Agencies Regulating Wetlands

Depending on the size, type, and location of wetlands and their proposed use, any combination of the following agencies may have jurisdiction. Before any work begins, contact these agencies. (Printable brochure of this information)

Local Government Unit (LGU)

The WCA is administered by a LGU. You should contact the appropriate LGU prior to starting any project and inquire about the necessary procedures.

Anoka Conservation District

State statute identifies this agency as an informational clearinghouse for the entire County. If unclear how the WCA relates to your project, contact the ACD and they will get you started in the correct direction. ACD technical staff will be able to explain the WCA Rules and ensure that you contact all appropriate agencies. They can also perform on site wetland consultations, conduct wetland delineations, and develop, review, and monitor replacement/restoration plans for a fee. Contact Dennis Rodacker for more information.

Minnesota Board of Water &
Soil Resources (BWSR)

The BWSR is the state’s administrative agency for 91 soil and water conservation districts, 43 watershed districts, 27 metropolitan watersheds, and 80 county water management organizations. The agency’s purpose, working through local government, is to protect and enhance the state’s irreplaceable soil and water resources by implementing the state’s soil and water conservation policy, comprehensive local water management, and the WCA as it relates to the 41.7 million acres of private land in Minnesota.

Because 78 percent of the state's land is held in private ownership, the agency’s focus on private lands is critical for the state to attain its goals for clean water, clean air, and abundant fish and wildlife. Managed wisely, these working lands – Minnesota’s farms, forests, and urban areas – contribute greatly to the production of environmental goods and benefits including cleaner air and water, fish and wildlife habitat, and preservation of open spaces.

Agency programs to assist landowners and local government have resulted in less sediment and nutrients entering our lakes, rivers, and streams; more fish and wildlife habitat; and the drastic slowing of wetland losses. These have been realized in spite of intensification of agriculture, greater demands for forest products, and rapid urbanization in many parts of the state.

MN Department of Natural Resources

Division of Waters

The DNR regulates activities below the ordinary high water mark (OHW) of Public Waters and Wetlands, which are those basins and water courses identified on the "Public Waters and Wetlands" inventory map of Anoka County. They are subject to Minnesota Statues, Chapter 103G.245, which requires a permit be obtained prior to any alteration of the course, current, or cross-section of these waters. In general, this includes lakes, watercourses with large drainage areas, and large type 3, 4, and 5 wetlands. Please contact the DNR Area Hydrologist if you have questions about regulatory jurisdiction.

MN Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Conservation Officers

Conservation officers are peace officers based out of the DNR Enforcement Division. One responsibility of a conservation officer is to investigate potential violations of the WCA personally observed or reported by the public. If an officer identifies a violation, he or she will issue a Cease and Desist Order, which stops all activities within the wetlands and initiates the enforcement process. Violation of this order is a misdemeanor. If you are concerned about a potential violation, contact the state dispatcher and request the conservation officer for your area or call the following numbers.

Natural Resource Conservation Service / Farm Services Agency (NRCS/FSA )

Anyone currently involved with or anticipating involvement with USDA programs needs to contact the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Form AD-1026 (Highly Erodible Land (HEL)/Wetland Certification) needs to be completed. This form confirms the landowner's agreement not to alter any HEL/wetlands on the property without conferring with USDA officials. (Alterations including digging, filling, drainage of wetlands, planting on HEL, etc.)

US Army corp of Engineers

This agency has the responsibility for Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act and 404 of the Clean Water Act. Anyone considering grading, filling, excavating, or land clearing activities should contact the USACE. Projects with minor impacts may be granted Nationwide Permits that do not require formal application.

MN Pollution Control Agency

This agency administers the 401 Water Quality Certification requirements. The MPCA should be notified of any project that requires an Army Corps of Engineers Individual Permit or involves five or more acres of grading (per the NPDES permit program).

Municipal
Environmental Services

Shoreland and floodplain ordinances are administered by cities in incorporated areas or by the county in unincorporated areas. Contact the city planning and zoning division or the county environmental services about activities within 1000 feet of a lake, 300 feet of a stream, or within a floodplain.