Watershed Management Commission

Thursday, January 24, 2008 at 5:30 p.m.

Adair County Annex

PRESENT:  Members:  Rodger Bland, Clayton Dillavou, Scott Ellis, Marty Jayne, Gary Jones, Mark Laughlin, Mari Macomber and Jim Novinger Ex-Officio: Mike Bradley, Robert Broz, John  Gibson, Rich Morrow, Brian Todd Staff:  John Buckwalter and Jack Schuster

ABSENT: None

OTHERS PRESENT:  None

Chairman Dillavou called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

A motion approving the minutes of November 29, 2007 was made by Jim Novinger and seconded by Marty Jayne.  The motion carried with the following vote:   Rodger Bland – aye, Clayton Dillavou – aye, Scott Ellis – aye, Martin Jayne – aye, Gary Jones – aye, Mark Laughlin – aye, Mari Macomber – aye and Jim Novinger – aye.

Clayton Dillavou welcomed John Gibson of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

The Commission reviewed the Watershed Information Pamphlet. Scott Ellis asked if the pamphlet was part of the grant and what was the purpose of the document. Clayton Dillavou explained that it was part of the grant, but there was no specific purpose outlined in the grant. The Commission noted that the first part of the document needed to have information about the two reservoirs, and possible maps. It was suggested that the points of concern needed to be moved to the front of the pamphlet. It was also suggested that the goals for the watershed be included and less information on the non-point source pollution. Language and appropriate logos also need to be added to reference the funding of the pamphlet through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Scott Ellis asked when the signs would be posted at Hazel Creek.  John Buckwalter stated the signs will go up in the spring. The Commission asked staff to explore the possibility of obtaining additional signs, if they are free to the City.

The Commission discussed whether or not to move forward on the development of a watershed management plan. Robert Broz explained that the 319 Plan has developed an outline of nine (9) critical elements required for a plan. He noted that his review of our source water protection plan showed that it met 70% of the requirements of a watershed management plan. Robert Broz agreed to continue his review and would send information on what needs to be included in the source water protection plan and where to find the missing information.

Scott Ellis inquired about whether there was something in the plan regarding county ordinances.

Robert Broz stated that if the county or the city does not have good policy in place for soil erosion and the same for onsite sewage, the Watershed Management Commission could say there is a concern and would work with the county and city to make it work to protect the watershed.

Brian Todd noted that the Missouri Department of Conservation has area plans.

Philip Ayers arrived at the meeting. 

There was general discussion about the City acquiring land within the watershed. The Commission also discussed fencing. Jack Schuster noted that the City has plans to fence Hazel Creek, but it is a large task with an estimated 70 miles of fence that will need to be constructed.

Chairman Dillavou asked everyone to review the watershed management plan outline provided at the meeting.

The Commission discussed goals for 2008.  Specific goals identified for the Commission were as follows: 1) Comply with Hazel Creek Grant and develop watershed plans; 2) Submit a grant to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for Forest Lake; 3) Host a watershed festival at Hazel Creek.

The Commission reviewed the current membership. Scott Ellis stated that he would be moving to the St. Louis area this summer and would serve until that time. There was general discussion about available positions. Macomber noted that the position held by Jerry Smith was still open. Clayton Dillavou stated that he had spoken with Barbara Kramer of TSU, and she was not interested in serving. He also spoke to Cynthia Cooper of TSU, who was interested in filling the position. The Commission members agreed with Dr. Cooper being presented to the City Council for approval.  Dr. Cooper is to be a “Citizen” member until Scott Ellis leaves the Commission, then move to the “TSU representative” position.   A new “Citizen” member will then be appointed.

The next meeting date was set for February 28 at 5:30 p.m. at the Adair County Annex building.

As there was no further business, the meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Mari E. Macomber

Commission Secretary