the site soils are granular soils that are well to excessively drained. The majority of site soils have low moisture holding capacity and low natural fertility which are serious limitations for crop production. Granular materials are relatively permeable and can rapidly transmit contaminants through the soil column to the ground water table. Mining activity will not involve the use of chemicals or hazardous substances. There will be no fuel storage on the subject property. All fuel storage associated with the existing operation is in accordance with MPCA standards. Equipment is kept in good repair and routinely maintained. All maintenance follows the company’s spill prevention policies. Used lubricating oil is collected by facility personnel in leak-proof containers and hauled to a central collection point. The site operates under a number of spill prevention and clean up requirements as defined by various federal and state regulations. Company policy regarding spills is that any spill of oil, gasoline, diesel fuel, lubricant, or asphalt cement is to be reported and cleaned up promptly. In addition, “toping-off” tanks of any kind is not allowed under company procedures. This practice helps eliminate accidental spills during materials transfer. 20. Solid wastes, hazardous wastes, storage tanks a. Describe types, amounts and compositions of solid or hazardous wastes, including solid animal manure, sludge and ash, produced during construction and operation. Identify method and location of disposal. For projects generating municipal solid waste, indicate if there is a source separation plan; describe how the project will be modified for recycling. If hazardous waste is generated, indicate if there is a hazardous waste minimization plan and routine hazardous waste reduction assessments. A minimal amount of solid waste is generated at the existing facility. The waste is stored in a dumpster located in the processing area that is picked up on a regular basis. b. Identify any toxic or hazardous materials to be used or present at the site and identify measures to be used to prevent them from contaminating groundwater. If the use of toxic or hazardous materials will lead to a regulated waste, discharge or emission, discuss any alternatives considered to minimize or eliminate the waste, discharge or emission. Toxic or hazardous materials will not be used or present on site. c. Indicate the number, location, size and use of any above or below ground tanks to store petroleum products or other materials, except water. Describe any emergency response containment plans. There will be no fuel storage on the subject property. The existing facility contains three separate fuel tanks. These are all 1,000 gallon double walled above ground storage tanks. The tanks are registered in accordance with MPCA regulations and requirements and covered under Tiller’s existing Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC Plan). In the event of a release, the site has a spill response kit (absorbent pads, safety supplies, etc.), front- end loaders, skid-steer loaders and material (sand and aggregate) to contain and dike the spill. The facility also has access to the spill response equipment of Tiller’s operating division Barton Enterprises, Inc., which includes over 600 absorbent pads, several pallet loads of absorbent floor dry and containment boom. 21. Traffic. Parking spaces added 0 . Existing spaces (if project involves expansion) 4 . Estimated total average daily traffic generated 0 . Estimated maximum peak hour traffic generated (if known) and time of occurrence. Provide an estimate of the impact on traffic congestion on affected roads and describe any traffic improvements necessary. If the project is within the Twin Cities metropolitan area, discuss its impact on the regional transportation system. The proposed expansion will not impact existing daily or maximum peak hour traffic generation and traffic patterns will not be altered by the project. Traffic levels generated by the existing mining facility are seasonal and vary with market demand. During the mining season, average daily truck trips from the facility is approximately 225. Peak hour usually occurs from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00a.m. or 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Trucks leaving the facility during the peak hour are estimated to be 45. Recent improvements to area roads include the lowering and realignment of County Roads 33 and 77 and the construction of an interchange at the intersection of County Road 33 and Trunk Highway 169. The improved County Roads include turn lanes and acceleration lanes and the interchange allows trucks to safely enter and exit Trunk Highway 169. Trucks access the operations and stockpiling area from the new portion of County Road 33. The majority of truck traffic travels easterly on County Road 33 to the interchange at Highway 169. Under Tiller’s existing CUP, drivers are instructed to avoid traveling south on County Road 77 (Proctor Road) or east on County Road 33 unless they are delivering to local projects. 22. Vehicle-related air emissions. Estimate the effect of the project's traffic generation on air quality, including carbon monoxide levels. Discuss the effect of traffic improvements or other mitigation measures on air quality impacts. Note: If the project involves 500 or more parking spaces, consult EAW Guidelines about whether a detailed air quality analysis is needed. The proposed action will not result in any increase in vehicle-related air emissions. Current truck traffic levels from the existing Tiller facility will continue at approximately the same daily volume and from the same location. Off road vehicles (front end loaders and other earth moving equipment) will operate on the site; however the small number of equipment (typically two loaders operating at the active face) will not generate enough pollutants to have any impact on air quality. The EIS from the Elk River Gravel Mining District addressed vehicle related air emissions. The EIS concluded that emissions of nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide can result from truck traffic, but such emissions are limited and not considered a potential problem due to the size and the dispersion potential of the area. (Truck traffic movement and equipment operation on and about the facility site does generate PM10 emissions, see #24 below.) 23. Stationary source air emissions. Describe the type, sources, quantities and compositions of any emissions from stationary sources of air emissions such as boilers, exhaust stacks or fugitive dust sources. Include any hazardous air pollutants (consult EAW Guidelines for a listing) and any greenhouse gases (such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide) and ozone-depleting chemicals (chloro-fluorocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons or sulfur hexafluoride). Also describe any proposed pollution prevention techniques and proposed air pollution control devices. Describe the impacts on air quality. Vehicles operating within the site on internal haul roads are the primary source of dust generation. Additional dust may be generated at the mining face from loader operations, the primary crusher, and transporting material from the active mining face to the processing area. Mitigation measures include frequent road watering. A water truck is kept at the existing Tiller site and is readily available for dust control that includes watering internal haul roads on a daily basis. Conveyors will be used to transport the material from the active mine face to the processing area, reducing dust emissions associated with internal truck traffic. In addition, the entire entrance area into the processing and stockpile area, as well as the majority of the stockpile area, is paved. Maintaining existing trees within the mining setback areas also reduces overall dust emissions from the site. 24. Odors, noise and dust. Will the project generate odors, noise or dust during construction or during operation? _X_Yes __No If yes, describe sources, characteristics, duration, quantities or intensity and any proposed measures to mitigate adverse impacts. Also identify locations of nearby sensitive receptors and estimate impacts on them. Discuss potential impacts on human health or quality of life. (Note: fugitive dust generated by operations may be discussed at item 23 instead of here.) This project is not expected to generate any odors. Dust emissions are discussed in item #23 above. The operation of equipment associated with stripping topsoil and extraction, crushing and transport of aggregate will generate noise. Mining and processing will be subject to setbacks established by the City of Elk River Mining Ordinance and voluntary setbacks shown on the plan. The setbacks will help to minimize the impact of noise on nearby residents. The site will comply with the State of Minnesota Noise Standards. The standards establish allowable noise levels measured at nearby residences. The noise standards are given below: MINNESOTA NOISE STANDRADS FOR RESIDENTIAL AREAS Daytime Nighttime L50 L10 L50 L10 60 dBA 65 dBA 50 dBA 55 dBA The Minnesota Standards define daytime hours as 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and nighttime hours from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Hours of operation for the site are proposed to be consistent with the existing operation which allows excavation and processing during both daytime and nighttime hours as defined by the MPCA. An analysis of noise impacts from the proposed mining was performed by David Braslau Associates, Inc. The purpose of the analysis was to predict noise levels as mining and processing activities progress through the proposed mining area and identify measures needed in order to meet daytime and nighttime noise standards at the nearest receptors. As part of the analysis, noise levels were monitored at the existing operation and were found to be within daytime standards. Predictions were made based on an analysis of existing topography, proposed grade changes, and distance to the nearest receptors. The analysis found that with the construction of a ten foot high berm within the setback area along Proctor Avenue, the mining and processing activity will be sufficiently shielded to meet the nighttime noise standard. Tiller Corporation will conduct follow-up noise monitoring to demonstrate compliance with state noise standards. In addition, Tiller will be fitting their equipment with strobe light back-up alarms for non-daylight hours and during daylight hours a new back-up alarm recently approved by OSHA and MSHA will be used. The new alarm is a broadband sound back-up alarm that operates at a broader range frequency as opposed to the traditional narrow band backup alarms, characterized by the high pitched beep. The broad range frequency blends into background noise frequencies so that it becomes considerably less distinguishable with distance from the source. 25. Nearby resources. Are any of the following resources on or in proximity to the site? Archaeological, historical or architectural resources? __Yes _X_No Prime or unique farmlands or land within an agricultural preserve? __Yes _X_No Designated parks, recreation areas or trails? _X_Yes __No Scenic views and vistas? __Yes _X_No Other unique resources? __Yes _X_No If yes, describe the resource and identify any project-related impacts on the resource. Describe any measures to minimize or avoid adverse impacts. The site is located near a city park that contains a documented oak forest native plant community. The City is also acquiring the southern portion of the subject parcel to include within their existing Park system. The State Historical Preservation Office was asked to conduct a search of their cultural resources database. No archaeological sites or historic structures were identified in a search of the Minnesota Archaeological Inventory and Historic Structures Inventory for the search area requested. 26. Visual impacts. Will the project create adverse visual impacts during construction or operation? Such as glare from intense lights, lights visible in wilderness areas and large visible plumes from cooling towers or exhaust stacks? __Yes _X_No If yes, explain. 27. Compatibility with plans and land use regulations. Is the project subject to an adopted local comprehensive plan, land use plan or regulation, or other applicable land use, water, or resource management plan of a local, regional, state or federal agency? _X_Yes __No. If yes, describe the plan, discuss its compatibility with the project and explain how any conflicts will be resolved. If no, explain. The proposed project is compatible with local land use plans and regulations. The proposed project is located within the City of Elk River and subject to the City’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The future land use map for the City of Elk River designates the area of the proposed project to be mining. The City’s zoning regulations would require that the parcel of property to be mined be rezoned to a Mineral Excavation Overlay. 28. Impact on infrastructure and public services. Will new or expanded utilities, roads, other infrastructure or public services be required to serve the project? __Yes _X_No. If yes, describe the new or additional infrastructure or services needed. (Note: any infrastructure that is a connected action with respect to the project must be assessed in the EAW; see EAW Guidelines for details.) 29. Cumulative impacts. Minnesota Rule part 4410.1700, subpart 7, item B requires that the RGU consider the "cumulative potential effects of related or anticipated future projects" when determining the need for an environmental impact statement. Identify any past, present or reasonably foreseeable future projects that may interact with the project described in this EAW in such a way as to cause cumulative impacts. Describe the nature of the cumulative impacts and summarize any other available information relevant to determining whether there is potential for significant environmental effects due to cumulative impacts (or discuss each cumulative impact under appropriate item(s) elsewhere on this form). The Environmental Impact Statement prepared for the Elk River Gravel Mining District which encompassed 2,865 acres immediately adjacent to the 36.6 acres of the proposed project, reviewed cumulative impacts for potential environmental effects of mineral extraction relative to noise, air quality, traffic, dust, surface and ground water quality, and disruption of native flora and fauna as well as cumulative impacts related to social and economic issues. The City, as the responsible governmental unit (RGU) for performing the review, concluded that any negative effects could be regulated within the framework of the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) issued for each individual mining operation. The CUP for Tiller’s existing facility includes conditions which address and satisfactorily regulate potential environmental impacts associated with noise, dust, surface and groundwater protection, and site restoration. 30. Other potential environmental impacts. If the project may cause any adverse environmental impacts not addressed by items 1 to 28, identify and discuss them here, along with any proposed mitigation. No other environmental impacts are anticipated. 31. Summary of issues. Do not complete this section if the EAW is being done for EIS scoping; instead, address relevant issues in the draft Scoping Decision document, which must accompany the EAW. List any impacts and issues identified above that may require further investigation before the project is begun. Discuss any alternatives or mitigative measures that have been or may be considered for these impacts and issues, including those that have been or may be ordered as permit conditions. Ecologically sensitive resources: An Oak forest native community is located near the proposed site. Although the project will not directly impact this woodland community, indirect impacts from runoff and the introduction/spread of invasive species should be considered. Runoff from the proposed mining area will be controlled and contained on site through the implementation of Best Management Practices as outlined in the site’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. Untreated stormwater contacting exposed soils will not be discharged off site. These practices include silt fence, stormwater diversion berms, establishment of vegetation, temporary sedimentation basins and infiltration areas and vegetation of reclaimed areas. The majority of the Oak forest native community is located with designated City park land and will be managed in accordance with the City’s management plan to minimize invasive species impacts. Noise: Noise is produced from the mining and processing equipment. The equipment is subject to setbacks from property boundaries and is situated at an elevation several feet below nearby receptors. A noise analysis was completed and concluded that the proposed operation can be conducted in compliance with state noise standards. As operations move toward nearby receptors, additional monitoring will be conducted to ensure compliance. Dust: Dust emissions are predominantly due to vehicular travel on internal unpaved haul roads. Conveyors will be used to transport the excavated material to the operations area for additional processing, minimizing truck travel in the mining operation. The main processing and stockpiling area is hard surfaced and a water truck is maintained on-site and used for frequent watering of internal haul FIGURES ATTACHMENT 1 Minnesota DNR Natural Heritage and Nongame Research Program Database Review Letter �jStfikethfoughs to be removed Underlines to be added City of Elk -�-� River Ordinance 17 - An Ordinance Amending City of Elk River Zoning Map to Rezone Certain Property to a Mineral Excavation Overlay District of the City of Elk River, Minnesota, City Code The City Council of the City of Elk River does hereby ordain as follows: SECTION 1. That the duly adopted Zoning Map of the City of Elk River is hereby amended to rezone the property described on attached Exhibit A to Mineral Excavation Overlay District. SECTION 2.That the rezoning approved by this Ordinance is based on the following findings: 1. The rezoning is consistent with the City of Elk River Land Use Plan adopted as part of the City of Elk River Comprehensive Plan. SECTION 3. That this ordinance shall take effect upon adoption and be published as provided by law. Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Elk River this 21st day of February,2017. John J. Dietz,Mayor ATTEST: Tina Allard, City Clerk URE Last Updated il7asch 2014 INATI L z a o z_ 0 � W LLI _W Q 2f O= C7 � w U m < d X 34 35 I B IA F ,y. T 22 E