EQC Meeting Date: July 11, 2019
To: Members of the Environmental Quality Commission
From: Justin Wagner, Utilities Manager
Title
EQC is to receive an Update on the proposed noxious weed ordinance.
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield Environmental Quality Commission is to receive an update from staff on the proposed noxious weed ordinance.
Summary Report:
The City Forester has reviewed the proposed noxious weed ordinance amendment and has provided feedback on the proposed ordinance. The items that have been noted are listed below.
- Staff has discussed the noxious weeds and trees with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) along with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
- Amur Cork tree is not current on the list of noxious trees; however, it is being discussed by both MDA and DNR for addition to the noxious tree list.
- The State of Minnesota tasks the Counties to maintain and enforce a noxious weed/tree list.
- Staff will communicate with Rice and Dakota Counties about the lists and enforcement.
- Staff is unable to maintain and enforce a noxious weed/tree list at current staffing levels.
- If staffing levels are increased and are directed by the City Council to establish a City Noxious Tree list, the Amur Cork tree could be included on the list.
- Staff is willing to remove the Amur Cork trees from public property.
- Staff recommends that a representative from the Environmental Quality Commission contact the private property owner and discuss the tree with the private property owner recommending removal of the tree.