Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Media Contact: Jennifer Groebner, (651) 296-7706 Technical Contact: Debra Moynihan, (651) 296-8420 St. Paul, Minn. - The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is seeking comments on an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) that has been prepared for a proposal to construct a lift station and sewer line to improve the wastewater treatment collection system in White Bear Lake and White Bear Township. Known as the MSB 6901 Diversion Project, the proposed construction includes a diversion structure and new lift station in White Bear Township near the entrance to the Ramsey County Park at Bald Eagle Lake. Wastewater flows of up to 8.5 million gallons per day will be diverted from the existing interceptor sewer line to the new lift station. From there it will be transported by the new sewer line for approximately 3.5 miles to the Metropolitan Council's existing sewer interceptor located at the White Bear Lake's Public Works Garage near Goose Lake. Because wastewater flows have exceeded the capacity of existing sewer lines during periods of heavy rain, the proposed improvements will help prevent future sewage spills, as well as accommodate regional growth. The new construction will serve the communities of White Bear Township, Hugo, Lino Lakes, Centerville and Forest Lake. The EAW, a preliminary environmental review looking at how a proposed project could potentially affect the environment, is open to a 30-day public review and comment period. Comments on the MSB 6901 Diversion Project EAW should be submitted in writing by 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 23, 2005, to Debra Moynihan, MPCA Regional Division, 520 Lafayette Road N., St. Paul, MN 55155-4194, or by fax to (651) 297-2343. The MPCA will use these comments to evaluate the potential for significant environmental effects from the project and decide if an Environmental Impact Statement (a more comprehensive environmental review) is needed. Copies of the MSB 6901 Diversion Project EAW are available for review at:
· The MPCA's St. Paul office, 520 Lafayette Rd. N.
· MPCA Web site at hhref="/news/eaw/index.html
Copies may also be requested directly by calling Jennie Olson at (651) 297-8611. Telephone inquiries related to the project should be directed to Debra Moynihan at (651) 296-8420; (800) 657-3864 (toll free/TTY).