SAINT PAUL – Legislation authored by State Representative Dave Baker, R-Willmar, that provides funding to the Middle Fork Crow River Watershed District for restoration efforts at Lake Monongalia in New London received a hearing in the House Capital Investment Committee on Monday. New London Mayor John Dahl joined Rep. Baker at the hearing and testified in support of the bill.
“Dangerous levels of hydrogen sulfide gas have existed in Lake Monongalia for years—impacting water and air quality for wildlife, fish, vegetation, and local residents,” said Baker. “This funding would ensure that the local watershed district can purchase the equipment needed to mitigate the high levels of this dangerous gas and restore the lake to its natural state. Thank you to Mayor Dahl for traveling to St. Paul to share with the committee the experiences of the community and the importance of our mitigation efforts.”
Rep. Baker presenting the bill during committee.
In 2002, a study conducted by the University of Minnesota, Department of Natural Resources and Pollution Control Agency, recorded hydrogen sulfide gas concentrations at Mill Pond Dam reaching 4,017 parts per billion 30-minute average (133 times the state limit), making exposure dangerous for the local public and wildlife.
Chronic exposure has been linked to irritation to the eyes and respiratory system, upset stomach, dizziness, and more.
New London Mayor John Dahl testified in support of the bill.
Click here to read Baker’s legislation which provides $1.65 million to restore Lake Monongalia via innovative nanobubble technology.
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