4.4 EAW Attachment - Laserfiche WebLink

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Oakwater Ridge EAW 10 Findings of Fact and Conclusions, Response to Comments, and Record of Decision 12. Ecological Resources. The aquatic resources on/adjacent to the project area, the wetlands, and the Mississippi River, provide habitat for amphibians, fish, and small mammals. The wildlife habitat has diminished value due to historic cultivation and annual tillage. Wildlife is also constrained by the major roadways nearby, U.S. 10/169 and Minnesota 101. The surrounding cultivated fields, residential developments, industrial land uses, and major roadways create limitations for wildlife habitat. The Minnesota DNR shows the northwestern corner of the Project Area as within a Metro Conservation Corridor. A review of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) assessment tool was completed on December 31st, 2024 to identify federally listed species that have the potential to occur within the project area. Utilizing the MnDNR’s Minnesota Conservation Explorer tool, a Natural Heritage Review was requested. An official NHIS letter was issued on August 30th, 2024. Mitigation measures outlined in the EAW will be followed to minimize potential impacts to the identified federal and listed species. 13. Historic Resources. The Oliver H. Kelly Farmstead is a National Historic Landmark and is located adjacent to and south of the project area. In order to mitigate potential impacts to the Oliver H. Kelly Farmstead along the southern project area boundary, trees will be planted to screen the farmstead from the development and a split rail wood fence is anticipated along the southern property line. A Phase 1 Archaeological Investigation was completed for the Oakwater Ridge site by In Situ Archaeological Consulting. One newly recorded archaeological resource (21SH0093) and one newly recorded architectural resource were observed and recorded during the cultural resource survey of the Project. The newly recorded architectural resource (vacant house that is part of the farm complex) was recommended as not eligible for the NRHP. For 21SH0093, In Situ recommends avoidance of the resource and to have no ground disturbing activities take place within or near the resource. At this time, site 21SH0093 is at least 25 feet from the proposed extent of ground disturbance for the project, which will avoid impacts to the site. 14. Visual Resources. The project area sits adjacent to and above the Mississippi River. This relative highpoint will be maintained, and the potential viewshed will be minimally altered. The proposer is committed to conserving mature trees to the extent possible, specifically along the western hillslope. The western portion of the site is within shoreland and, therefore, subject to stricter vegetation alteration requirements, setbacks, and large lot sizes. Moreover, the development is clustered along U.S. Highway 10, leaving the western portion as open space, which will mitigate impacts on the viewshed from the Mississippi River. Floating docks will be visible on the shore of the scenic river corridor. The development will adhere to the City’s landscaping and screening requirements, enhancing the visual character and promoting compatibility between land uses. 15. Air. The development is not anticipated to include any stationary source emissions from sources such as boilers or exhaust stacks. Hazardous air pollutants are not anticipated to be generated onsite post- development. The emissions produced will be in alignment with the planned future land use outlined in the City’s Comprehensive Plan. Minor emissions generated from construction equipment will occur during the construction phase. Contractors will be responsible for ensuring equipment is properly maintained and not contributing to excess emissions. Dust and odor (gas machinery, etc.) production will be elevated during construction but will be minimized by standard dust control methods. 16. Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG)/Carbon Footprint. Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions are summarized for project construction and operation. Emissions are reported were annualized over the estimate lifecycle of the development (50 years). Estimated emissions are aligned with the planned land uses. The residential homes are anticipated to include energy efficient appliances. On-site landscaping will absorb a portion of the GHG emissions and reduce the local urban heat island effect. Consideration of additional mitigation opportunities will continue through planning, design, and permitting. 17. Noise. Project construction is anticipated to temporarily increase noise levels for nearby receptors. Development will adhere to the City code, which does not permit construction activities (all