Comfort Lake Forest Lake Watershed District

Hands on Butterfly Garden Design - Winter 2026
2026-02-23 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Chisago Lakes High School, 29400 Olinda Trail, Lindstrom, MN, United States
If you’d like to attract more butterflies to your yard, consider adding native plants, shrubs, and trees that help support their diverse nutritional needs. Native plants generally require less maintenance on your part and provide
food and shelter for local wildlife. We will go through several host plants that will attract specific pollinators. Participants will receive an informational folder full of great publications, a native plant book, and several door prizes will be given away from local plant specialists.
https://isd2144.ce.eleyo.com/course/3241/winter-2026/hands-on-butterfly-garden-design

Butterfly Bombs Parent/Child Ages 5-10 - Winter 2026
2026-02-26 18:00 - 19:00 | Normandy Park Education Center / Senior Center, 2484 County Rd F East, White Bear Lake, Minnesota, 55110
Join us to learn about the magical and mystical journey of the monarch butterfly. We will follow the migration and incredible journey of these insects. We will also be making butterfly bombs to help increase the population of their favorite and necessary foods…milkweeds! All supplies and materials are provided, just bring your creativity.

https://forestlake.ce.eleyo.com/course/8444/winter-2026-jan-apr/butterfly-bombs-parent-child-ages-5-10

02/26/26 Regular Board Meeting
2026-02-26 18:30 - 20:30
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 894 3964 8866
Meeting Notice & Agenda

Call to Order of Regular Meeting
Setting of Meeting Agenda
Consent Agenda: The consent agenda is considered as one item of business. It consists of routine administrative items or items not requiring discussion. Items can be removed from the consent agenda at the request of the Board member, staff member, or a member of the audience. Please state which item or items you wish to remove for separate discussion.

a) January 8, 2026 Regular Board Meeting Minutes
b) January 22, 2026 Regular Board Meeting Minutes

CLFLWD YouTube Channel (for watching past meetings)

Public Open Forum
Advisory Committee Updates
New Business

a) 2026 Aquatic Invasive Species Treatment Service Contract
b) 2026 Chisago County Watercraft Inspection Joint Powers Agreement
c) Operations & Maintenance Program Update

YouTube Presentation

d) Minnesota Watersheds Legislative Event 2026

Event Packet

Old Business

a) Water Management Districts

Report of Staff

a) Administrator
b) Emmons and Olivier Resources
c) Smith Partners

Report of Treasurer and Approval of Bills
Report of Officers and Managers
Summary and Approval of Board Direction
Adjourn

a) Next regular board meeting – March 12, 2026, 6:30 pm

Bee Houses - Winter 2026
2026-03-05 18:00 - 19:00 | Chisago Lakes High School, 29400 Olinda Trail, Lindstrom, MN, United States
This is a Family Class…so kids bring an adult with you!
Come and join us to learn about native bees. We will learn the bee basics and also the importance of these incredible insects. We will also be making bee houses that you will be able to take home. Turn your crafty creativity into functional fun. More bees means more fruits, veggies, and flowers in your own backyard! All the supplies and materials are provided, just bring your creativity.
https://isd2144.ce.eleyo.com/course/3239/winter-2026/bee-houses

Pollinator Lawns - Winter 2026
2026-03-09 14:00 - 15:00 | Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd N, Forest Lake, MN, 55025, United States
We love our lush green lawns, maybe a bit too much? Join Comfort Lake Forest Lake Watershed District at Hardwood Creek Library to learn what we can plant. We’ll discuss lawn alternatives that are more environmentally friendly and will keep your backyard buzzing. Small changes can save you time and money while creating beauty and protecting our environment.
https://washcolib.libcal.com/event/15491670

Gardening - Planning and Planting Pocket Gardens - Winter 2026
2026-03-12 18:30 - 19:30 | Normandy Park Education Center / Senior Center, 2484 County Rd F East, White Bear Lake, Minnesota, 55110
A native wildflower garden will attract beautiful butterflies and bees to your yard and help pollinators stay healthy. You can plant a garden anywhere from the boulevard of your city lot, under pine trees and even that shady corner where nothing ever seems to ever grow. We will cover it all from weeds to seeds and start to bountiful blooms. We will even “walk” through a project from scratch. You will receive an informational folder full of great publications, a native plant book and several door prizes will be given away from local plant specialists.

https://forestlake.ce.eleyo.com/course/8539/winter-2026-jan-apr/gardening-planning-and-planting-pocket-gardens

03/12/26 Regular Board Meeting
2026-03-12 18:30 - 20:30
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 842 3924 4545
Meeting Notice & Agenda

Call to Order of Regular Meeting
Setting of Meeting Agenda
New Business

a) 2026 Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention & Management Plan

YouTube Presentation

b) 2026 Water Monitoring Plan
c) 2026 Cost-Share Program Framework
d) FY27 Clean Water Fund Competitive Grant Applications (Updated 3/12/26)
e) GreenCorps Host Site Application Resolution
f) Heath Iron Enhanced Sand Filter Bid Solicitation
g) MN Lakes and Rivers Letter of Support

Old Business

a) 2026-2028 Forest Lake Cooperative Aquatic Invasive Species Agreement (Tri-Party Agreement)

Program/Project Update

a) Project Update
b) Program Update – Permitting

YouTube Presentation (added 3/11/26)

Report of Officers and Managers
Summary and Approval of Board Direction
Adjourn

a) Next regular board meeting – March 26, 2026, 6:30 pm

Watershed Connections: Climate-Resilient Trees for a Changing Landscape
2026-03-16 18:00 - 19:30 | Forest Lake Senior Community Center, 767 4th St SW, Forest Lake, MN, 55025
More frequent extreme weather events and the spread of invasive pests are intensifying the challenges caused by low plant diversity in managed landscapes. These pressures can lead to weaker ecosystems that are less able to adapt to environmental stress, disease, and climate change. The University of Minnesota Extension Horticulture promotes increasing plant diversity as a key strategy for creating healthier, more resilient landscapes that can better withstand these growing threats.
Join Laura Irish-Hanson (MN Landscape Arboretum) to explore the factors that influence long-term landscape success, including site conditions, climate considerations, and maintenance practices. You’ll learn practical plant selection criteria, discover new and underused species that can expand your plant palette, and gain tools for addressing common landscape challenges in a more sustainable and adaptable way.
This FREE workshop will be held at the Forest Lake Senior Community Center (767 4th St SW, Forest Lake, MN 55025) starting at 6:00 p.m. The workshop includes an hour presentation, a box supper, and time for open discussion after the presentation.
Please RSVP before Friday, March 13th for this workshop, so we have an accurate headcount for food and seating. To register, please contact the CLFLWD at 651-395-5850 or by email.
Event Flyer
Open Meeting Notice

03/17/26 CAC Meeting
2026-03-17 17:00 - 18:00
Open Meeting Notice

Bee Houses Parent/Child Ages 5-10 - Winter 2026
2026-03-26 18:00 - 19:00 | Normandy Park Education Center / Senior Center, 2484 County Rd F East, White Bear Lake, Minnesota, 55110
Come and join us to learn about bee basics and the importance of native bees. We will also be making bee houses to take home. Turn your crafty creativity into functional fun. More bees means more fruits, veggies and flowers in your own backyard! Supplies and materials are provided, just bring your creativity.

https://forestlake.ce.eleyo.com/course/8445/winter-2026-jan-apr/bee-houses-parent-child-ages-5-10

03/26/26 Regular Board Meeting
2026-03-26 18:30 - 20:30
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 861 2468 2262
Meeting Notice & Agenda

Call to Order of Regular Meeting
Setting of Meeting Agenda
Consent Agenda: The consent agenda is considered as one item of business. It consists of routine administrative items or items not requiring discussion. Items can be removed from the consent agenda at the request of the Board member, staff member, or a member of the audience. Please state which item or items you wish to remove for separate discussion.

a) January 8, 2026 Regular Board Meeting Minutes
b) January 22, 2026 Regular Board Meeting Minutes

Summary of Changes

c) Regular Board Meeting Minutes – February 12, 2026
d) Regular Board Meeting Minutes – February 26, 2026

CLFLWD YouTube Channel (for watching past meetings)

Public Open Forum
Advisory Committee Updates
New Business

a) Draft 2025 Comprehensive Monitoring Report

Presentation (added 3/26/26)

b) Bush Foundation Grant Application
c) Green Infrastructure Grant East Comfort Pond Project Scope of Work
d) Draft 2025 Year-In-Review, Annual Report, Progress Report

2025 Year-In-Review Draft
2025 Annual Report Draft
2025 Progress Report Draft

e) U of St. Thomas Sustainable Communities Program

Old Business

a) Cost-Share Program Update

Report of Staff

a) Administrator
b) Emmons and Olivier Resources
c) Smith Partners

Report of Treasurer and Approval of Bills (Updated 3/26/26)
Report of Officers and Managers
Summary and Approval of Board Direction
Adjourn

a) Next regular board meeting – April 9, 2026, 6:30 pm

Bone Lake South Property Informational Meeting
2026-03-30 18:00 - 19:30 | Scandia Community Center, 14727 209th St. N., Scandia, MN, 55073, United States
The Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District was awarded Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage and MNDNR Conservation Partnership funds to purchase 238-acres of property south of Bone Lake, Scandia, MN. These state grants provide funding for restoration, protection, and enhancement of wetlands, prairies, forests, and habitat for fish, game, and wildlife. The property is undeveloped with many wetland habitats, remnant oak savanna, and mature mixed northern hardwood species.
Over the coming years, the District will work to restore several of the high value wetland habitats, convert agriculture fields to native prairie, and establish over three miles of trails open to non-motorized access. Upon completion of restoration efforts, the property will be open to the public for day-use recreation.
Join the District on March 30th, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Scandia Community Center (14727 209th Street North, Scandia MN 55073) to learn more about the property, the restoration plans, and the overall timeline.
Please RSVP before Friday, March 27th for this meeting, so we have an accurate headcount for seating and materials. To register, please contact the CLFLWD at 651-395-5850 or by email.
Informational Meeting Flyer
Open Meeting Notice

04/09/26 Regular Board Meeting
2026-04-09 18:30 - 20:30
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 898 9958 9723
Meeting Notice & Agenda

Call to Order of Regular Meeting
Setting of Meeting Agenda
Consent Agenda: The consent agenda is considered as one item of business. It consists of routine administrative items or items not requiring discussion. Items can be removed from the consent agenda at the request of the Board member, staff member, or a member of the audience. Please state which item or items you wish to remove for separate discussion.

a) Regular Board Meeting Minutes – March 12, 2026

CLFLWD YouTube Channel (for watching past meetings)

New Business

a) Lower St. Croix Watershed Partnership Update
b) 2026 MN Watersheds Request For Resolutions
c) Manager Liaisons and Interagency Agendas

Old Business

a) 2025 Comprehensive Monitoring Report
b) 2025 Year-In-Review, Annual Report, Progress Report Presentation

YouTube Presentation
Comments on 2025 Annual Report and Progress Report

c) Natural Shoreline Outreach and Education Campaign Update

YouTube Presentation

Program/Project Update

a) Project Update
b) Program Update – Grant Research & Preparation

Report of Officers and Managers
Summary and Approval of Board Direction
Adjourn

a) Next regular board meeting – April 23, 2026, 6:30 pm

04/14/26 CAC Meeting
2026-04-14 17:00 - 18:00

Bugged Out Water - Winter 2026
2026-04-16 18:00 - 19:00 | Chisago Lakes High School, 29400 Olinda Trail, Lindstrom, MN, United States
Is there anything more exciting than playing with bugs? We will be digging right in and seeing what kind of buggy neighbors are swimming around the lakes and streams. This is a very hands-on session full of creepy crawly fun that will leave you with a better appreciation of how important insects are as well as what they can tell us about the water quality. All the supplies and materials are provided, just bring your creativity.

https://isd2144.ce.eleyo.com/course/3240/winter-2026/bugged-out-water

Landscaping Septics - Winter 2026
2026-04-20 18:30 - 19:30 | Chisago Lakes High School, 29400 Olinda Trail, Lindstrom, MN, United States
Landscaping near and around septic systems is a concern of many homeowners. Whether you already have an existing septic system or will be installing a new one to your residence, there are many aesthetic options. Participants will learn some tips and techniques that not only will help the looks of the system; they will also help the functioning of the system. Participants will receive an informational folder full of great publications, a native plant book, and several door prizes will be given away from local plant specialists.

https://isd2144.ce.eleyo.com/course/3237/winter-2026/landscaping-septics

Build Your Own Lures Parent/Child Ages 5-10 (2) - Winter 2026
2026-04-23 18:00 - 19:00 | Forest Lake Area Schools Education Center, 943 9th Ave SW, Forest Lake, MN, 55025, United States
Why do fish chase after one lure but ignore the next one? Do they see every color, certain colors or none at all? We will be talking about and looking at a wide variety of gadgets and lures, as well as giving you a chance to make your own to take home and try out. All the supplies and materials are provided, just bring your creativity.

https://forestlake.ce.eleyo.com/course/8443/winter-2026-jan-apr/build-your-own-lures-parent-child-ages-5-10

04/23/26 Regular Board Meeting
2026-04-23 18:30 - 20:30
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 823 3785 4045
Meeting Notice & Agenda

Call to Order of Regular Meeting
Setting of Meeting Agenda
Consent Agenda: The consent agenda is considered as one item of business. It consists of routine administrative items or items not requiring discussion. Items can be removed from the consent agenda at the request of the Board member, staff member, or a member of the audience. Please state which item or items you wish to remove for separate discussion.

a) Regular Board Meeting Minutes – March 26, 2026

Link to March 26 YouTube Recording

b) National Fish & Wildlife Foundation Five Star Grant Application

Public Open Forum
Advisory Committee Updates
New Business

a) 2025 Audit Report

Audit Executive Governance Summary
Audit Financial Report
Audit Presentation

b) 2027 Budget Schedule & Outreach Plan
c) Watershed Management Plan Minor Amendment
d) Starry Stonewort Rapid Response Plan

Old Business

a) 2025 Year-In-Review, Annual Report, & Progress Report

2025 Year-In-Review Draft
2025 Annual Report Draft
2025 Progress Report Draft

b) Bone Lake South Nature Area Fencing
c) Natural Shoreline Education and Outreach Campaign Update

Report of Staff

a) Administrator

Presentation

b) Emmons and Olivier Resources
c) Smith Partners

Report of Treasurer and Approval of Bills
Report of Officers and Managers
Summary and Approval of Board Direction
Adjourn

a) Next regular board meeting – May 14, 2026, 6:30 pm

Watershed Connections: How Zebra Mussel Populations Affect Mercury Accumulation in Fish
2026-04-27 18:00 - 19:30 | Forest Lake Senior Community Center, 767 4th St SW, Forest Lake, MN, 55025
Please join us to learn how the University of Minnesota’s Fisheries Systems Ecology Lab is studying the ways zebra mussel invasions influence mercury buildup in aquatic food webs. The lab’s recent work brings together several related projects that explore how these invasive mussels can reshape lake ecosystems by altering nutrient cycling, changing food web structure, and influencing how contaminants such as mercury move through the environment. By examining patterns across different lakes and conditions, the research aims to better understand when, where, and why zebra mussels alter mercury dynamics. This work helps reveal how ecological changes caused by invasive species can affect fish contamination levels, with important implications for fisheries management, ecosystem health, and fish consumption by people and wildlife.
This FREE workshop will be held at the Forest Lake Senior Community Center (767 4th St SW, Forest Lake, MN 55025) starting at 6:00 p.m. The workshop includes an hour presentation, a box supper, and time for open discussion after the presentation.
Please RSVP before Friday, April 24th for this workshop, so we have an accurate headcount for food and seating. To register, please contact the CLFLWD at 651-395-5850 or by email.
Event Flyer
Open Meeting Notice

Native Shrubs and Fruit Trees - Spring 2026
2026-05-11 14:00 - 15:00 | Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd N, Forest Lake, MN, 55025, United States
Growing fruit trees and shrubs in Minnesota can be tricky because of our short growing season. One solution is to grow native fruit trees and shrubs!
Join us to learn how to make it work. Learn about hardy fruit trees and shrubs that will flourish in our backyards, sustaining both people and local wildlife. There are more varieties than you might expect, and many are available for purchase.
Participants will get an informational folder with helpful resources, and several bare-root trees will be given away as door prizes.
This program is offered in partnership with the Comfort Lake–Forest Lake Watershed District.
https://washcolib.libcal.com/event/15491672

05/12/26 Special Board Meeting - Budget Workshop #1
2026-05-12 18:00 - 20:00
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 895 2281 7192
Meeting Notice & Agenda
Full agenda and board packet items will be posted on this page no later than 3 days immediately preceding the meeting.

Call to Order of Special Meeting
Budget Workshop #1 – Prioritization
Administrator Performance Review [may convene in closed session]
Adjourn

Next regular board meeting – May 14, 2026, 6:30 pm

05/14/26 Regular Board Meeting
2026-05-14 18:30 - 20:30
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 811 7423 8370
Meeting Notice & Agenda

Call to Order of Regular Meeting
Setting of Meeting Agenda
Consent Agenda: The consent agenda is considered as one item of business. It consists of routine administrative items or items not requiring discussion. Items can be removed from the consent agenda at the request of the Board member, staff member, or a member of the audience. Please state which item or items you wish to remove for separate discussion.

a) Regular Board Meeting Minutes – April 9, 2026

CLFLWD YouTube Channel – April 9th

b) Letter of Support for Great River Greening Grant Application

New Business

a) Permit 25-015 Havenwood (Chestnut Creek Phase 2)
b) Permit 25-019 Amberly Woods
c) Wittrock Porch Addition Applicability of Lake Buffer Requirement
d) Watershed Management Plan Amendment Presentation

Old Business

a) Floodplain Resilience Action Plan Framework

YouTube Video
Presentation
Draft Floodplain Resilience Action Plan Framework

b) 2026 Impaired Waters List

Project Update
Report of Officers and Managers
Administrator Performance Review (may convene in closed session)
Summary and Approval of Board Direction
Adjourn

a) Next regular board meeting – May 28, 2026, 6:30 pm

05/19/26 CAC Meeting
2026-05-19 17:00 - 18:00

Office Holiday – Memorial Day 2026
2026-05-25
The Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District office will be closed to observe this holiday.

05/26/26 Special Board Meeting – Floodplain Resilience Action Plan Framework Workshop
2026-05-26 18:00 - 20:00
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 899 5008 1761
Meeting Notice & Agenda

Call to Order of Special Meeting
Floodplain Resilience Action Plan Framework Workshop
Adjourn

a) Next regular board meeting – May 28, 2026, 6:30 pm

05/28/26 Regular Board Meeting
2026-05-28 18:30 - 20:30
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 884 6791 7964
Meeting Notice & Agenda
Full agenda and board packet items will be posted on this page no later than the Monday immediately preceding the meeting.

Call to Order of Regular Meeting
Setting of Meeting Agenda
Consent Agenda: The consent agenda is considered as one item of business. It consists of routine administrative items or items not requiring discussion. Items can be removed from the consent agenda at the request of the Board member, staff member, or a member of the audience. Please state which item or items you wish to remove for separate discussion.

a) Regular Board Meeting Minutes – April 23, 2026

Direct YouTube link

b) Special Board Meeting Minutes – May 12, 2026

Direct YouTube link

Public Open Forum
Advisory Committee Updates
New Business

a) Permit 25-020 Forest View Preserve
b) Insurance Liability Coverage Waiver
c) 2026 Budget Amendment

Old Business

a) Natural Shoreline Education & Outreach Campaign
b) Education & Outreach Program Update
c) Starry Stonewort Rapid Response
d) Floodplain Resilience Action Plan Framework

Final Floodplain Resilience Action Plan Framework

Report of Staff

a) Administrator

Presentation

b) Emmons and Olivier Resources
c) Smith Partners

Report of Treasurer and Approval of Bills

2026 Jan-Jun Cash Flow Projections

Report of Officers and Managers
Summary and Approval of Board Direction
Adjourn

a) Next special board meeting – June 2, 2026, 6:00 pm
b) Next regular board meeting – June 11, 2026, 6:30 pm

06/02/26 Special Board Meeting - Budget Workshop #2
2026-06-02 18:00 - 20:00
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 823 6310 7770
Meeting Notice & Agenda

Call to Order of Special Meeting
Budget Workshop #2- First Review
Adjourn

a) Next regular board meeting – June 11, 2026, 6:30 pm

Native Plant Walk and Talk - Hardwood Creek Library Summer 2026
2026-06-08 17:30 - 18:30 | Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd N, Forest Lake, MN, 55025, United States
Join Adam Hjelm for a walk and talk through the prairie and pond areas outside Hardwood Creek Library. We’ll learn about the plants and wildlife just outside the library’s back door.
Each walk and talk is different and changes with the season. Participants are encouraged to take photos and stop to smell the flowers along the way. A boxed dinner will be provided. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
Registration is required.
https://washcolib.libcal.com/event/16713274

North Shore Trail Nature Area Walk and Talk
2026-06-09 18:00 - 19:00 | North Shore Trail Nature Area, North Shore Trail, Forest Lake, Minnesota, 55025
Join Comfort Lake – Forest Lake Watershed District’s Aidan Read for a walking tour through the recently restored North Shore Trail Nature Area.
Attendees will have the opportunity to take part in a guided walk through a unique natural area located in the heart of Forest Lake. During the tour, we will explore the history of the site and take an in-depth look at the restoration work that has been completed. Discussion will include the ecological goals that guided the project, the techniques and tools used to achieve those goals, and the methods being used to monitor and evaluate progress over time.
In addition, we will look ahead to the future of the site, including ongoing management strategies and stewardship efforts designed to protect and preserve this valuable and distinctive habitat for years to come.
Please RSVP via email to Adam Hjelm or call 651-395-5850 by June 8th so we have a headcount for supplies and materials.

Participants can park at the Forest Lake 3rd lake boat launch and walk to the site for the event.
Open Meeting Notice

06/11/26 Regular Board Meeting
2026-06-11 18:30 - 20:30
Remote Attendance Instructions:
Click here to join the zoom meeting online or dial by phone: 301-715-8592. Meeting ID: 865 6511 0602
Meeting Notice & Agenda

Call to Order of Regular Meeting
Setting of Meeting Agenda
Consent Agenda: The consent agenda is considered as one item of business. It consists of routine administrative items or items not requiring discussion. Items can be removed from the consent agenda at the request of the Board member, staff member, or a member of the audience. Please state which item or items you wish to remove for separate discussion.

a) Regular Board Meeting Minutes – May 14, 2026

CLFLWD YouTube Channel – May 14th

b) Special Board Meeting Minutes – May 26, 2026

CLFLWD YouTube Channel – May 26th

New Business

a) Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Fund Grant Awards
b) Shallow Pond Audubon Property Donation and ESA SOW
c) Natural Shoreline Outreach Plan Framework

Old Business

a) Heath Iron Enhanced Sand Filter Project Contract Award
b) Watershed Management Plan Minor Amendment Adoption
c) Floodplain Resilience Project Feasibility Scope of Work
d) Clean Water Partnership Loan E Agreement
e) MN Watersheds Resolutions

Project Update
Report of Managers
Summary and Approval of Board Direction
Adjourn

a) Next special board meeting – June 15, 2026, 6:00 pm
b) Next regular board meeting – June 25, 2026, 6:30 pm
