BEMIDJI, Minn. — Paul Radomski will explain the proposed new standards for Minnesota lake and river conservation during a 3 p.m. program Monday, May 18, at the Bemidji State University Center for Research and Innovation.

Part of the Bemidji Area Natural Resources Continuing Education Consortium series, the 60-minute session is open to the public at no charge at the center’s off-campus location at 3801 Bemidji Ave. North.

Since Jan. 2008, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resource has been assessing statewide shoreland conservation standards. A research scientist with the department charged for updating the standards, Radomski will relate the process involved and outline the proposals being considered.

The Minnesota Legislature directed the department to undertake the project to provide guidance for the wise development of shorelands of public waters, preserve the economic and natural environmental values of shorelands and to allow for the well-reasoned use of water and related land resources.

The process began with a review of the science related to shoreland conservation, development and management. Five advisory committees were convened to provide advice to the department, and numerous open houses, work group sessions, resort industry meetings, and agricultural forums were held.

The result was the integration of two sets of standards into a unified system that eliminated inconsistencies, reduced duplication and proposed rules that simplified management while enhancing resource protection. Among the recommendations:
• Better protect water quality by improving rainwater runoff management, increase drain field setbacks and establish higher buffer standards for undeveloped lots.
• Safeguard such vulnerable areas as sensitive lakeshore, trout streams, and bluffs.
• Allow for easier local government implementation while protecting natural resources and the interests of the general public.

Radomski joined the Department of Natural Resources in 1986 as an aquatic biologist. His diverse background within the agency includes work as an assistant area fisheries manager, large lake specialist and fisheries research biologist. He earned his undergraduate degree in limnology and a master’s degree in aquatic biology and fisheries from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He is a widely published researcher who has received awards from a broad range of conservation and nature groups.

The presentation is part of an on-going series of Bemidji Area Natural Resources Continuing Education Consortium programs, typically held on the third Monday of each month. While covering topics of general interest, the sessions are designed for professionals working in the natural resource area and may be technical in nature.

For more information, or to be added to the mailing list for the series, contact the Bemidji State University Center for Research and Innovation at (218) 755-4900; toll free, (888) 738-3224; e-mail, cri@bemidjistate.edu; or at http://www.cri-bsu.org.

FOR YOUR CALENDAR
May 18 – 3 p.m. – Bemidji State University Center for Research and Innovation hosts Bemidji Area Natural Resources Continuing Education Consortium presentation proposed new state standards for lake and river conservation. Presenter: Paul Radomski, research scientist, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Location: Center for Research and Innovation; 3801 Bemidji Ave. N.; Bemidji, Minn. Cost: free. For information: (218) 755-4900; (888) 738-3224; http://www.cri-bsu.org.