Project summary
Minnesota DNR proposes to restore a channelized stream and create and restore wetland habitat within the Skandia Wildlife Management Area (WMA). The channel within this segment of the WMA was historically straightened (channelized) to accommodate agricultural activities. The proposed project will restore stream sinuosity via re-meandering to improve water quality, habitat, and floodplain connectivity.
Environmental Assessment Worksheet
The DNR, as the Responsible Governmental Unit (RGU) for environmental review of the project, is accepting comments on the EAW.
EAW documents
Public comment period:
The EAW was published in the June 30, 2026, edition of the EQB Monitor. A 30-day public review and comment period will be open from June 30, 2026, until 4:30 p.m. July 29, 2026.
A hard copy of the EAW may be requested by calling 651-259-5101 and is available for public review at the following libraries:
DNR Library, 500 Lafayette Road North, St. Paul, MN 55155
Balaton Public Library, 134 3rd St, Balaton, MN 56115
Comments must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2026.
Online at Public Comments for Skandia WMA Restoration EAW; or
Mailed comments should be sent to the attention of, EAW Project Manager, Environmental Review Unit, Ecological and Water Resources Division, Minnesota DNR, 500 Lafayette Road North, St. Paul, MN 55155.
Anyone providing a mailing address or submitting online comments will receive a copy of the subsequent decision document, which will include responses to comments. Because all comments and related information are part of the public record for this environmental review, commenters’ names and email or postal addresses will be published and publicly available as they appear in the materials commenters submit.