RIM Riparian Protection - Kettle and Snake Rivers | MN Board of Water, Soil Resources

Overview

The purpose of the RIM Kettle and Snake Rivers program is to protect riparian areas along the Kettle and Snake Rivers which are major tributaries to the St Croix River which is a National Wild and Scenic River and has excellent water quality. Lake Sturgeon are a priority in these watersheds. Sturgeons are long-lived, slow growing, and can take many years to mature and be able to reproduce. Additionally, the St. Croix River Basin is also globally recognized for its mussel diversity, over 40 known mussels occur within the St. Croix River Basin, including federally endangered, and 20 state-listed species such as rare mussels like the winged mapleleaf, spike, and round pigtoe. All of these species are vulnerable to degraded water quality. This program is available in all or parts of the following counties: Aitkin, Carlton, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, and Pine.

Program Details

RIM Riparian Kettle and Snake River eligible counties

Eligibility Requirements

Must be at least 20 acres
Must be riparian
Must be in the Kettle and Snake Rivers watersheds

Priorities

Use RAQ methodology to prioritize parcels with multiple benefits overlapping – habitat, biodiversity, cost, water quality, and resiliency to create and protect extensive habitat complexes.
This methodology achieves maximum wildlife habitat benefits and conservation benefits per dollar.
Prioritizes parcels with the following characteristics:
- Proximity to water
- Adjacent to other protected lands
- Currently intact and forested
- Additional screening Committee of State and local partners

Easement Application Materials

Training

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