Looking for good neighbors to protect water quality Applications being accepted for Master Water Stewards program The Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (VRWJPO) invites residents to become Master Water Stewards (MWS). The MWS program provides training and opportunities for residents to protect and improve water quality and habitat. Freshwater Society developed the MWS program in 2013. The VRWJPO is one of many watershed organizations sponsoring MWS classes. The cost to enroll in the MWS program in the Vermillion River Watershed is $125 per person, which covers course fees and field trips. The cost will be reimbursed to participants upon certification as a Master Water Steward. Scholarships may be available for situations of demonstrated financial hardship. The next MWS session begins in October and runs through April 2018. To learn more, visit the Master Water Stewards website or attend any information session in the metro area or Sept. 5 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Dakota County Western Service Center, room 334. Master Water Stewards are certified by participating in a broad training curriculum led by experts in the fields of hydrology, stormwater management, water policy, community-based social marketing, and raingarden assessment and installation. They must complete a capstone project that captures rainfall and allows more water to soak into the ground, and lead a community outreach event. Stewards then become a point of knowledge and influence in their communities. For more details and to apply, visit www.masterwaterstewards.org. Direct questions to the Vermillion River Watershed, paula.liepold@co.dakota.mn.us or (952) 891-7117.

The Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Board (VRWJPB) is the governing body of the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (VRWJPO). The  VRWJPB consists of two Commissioners from Dakota County and one Commissioner from Scott County. The VRWJPB makes decisions about VRWJPO policy, budget, and actions. The agenda and full packet of items for discussion are posted here at least one week before the meeting.

Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (VRWJPO) Public Hearing on the Draft VRWJPO 2018 Budget Notice is hereby given that the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (VRWJPO) will hold a public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 24, 2017, at the Dakota County Western Service Center, 14955 Galaxie Avenue, Apple Valley, Minnesota, Conference Room 334, for the purpose of receiving comments on the draft VRWJPO 2018 Budget and Watershed Management Tax District Levy. The draft VRWJPO 2017 Budget and Watershed Management Tax District Levy can be viewed online at www.vermillionriverwatershed.org in the “News” category after Tuesday, August 1, 2017. Paper copies of the draft VRWJPO 2017 Budget and Watershed Management Tax District Levy, as well as requests for any special accommodations at the public hearing, can be obtained by contacting Jen Dullum at 952-891-7086 or by email at jennifer.dullum@co.dakota.mn.us. Agencies, groups, or persons attending the public hearing will have the opportunity to provide written or oral comments. Prior to the public hearing, written comments can be address to the VRWJPO, 14955 Galaxie Avenue, Apple Valley, MN 55124, or emailed to VRWJPO administrator Mark Zabel at mark.zabel@co.dakota.mn.us.