Spring rain, snow melt may cause localized flooding, road closures

DETROIT LAKES, Minn. – Spring rain, melting snow and culverts and catch basins plugged with ice can cause water to back up onto highways. The Minnesota Department of Transportation wants to remind motorists to be watchful for flooded areas as water can rise quickly.

In many areas, ditches are filled with snow and the roadway shoulders have high banks of snow. MnDOT crews have already been working to push back snowbanks and clear catch basins, and will continue working with law enforcement to monitor conditions. If flooding occurs, lanes or other sections of highway may need to be closed with barricades and other traffic control devices.

MnDOT wants to remind all motorists that driving through standing or moving water is dangerous and that it is unlawful to drive through areas where roads are barricaded. Vehicles can be swept away in only several inches of moving water.

For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.

DNR seeks to join lawsuit over project to divert Red River

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources said today it is asking a federal judge to allow the agency to join a lawsuit seeking to delay action on a flood diversion project on the Red River.

The project as proposed would redirect flows through the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area via a dam and diversion channel system.

The DNR is seeking intervenor status to join a lawsuit filed by the Richland-Wilkin Joint Powers Authority (JPA) in 2013. The plaintiffs initially sued the Fargo-Moorhead Diversion Board of Authority and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to halt any construction prior to completion of Minnesota’s environmental impact statement.

In a continuation of the original case, the JPA is now seeking to bar construction unless the DNR issues the necessary dam safety and work in public waters permits for the project.

The JPA’s suit alleges that the proposed project will damage farmland upstream of Fargo-Moorhead, violate Minnesota environmental laws, and doesn’t consider alternative plans to protect the region from flooding.

After completing an environmental impact statement on the proposed project, the Minnesota DNR denied the Diversion Authority’s permit application. The proposed project would need both a dam safety and work in public waters approval from Minnesota in order to proceed. The DNR is the permitting authority for the project in Minnesota.

Despite Minnesota DNR’s permit denial, the Corps of Engineers recently awarded a construction contract for the inlet control structure portion of the proposed project. Work could begin on the project as early as January 2017. In addition, the Diversion Authority recently issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the diversion channel portion of the project.

“The DNR has publicly stated that it is fully prepared to work with all the affected communities in search of a ‘Plan B’ approach to flood protection, since the proposed project doesn’t meet Minnesota environmental standards,” said DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr. “But the Corps’ and the Diversion Authority’s recent actions force us to join the lawsuit. If the DNR allowed construction to proceed without objection, we would be risking our standing to object at a later date. Moreover, we cannot credibly work on an alternate plan while the Corps and the Diversion Authority are beginning construction of this contested project.”

Landwehr said his agency has empathy for people who experience flooding and agrees that enhanced flood protection is warranted for some places in the project area.

“The DNR’s decision to intervene isn’t about stopping flood protection, which is important. We want to find a mutually agreeable solution that speaks to the shared responsibility we have to protect Minnesotans and North Dakotans living in this flood plain,” Landwehr said. “Indeed, Minnesota has invested more the $230 million on flood control and protection efforts in Moorhead and the greater Red River Valley over the past eight years alone. But the proposed project is not the right way to achieve that enhanced protection for the region.”

According to Landwehr, “The project needs state permits. Unfortunately, as proposed, the project does not meet the standards under Minnesota law and thus cannot be permitted.”

In October, the DNR denied the Diversion Authority’s permit applications for three reasons: the project does not meet the requirement to be reasonable, practical, protect public safety and promote public welfare; is not consistent with some state and local land use and water management plans in the project area; and the project’s mitigation plan and demonstrated fiscal capacity to implement that plan do not meet the requirements in Minnesota law.

The Richland-Wilkin Joint Powers Authority lawsuit is currently pending before U.S. District Court Judge Tunheim. By seeking intervenor status, the DNR is asking to become a party to the lawsuit. Minnesota will ask the court to prohibit construction of the dam and diversion channel because the Minnesota has not issued the necessary permits.

Highway 220 and Highway 317 in Marshall County are now open

BEMIDJI, Minn. – (4:00 p.m.) The Minnesota Department of Transportation opened Highway 317 and Highway 220 from Marshall County Road 4 to County Road 5 at 4 p.m.

Motorists should use extreme caution as flood debris along the edges of the road cannot be fully removed until the area dries further. The area is marked with road barrels and “Road Work Ahead” signs.

Wet conditions and flooding continue to affect the area and conditions can change rapidly.

Motorists should follow these safe driving practices:

- Check www.511mn.org before traveling for information on road conditions, closures and detour routes.

- Expect the unexpected – flash floods can occur anytime, anywhere.

- Do not drive around barricades or into flooded areas.

- If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground, if you can do so safely.

Highway 75 is now open near Kent

DETROIT LAKES, Minn. — (5 p.m.) The Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Minnesota State Patrol re-opened Highway 75 near Kent at 5 p.m. It was closed last Thursday due to flooding.

Highways now open in west central Minnesota:

- Highway 75 near Kent

Highways open with water over the roadway in west central Minnesota:

- Highway 200 east of Mahnomen

Highways that remain closed in northwest Minnesota:

- Highway 220 from Marshall County Road 4 to Marshall County Road 5
- Highway 317

Check www.511mn.org before traveling for information on road conditions, closures and detour routes.

For additional updates, ‘like’ MnDOT at www.facebook.com/mndot, follow @mndotnews or watch for #mnflood2013 on Twitter

DOT Travel Updates - flooding

BEMIDJI, Minn. – (3:30 p.m.) The Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Minnesota State Patrol closed Highway 220 from Marshall County Road 4 to Marshall County Road 5 at 1:00 p.m. due to water over the road.

Area is marked with barricades and flashing lights. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.

They will remain closed until further notice.

Highways that remain closed:

Highway 220 from Marshall County Road 4 to Marshall County Road 5
Highway 317

When a road is closed it is illegal to travel in that area. Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other expenses and penalties will apply.

DETROIT LAKES, Minn. – (3:15 p.m.) The Minnesota Department of Transportation urges motorists to use caution on Highway 200 about 10 miles east of Mahnomen. The roadway is under water again at Twin Lake Creek. At this time Highway 200 remains open to traffic, and MnDOT crews are monitoring the situation.
Check www.511mn.org before traveling for information on road conditions, closures and detour routes.

BEMIDJI, Minn. – (12:45 p.m.) The Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Minnesota State Patrol opened Highway 200 from County Road 8 to County Road 136 in Mahnomen County at 12:00 p.m.

Flooding continues to affect the area and conditions can change rapidly.

If you must travel in the northwestern Minnesota area, follow these safe driving practices:

- Check www.511mn.org before traveling for information on road conditions, closures and detour routes.

- Expect the unexpected – flash floods can occur anytime, anywhere.

- Do not drive around barricades or into flooded areas.

- If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground, if you can do so safely.

Check www.511mn.org before traveling for information on road conditions, closures and detour routes. For additional updates, ‘like’ MnDOT at www.facebook.com/mndot, follow @mndotnews or watch for #mnflood2013 on Twitter.

Highway 9 near Ada experiencing water over the highway

Bemidji, Minn. - Highway 9, seven miles north of Ada and one mile south of Norman County Road 13, is experiencing water over the highway due to a blocked culvert. The area is marked with barricades and flashers.

Melting snow is causing water to collect until the culvert can be cleared.

For updated information, call 511 or click on www.511mn.org when traveling in any area of the state where potential flooding conditions exist. For weather and flood warnings, go to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Web site http://www.noaawatch.gov/floods.php or listen to NOAA weather radio or local radio stations.

Preparing Wells and Septic Systems for a Flood

ST. PAUL, Minn. (4/8/2013) — If you live in an area with flooding in your spring forecast, you will want to make sure your wells and septic systems are as prepared as possible. Portions of the region on both the North Dakota and Minnesota sides of the river are at more than 80 percent risk of major flooding, according to Mark Seeley, University of Minnesota Extension climatologist.

Extension experts in well and septic systems suggest the following steps to prepare for a flood:

For wells

• Make sure the well has a tight fitting waterproof cap.
• Wrap the cap and well casing with durable sheet plastic and duct tape, then place sand bags around the wells.
• Ensure that backflow prevention valves are in place.
• Turn the electricity off to your well pump just prior to the flood. Do not turn the electricity back on until the flood waters recede.
• Make sure the surface seal outside the casing is in good shape.
• Ensure that the land surrounding the well is sloped away.
• If the well is not used during the flood, plug the vent holes. Remember to unplug the vent holes after threat of flood is passed.
• If flood waters inundate your well head, you will need to test the water to make sure it’s safe even if you have followed the pre-flood recommendations. Find out in advance how and where you can get a well water text after the flood waters recede.
• Buy or fill sanitized containers with water. Store them where they won’t be flooded, so you have some safe drinking water until your well can be put back in service.

For septic systems
If you are in a location defined as a floodplain, there are a few things that can be done well in advance of any flooding. These include:

• Maintain a healthy system. A well-maintained septic system is better able to withstand the stresses of flooding. Helpful operation and maintenance information can be found at septic.umn.edu/owners.
• Ensure all access points to the system (maintenance holes and inspection ports) are properly covered to prevent the flow of flood waters into the system.
• Be sure your system was designed and installed and is operated according to Minnesota Rules Chapter 7080.2270, which provides specifications for systems that are likely to withstand flooding during their lifespan. Install a backflow preventer (check valve) on the building sewer so sewage cannot back up into your home during a flooding event. Ensure your tanks have been installed in a manner that protects them against flotation from buoyant (upward) forces on the tank in saturated soil.

In preparation for imminent flooding
If your septic system requires electricity, turn off the pump and alarms at the circuit box before the area floods. Discontinue use of the system once the power supply has been shut off.
Waterproof all electrical connections to avoid electrical shock or damage to wiring, pumps, and the electrical system.

All system owners should make plans for severely limiting water use during and after the actual flooding event. Remember, well water may be contaminated and the soil treatment area may not accept water until the area dries. Normal water use should not continue until the area is unsaturated and a SSTS professional has visited the system to identify and repair any problems.
A tank can be pumped to reduce the amount of sewage that could back-up into the home. This is not necessary if a backflow preventer has been installed. Tanks in flood prone areas should be anchored to prevent buoyant forces from pushing the tank above the ground. This is a much larger concern if the tank has been recently pumped.

Additional Resources
Citizens can access the most up-to-date information on flood preparation by visiting Extension’s website at www.extension.umn.edu/flood. Information about recovering from floods will be added as it becomes relevant.

Also available are Extension’s toll free phone services, the Flood Information Line (1-800-232-9077) and the AnswerLine (1-800-854-1678). Extension’s Flood Information Line is a resource for questions about water, crops, horticulture and climatology issues. Extension’s AnswerLine provides answers to household and family-oriented questions, such as cleaning, mildew, and food safety issues.

Preparing livestock in a flood zone

ST. PAUL, Minn. (4/9/2013) — The impact of a natural disaster on people always makes headlines. If you happen to be a livestock farmer, the impact on you seldom makes headlines, but it makes a big impact on you, your livestock and the viability of your operation.

Many natural disasters give you little or no warning, but flooding is usually forecast, giving farmers time to think about contingency plans and take action. Your specific plan of action will vary by the type of livestock operation, but there are many common questions to address.

University of Minnesota Extension suggests that you consider these questions for your own livestock operation if flooding is a possibility at your farmstead or livestock facility:

• Where can I take livestock that is safe from floodwaters?
• How will I move livestock?
• Where will I secure enough trucks/trailers to move livestock in a timely fashion?
• Who will be available to help? Might they have their own livestock to move?
• Is there appropriate shelter and fencing at the temporary site?
• Is there feed at the site or will I have to haul feed there?
• How will I move feed?
• When should I move feed?
• How much feed will I need?
• Do I need to move implements and feeding equipment?
• Where will I access fuel for implements?
• If my usual source of commercial feed is unable to deliver feed, what alternative sources do I have?
• If I have to reduce feeding amounts to stretch the supply, how will I ration it out?
• What about bedding material?
• Is there adequate water on the site?
• Are there adequate water fountains or tanks?
• If I am able to stay in my home, will I be able to get to the livestock location?

If you are able to leave your stock at home but the power goes off for hours or even days because of flooding:

• How will you water your livestock?
• How will you provide ventilation for your stock?
• How will you milk the cows?
• How will you cool the milk?
• How will you get the milk into a tanker and off to market?
• How long can you store milk on the farm before you have to dump some of it?
• If the road washes out or is blocked, how can you get milk out?
• If you have an emergency power generator, will it start when you need it?
• How long can your generator run continuously?
• How is the generator fueled and can you keep it supplied?
• If injured livestock needs to be euthanized, how will you do it?
• How and where will you dispose of mortalities?
• If your labor force is disrupted, where can you find the help to get the work done?
• Have you considered whether you would re-establish the business you now have if it entirely disappeared to a natural disaster?

You probably don't have answers to all those questions right now, but start thinking about them. Engage the innovative thinking of the rest of your family and the people who are part of your farming operation
Planning ahead of spring flooding will help reduce the need to make hasty decisions under a stressful situation and assure that whatever decision is made will best fit the needs of the family and farm operation for the years ahead.

Additional Resources
Citizens can access the most up-to-date information on flood preparation by visiting Extension’s website at www.extension.umn.edu/flood. Information about recovering from floods will be added as it becomes relevant.

Also available are Extension’s toll free phone services, the Flood Information Line (1-800-232-9077) and the AnswerLine (1-800-854-1678). Extension’s Flood Information Line is a resource for questions about water, crops, horticulture and climatology issues. Extension’s AnswerLine provides answers to household and family-oriented questions, such as cleaning, mildew, and food safety issues.

Preparing homes for flooding

ST. PAUL, Minn. (4/8/2013) — If your home is in a location that is at a high risk for flooding this spring, you need to know how to prepare your home to resist or survive flooding. Flooding can occur in a number of ways.

Sub-surface water leaks: These occur when groundwater levels rise enough to enter the house through cracks or openings in foundations, basement slabs, or sumps and foundation drainage systems. You can prepare for this degree of basement flooding by raising the furnace, water heater, appliances, and storage items an adequate distance above the floor using waterproof blocking.

Spring run-off and minor surface flooding: During spring run-off or surface water flooding events, the amount of water in foundation drainage systems increases the demand on the sump pump system. Check the ejection pipe, sump and sump pump to be sure that they are functioning properly. If prolonged flooding or a power outage is possible, consider keeping a spare sump pump and a gas powered electric generator available. Store generator fuel safely and operate the generator in a safe location where exhaust fumes cannot enter the home.

Sewer back-ups: These can occur even if the blockage or flooding is some distance from your home. To protect your home, consider having a valve or one-way check valve installed where the sewer main leaves the house. A plumbing professional can help you determine the best method and location. If you do not have a valve installed to block the sewer main, temporary compression plugs can be inserted in floor drains and plumbing drain openings. Remember that a sewer system blockage could force water higher up in the home’s drainage system than expected.

Major surface flooding: When streams and rivers overflow their banks, major surface floods present the greatest threat of structural damage to the home. If the home is outside of areas protected by dikes, and the foundation has been strengthened or braced and sealed sufficiently to withstand the external water pressure, it may be possible to keep the basement dry using gas powered pumps. If the basement has not been reinforced and is incapable of withstanding the force of floodwaters, allowing the basement to fill with water may protect the foundation from structural damage by keeping the pressure similar on both sides of the foundation walls and floor.

If there is still time before the flooding, move stored items, furniture, and appliances to a safe upper level of the home or to a safe location outside the flood zone. Before the home is flooded, shut off the water, gas and electricity. After flooding clean-up and repairs, your utility company may require that service be restored only by trained utility representatives.

Additional Resources
Citizens can access the most up-to-date information on flood preparation by visiting Extension’s website at www.extension.umn.edu/flood. Information about recovering from floods will be added as it becomes relevant.

Also available are Extension’s toll free phone services, the Flood Information Line (1-800-232-9077) and the AnswerLine (1-800-854-1678). Extension’s Flood Information Line is a resource for questions about water, crops, horticulture and climatology issues. Extension’s AnswerLine provides answers to household and family-oriented questions, such as cleaning, mildew, and food safety issues.

U of M Extension announces flood preparation web, phone resources

ST. PAUL, Minn. (4/8/2013) —University of Minnesota Extension announced today its coordinated system of educational resources available for those with flood-related questions, both in preparation for a flood emergency and while recovery efforts are underway.

Portions of the region on both the North Dakota and Minnesota sides of the river are at more than 80 percent risk of major flooding, according to Mark Seeley, University of Minnesota Extension climatologist. Cities at risk include Wahpeton, Fargo, Moorhead, and Oslo and Pembina. Flooding scenarios depend on a host of factors during April, and flooding could begin to take place after April 16.

Citizens can access the most up-to-date information on flood preparation by visiting Extension’s website at www.extension.umn.edu/flood. Information about recovering from floods will be added as it becomes relevant.

Also available are Extension’s toll free phone services, the Flood Information Line (1-800-232-9077) and the AnswerLine (1-800-854-1678). Extension’s Flood Information Line is a resource for questions about water, crops, horticulture and climatology issues. Extension’s AnswerLine provides answers to household and family-oriented questions, such as cleaning, mildew and food safety issues.

Extension’s online resources include information on preparing your family, finances, household and farm for flooding. Both phone services will refer callers to appropriate state and federal agencies if additional information is needed.

Time to Check Your Sump Pump

Weather conditions have been dry for more than a year in parts of North Dakota, and sump pumps may not have run in a while.

However, with the heavy amount of snow still on the ground, the threat of flooding this spring means homeowners should check their sump pump now to make sure it works properly, North Dakota State University Extension Service agricultural engineer Tom Scherer says.

Sump pumps are available in two basic models: upright (commonly called a pedestal) and submersible. Either works well with proper maintenance, according to Scherer.

This is how a sump pump works: The sump is the pit where the pump sits. The sump may be connected to tile that drains the footings of the house, the area under the entire basement or just the area where the sump is located. A sump pump removes the water that drains into the sump.

The pedestal pump's motor is on top of the pedestal and the pump is at the base, which sits on the bottom of the sump. The motor is not meant to get wet. A ball float turns the pump on and off. One advantage with this type of pump is that the on/off switch is visible, so you can see the ball float's action easily, Scherer says.

Submersible pumps are designed to be submerged in water and sit on the bottom of the sump. The on/off switch is attached to the pump.

Pumps have three main types of on/off controls. The first type uses a ball float attached to the pump and connected to an internal watertight switch. The second type is a sealed, tethered float switch with an on/off setting that is adjustable by changing the length of the tether. The third type uses a diaphragm to sense the water level and turn the pump on and off.

Both pump types should have a check valve on the water discharge pipe so water doesn't flow back into the sump when the pump shuts off. Backflow can cause the pump to turn on and off more frequently than necessary, which decreases the life of the pump.

Here is how to check the pump:

* Make sure the discharge pipe on the side of the house is not frozen shut or plugged and it directs water away from the house.

* Make sure the pump is plugged in.

* Remove the lid (if the sump has one) and use a flashlight to check if the sump is clean and the pump inlet screens are not plugged.

* Slowly pour water into the sump. Try to simulate the speed that water normally would flow into the sump. Watch the on/off switch's action and listen to the pump. Make sure the pump turns on and off at least twice. If something doesn't work or sound right, fix it as soon as possible.

If you have a battery-powered backup sump pump, make sure the battery is fully charged. Then shut off the power to the main sump pump and the battery charging system on the backup pump. Pour water into the sump until the backup pump comes on.

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about sump pumps:

Q: Can the pump burn out if the outdoor pipe is frozen shut or will it shut off automatically?

A: Most pumps will not burn up, but they can overheat. Almost all sump pump motors have thermal protection built in, but the submersible type needs water around the motor for cooling. If the pump overheats, shut it off and let it cool. The thermal relay will reset.

Q: What size pump should I have for my house?

A: There is no "correct" size. The horsepower is determined by several factors, including the length of drain tile connected to the sump, the lift from the sump to the discharge pipe and the length of hose or pipe outside of the house. A 1/3 horsepower pump works well for most houses, but if you have more than 40 feet of pipe outside the house, use a pump with more horsepower (1/2, 3/4 or even 1 horsepower).

Q: Do sump pumps have filters that need to be cleaned or replaced?

A: Sump pumps do not have filters, but they do have screens or small openings where the water enters the pump. These sometimes can be plugged.

Q: Can or should you pump into a sewer drain or basement floor drain?

A: No. If you have a septic system, do not pump sump water into the basement floor drain. During wet conditions, the septic system's drain field usually is saturated and struggling to handle the normal flow of water from the house. Adding flow from a sump can damage the septic system. Also do not pump water from the sump into a floor drain if you are connected to a public sanitary system. Putting additional water into the public sewer during flooding can contribute to sewage backflow.

Q: Where should the sump pump drain hose run?

A: Preferably, sump water should be discharged at least 20 feet from the house so it drains away from the house. Also, it should not be directed into a neighbor's lot, window wells or a septic system drain field.

Q: Can I replace a defective sump pump or do I need specialized tools or a plumber?

A: Almost all sump pumps come with a list of required tools and directions for installation. Replacing a sump pump should not be difficult for the "average" person.

For more tips on getting your sump pump ready to handle spring and summer water, watch an NDSU video at http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/flood/home/sump-pump-tips. Other information on this or other flood-related topics also is available on NDSU's flood information Web page at http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/flood/.

Recommendations for health-related precautions now posted on MDH website

An ounce of prevention now could be worth gallons of cure later for private water well owners facing floods this spring, said state health officials today.

Heavy snowfalls this winter created the likelihood for flooding in certain parts of the state. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is advising well owners that private water wells contaminated with flood water can pose a health risk. MDH recommends that well owners take precautions before possible flooding and take corrective actions if their well is flooded.

MDH recommends well owners take the following steps if they think their well may become flooded:

• Store a supply of clean water before taking your well out of service.
• Disconnect the power supply for your well. If you need help, consult with a licensed well contractor or pump installer.
• If you have time, have a well contractor install a water-tight cap or cover on your well - temporarily replacing the regular vented well cap or seal.
• If you don't have time to have a professional install a watertight cap, clean off the outside of the well casing and cover the top of the well with a heavy-duty trash bag or some other form of heavy plastic sheeting. Secure the plastic covering with electrical tape or some other type of waterproof tape or strapping material. Do not use duct tape - it won't hold under flooding conditions.
• Be prepared to have your well disinfected and tested after the flood waters recede, if your well does become flooded. Installing a water-tight cap or securing a plastic covering won't eliminate the need for disinfection and testing, but it will help keep debris and sediment out of the well, and make the post-flood clean-up go more smoothly.
• If flood waters cover the top of the water well casing, water from your well should not be used for drinking or cooking until the floodwater recedes and the well is disinfected and tested. Until then, use bottled water for drinking, cooking, or brushing your teeth.

After the flood waters recede, if the water reached your well casing, assume your well is contaminated. You should take the following steps to make sure your well is safe:

• If your well was not protected prior to the flooding, have a professional well driller clean out any sediment and debris. Using your well pump to flush out the well could ruin the pump. A directory of licensed well contractors is available on the MDH website at: www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/wells/lwc/.
• Disinfect the well yourself or have a well contractor disinfect the well. Disinfect the well using a chlorine solution before having it tested. Detailed instructions are available at: www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/wells/waterquality/disinfection.html.
• After disinfecting the well and pumping out the chlorine solution, contact a MDH-certified testing laboratory about submitting a water sample. Tell the lab staff you need to have your well tested for coliform bacteria – or simply "bacteria." They will tell you what you need to do, and provide a bottle for the sample. To find a lab, contact your local health department, or go to: https://apps.health.state.mn.us/eldo/public/accreditedlabs/labsearch.seam.
• Be prepared to repeat the disinfection and testing process several times, if necessary, to ensure that your well is free of bacterial contamination.
• Don't drink water from your well until the lab has informed you that it is safe and free of bacterial contamination.

If flood water came within 50 feet of your well - but did not reach the wellhead:

• You may still want to have your water tested as a precaution.
• You should not need to disinfect your well before having it tested.

If flood water did not come within 50 feet of your well, you do not need to do anything and your well should be fine.

For more information about well safety and protecting your health during a flood, visit www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/emergency/natural/floods/.

Fargo-Moorhead Sand Bags

The most recent flood forecast shows that another year of record flooding for the Fargo-Moorhead metro area is anticipated. The F-M/West Fargo Chamber of Commerce, the City of Fargo and the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation are combining efforts to ensure protection up to 42.5 feet. To accomplish that level, the City of Fargo and Cass County will need one million additional sandbags.

It is imperative for this to happen so that business shut downs and mandatory evacuations can be avoided. The goal is to have the sandbags filled, stored and ready to go by April 13, 2013.

The FM-WF Chamber is urging its members and their employees to join forces and get involved, and asking that employers allow their employees to volunteer to sandbag during the hours of 2 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday beginning on Wednesday, April 3, 2013. For more information about the City of Fargo's efforts, go to www.cityoffargo.com/CityInfo/Departments/Engineering/FloodInformation

At this time, the City of Moorhead does not need to fill additional sandbags. If this changes, The FM-WF Chamber plans to engage member participation for the City of Moorhead as well.

For more information, or to register to volunteer, please contact Julie at 218.233.1100 or jyourczek@fmwfchamber.com. The Chamber will begin scheduling on Monday, April 1, 2013.

MnDOT announces statewide flood mitigation projects

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation today announced eight flood mitigation projects totaling $30 million to be constructed in the next five years. These projects are part of a $50 million flood mitigation program.

“After the substantial statewide flooding in fall 2010, MnDOT created this program to make state roadways more resistant to future flood damage,” said Tom Sorel, MnDOT Commissioner.

The flood mitigation projects are funded through existing bond authority and include improvements to drainage structures, slopes, berms and ditches prone to flooding as well as repairs, realignments or raises to highways that regularly flood. 

Major projects include:

-       Replace Highway 101 bridge over the Minnesota River and raise the existing roadway near the bridge between Shakopee and Chanhassen. Construction in 2014.

-       Realign Highway 75 north of Breckenridge to be outside the flood plain. Construction in 2016.

“As stewards of Minnesota’s infrastructure, we continuously look for enhancements that encourage sustainability while enhancing our quality of life now and in the future,” said Sorel.

Sorel said the program will mean lower costs to repair damage from future floods, creating more sustainable transportation in the future. It will also provide more value and safer communities to Minnesotans with reduced repair costs and less traffic disruption.

MnDOT announced 22 projects in 2011 as part of the flood mitigation program. For a complete project list, visit www.mndot.gov/floodmitigation.

NDSU Offers Tips on Repairing Flooded Landscapes

The flood of 2011 devastated many landscapes. However, it is a new year and spring is here, so it's time to get landscapes back into shape.

Bare spots in the lawn can be reseeded or resodded when the ground is dry enough to work.

"Prepare a smooth seedbed and apply a starter fertilizer," says Tom Kalb, North Dakota State University Extension Service horticulturist. "Usually we wait until mid-April or later after the ground warms up and the risk of bitter cold temperatures are over."

A blend of hardy varieties is best. In sunny areas, look for a seed mix with Kentucky bluegrass as a dominant seed. Fine fescues will do better in shady areas. A minor amount (around 20 percent) of perennial ryegrass is valued in all seed mixes because it germinates quickly and will stabilize the exposed ground. Crested wheatgrass and blue grama grass are better suited to low-maintenance, rural landscapes.

Many people apply crabgrass preventer on the lawn. However, the most common crabgrass- killing chemical (pendimethalin) will prevent all grass seeds from germinating. If you are sowing lawn grass seed this spring, select an alternative crabgrass killer, such as siduron, or just forget about using a crabgrass killer. Crabgrass populations are expected to be low this year because of the flooding and cool weather of last summer.

"When it comes to fertilizing, many of us can't wait to feed the lawn in early spring," Kalb says. "Thin lawns will benefit from fertilization, especially if you did not fertilize last fall. In the future, focus on fertilizing the lawn in the fall, which will contribute more to root development."

Trees and shrubs can be planted in early spring as soon as the ground is dry. The lack of snow this winter will allow people to establish these plants earlier than in most years.

Although it seems like spring, it's too early to plant vegetable seeds in the garden. Most of the state is susceptible to frost damage at least until mid to late May. Many frost-tolerant vegetables, such as radish, spinach, peas and broccoli, are planted in mid to late April.

Although it's too early to plant your garden, you can use this nice weather as a time to improve your garden soil. One or 2 inches of compost, peat moss or rotted manure can be mixed into the topsoil. This organic matter will improve the drainage, fertility and overall structure of the soil. For these reasons, it's also a good idea to enrich the soil of flowerbeds with organic matter now.

"The harmful effects of last year's floods on the garden should be over," Kalb says. "Any raw sewage deposited by floodwaters has had eight or more months to decompose. Organic growers often use six months as the recommended span between applying fresh manure and growing vegetables. However, it is recommended that gardeners thoroughly wash their vegetables after harvesting."

For more information, see the NDSU publications "Home Lawn Establishment" (click here )., "Helping Flooded Trees and Shrubs ( click here), "Lawn and Garden Care After a Flood" (click here)and "Annual and Perennial Flower Selections For North Dakota" ( click here )

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From NDSU Agriculture Communication -- March 21, 2012

Clean or Replace Flooded Energy-related Items

Deciding what to save and what to throw out after a home has been flooded can be daunting.

That's especially true for energy-related items such as insulation, household appliances, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment, says Carl Pedersen, North Dakota State University Extension Service energy educator.

Whether something can be salvaged will depend on the source of the floodwaters, such as clean water from broken water pipes or rain; water from sump pumps or dishwashers that may contain contamination and microorganisms; or overland floodwaters, which can contain a wide variety of contaminants, including raw sewage, petroleum products and various chemicals. For example, any porous materials such as fiberglass insulation that have been exposed to overland floodwaters need to be removed and replaced.

Here are some guidelines for dealing with flooded energy-related items:

Insulation

* Fiberglass insulation should be discarded because it will retain the contaminants the floodwaters carried. The insulation can be replaced once the
framing materials are allowed to dry properly.

* Cellulose insulation also should be removed and discarded.

* Rigid, closed-cell insulation can be cleaned and disinfected. However, remove it if leaving it in place prevents the semiporous materials in building cavities from drying properly.

* Remove bead board insulation because it can retain water.

Electronic appliances

* Remove and replace all electrical fixtures such as switches, outlets and breakers that were submerged in water because suspended materials in floodwaters are very difficult to remove once they've entered electrical components.

* Have all electrical appliances such as stoves, water heaters and televisions professionally reconditioned if you plan to reuse them.

* Electrical motors in appliances such as clothes washers and dryers, dishwashers and refrigerators also need to be professionally reconditioned if
they are going to be reused.

* An electrician or electrical inspector needs to determine whether wiring in a flooded home should be replaced.

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

* Have HVAC equipment professionally serviced before using it because it contains electric motors and/or electronic components. Replacing HVAC equipment that has been submerged in floodwaters may be safer and more cost effective.

* Clean HVAC duct work. Professional duct cleaning services may be available in your area. Cleaning metal duct work is possible, but it should be dismantled to ensure that all water, mud and potential contaminants are removed.

* Flexible ductwork should be removed and replaced because it is nearly impossible to clean effectively.

* Do not use chlorine bleach to clean HVAC components because it is corrosive. Homeowners or qualified duct cleaning companies should use only HVAC-approved cleaning agents.

* Ducts should be cleaned even if they were not submerged in water because mold can grow very quickly in flood situations, especially in the summer, because of high humidity levels in wall cavities and duct work.

For more detailed information on cleaning a flooded home or other structure, visit the NDSU flood website at http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/flood.

RRBC public meetings

Red River Basin Commission’s Long Term Flood Solutions (LTFS) Public Meetings that will be held in the area.

The purpose of these public meetings is to present a preliminary look at the RRBC Long Term Flood Solutions findings and obtain public feedback, which will be presented to legislators in June. The report consists of recommendations to policy makers that will present numerous solutions to mitigate the effects of flooding, including water storage, permitting streamlining, flood plain management reforms, identification of immediate protection projects and development of funding mechanisms.

The public and local officials are encouraged to attend.

The schedule is:
Monday, May 2 6:30 p.m. -Halstad MN
Halstad Lutheran Church (304 5th St. E.)

Tuesday, May 3 6:30 p.m. -Oslo MN
Oslo Community Center (107 3rd Ave. E.)

Wednesday, May 4 6:30 p.m. -Harwood ND
Harwood Elementary School (100 Freedland Dr.)

Thursday, May 5 6:30 p.m. -Sisseton SD
Roberts County 4-H Building (11917 BIA Hwy. 700)

Monday, May 9 6:30 p.m. -Lisbon ND
Courthouse Community Room (204 5th Ave. W.)

These meetings are free and open to the public and you are encouraged to attend any of the meetings you available for. The complete schedule and locations of public meetings can be found on the RRBC website, www.redriverbasincommission.org.

DISASTER CLEAN-UP KITS AVAILABLE THRO UGH THE AMERICAN RED CROSS

FARGO, North Dakota, April, 27, 2011 – Area residents who are recovering from flood damage to their homes can request a free clean-up kit from the American Red Cross. Kits include a bucket, gloves, bleach, a mop and broom. Clean-up kits can be picked up at the Minn-Kota Chapter office, located at 2602 12th Street North in Fargo, Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or Friday from 8:00 a.m. to noon. In order to qualify for a clean-up kit you must provide proof of residency in a flood-affected area. Proof can be a driver’s license or a utility bill. For more information, please contact the chapter at 1-800-252-6746.

You can help people affected by disasters like the recent floods in North Dakota as well as countless crises at home and around the world, by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. On those rare occasions when donations exceed Red Cross expenses for a specific disaster, contributions are used to prepare for and serve v ictims of other disasters. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for disasters and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance to victims of all disasters. To make a donation, visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Contributions may also be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

Flooded Wells Must be Cleaned

Surface water can partially or fully submerge private wells during a flood.

When this happens, the well can become contaminated with sewage, petroleum products, sediment, bacteria, viruses and other floating debris, North Dakota State University Extension Service water quality experts warn.

The water's smell sometimes will change if surface water gets into a well. If you suspect surface water contamination and you must use the water for drinking or food preparation, here are some recommendations from the Environmental Protection Agency for making it safe:

* Boiling the water will kill most types of disease-causing organisms that may be present. If the water is cloudy, filter it through clean cloths or allow it
to settle, and draw off the clear water for boiling. Boil the water for one minute, let it cool and store it in clean containers with covers.

* If you can't boil water, disinfect it with household bleach. Bleach will kill some types of disease-causing organisms that may be in the water. Filter cloudy water through clean cloth or allow it to settle and draw off the clear water for disinfection. Add 1/8 teaspoon (or eight drops) of regular, unscented liquid household bleach for each gallon of water, stir it well and let it stand for 30 minutes before using it. Store disinfected water in clean containers with
covers.

After floodwaters recede, the well should be disinfected and the water should be tested to make sure it is safe. Obtain a water test kit for bacteria and
nitrates from your county health department or a private certified laboratory. A list of certified labs is available in Extension publication WQ-1341, "Drinking Water Quality: Testing and Interpreting Your Results." The publication is available from county Extension offices or on the Web at
http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/h2oqual/watsys/wq1341.pdf.

The well needs to be inspected before it can be disinfected. First, turn off the electricity to the pump. Look at the area around the well casing. Remove
accumulated debris and sediment. If the well cap is missing or the casing is damaged, call a certified well installer because large amounts of sediment and other materials may be in the well and can't be seen by looking down the well.
If the well cap still is on and not damaged, look inside the well for damage to the pump, piping, wires, casing, etc. You will need a good flashlight to look
down the well. If the inside of the well casing is relatively clean, the well can be disinfected using shock chlorination. Shock chlorination also should be
done after a well installer has pulled the pump and cleaned the well.

Use the following steps to shock chlorinate a well:

* Before turning on the well pump after a flood, the only place you want water to come out in the house or barn is at outside faucets and hydrants, bathtubs and sinks. Disconnect all other water appliances. Use the bypass valves on water filters, water softeners and water treatment devices. Shut off the water heater's supply valve and drain the heater. Shut off power to electric heaters; for a natural gas or propane water heater, shut off the fuel supply and put out the pilot light.

* With the electricity off to the well pump, clean the well cap and outside of the casing with a solution of 1 ounce of laundry bleach in 2 gallons of clean
water. Use a coarse brush.

* Turn on the electricity and pump the well until the water is clear. Do this at the faucet or hydrant nearest to the well. Collect discharge water in a white
bucket to check the color of the water and look for sediment. Next, open each faucet in the home until it runs clear. Close all faucets and turn off the
electricity to the pump.

* Prepare a mixture of household bleach and water to pour down the well. You will need at least one 10-gallon container or two 5-gallon containers for mixing the bleach and water. Be sure to use eye protection and rubber gloves when mixing. You'll need at least 200 parts per million (ppm) of chlorine throughout the water column in the well. The amount of household bleach you'll need depends on the diameter and depth of water in the well. If your well is 3 to 4 inches in diameter with about 50 feet of water, mix 2 quarts of bleach in 10 gallons of clean water. For a well 5 to 6 inches in diameter with 50 feet of water, mix 1 gallon of bleach with 10 gallons of clean water. If you are not sure of the amount of water in your well, double the amount of household bleach in the mixture. Because household bleach is about 6 percent chlorine, doubling the amount will not do any harm. Remember, 200 ppm is the minimum chlorine level.

* Pour the diluted bleach solution into the well against the side of the casing. Avoid pouring directly onto the pump wiring if possible but try to wash down the entire inside of the casing.

* Mix the chlorine throughout the water column in the well. Turn on the electricity. If possible, connect a garden hose to the nearest hydrant or faucet
and place the discharge end in the top of the well. Run the water for 15 minutes. You also can mix the chlorine by starting and stopping the pump quickly
several times. Let the chlorine mixture sit in the well for at least an hour.

* One at a time, open every water outlet on the system. Run the water until you can smell the chlorine, then close the faucet. Flush the toilets, refill the
water heater and allow the chlorine solution to remain in the system for at least four hours, although eight hours would be the best.

* Open all the faucets or hydrants to purge the chlorine from the system. Start with the faucet or hydrant nearest the pressure tank and work your way to the farthest faucet or hydrant. Run each one until you can't smell chlorine.

Now use your water test kit to obtain a water sample for bacterial safety. Continue to use an alternative water source or boil your water until the
laboratory reports that the water is safe. A safe report indicates that E.coli and total coliform bacteria are absent. Have the well tested again in about two
weeks to make sure the disinfection has been completely effective.

For more details about cleaning flooded wells or other flood preparations, visit NDSU's flood information website at http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/flood.

Flood Relief Grants Available for Minnesota Veterans and Families

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - As a result of spring flooding in parts of the state, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) is offering Flood Relief Grants for reimbursable expenses to Veterans in approximately 46 Minnesota counties.

Veterans, their families and surviving spouses may be eligible for reimbursement assistance funds of up to $750 if they have not received other state or federal assistance.

Counties identified in Governor Dayton’s Emergency Executive Order include Aitkin, Becker, Benton, Big Stone, Blue Earth, Brown, Carver, Chippewa, Clay, Cottonwood, Dakota, Goodhue, Grant, Hennepin, Houston, Jackson, Kittson, Lac Qui Parle, Le Sueur, Lyon, Marshall, McLeod, Morrison, Nicollet, Norman, Otter Tail, Pennington, Polk, Ramsey, Redwood, Red Lake, Renville, Scott, Sibley, Stearns, Steele, Stevens, Swift, Todd, Traverse, Wabasha, Washington, Wilkin, Winona, Wright and Yellow Medicine.

Veterans and their families should contact their local County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) for more information on this program or to request a Flood Relief Grant. For CVSO contact information, visit www.minnesotaveteran.org or call 1-888-LINKVET (546-5838).

All eligible applications and copies of receipts must be dated between disaster timeframe, as designated by the Governor and/or FEMA. Applications must be postmarked by June 30, 2011.