R2007-74 AUTHORIZING AGREEMENT - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

c � Mr. Keith Al��and�r, City of Decatur—April ?6,?007—Page � WORK TO BE PERFORMED WITH CITY FINANCIAL SUPPORT The financial support to be provided by the City will be used to continue and expand work by AWI in our current research focus areas, in our educational program, and in additional areas that may be determined in consultation with City representatives. Nutrient management: The proposed City funding will be used as non-federal match for the current IJpper Sangamon River Targeted Watershed Prc�ject and to identify and develop additional strategies for reducing nutrient loads in the Lake Decatur watershed. In consultation with the City, AWI will pursue governmentat or faundation grants for research, outreach and im�lementation of additional nutrient management strategies. Beneficial use of dredged sediment: The proposed City funding will be used to develop ideas for large-scale beneficial use of dredged sediment and to conduct research, demonstration projects, economic analysis, and stakeholder outreach related to sediment use. If requested by the City, AWI will gather information and assist in public participation activities to identify ways to reduce costs, mitigate adverse impacts, and increase benefits and public acceptance of alternatives for dredging and water supply. Analysis of water supply and dredging options: As requested, AWI will assist the City in evaluating specific alternatives for dredging and water supply including, hut not limited to, the "accelerated dredging proposal"currently under consideration. Biomass energy: The proposed City funding will be used to explore and implement ideas for biomass energy that can improve water and air quality and alsa create economic development. AWI is currently heading a learning group with representatives of agriculture, electrical utilities, industry, conservation agencies and organizations, researchers, and business specialists to assess the viability of a local market for biomass as a clean, renewable fuel. A rep�rt on this praject is being prepared and will be campleted by June 2007. The report will include a local roadmap for establishing a market for biomass energy crops. The roadmap will also address inno��ati��e concepts to ma�imize the«�ater quality benefits related to introduction of energy crops. Project goals include m�imizing the water quality benefits of perennial grasses or woody biomass grown for energy generation. After completian of the report, AWI wi11 play a lead role in implementin�the recommended action steps. Shared Learning Program: The proposed City funding will be used to support AWI's seminars, ��orkshops and other educational events including an annual Sangamon Watershed Celebration. These events are designed to bring together researchers; government policy makers and program managers; agricultural producers, managers and landowners; environmental professionals and advocates; and other watershed stakeholders to share ideas and seek win-win solutions. Program objectives are (l) to explore ideas for economically and environmentally sound resource management and (2) to foster improved mutual understanding and cooperation among urban and rural watershed stakeholders. Additional activities: In consultation with the City, AWI will identify and explore ways ta enhance water quality and meet water supply needs. As requested, AVVI will assist the Ci��to gather information about potential strategies for water management and potential funding sources for research, development and implementation of such strategies.