Dunes City Water Quality Committee Archive

December 6, 2007    

Chairman Richard Koehler opened the meeting at 7:00 PM.

 Those in attendance were Rick Cox, Jerry Curran, Steve Hager, Richard Koehler, Susie Navetta, and John Stead.  Those absent were Janet Carroll, Mark Chandler and Ralph Farnsworth.  The minutes of the October 31^st meeting were approved as amended.

Study the purpose of the Water Quality Control Committee Ordinance and make a recommendation to the City Council at the next meeting to be put on the January agenda for the second reading.

The Phosphorus Ordinance was the next topic of discussion.  It was decided that there were too many tasks and the best way was to educate the residents.  Susie Navetta reported that Alan Campbell of Campbell Productions is willing to do a program about Dunes City .

John Stead Explained the “Water Rights” and the exchanges Dunes City has had with the Oregon Water Resources Department.  Thanks to John for taking the time to prepare the application for the Water Rights Use extension on Lake Woahink that was almost lost to the City and the residents.

Steve Hager reported that Siltcoos Lake resident Rand Dawson will sue the state if the issue of the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) is not explored this year in accordance with the 303 D status.  Mark Chandler and Steve Hager give a review on the recent Algal Bloom on Siltcoos Lake

Stormwater and Erosion – properties on Clear Lake Road were discussed due to the lack of vegetation.  Both area have been recently seeded and should start to show some green matter soon.

Susie Navetta said he would contact the new people on Siltcoos that now own the Morris property about the possibility of their being a water tester.

Vegetation removal – a discussion on the benefits of leaving the tree canopy to protect the earth and especially the riparian zone ensued.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:12 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Susie Navetta

10/31/2007

Chairman Richard Koehler opened the meeting at 7:00 PM .  Those in attendance were Rick Cox, Jerry Curran, Audrey and Ralph Farnsworth, Steve Hager, Richard Koehler, Bob Mohler, Susie Navetta, and John Stead.  Also in attendance were David Dumas and Bill and Troy Sathe.  Janet Carroll was absent.  

The minutes were approved with corrections with a motion by John Stead and a second by Jerry Curran.

Defining and refining goals – see attachment (a document by Richard Koehler)  

Siltcoos, Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL) – Steve Hager will get a mailing list of the parties involved.  Dunes City has about 8% ownership and is paying for 100% of the testing fees.  We should look to Pam Blake and Dave Waltz for help.  This is where the 319 Grant may come into play.  In last months minutes I failed to mention the Drinking Water Protection Grant through Jackie Fern of DEQ for $20,000 as part of the 319 Grant.  

Community Round Table – is another first for Dunes City .  This Community and Education Committee project will be held on November 5^th at 7:00 .  In the future the Committee sees having round table discussions on different issues of public interest.  At this meeting the topic will be Siltcoos Lake .  Residents will be able to speak to their concerns and the committee will look for solutions.  

Kayak Trail – Ralph Farnsworth has done a lot of work on the proposed kayak/canoe trail.  However, it is on Lane County property and the County may have the money to put in a Handicapped Kayak Ramp.  

Education – It was confirmed by the WQCC that education of the residents still needs some work.  Suggestions were made to:  Make packets for new home owners in Dunes City that could be passed out to realtors.  Have a “What Can I Do?” section on the website.  Fliers and newsletters that have articles on conservation could be sent out.  

Phosphorus – Richard Koehler will chat with Rep. Arnie Roblan about phosphorus and Susie Navetta will talk to Jim Rassmann who has contacts with Arnie Roblan.  

Water testing - Steve Hager found 85,000 anabena plantonia, no observable toxins and the level is down to 55,000.  The recent temperature has been dropping down to 14 Celsius /56 Fahrenheit degrees with no negative toxins.  Bob Mohler noted that there was no anabena plantonia at Siltcoos Lake last year.  Secchi Disc readings are at 17 inches on Siltcoos and 23 feet at WoahinkLake.  The residents would like the State to take off the warnings at Siltcoos Lake , but the City has not had return calls from Ken Kauffman and other Department of Human Services (DHS) agents.  The water level at Siltcoos Lake was lower recently to accommodate the salmon.   Bob Mohler mentioned that this might be a good time to look at a water system for Dunes City .  

Coastal Lakes Water Forum – at Honeyman Park on October 24^th was well attended by Dunes City .  The group included Audrey and Ralph Farnsworth, Steve Hager, Richard Koehler, Susie Navetta, Jim and Karen Peck, and John Stead.  Steve Hager was one of the presenters.  

Douglas Larson – was mentioned at the meeting as he has been involved with coastal lakes for many years.  Steve Hager would like to chat with him and other old timers who could fill him in their past experiences of the lakes.  Susie Navetta will send Larson’s phone number to Steve and Richard Koehler will loan Steve the CD of Larson’s presentation to Dunes City .  

Sunset Cove – Should the WQCC be making a recommendation on the clear cutting of this PUD?  The Division of State Lands should be aware of the riparian violations.  Councilor Dave Bellemore, Conservation Committee Chair will have the committee go out to investigate on November 1^st to check on siltation fence that should have been put up before excavation started according to the 1200 C regulation.  John stead made a motion to “The committee delegates Richard Koehler to look at the site of the development and see if the developers are following the conditions of approval and report to the City Council in November.     

ODOT – Set up a meeting with ODOT, Honeyman State Park and the WQCC to talk about speed reduction on HWY 101 in Dunes City .  

The meeting adjourned at 9:27 PM.          Respectfully submitted,. Susie Navetta

 TASKS: 

Steve Hager – list for all of the parties around Siltcoos Lake .        

Richard Koehler – “What Can I Do?” on the website. Chat with Arnie Roblan re: “P”.  Look at the conditions of approval on Sunset Cove to be sure they are being met and report to the council. Set up meeting with ODOT, Honeyman and WQCC for speed.       

Susie Navetta – Call Jim Rassmann re: Rep. Roblan/phosphorus.  Larson’s phone number to Steve Hager.  

October 4, 2007

The meeting was opened by Chairman Richard Koehler at 7:03 pm .  

Those in attendance were Janet Carroll, Mark Chandler, Jerry Curran, Audrey and Ralph Farnsworth, Steve Hager, Richard Koehler, Susie Navetta, and John Stead.  George Burke and Rick Cox were absent.  Also in attendance were Darlene and Marv Beckman.  

The WQCC minutes from the meeting on September 7^th were approved as corrected.

The WQCC-ODOT minutes from the meeting held on September 27^th were approved as corrected.  

ODOT Up-date – In ordered to better understand the drainage problems on HWY 101 near the triplewide trailer Richard will contact the folks living there.  

Testing on Siltcoos Lake - Richard Koehler thanked the water testers for all their help in getting the samples to send to the lab.  Those mentioned were Mark Chandler, Ralph Farnsworth and George Burke.   “The testing protocol is improving.” said Mark Chandler. Some members wanted to know if frequent testing is necessary.  Darlene Beckman wanted to know if the testers were going to alter their sampling sites.  Mark said it was important to use the same sites for the record, but at this time they may be altering sample locations.  It was noted that Siltcoos Lake had a reading that was 50% higher than the recommended number from the EPA.  Ralph Farnsworth handed out a “Blue Green Algae Initiative” to everyone to study.  

Disaster Signs – Richard Koehler was in charge of putting up warning signs for the blue green algae.  He order several TOXIC signs and placed them around Dunes City .

Questions for the future:

How do we prepare for next time?

Who do we include?  Bill Fleenor, Lane County and Douglas County ?

Does the Council need to write an ordinance prohibiting the removal of warning signs?

What questions do we need to ask?

Settlement Pond – The settlement pond on the first arm of Woahink Lake has come to a halt again.  The director of the Siuslaw Soil and Water Conservation District stated that because of the turmoil in Dunes City they would like to delay moving forward at this time.  Some folks have been given the CRMP handbook, by Mark Chandler, to study. 

Phosphorus – Janet Carroll noted that the state of Washington has passed a ban on dish washer detergents by 2010.  While scanning the net she found a phosphorus logo to use for the Dunes City signs for merchants to use.  Janet will continue to work on this project with the help of Councilman Dave Bellemore.

George Westphal – mentioned the sole source aquifer in his talk with the council recently.  Mark Chandler will look in to it.

Rick Cox – a voting member has been absent too many times according to the Water Quality Control Committee rules.  The WQCC voted to recommend the City Council take action.  Everyone felt that Rick brings a lot to the committee and everyone finds him likeable, but he is absent too much of the time.

Septic System Maintenance Ordinance – to date only 56 letters have been sent in 14 months.  By now 238 should have been sent.  This is not an acceptable number to meet the deadline for the 5 year program.  The office staff has been offered help to assemble packets, copy, and or post.  There has to be a way to get this job done.

Priorities for the coming Year – Will be the discussion for next month.

Porta-potty – Richard Koehler said he was concerned that porta-potties were not being used on construction sites.  Darlene Beckman stated that they always used them on sites under construction. At the last meeting George Burke was going to look into the issue, but he was absent.  Next month we will open the discussion again.

Rain and Erosion – At the last City Council meeting Council Richard Koehler made a motion to have the Planning Commission and the Road Commission look for erosion and sediment problems on properties currently being developed.  After a WQCC discussion Ralph Farnsworth made this motion, “I make a motion that the Dunes City Council adopt the motion for checking current construction sites for erosion and sedimentation coming from all sources.” (a topic on the October Council agenda).   Mark Chandler gave the 2^nd.  Trouble spots are Earhart Road and the corner of Clear Lake Road and Hill Top Road .

Fine for Boat Washing $500 –  Susie Navetta is concerned the folks are still washing their boats off in Woahink Lake .  Her concern is salt water, weeds, and now the toxic algae from Siltcoos Lake .  Susie will talk to Shirley Stentz, Park Manager of Honeyman State Park.

319 Grant – Pam Blake from DEQ suggested that Dunes City ask Mark Stysma to send a letter in support of his findings along with the grant.

Adjournment 10:19 pm

Respectfully submitted, Susie Navetta.  

Tasks:

Richard Koehler, Triplewide erosion, ask Council about Rick Cox and septic letters

Janet, phosphorus

Mark, sole source aquifer

Susie, boat washing, call Mark Stysma for grant letter

Everyone, priorities for the coming year, study the blue green algae from Ralph, study the CRMP booklet if you have one.

Guidance for Assessing and Characterizing Potentially Toxic Cyanobacteria Blooms

Sept. 27, 2007       ODOT/WQCC Minutes  

Chairman Richard Koehler opened the meeting a few minutes after 11:00 AM .

Those present were George Burke, Janet Carroll, Jerry Curran, Susie Navetta, and John Stead.  Also present from ODOT were Don Angermayer (Program Coordinator Area/district 5), Chip Hammon (Transportation Maintenance Supervisor/Florence) and Mike Spaeth (District Manager/District 5 maintenance).  Local citizens attending were Norman Martin, Troy and William Sathe and one unidentified citizen.

Richard Koehler welcomed the quests and thanked them for their time.  Don Angermayer met previously with Beau Miller, a hydraulic engineer, who addressed his concerns during a site visit and proposed 3 alternatives.  The problem area being discussed was HWY 101 drainages within Dunes City from mile post 193 to mile 196.4.

 Myrtlewood Area:

• Recommended - Alternative #1.  Clean and Maintain Ditches and culverts.    ODOT will continue to service and maintain existing drains, ditches and culverts.
• Not Recommended - Alternative #2.  Installation of dams and ditches to trap pollutants would not work in our sandy soils.  Pollutants would just drain through the sand.
• Recommended - Alternative #3.  Construction curbs and sidewalks are recommended, fences and walls would be needed.  This could be done by a city beautification program, but not at the expense of ODOT.

In reference to Alternative #1 - John Stead stated, “When you scrape out the ditches it removes the vegetation”.  Mike Spaeth noted that they always try to save the vegetation.

Richard Koehler suggested we get back to the issues and cited the trouble sites.  They are:

·        Foglio’s trucking yard

·        Siddas Lane catch basin

·        The triple-wide trailer property diverting their water on to HWY 101.

 George Burke commented that erosion control should come from the property owner.  It was decided by ODOT that all of these problems belong to the owners of the respective property owners.  Richard said, “Water getting onto the lake…” and noting that the diversion of water running off HWY 101 is the problem.  Once again the rumble strips were okayed by Mike Spaeth and would divert some of the runoff away from the lake.  Mike said they would probably be in place in the next few weeks.

Norman Martin wanted to know where we were in the Settlement Pond proposal.  Susie Navetta informed Norman that the land belonged to Honeyman Park and that Foglio’s trucking yard would allow access and now the Siuslaw Soil and Water Conservation District would be taking the next step.

The final topic was the speed limits on HWY 101 and the study that was done.  Mike Spaeth suggested that we have a meeting with the traffic management team of ODOT and it was suggested that Shirley Stentz from Honeyman Park be invited.

The meeting adjourned at 12:03 .

Respectfully Submitted by Susie Navetta

September 06, 2007    

The meeting was opened by Chairman Richard Koehler at 7:05 PM .  

Those in attendance were George Burke, Janet Carroll, Mark Chandler, Jerry Curran, Audrey and Ralph Farnsworth, Steve Hager, Susie Navetta, Liz Purtell, and John Stead.  Those absent were Rick Cox and Bob Mohler.  

The minutes of the last meeting were approved as corrected. 

Jerry Curran made the motion and the second came from Janet Carroll.  

Water Testing – Mark Chandler said, “Things are looking better and there is a general up-ward trend in nitrogen levels”.  He said the Secchi Disc readings were better and the nutrient levels were down. Mark said we had a different algal bloom than last year.  Last year it was the diatoms and this year we have non-diatoms which are bad.  Our Chemical oceanographer, Steve Hager said, “The trend is down”.  Steve Hansen from Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is still monitoring our water testers.  There was a general discussion on lawns and phosphorus.  The next testing on September 13^th will include Gary Darnielle and David Dumas as passengers who are interested in how the testing is accomplished.  Mark said Woahink Lake will turn over next month.  

Siltcoos Dam – George Burke told the committee that the local residents, Siltcoos Lake Association (SLA) wanted to buy the stored water right.  In talking with Dave Williams, the Water Master from the Oregon Water Resources Department said it would be cheaper to make the purchase with Siltcoos and Tackenich lakes being separate.  George didn’t know if the group had contacted Lane County or Douglas County .  

Weir on Woahink – George Burke said, “The Water Master wants a gate and George Westphal from the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Department wants to regulate the gate”.   He also said ODFW wanted to take a year to do the study.  It was noted that the board in the weir has been at different heights lately. John Stead reminded us that 60% of the water in Woahink Lake flows to waste.  

Phosphorus – What type of signs do we need in local stores?  Susie Navetta suggested that the signs be attractive, simple, have the Dunes City logo and some other logo to identify “P” (phosphorus).  Janet Carroll will work up some ideas and Jerry Curran will edit her work.  

Port-a-potty – Some research will have to be done on this matter.  The committee believes the there should be facilities at building sites and we need to find the governing rules of OSHA.  Richard Koehler is willing to write a draft for Dunes City .  

Canary Road – a letter was sent from the Mayor to Lane County Roads confirming the promise of work from September 15^th to October 15^th on the Canary Road slump.  The committee should be keeping an eye out on this project.  Susie Navetta will ask Greg  Barnes, a local, to us informed.  

Erosion Control - With the winter rains coming, thoughts have turned to who is responsible for monitoring building sites, new roads and erosion in general.  George Burke said when dealing with roads the chain of command would be Road Commission Chairman Bob Petersdorf  who would call the City Engineer Mike Mc Callister to investigate.  Richard Koehler will write Bob a letter on the up-coming rainy season and keeping sedimentation out of the lakes.  The committee will try to keep their eyes open and make complaints when necessary so the building inspectors can do their job.  

Adjournment 9: 04 PM .

Respectfully submitted, Susie Navetta

After the meeting it was noted that Rick Cox has been absent too many times,  Richard will call him and ask if Rick really wants to make a commitment to attend the WQCC.  

Aug 2, 2007

 Richard Koehler, chairman of the committee opened the meeting at 7:04 .  Those present were voting members George Burke, Janet Carroll, Jerry Curran, Ralph Farnsworth, and John Stead.  Rick Cox was absent and Mark Chandler was excused. Also present were Audrey Farnsworth, Susie Navetta and Dennis Smith.

 The minutes were approved after a long discussion.  John Stead said the information in the minutes was incorrect and wanted the incorrect part of the minutes removed.  Two sentences were removed to make the minutes read correctly.  It was decided that next month, at the committee meeting, we would be prepared with office documents so that everyone could be informed on the water rights usage.  A motion to approve the minutes came from Janet Carroll and was seconded by Ralph Farnsworth.

 Canary Road – George Burke said that the Mayor asked him to arrange a meeting with Lane County and Bill Fleenor.  A site meeting was set up with Commissioner Bill Fleenor, RAC member George Goldstein, Lane County Design Engineer Bill Morgan, Lane County Road Maintenance Supervisor Carmin Sarri, Lane County Maintenance Manager Arno Nelson, Dunes City Planning Chair George Burke, and Dunes City Road Commission Chair Bob Petersdorf.  “Lane County Road Maintenance Crews will do the following repairs on the Canary Road Slide this fall between September 15 and October 15, 2007 .  We will remove the bottom 3 feet of the toe of the slide for approximately 90 lineal feet, we will set GM Barriers along the edge of the asphalt in the slide are, the total length of the GM barrier will be approximately 175 lineal feet.  The addition footage on the GM barrier is for constructing safe and treatments on both ends of the slide area.  We also agree to plant the slide area with willows and hydro seed the slide.  Hopefully this will eliminate the appearance of dirty water running from our project and into Woahink Lake .  Thanks for setting up the meeting.” said Arno Nelson in his e-mail dated 7/24/07 .  George said the there are drains that go under Canary Road that are continually maintained by the County.  The discussion of the letter that was not sent earlier can up and it was decided that the letter should be brought up to date and sent to the council for the Mayors signature.  Susie will rewrite the letter and send it on to the WQCC for approval.

 Handicapped Kayak Ramp – Ralph Farnsworth gave a summary of the kayak/canoe launch saying he heard it was an 18 month project and it would be necessary to get the 306A grant for the project.  He will be working with Florence Marine.

 Siltcoos Lake – Ralph Farnsworth said that the TMDL process for Siltcoos Lake was coming up soon.  Steve Hager, a new member of the WQCC, comes to Dunes City with a lot of experience will be working with the other Water Testers on this project.  We will be actively looking for a grant writer for Dunes City to due the up coming 306A grant and others.

 Highway Signs – Ralph Farnsworth said the www.dunescity.com signs were finished and he would be putting them up soon.

 The meeting adjourned at 8:45 .

 Respectfully submitted, Susie Navetta

July 5, 2007

Present were:

Ralph Farnsworth, Gerry Curran, George Burke, and Richard Koehler  

Also in attendance was Audrey Farnsworth  

Excused:    Mark Chandler & John Stead were excused

Absent:     Rick Cox & Janet Carroll  

Richard Koehler opened the meeting at 7:05pm .  

Richard reviewed the ODOT meeting.  Owners have to be in sync with ODOT's projects.  Rumble strips were the easiest first steps to preventing lake-side accidents.

The 101 water draining over the triple wide area needs to be diverted from the present location.

Folio's dumpsters and oil draining into streams need to be kept on Folios and not in the water leading to Woahink.

 Ralph:  Up to 50k$ grant for a 306a handicapped kayak ramp on Siltcoos. County Commissioner , Bill Fleenor's Diane Burch helped Ralph with valuable information.  Grant writer in DC.   Matching funds from DC to enable grant (tourism fund).  There's an 18 month turnaround from concept to construction.  Lane Co public works (Todd Winter - parks) may be able to help.  Watershed council and Soil and Water conservation may be able to help with project and funding.  The county will follow the rules re fish bearing streams et al.  County will help with advertising after it's built.   Veterans groups will help with funding.  Ralph will research further the requirements from ADA (American Disabled Association).   There will also be consulting with DC Parks and Recreation Committee. 

 Signs regarding www.dunescity.com for info/education for citizen water quality cooperation.  Steve Hager has been quite helpful to the water testers as he had spent years as a tester in California .   A new testing (deeper and different types of tests) would be helpful.  When the lake turns is the best time to test.  An indicator in the water with a transponder to someone's house would enable quick action when the lake flips.  More information on the upcoming Siltcoos TMDL will be available next month.

 George B spoke regarding the weir:  The permit to use stored water is approved.  An easement is necessary to gain access to the weir.  The Water Board and DC will have to put in a flow meter and staff gauge on the creek after the dam and have it monitored twice a month.  Fish and Wildlife may write off that we don't need a fish ladder.  There's a nine foot opening and a four foot opening.  The six-inch device is going on the nine foot opening to divert water to storage.  The four foot opening will have an adjustable level so as to maintain the creek leading to Siltcoos.  The City Engineer will look for dam gate and levelers.  The state and city will share in the costs and maintenance of the dam construction and monitoring.  The question of storing water or maintaining high water levels was brought up.  George thought that the definition of maintaining high water levels was more fitting than storing water.  

Richard asked George if the city requires porta-potties be delivered to all permitted construction sites - he responded; no.

 Richard fielded members for a media report:  What went well, what can be changed?  Ralph responded "You have t keep it simple."

Renewing contacts is important as well.  The Oregonian reporter was impressed with information from six different WQCC members about our history. 

 How do we enforce things here in DC?    Ralph thought a rent-a-judge as stipulated in the charter would work.  Costs may be prohibitive.  Until affordability has been resolved - cooperation, education and support will have to limit violations.

 Water testers supplies need to be assessed. 

 Adjourned at 8:10 pm           Minutes created & corrected by Richard Koehler

June18, 2007       ODOT Report

The meeting chaired by Richard Koehler was attended by Mark Chandler, Richard Koehler, Susie Navetta, and John Stead.  Also present was a team from ODOT of five members: Don Angermayer (Program Coordinator Area/District 5), Charles Hammon (Transportation Maintenance Supervisor/Florence), Jeff Moore (Water Quality/Salem), Adam Roberts (Regional Environmental Coordinator), and Mike Spaeth (District Manager/District 5 Maintenance).  George Goldstein from the Lane County Advisory Board also sat in on the meeting.  

A discussion on the proposed barrier at HWY 101 and The Myrtlewood Factory was in progress slightly before 2:00 .  After a round of introductions the meeting really got underway.  The main concern of the Water Quality Control Committee is the runoff from the highway and the potential for hazardous matter to contaminate Woahink Lake and the drinking water supply.  The main concern of the neighbors is not to destroy the view.  The barrier will be placed on a “Scenic Byway” and must follow certain criteria.  A discussion of different types of barriers ensued.  The standard metal barrier would deflect cars from running into the lake, but not allow good visibility from the highway.  ODOT officials believed the standard coved concrete barrier would not be allowed by the Federal government.  Richard Koehler explained his concept that might fit the need, it is a 18” high coved barrier with a runoff trench that would take immediate runoff water away from the area.  A 7” curb with rumble strips on the fog lines was another choice.  Mark Chandler suggested transporting the runoff to the other side of the highway to the orphan lake.  Don Angermayer said, “We need to think outside of the box”.  George Goldstein said, “The ‘Jersey barrier’ is more effective in keeping cars and trucks on the roadway.”  

Mike Spaeth gave some background of the previous meetings with Dunes City officials George Burke and John Scott.  Jeff Moore said “Braking increases the stuff going into the road”.  Adam Roberts thought there were speed issues on the highway.  Richard explained the efforts recently made to reduce the speed limit to 45 MPH from the Siuslaw Bridge to the Siltcoos Bridge .  The speed reduction would be beneficial to local drivers as well as tourists with larger vehicles.  Angela Kargel of ODOT is looking into that matter.  

Mike told us that Sue Chase in Jeff Moore’s office could look into the water related regulations.  John Stead reminded us the lake is changing through growth.  Jeff stated roadway runoff contains metal and hydrocarbons, not phosphorus.  Adam Roberts stated, “Biologists claim water quality issues can be addressed with upland vegetation, the natural area for filtering forest duff, will slow down the opportunities of highway runoff.”  ODOT put in a dam and a ditch, at Sand Dunes Frontier, to slow down the process.   

Task List:

The trailer, near Lake Shore Drive , and at the bottom of the hill, needs a DEQ inspection.  Sand Dunes Park has too much sediment.

Foglio’s Trucking has sediment accruing in the parking lot.

Chic Hammon said they would remove the encroaching sand off the highway where necessary.

Mike Spaeth we can put in 2 check dams this year and monitor them.

Mark Chandler wants an up date on the Settlement Ponds at Foglio’s.

Mark wanted the hole (spring fed) in the middle of the road fixed.

Mike wanted to know what we wanted.

Richard said “No guard rail”.

Mike wanted to have a neighbor meeting with Martha Jacobs and the Myrtlewood Factory.

The meeting adjourned at 4:05PM . 

June 7, 2007  

Chairman Richard Koehler called the meeting to order at 7:03 PM .  

The members in attendance were George Burke, Rick Cox, Mark Chandler, Jerry Curran, Ralph Farnsworth, Richard Koehler and John Stead.  Member Janet Carroll was excused.  Also attending were Audrey Farnsworth, Steven Hager, and Susie Navetta

 The minutes from the last meeting were approved as written.  

• Chairman Richard Koehler talked about the importance of the Water Quality Control Committee having contact with other local sources such as:

  Lane County – Canary Road water runoff into the lake from the slump near the one mile marker and drain at the first bridge.

Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) – HWY 101 and the barrier near the Myrtlewood Factory.  A meeting will be held with Mike Speath (ODOT), George Burke, Mark Chandler,  Richard Koehler, and Susie Navetta.  Gus Gates from Siuslaw Soil and Water Conservation District will be asked to participate in the discussion.

Honeyman State Park – lake issues such as the planting program in November in the riparian area of the park with the help of Dunes City residents planting some native plants they grew.

   The next subject concerned the Phosphorus Ordinance and how to bring the residents into compliance.  Education will come from a grass roots program: on the website, newsletter, educational fliers, Festival of the Lakes and just getting the word out when possible. Councilor David Bellemore started communication with business owners in the area and how they needed to carry items with low or no phosphates.  Susie Navetta suggested the need for phosphorus Monitors as there are so many businesses that will be involved.  Richard Koehler will talk with David and design a placard, for businesses to place in their store, to assist folks in their purchases.

• The Outlet Structure (Weir) is still being monitored by Dave Williams, the Water Master out of Reedsport on a monthly basis.  George Burke will do some follow up the progress of the water rights, storage and use in Woahink Lake .  He will also check on the survey and obtain Dick Anderson’s signature for the quit claim and the easement to service the outlet structure.
• Septic Systems and Restoration of the Riparian Area are two of the issues that need to be addressed in Dunes City .  Ralph Farnsworth reported that signs with the Dunes City website, www.dunescity.com, will be placed, on the roadside, at the entrances of the city.  The newsletter will also support website in the education of the ordinances that will affect everyone. 

• The committee made a list of things to monitor for the preservation of our drinking water.  Good water versus bad water – and code violations:

1.  Lawns to the lake – fertilizers.

2.  Tree removal in the riparian area.

3.  Sandy beaches brought in by heavy machinery in the riparian area.

4.  No anti-bacterial or bleach.

5.  Weeds in the water brought in from trailers and boats.

6.      Road water runoff – grease, oil and tires.

Richard will be making up a list called “In Dunes City we…” for next months meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:06 PM .

Respectfully submitted, Susie Navetta

May 3, 2007  

The meeting was called to order by Richard Koehler at 7:03 .

 Voting members present were Janet Carroll, Mark Chandler, Jerry Curran, Ralph Farnsworth, and Richard Koehler.  Voting members absent were George Burke and Rick Cox.  Also attending were Audrey Farnsworth, Stephen Hager, Susie Navetta and John Stead.  George Goldstein from the Lane County Road Advisory Board was our guest.

The minutes from the last meeting on April 5, 2007 were approved as written.

 On Saturday, May 12^th  the “Water Testers” will meet with Steve Hansen from DEQ.  Mark Chandler said they have a new testing devise is accurate and very small.  The new water testers are Ian Chun, Jerry Curran and Steve Hager. The old water testers are Mark Chandler, Ralph Farnsworth and Bob Mohler.

 Our speaker, George Goldstein explained of his knowledge of water spills and overflow.  He had not realized before now that siltation was running into Woahink Lake from the Canary Road slump.  George informed us that he would be willing to contact Sonny Chickering of the Lane County Road Department and plead our case for revegetation of the Canary Road slump.

 A conversation ensued concerning our three new ordinances – Erosion and Sediment Control, Phosphorus Reduction and Stormwater Pollution Reduction.   George Goldstein also told us that he knows the guy who found a way to stop nitrogen loading through education and product suggestions.  George said he has worked with ODOT he has good communication with them and will be able to complete the circle with Lane County .  Richard Koehler showed maps with state and Lane County roads and the work that needed to be done.  Richards’ main target right now is the barrier on HWY 101 across from the Myrtlewood Factory and Martha Jacobs residence.  Other properties that would be involved are Richard Anderson’s property, the mobile home, the sea plane place and 2 more home sites.  

 Mark Chandler and Lori Robertson are the representatives for Dunes City at the Siuslaw Watershed Council and will keep us apprised of their meetings.

 Jerry Curran suggested that we ask that the speed be lowered on HWY 101 to 45 MPH.  Richard Koehler said we are working on it.  Richard suggested we put up a sign on the highway that reads www.DunesCity.com so that residents could get news on the festival, read the newsletters, check on meeting times, down load a permit, read an ordinance, and get some educational information.

 The next meeting will be held on June 7^th at 7:00pm in the Dunes City hall .

 Meeting adjourned at 9:30pm .  

Respectfully submitted, Susie Navetta

April 5, 2007  

 Chairman Richard Koehler opened the meeting at 7:01pm .

 Members present were George Burke, Janet Carroll, Mark Chandler, and Richard Koehler.  Members absent were Rick Cox, Jerry Curran, and Ralph Farnsworth.  Guest Speakers were Mark Correa and Leslie Talent from Wally’s Septic and George Ehlers the Lane County Sanitarian.  Also present were Richard Anderson, Gary Rose and Susie Navetta (volunteer secretary).

 The main topic of discussion was the Septic System Maintenance Ordinance.  Mark Correa noted there were problems in the field with some resistance from some residents.  However, about 20% of the Dunes City residents have had their system evaluated before they received a notice from Dunes City .  Leslie Talent from Wally’ said they were more than happy to get the permits and old maps from Lane County prior to the evaluations.  Mark likes the evaluation form and said that he thought it needed only minor adjustments.  Besides using a probe to locate the distribution boxes and drainfields, the inspectors use dye tablets. Richard will contact Mark Correa for his thoughts on the evaluation form.

 Mark Correa expressed his concern about the collection of fees.  The evaluation fee from Wally’s currently is $200 and the fee for Dunes City is $50.  Wally’s concern is paying Dunes City before he collects from the resident.  If Wally pays Dunes City first and then does the work and doesn’t get paid then he will have paid the Dunes City and taken the loss on the labor as well.

 If Wally's first does the work, pays Dunes City and then doesn’t get paid by the septic owner then Dunes City will have been paid yet Wally's will have taken both the loss of up-front payment as well as labor.  Richard thought that it was unfair for an inspector/company to be a loan agent for a customer who may not pay.  Policy must be designed by the Council so that the septic owner pay Dunes City 's fee first lest they not be in compliance.

 There was a question about sandfilters systems – George Ehlers said, “They can work forever with maintenance”. Standard systems are adequate for Lane County codes, however some developers are putting in the Advantex System.  The Advantex System, White Water System and others do not address Phosphorus elimination at this time.  A new system, Phosphorid may be approved by the Department of Environmental Quality in the near future.  When a failure is identified, it was agreed, first notify the Lane County Sanitarian and the second notification should go to Dunes City . 

 In some areas, rapid distribution is present, the process could be slowed down by reducing the size of the pipe from 4” to 2 ½”.  Pressurized distribution would cause the lot size to go from ½ acre to 1 acre.  George Ehlers said, “when making perk tests, Lane County would not allow a lot to be developed if it did not have the capacity for a septic system”

A failed system at 5583 Woahink Drive has not been addressed.  The consensus was the Site Review Committee should see to this problem.  

Richard Koehler thanked Mark Correa and Leslie Talent for attending and participating in the meeting.  He also thanked George Ehlers and presented him with a copy of the Dunes City Comprehensive Plan.

Old business – Problems on HWY 101:

 1.  Settlement pond

2.  the triplewide trailer at Lake Shore Drive

3.  Erosion across from the Myrtlewood Factory

causing road wastes to enter the riparian zone and the lake.

 Gus Gates from Siuslaw Soil and Water Conservation District has agreed to meet with Mark Chandler, Honeyman State Park , ODOT, and any of the other agencies involved including George Goldstein from Lane County Advisory Council.  The purpose of the meeting is to find water quality solutions.  George will be invited to the next Water Quality Control Committee meeting on May 3, 2007 at 7:00 .

The highway does not have a constant speed limit. The most dangerous times are as cars or trailers leave Honeyman Park either to the north or south.  Vacationers come on to the highway without the knowledge of how fast the traffic flows.  Susie Navetta will write a letter to ODOT for consideration by the City Council expressing concern for tourists as well as the locals.

 Susie Navetta reported on the Stinky Water reported by some residents on Woahink Lake .

The stench was spread over much of the lake with 18 residences responding.

 TASKS:

Ralph Farnsworth will give a report on the “Sponge” and International Paper.

Richard Koehler will ask George Goldstein to attend the next meeting and contact Mark Correa on his ideas for improving the septic evaluation form.

The meeting adjourned at 10:25 pm .

Respectfully submitted,

Susie Navetta

March 1, 2007

Chairman Richard Koehler opened the meeting at 7:00.

Those in attendance were George Burke, Janet Carroll, Rick Cox, Jerry Curran, Ralph Farnsworth, and John Stead.  Mark Chandler was absent.  Also present were Audrey Farnsworth, Peter Howison, Susie Navetta and Joe Klein from Econo Rooter and his contractor.

The minutes from the previous meeting on February 15, 2007 were approved.

Invited guests from Econo Rooter of Cocquille fielded questions from the committee concerning septic systems evaluations.  The firm is DEQ approved and will to come to our community once or twice a week.  They estimate the cost of inspection being about $350 per household.  They said our evaluation form was not as environmentally structured as the one they use, but would be willing to work with us in coming up with a new one.  Joe Klein said the Advantex System installed would cost between $15,000 and $18,000 and a sand filter system would be about $20,000.  They can be reached at JKlein@econorooter.us .

Richard Koehler will contact George Ehlers to ask Lane County requires Commercial septic systems to be inspected or pumped every year and how and if Wally’s Septic is reporting failed systems to the county.

Susie Navetta will call Mark Correa, from Wally’s Septic and ask him to attend the April meeting.

 John Stead read Mark Chandlers report on his visit with the Siuslaw Soil and Water Conservation District (SSWCD).  Gus Gates, from the district, said he had a good conversation with Pam Blake at DEQ earlier in the week regarding the sedimentation problem in the first arm of Woahink Lake.  Pam will send him more information that he will pass on to us.  After the visit, a few weeks ago, to the area Gus felt the worst turbidity was from the commercial parcels east of HWY 101, not directly from the highway or road side ditches.  He’s hoping ODOT will address the highway part, but sees a need to address the rest of the problem as well.  Pam had three possibilities as approaches to the problem:

1.  Possibility of grant funding from DEQ to get the assessment and design work done.

2.  Direct involvement of DEQ’s Stormwater Program for assessment and design.

3.  Last resort – Check land owners Foglio Trucking, Siuslaw Towing, etc. for permits and compliance with stormwater regulations.

Gus Gates also stated that he has a good working relationship with Gary Foglio and would like to preserve.  Gary has offered to make improvements to his current settling ponds.  Gus was hoping to get the landowners to the table to work together on a solution.  Stormwater is coming from Foglio Trucking, Lakeshore mobile home that drains into the mystery hole, Sandland Adventures, and Sidus Road are only some of the trouble spots.  Richard Koehler continues to work with Mike Spaeth from ODOT on the guardrail on HWY. 101

 Some other areas of concern are on Canary Road near the bridges.  All of the bridges are in low lying areas and stormwater runs directly into Woahink Lake.  Lane County will need to come up with solutions.

Ralph Farnsworth will be studying up on the “Sponge”, a new technique for gathering stormwater and revisiting the “International Paper” file from Susie Navetta.  Ralph will give a report at the next meeting.

John  Stead suggested that the WQCC request a secretary to take the minutes of the meeting.

Meeting Adjourned at 9:50 pm

Respectfully submitted, Susie Navetta

The next meeting will be held on April 5, 2007 at 7:00pm.

 Tasks:

1.  Richard Koehler will contact George Ehlers concerning failed system reporting and pumping frequencies for commercial businesses.

And continue to work with Mike speath from ODOT.

2.  Susie Navetta to call Mark Correa for the next meeting.

3. Ralph Farnsworth will give a report at the next meeting on the “Sponge” and International Paper.

*Extra note - During the Ethics Committee meeting on March 4th, Gary Darnielle suggested that the WQCC as well as other committees be passed by ordinance.

February 15, 2007

Chairman Richard Koehler opened the meeting at 7:03 pm.

Those in attendance were George Burke, Janet Carroll, Mark Chandler, Ralph Farnsworth, Richard Koehler, Bob Mohler, Susie Navetta, and John Stead.  Rick Cox was absent.  The guests were Audrey Farnsworth and Peter Howison.

ODOT - A group of the water quality committee met on 2-13-07 with Mike Spaeth and Adam Roberts from the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and Gus Gates from the Siuslaw Soil and Water Conservation District (SSWCD) to re-evaluate the ODOT barrier on HWY 101 at the Myrtlewood Factory.  They were George Burke, Mark Chandler and Richard Koehler.  The question still remains ‘what type of barrier would be the best?’  Metal barrier seems to be the one that ODOT would like to install, but it certainly will not stop road run-off.

The Dunes City Comprehensive Plan states in Policy B10:  The City will work with Lane County, ODOT, and other state agencies to develop a protective barrier where highway 101 runs parallel to Woahink Lake.  ODOT needs to protect the lake from spills and road runoff.   See attachment # A.  Highway 101 is a ‘Scenic Byway’ and this issue complicates choosing a design compatable with that designation.  ODOT does not do ‘spill stations’.  Property owners of the Myrtlewood Factory and Martha Jacobs would have to give approval for the project.

Mike Spaeth presented a map that showed 19 drainage points on HWY 101.  Janet Carroll and Richard Koehler will walk the highway and observe and record the culverts.

It was determined a small group work with Gary Foglio as he may be willing to install better settlement ponds on his property.  John Stead said, “We have to slow the water down.”  Ralph Farnsworth will e-mail the Source Water Assessments from DEQ and Lane Council of Governments (LCOG) to Mike.

Grants - Ralph Farnsworth checked on the 306 grant for the new Siltcoos Lake Handicapped Kayak station.  After finding a writer it was determined that it would be better to write the grant in January 2008 for presentation

Mark Chandler mentioned the status of the 319 grant and the noxious weed problem.  Dunes City qualified for a medium position and it was likely we would not receive any money.  Janet Carroll read the DHS grant and said it did not apply to Dunes City.

Susie Navetta Called Jackie Fern at DEQ and learned there a small grants for $20,000 for private systems regarding water systems.  The Oregon Economic (OECED) has a drinking water fund.  Jackie also suggested calling Pam Blake and hone in on water issues.  Susie will call Pam and check out the OECED on the web.

Testing – Mark Chandler and Ralph Farnsworth will continue their monthly testing on Woahink Lake.  They will be testing for salinity, conductivity and establishing a base line for Ecoli.   The ecoli counts have been the highest at the East Woahink Lake Swimming Beach and the Gibbs Creek Bridge. 

George Burke says he does not have the time to do the testing on Siltcoos Lake, so Bob Mohler will be testing with a new volunteer, Ian Chun.

Septic Systems – Mark Correa from Wally’s Septic was to be the guest speaker at the meeting, but cancelled at the last minute.  Mark asked for a list of questions and said he would get back to us.  The complaints from residents need to be addressed.  John Stead suggested that the letters to residents for evaluation be held off for a month or so.  Richard Koehler said the volunteers could get them out. 

The Septic System Maintenance Ordinance needs to have the definitions added.

 The Phosphorus Reduction Ordinance needs to add “When a phosphorus reducing septic system is available it should replace failed systems and new installations.”

 Water Rights – George Burke reported the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) requested all of the diversion points on Woahink Lake and he made them available to the state.  John Stead explained the water rights and their uses.  

The minutes from the previous meeting were approved

The meeting adjourned at about 9:00 pm.

Respectfully submitted, Susie Navetta, WQCC Secretary

Tasks:  Janet Carroll and Richard Koehler will walk HWY 101 and identifiy  and record the culverts.

Richard Koehler will appoint a small group to talk with Gary Foglio about installing better settlement ponds.

Ralph Farnsworth will email the Water Source Assessments from DEQ and LCOG to Mike Spaeth at ODOT.

Susie Navetta will call Pam Blake for grant money for water issues.

Susie Navetta will check out OECED on the web.

Everyone will work on some complaints or questions to ask Mark Correa of  Wally’s Septic.   

January 23, 2007 

The meeting was opened at 7:02 in the absence of Chairman Richard Koehler the committee selected George Burke to chair the meeting.

In attendance were George Burke, Janet Carroll (prospective member), Mark Chandler, Rick Cox, Audrey and Ralph Farnsworth, and Susie Navetta.

In starting off the new year we agreed to go through old business.

.Look for the tasks in green print.

1.  Grant 306 (DLCD) a grant for up $50,000 – Ralph Farnsworth will look the grant over and get help form Doris Sadovy if necessary.  The grant papers are due February 16^th.

2.  The Reisenhuber letter – indicated that the inspector from Wally’s Septic told him that he would have to have all three of his systems pumped every 5 years (the cost is over $1000).  Susie Navetta will invite Mark Correa of Wally’s Septic for the next WQCC meeting on February 16^th at 7:00 pm.

3.  Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) extension – George Burke believes this was attended to by Planning Secretary Teri Tinker and Mayor Sheldon Meyer.

4.  Planting at Honeyman Park – Shirley Stentz, Park Manager requested 66 hours of volunteer hours to help in planting the riparian area around Honeyman Park.  She also asked that locals bring seedlings from their own yards to plant in November.  Susie  Navetta will make the public announcement at the next  City Council meeting.

5.  319 Grant - Mark Chandler reported that Dunes City received a medium rating and is not sure if we’ll get the grant.

6.  DEQ called – Jackie Fern called Susie Navetta and asked if she could be of any help.  Susie will return Jackie’s call and ask her how she can be of assistance to Dunes City.

7.  Clear Lake Road and the Gibbs Creek Bridge - water has been standing on the side of the road since it’s completion.  Susie Navetta called Lane County Road Department to complain about the stagnant water.  The County said they were watching it and did not intend to anything about the problem until water started running over the road.  The County said the problem was caused by beavers on property outside of Lane County.

8.  Water Users in Dunes City – According to the December 2, 2005 from OWRD there are 217 points of diversion on the Dunes City permit in Woahink Lake.  There are probably 100 users with certification of private water rights and still another 100 with no permit.  It is believed that about 100 residences take their water from Siltcoos Lake, some residents have private permits, certificates, multifamily permits and of course some others that have no permit.

9.  Water Committee Formation Resolution – Susie Navetta would like a final copy for the files.  George Burke will ask for a copy.

10.  Water Rights – What do they mean?  John Stead will give a short explanation at the next WQCC.

11.  Dunes City Policies – was put aside for another time.

12.  Lakeside Meeting – was put aside for another time.

13.  Phosphates – George Burke wanted to know exactly which brands of dishwasher detergent had the lowest phosphorus level or no phosphorus.  Susie Navetta gave George a list and told him that packaging changes all the time so it is necessary to read the label.  It was agreed that Susie Navetta will write Joanne Verger and ask that this be brought before the legislature.

14.  Stinky Water - No report.

15.  Water Testing – Mark chandler said the testers had been out last week and the oxygen levels were normal.

16.  Canary Road and the snow plow -  it was reported by Mark Chandler that a snow plow was scooping up the mud on Clear Lake Road and depositing it in the bushes only to be washed down on the road by the next rain.

17.  Settlement pond on the north - Susie Navetta will email Gus Gates of the Siuslaw Soil and Water Conservation District and ask if there has been any progress.

18.  Riparian Area across from the Myrtlewood Factory – the riparian area in Dunes City has been clipped to the ground.  George Burke will ask staff to send the Conservation Committee out for a site review.

19.  Definition for the Septic Ordinance – the definitions need put in the Septic Ordinance.  The WQCC needs to know how that could happen.  George Burke will ask staff for the procedure.

20.  Dowsing – John Stead is teaching Ralph Farnsworth to dowse for the purpose of finding drainfield lines.

21.  Janet will read and report back to the WQCC on DHS Grant at the next meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 8:45pm.

Respectfully submitted, Susie Navetta.  

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