Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Technical staff: James Sullivan, 651-297-1788
Robin Novotny, 218-828-6114
Media contact: Dan Olson, 218-846-7390
Menagha, Minn. - The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has prepared an Environmental Assessment Worksheet and draft permit for proposed improvements to the city of Menahga's wastewater treatment system. The EAW and draft permit are open for public review and comment through Nov. 21, 2006. The city is proposing to increase the capacity of the system by adding a 3.4-acre secondary treatment pond just south of the existing basins. The design capacity of the facility would increase from 111,000 gallons per day to 195,000 gpd to meet current and future wastewater demands in Menahga, as well as to meet treatment levels required by the MPCA. Construction is expected to begin in spring or early summer of 2007. The EAW provides basic information on how a proposed project could potentially affect the environment. Comments on the Menahga EAW should be submitted to the MPCA in writing by 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2006, to James Sullivan, MPCA, 520 Lafayette Road N., St. Paul, MN 55155-4194, or by fax to 651-297-8676. Comments on the draft permit can be submitted by the same date to Robin Novotny, MPCA Regional Office, 7678 College Rd, Suite 105, Baxter, MN 56425 or by e-mail to robin.novotny@pca.state.mn.us. The MPCA will use these comments to evaluate the potential for significant environmental effects from the project, and to decide if an Environmental Impact Statement (a more comprehensive environmental review) is needed. Comments will also be considered to determine what changes, if any, may be needed in the draft permit. Copies of Menagha's EAW are available for review at:
- The MPCA's St. Paul office, 520 Lafayette Rd. N.
- The MPCA's Web site at/news/eaw/index.html
- MPCA Brainerd office, 7678 College Rd, Suite 105, Baxter, Minn.
- MPCA Detroit Lakes office, 710 Lake Ave.
Copies of the EAW and permit may be requested from Robin Novotny at 218-828-6114. Questions about the permit can also be directed to Novotny. Questions about the EAW should be directed to James Sullivan at 651-297-1788, or 1-800-657-3864 (toll free/TTY).