NBSR

The North Branch of the Sunrise River is Impaired for Fecal Coliform Bacteria

The high levels of the bacteria in the River impair the water for "Body Contact Recreation". This means that the levels of bacteria make the water unsafe for activities such as: swimming, wading, and fishing.

Project Overview

In 1998, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency listed the North Branch of the Sunrise River (NBSR) as impaired for Fecal Coliform Bacteria. The Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Study began in 2002. The Implementation Plan was approved in February of 2007. Now is the time to start working on projects! We need to protect this resource that affects our lives.

What is Fecal Coliform?

A group of bacteria found in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. While harmless in themselves, coliform bacteria are commonly used as indicators of the presence of pathogenic organisms and other disease-causing bacteria, such as those that cause typhoid, dysentery, hepatitis A, and cholera.

What is a TMDL?

TMDL stands for Total Maximum Daily Load. This is a calculation of the maximum amount of a pollutant that a water body can receive and still meet water quality standards. (www.pca.state.mn.us)

Sources of Fecal Coliform Bacteria

Direct discharge of waste from warm blooded animals including: mammals, birds, and from untreated human sewage.
Runoff can pick up the bacteria and transport it to water bodies.
In urban areas runoff from roads, yards, and parking lots can pick up animal and pet waste and transport it to streams.
Animal agricultural practices such as: allowing animal waste from feedlots to wash into streams and ditches, spreading manure on steep slopes or during rain events near streams, and allowing livestock watering in streams.
Wildlife living within the watershed.

Additional Information:

Questions and Answers

Cost Share is Available!

Eligible Practices

For further information contact: Jason Rehn at 651/674-2333 or jason.rehn@mn.nacdnet.net

Casey Thiel at 651/674-2333 or casey.thiel@mn.nacdnet.net

Chisago SWCD, 38814 Third Avenue, North Branch, MN 55056

651/674-2333 Fax 651/674-8828

Questions or problems regarding this web site should be directed to susan.humble@mn.nacdnet.net