Board of Supervisors Meeting — Agenda Packet

1 Sawyer County County Board of Supervisors Meeting Thursday, February 19, 2026 @ 6:30 PM Sawyer County Board Room AGENDA 1. ZOOM LINK a. To view or participate in the virtual meeting from a computer, iPad, or Android device please go to https://zoom.us/j/95015680309 You can also use the dial in at 1-312-626-6799with the Webinar ID: 950 1568 0309. Use *9 to Raise/lower hand and *6 to Unmute/mute. If you are on a computer, click the "Raise Hand" button and wait to be recognized. If you are on a telephone, dial *9 and wait to be recognized. If additional assistance is needed please contact the County Clerk's Office at 715- 634-4866 prior to the meeting. This meeting will be recorded and will be available on our website at: https://sawyercountygov.org. 2. CALL TO ORDER 3. ROLL CALL 4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 5. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW 6. MEETING AGENDA 7. PUBLIC COMMENTS At this time, members of the public will be given the opportunity to address the Board. Please adhere to the following when addressing the Board: • Comments will be limited to 3 minutes or less per individual. • Comments should be directed to the Board as a whole and not directed to individual Board members. • The Board cannot respond to your comments during this time. • Please sign in and fill out a public comment sheet if you wish to speak on an item. 8. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING a. Draft County Board Minutes 1.15.26 9. PRESENTATION ON NORTHWOODS TECHNICAL COLLEGE- DR. JOHN WILL a. Sawyer County Presentation 10. APPOINTMENTS Page 1 of 186 2 a. Sawyer County Board of Appeals/Board of Adjustment - 3 year term appointment as member - Joe Beran (Discussion/Action) *Joe Beran has served on the BOA since 2022 and has attended additional training seminars. He currently serves as 2nd alternate on the BOA. He is a retired Activities Director from LaCrosse Central High school who now lives in Sawyer County full-time. The BOA also recommends that Mr. Beran serve as a full member as opposed to 2nd alternate. b. Sawyer County Board of Appeals/Board of Adjustment — 3 year term appointments (1 individual for member / 1 individual for 2nd alternate) Virginia "Ginny" Chabek & James Bassett (Discussion/Action) *A legal notice of the Board of Appeals vacancy was sent to both papers and posted on the Sawyer County Website. These were the only 2 individuals that submitted a letter of interest/intent to the Sawyer County Zoning Department by the specified deadline. -Ginny Chabek is the current Chair of the Town of Round Lake Panning Commission and previous Town Board Supervisor. She has also been involved with other County Ad Hoc Committees and has knowledge of Sawyer County Zoning Ordinance(s) -James Bassett is the current Chair of the Town of Couderay Town Board. He has served as a County Board Supervisor in the past and has also been Chair of the Sawyer County Zoning Committee. 11. ZONING COMMITTEE a. Zoning Committee Chair Report b. Zone District Map Amendment for RZN #26-001. Thompson & Lang - Request to rezone 5.72 acres of F-1 to A-1. Zoning Committee and Town of Meadowbrook recommend approval. (Discussion/Action) (Resolution attached) c. Zone District Map Amendment for RZN #26-004. Schultty - Request to rezone 37.47 acres of F-1 to A-1. Zoning Committee and Town of Meadowbrook recommend approval. (Discussion/Action) (Resolution attached) d. Zone District Map Amendment for RZN #26-005. Winter & Abel - Request to rezone 8.32 acres of RR-2 to I-1. Zoning Committee and Town of Bass Lake recommend denial. (Discussion/Action) (Resolution attached) 12. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE a. Public Works Committee Report b. Airport Layout Plan Amendment (Discussion and Possible Action) 13. PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE a. Public Safety Committee Report 14. LAND, WATER, AND FOREST RESOURCES COMMITTEE a. LWFRC Committee Report b. Land & Water Resource Management Plan (LWRMP) (Discussion/Possible Action) Page 2 of 186 3 c. 2026 Emergency Fire Wardens Appointment (Discussion and Possible Action) d. 2025 Wildlife Damage Claims (Discussion and Possible Action) 15. FINANCE COMMITTEE a. Finance Committee Report b. Resolution 2026-____Establishing Elected Official Wages (Discussion and Possible Action) 16. HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES BOARD a. HHS Board Report b. Confirm Appointment of HHS Board Member Pam Mueller (Discussion and Possible Action) 17. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & UW EXTENSION COMMITTEE a. Economic Development & UW Ex Committee Report 18. SAWYER COUNTY ADMINISTRATION a. Administration Committee Report b. Resolution 2026-______________to Establish Membership with MS-ISAC c. County Administrator's Report d. CJCC Committee Report i) Approve Amendments to CJCC Bylaws (Discussion and Possible Action) e. Namekagon Transit Garage (Discussion and Possible Action) f. Strategic Plan (Discussion and Possible Action) 19. BOARD APPOINTED COMMITTEE UPDATES 20. CORRESPONDENCE, REPORTS FROM CONFERENCES AND MEETINGS 21. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 22. ADJOURNMENT DISCLAIMER: Page 3 of 186 4 Copy sent via email to: County Board and News Media. Note: Any person wishing to attend whom, because of a disability, requires accommodation should call the Sawyer County Clerk’s Office (715.634.4866) at least 24 hours before the scheduled meeting so appropriate arrangements can be made. Mission Statement: The Sawyer County Board of Supervisors will strive to provide excellent services and responsible leadership to protect and enhance Sawyer County citizens, businesses, and resources, while preserving our unique heritage. Page 4 of 186 Minutes of the January 15, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Sawyer County Courthouse/Virtual Voting Committee Members Present (X) Roll Call Dis tric t Wards Steve Kariainen 01 T Lenroot W-1, T Hayward W-7, C Hayward W-5 Kay Wilson 02 T Lenroot W-2, T Round Lake W-1 Tweed Shuman 03 T Hayward W-1 & 2 Stacey Hessel 04 T Hayward W-3 & 4 Randy Neumann 05 T Hayward W-5 & 6 Marc D. Helwig- Virtual 06 C Hayward W-1 & 2 Thomas W. Duffy 07 C Hayward W-3 & 4 Marshal Savitski 08 T Bass Lake W-1 & 2 Jim Evans 09 T Bass Lake W-3 & 4 Chuck Van Etten 10 T Sand Lake, T Edgewater W-1 Jeff Hoehne 11 T Edgewater W-2, T Bass Lake W-5, T Meteor, T Couderay, V Couderay John Righeimer 12 T Spider Lake, T Round Lake W-2, T Winter W-1 Ron Kinsley 13 T Hunter, T Radisson W-1, T-Ojibwa W-1, V Radisson Ron Buckholtz 14 T Radisson W-2, T Ojibwa W-2, T Weirgor, V Exeland, T Meadowbrook Dale Magnuson 15 T Winter W-2, T Draper, V Winter Also present: Mike Markgren, Liz Klein, Jay Kozlowski, Doug Mrotek, Greg Peterson, Sandy Okamoto, Bryan Deyo, Julia Lyons (virtual), Lori Baltrusis (virtual) Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance– Chair Kinsley called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm. Roll call was taken; quorum was met. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Meeting Agenda – Set Public Comments – Bryan Deyo formally announced he is running for Sheriff Minutes from the previous meeting dated: December 23, 2025 Motion to approve with attendance corrections by: Mr. Righeimer Second by: Mr. Evans Motion carried without negative vote. Zoning Committee – Mr. Buckholtz reported on Zoning Committee actions on CUPs, rezones and ordinance amendments, including a solar ordinance, and work on a comprehensive ordinance rewrite proposal. Mr. Kozlowski presented a 2025 permit summary with records dating back to 2006 for comparison. Mr. Kozlowski presented a report on 2025 enforcement statistics. The Department made enforcement a priority in 2025 and added Page 5 of 186 additional personnel to enforce code violations; 162 Orders for Correction were sent out, of which 74% were corrected and 26% remain open. Aerial imagery from 2025 will be used to identify illegal structures and code violations. Public Works Committee— Mr. Helwig updated the Board on December meeting reports for Maintenance, Airport and Highway projects. Public Safety Committee — Mr. Buckholtz reviewed the Jail, Code Enforcement, Emergency Management, Dispatch, Child Support, Code Enforcement and Ambulance reports for the board. Ms. Olson provided a detailed Animal Control report to the committee, explaining all the procedures for animal calls. Land, Water and Forest Resources Committee-- Mr. Kariainen reviewed the Register of Deeds, Land Records, Surveyor, Forestry, Zoning Conservation and Trails reports. Treasurer Brian Lehner provided an update on In Rem foreclosures and current tax collections. The Alliance reported on snowmobile trail storm cleanup and grooming; trails were open for the Christmas season. The 2026 Annual Partnership minutes were reviewed and the Sawyer County Forest Annual Workplan was presented by Mr. Peterson. The Plan includes set up of approximately 3500 acres of timber sales at an estimated $2M in projected revenues in 2026, and anticipated carbon credit revenues. Motion to approve the 2026 SCF Annual Workplan by: Mr. Buckholtz Second by: Mr. Kariainen Motion carried without negative vote. The City of Hayward annexed a Town of Hayward commercial property that requires the County to change the Supervisory District 4 boundary, in order to avoid creating a unique voting ward with no residents. Motion to approve RESOLUTION 2026-1 for Supervisory District Boundary Change by: Mr. Righeimer Second by: Mr. Neumann Motion carried without negative vote. HHS Report— Ms. Wilson reported on the January 6 meeting of HHS. The Senior Resource Center appointed Mr. Buckholtz to their board. Behavioral Health reports were reviewed, Children, Youth and Family Services, Youth Justice, Truancy and Diversion, Economic Support, and Public Health updates were provided. The State of Wisconsin DATCP revised codes, classifications and fees for lodging and water testing in December, necessitating an amendment to the HHS 2026 Fee Schedule going forward; fees were increased to remain budget neutral. Motion to approve the Resolution to Amend Fees for Water Testing, Issuing Permits, Making Inspections, and Investigations of Certain Types of Establishments by: Mr. Shuman Second by: Mr. Savitski Motion carried without negative vote. Finance Report - Mr. Righeimer provided an update on county finances and department budgets. The committee approved the purchase of an investment CD with Frandsen Bank. Economic Development and UW Extension Committee— Mr. Righeimer gave the Economic Development and UW Extension Committee report. Reporting this month were Weiss and Winter Libraries, HLVCB, the Economic Development Corporation, and the Trail Alliance. Page 6 of 186 Administration Report— Mr. Kinsley reported that the Administration Committee met and heard reports from the County Clerk, Veterans, IT, and HR departments, and the County Administrator. It was voted to continue posting meetings to YouTube. Mr. Markgren gave updates on the upcoming staff training day, a meeting with Uniquely Wisconsin, SC LCO EDC, and HLVCB regarding marketing, preparations for the 2025 audit, contracts for service with outside entities (two sent to the libraries are pending), a meeting for Birkie, and the Radio Network. CJCC met on January 14; Judge Isham resigned from the Chair position and Julia Lyons was appointed Chair. Judge Elaine Smith was appointed Vice Chair. Changes were made to the Bylaws to allow the Circuit Court judges to designate a representative if they are unable to attend. Mr. Markgren presented the Strategic Plan to the Board and walked through all of the components. Board Appointed Committee Updates— Mr. Buckholtz reported on interviews for the manager position at Namekagon Transit Correspondence, Reports from Conferences and Meetings- Ms. Hessel reported that Birkie is looking for volunteers Future Agenda Items- Land and Water Resource Management Plan, Bill Johnson/Johnson Timber Presentation, Technical College Presentation Meeting Adjourned at 7:29 pm Next meeting: Thursday, February 19, 2026 Time: 6:30pm Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 7 of 186 Sawyer County Board Meeting Dr. John Will, President February 19, 2026 Page 8 of 186 www.NorthwoodTech.edu Page 9 of 186 FTE Update FY23 Actual 1,927 FY26 Projected 2,086 Projected enrollment > 14,000 Data Includes Transcripted Credit FY24 Actual 2,019 FY25 Actual 2,158 FY27 Projected 2,100 Page 10 of 186  93% of 2023-2024 graduates were employed within six months of graduating  $54,641 – average starting annual salary  733 people enrolled from Sawyer County  3.89% of the Sawyer County population took a class  176 high school students took at least one class Outcomes Page 11 of 186 5 Highest Paying Careers at Northwood Tech Paramedic Technician $83,942 Average Annual Salary $6,995 Average Monthly Salary Truck Driving $6,268 Average Monthly Salary $75,216 Average Annual Salary $5,532 Average Monthly Salary $66,386 Average Annual Salary $6,093 Average Monthly Salary $73,113 Average Annual Salary Automated Packaging Systems Technician Nursing Associate Degree $6,557 Average Monthly Salary $78,682 Average Annual Salary Criminal Justice Studies 5 4 3 2 1 Page 12 of 186 HOMES Project Page 13 of 186 HOMES Page 14 of 186 HOMES Page 15 of 186 HOMES Page 16 of 186 HOMES Page 17 of 186 HOMES Page 18 of 186 www.NorthwoodTech.edu Page 19 of 186 www.NorthwoodTech.edu Page 20 of 186 We strengthen communities by empowering each student to realize their own success story. Students First Page 21 of 186 Transforming Communities We aspire to be the recognized education leader in workforce development and community engagement through our students’ success. Page 22 of 186 Page 23 of 186 Page 24 of 186 Page 25 of 186 Page 26 of 186 Page 27 of 186 Page 28 of 186 Page 29 of 186 Page 30 of 186 Page 31 of 186 Page 32 of 186 Page 33 of 186 Page 34 of 186 Page 35 of 186 Page 36 of 186 Page 37 of 186 Page 38 of 186 Page 39 of 186 Page 40 of 186 Page 41 of 186 Page 42 of 186 Page 43 of 186 Page 44 of 186 Page 45 of 186 Page 46 of 186 Page 47 of 186 Page 48 of 186 Page 49 of 186 Page 50 of 186 Page 51 of 186 Page 52 of 186 Page 53 of 186 Page 54 of 186 Page 55 of 186 Minutes of the February 11, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Public Works Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members Present: Others Present: Chair: Ron Kinsley Mike Markgren Vice Chair: Marc Helwig Liz Klein Randy Neumann Derek Leslie Chuck Van Etten John Pinnow Jim Evans Karl Kemper- Virtual Call to Order – Chair Kinsley called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call was taken; quorum was met. Meeting Agenda – Set Public Comments- None Minutes from the previous meeting dated: January 7, 2026 Motion to approve by: Mr. Evans Second by: Mr. Neumann Motion carried without negative vote. Sawyer County Airport Report- Mr. Kemper of Beche Hoppe walked the committee through a proposed pen and ink amendment to the Airport Layout Plan, which incorporates outlines of Future Airport Property around the Runway Protection Zone. This amendment is a minor update; the full 200-300 page Airport Layout Plan will be presented once the Airport Master Plan is approved. Mr. Leslie provided the January Airport report and stated they are waiting on the state and federal governments to move forward with the Airport Master Plan. Motion to approve the changes to the Airport Layout Plan and forward to the County Board by: Mr. Helwig Second by: Mr. Neumann Motion carried without negative vote Maintenance- Mr. Schmidt provided a written report on January County maintenance projects. Highway Department- Commissioner Pinnow updated the committee on January Highway projects: January 21 was a winter training roundtable discussion with the State. The County D bridge replacement was awarded and will be a spring project. CTH E is underway for 2027. LRIP applications have been submitted for CTH F and CTH DD. The Department is exploring the Samsara GPS system for use in the fleet; Mr. Pinnow will demonstrate the cameras at the end of the meeting. CTH B Driveway Permit Application- An application for a driveway permit to a new business on CTH B west of Dollar General was discussed; it will cross a paved walking path and the committee agreed the path should be repaved if disturbed. Three possible locations were proposed and discussed. Page 56 of 186 Motion to approve whichever driveway entrance works best for the owner by: Mr. Van Etten Second by: Mr. Neumann Motion carried without negative vote. Ad-hoc Committee Update—Mr. Kinsley reported that the committee met with tribal members on Monday, February 2 and reached a compromise on a route to take to the TGB meeting. The TGB chose option B and the committee will meet again on March 2 at 11:00am to continue discussions. Board Appointed Committee Updates-- None Correspondence, reports from conferences and meetings – None Future Agenda Items – None Demonstration of Samsara camera system to committee members. Meeting adjourned at 7:19 pm Next Meeting: March 11, 2026 Time: 6:30 pm Location: Board Room Page 57 of 186 Updated ultimate condition, see Existing & Future Airport Layout Sheet 2 for updates. 1/7/26 BEH BOA See Existing & Future Airport Layout Sheet for Runway 16/34 Ultimate Condition Page 58 of 186 Page 59 of 186 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 P-77 UPDATED ULTIMATE CONDITION4/21/2025BECHER HOPPE ASSOCIATES, INCBMP SAWYER COUNTY APPROVED ____________________________________________ TITLE ___________________________________________________________ DATE _________________________ U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION THE WISDOT BUREAU OF AERONAUTICS CONDITIONALLY APPROVES THE AIRPORT LAYOUT PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION BLOCK GRANT AGREEMENT AND SUBJECT TO LETTER DATED _______________________________ AND AIRSPACE CASE # _______________________________ APPROVED ______________________________________________ DATE _________________________ WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION BUREAU OF AERONAUTICS 1/7/2026 REVIEWED BY ___________________________________________ DATE __________________________________ Page 60 of 186 Updated ultimate condition, see Existing & Future Airport Layout Sheet 2 for updates. 1/7/26 BEH BOA See Existing & Future Airport Layout Sheet for Runway 16/34 Ultimate Condition Page 61 of 186 Page 62 of 186 Page 63 of 186 Page 64 of 186 Updated ultimate condition, see Existing & Future Airport Layout Sheet 2 for updates. 1/7/26 BEH BOA See Existing & Future Airport Layout Sheet for Runway 16/34 Ultimate Condition Page 65 of 186 Updated ultimate condition, see Existing & Future Airport Layout Sheet 2 for updates. 1/7/26 BEH BOA See Existing & Future Airport Layout Sheet for Runway 16/34 Ultimate Condition Page 66 of 186 Minutes of the February 5, 2026 meeting of the Sawyer County Public Safety Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members Present: Others Present: Chair: Ron Buckholtz Mike Markgren Leslie Strapon Vice Chair: Marc Helwig Liz Klein Judge Yackel Jeff Hoehne Marge Kelsey Kristi Kare Marshal Savitski Sheriff Mrotek Nicole Ripczinski Jim Evans Brian Deyo Greg Ripczinski Mike Woller Chaz Ann Olson John Froemel- Virtual Call to Order – Chair Ron Buckholtz called the meeting to order at 9:00 am. Roll Call taken. Quorum was met. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Meeting Agenda- Set Public Comment – None Minutes from the previous meeting dated: January 2, 2025 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Evans Second by: Mr. Hoehne Motion carried without negative vote. Clerk of Courts/Register in Probate Reports - A written report was provided. There were 2 graduations from Treatment Court in January. Judge Yackel spoke to the committee about increasing intake into the program and advised the court is coordinating its schedule to accommodate Birke demands. Sheriff’s Department Report – Patrol Report – The written report was reviewed; call volume increased to 794 calls received in January. There were 22 crashes in January, 11 with personal injury; 2 snowmobile fatalities. Jail Report – A written jail report for December and YTD 2025 was reviewed by Lt. Woller: there were 60 avg. inmates incarcerated, with a 72% unemployment rate at the time of booking, 3 on electronic monitoring. Dispatch and Emergency Management – Dispatch- Written reports were provided. Joint Powers Agreements have been received from the towns. Birkie is set for Feb 16-22. Two communications grants are being finalized. January CAD calls numbered 1292. Emergency Management- FY26 EPCRA Grant was submitted. EMPG funding was awarded but pending disbursement at the state. EM participated in a regional Emergency Preparedness exercise, attended the SCESA meeting, and held the quarterly LEPC meeting in January. Page 67 of 186 Code Enforcement- Ms. Olson provided a written report; January pound admissions were low, with the most calls coming in for lost animals. There were no TRH complaints or Human Health Hazard complaints in January. Child Support Department Report – A written report was provided. Emergency Services— Mr. Froemel provided a written ambulance report with analysis of data showing that the second crew in Hayward has stabilized operations. The Medical Examiner reported 2 snowmobile/ATV fatalities in January, and 2 suicides. Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Update – Mr. Markgren reported that CJCC met in January and made changes to improve quorums. The committee plans to alternate regular meetings with Executive Committee meetings in the near future. Board Appointed Committee Updates—The Public Works Ad-hoc Committee met with the TGB to negotiate ATV routes; future meetings will address the WOJB Tower and roundabout. Correspondence, Reports from Conferences and Meetings— None Future Agenda Items— Mr. Buckholtz asked the status on the discussion of a county-wide fire district and wants to see information. Mr. Froemel offered to get data from other counties who have it. Mr. Evans would like input from all the fire chiefs. Sheriff Mrotek recommended he attend the SCESA meeting on the 3rd Wednesday of the month to discuss it with the fire chiefs. Meeting Date/Time – The next meeting of the Public Safety Committee will be March 5, at 9:00 am in the Board Room. Meeting adjourned at 9:21 am Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 68 of 186 Minutes of the February 11, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room, Sawyer County Voting Committee Members (X) Present: Others Present: Chair: Steve Kariainen Mike Markgren Jane Schroeder Vice Chair: Randy Neumann Liz Klein Don Mrotek Kay Wilson Jay Kozlowski Tim Davison Jim Evans Greg Peterson Mike Martin Dale Magnuson Brian DeVries James Doss Allison Jonjak Brody Fischer Rachel Thompson Call to Order – Chair Kariainen called the meeting to order at 8:30 am. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call was taken; a quorum was met; the agenda was set. Public Comments – Linda Zillmer, Joan Buehrle Minutes from the previous meeting dated: January 7, 2025 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Evans Second by: Mr. Neumann Motion carried without negative vote. Events—No applications were received Register of Deeds Update-- Ms. Thompson presented a written report for January and updated the committee on transfers, Laredo and Vital Records. Land Records and County Surveyor Department Report – Land Records—A written RPL report was provided. Surveyor—A written surveyor report was provided. Forestry – 2026 Emergency Fire Wardens—Mr. Doss presented a list of names to appoint as 2026 DNR Emergency Fire Wardens in the area; these individuals are authorized to issue burn permits. Motion to approve the 2026 Emergency Fire Wardens list for confirmation by the County Board by: Mr. Neumann Second by: Mr. Evans Motion carried without negative vote. County Forestry Report— Mr. Peterson reported that 18 sales were active in January. There is approximately $4.64M in sold-uncut timber on file. LP is suspending deliveries of timber. There is no update on the sale of carbon credits. Page 69 of 186 Wisconsin DNR Report- Mr. Fischer presented a written report that was submitted by Craig Morris. USFS Report- Mr. Martin reported 10 active timber sales on USFS Great Divide; upcoming work will take place on the Mukwonago Forest off Hwy 77; USFS will host trail hikes for interested stakeholders. Rec trails have seen a lot of winter use, and pre-fire season prep is underway. Motorized Trails Report— Mr. Davison reported that rec trail use is high with the snowfall; there have been accidents and deaths this season; the association is working to educate the public on safety. Mr. Mrotek attended the 10-county NoRTAC meeting on Jan 29, where discussion centered on uniform emergency signage. Phone apps, fire numbers and grid systems are used for locating 911 calls. Mr. DeVries will talk to the Alliance about Sawyer dispatch and the gis system in use. NoRTAC members discussed setting fixed opening and closing dates for the snowmobile trails in the region. Mr. Mrotek attended the Governor’s snowmobile council meeting on Feb 5 where they discussed funding needed to maintain trail infrastructure. Sawyer ranked #2 in winter recreation searches on Travel Wisconsin’s site. Non-motorized— No report Zoning/Conservation Department – Mr. Kozlowski reported that the DNR issued the official water level change for Billy Boy flowage. The Land & Water Resource Management Plan was presented to the State and will now move forward to the County Board for final approval. Conservation staff attended the NW LWCA competition for the poster and speaking contest- Soil, Where it all Begins,” where 2 speakers from Winter School placed 1st and 3rd. The 1st place speaker and one poster will compete at the state competition in March. Wildlife Damage Claims- Mr. Doss from USDA APHIS recommended 9 Wildlife Damage claims totaling $31,066.33 for approval and noted that the claim sites are inspected in person. The 2025 Wildlife Damage claims were approved for forwarding to the County Board on a motion by: Mr. Neumann Second by: Ms. Wilson Motion carried without negative vote. Board Appointed Committee Updates – None Correspondence, Reports from Conferences and Meetings -- None Future Agenda Items – None Adjournment – 9:06 am Next Meeting: March 11, 2026 Time: 8:30am Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 70 of 186 1 RESOLUTION #____ 1 Resolution offered by Supervisors of the Land, Water, & Forest Resources Committee. 2 Resolved by the Board of Supervisors of Sawyer County, Wisconsin: 3 WHEREAS, through 1997 Wisconsin Act 27, Chapter 92 of the Wisconsin 4 Statutes were amended, requiring counties to develop land and water resource 5 management plans, and this statutory amendment provided Sawyer County with the 6 opportunity to assess our resource conditions and needs and to decide how we can 7 best meet our goals. 8 9 WHEREAS, the intent of this change was to develop a locally led process that 10 would utilize local, state, and federal funds to protect our land and water resources, 11 12 WHEREAS, Sawyer County brought a diverse group of stakeholders together 13 including local government officials and staff, special interest groups, and citizens, to 14 assist in the development of the land and water resource management plan, 15 16 WHEREAS, Sawyer County held a public hearing on December 10, 2025 to 17 accept comments on the Sawyer County Land and Water Resource Management Plan, 18 and 19 20 WHEREAS, counties that want to be eligible to receive soil and water resource 21 management grant funds from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and 22 Consumer Protection (DATCP) must submit a plan and funding request based upon an 23 approved land and water resource management plan. 24 25 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Sawyer County Board 26 approves the ten-year land and water resource management plan presented by the 27 Land & Water Conservation Committee, 28 29 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT a copy of this resolution and a copy of the 30 plan be provided to DATCP for state approval. 31 32 Approved by the Sawyer County Land, Water, and Forest Resources Committee this 33 10th day of December 2025 by a vote of 6-0. 34 35 The County Board has the legal authority to adopt as approved by the Wisconsin Land 36 & Water Board on February 3, 2026 37 38 Adopted by the County Board of Supervisors this 19 day of February 2026. 39 40 41 _____________________________________________________________ 42 Ronald Kinsley, County Board Chair Elizabeth Klein, Clerk Page 71 of 186 Sawyer County __________________________________ Land & Water Resource Management Plan 2027-2036 Page 72 of 186 1 Table of Contents People Assisting with Plan Development……………………………….…………….2 Plan Summary……………………………………………………………….………….....3 Introduction………………………………………………………………….……………..7 Plan Development Process……………………………………………….……………..7 Identification of Concerns………………………………………………….…...……….8 Plan Requirements………………………………………………………….…………….8 Relationship between County Plan and Watershed Plans…………….……….......8 Resource Assessment …………………………………………………………………10 Impaired Waters………………………………………………………………………….19 Identification of Priority Farms………………………………………………………...21 NR 151 Implementation Strategy……………………………………………………...22 Land Use…………………………………………………………………………………..26 Soil Loss Inventories…………………………………………………………………....27 Development Trends…………………………………………………………………....27 Grading Permits………………………………………………………………………….28 Performance Standards and Prohibitions…………………………………………...28 Partners in the Land and Water Resource Management Plan……………………30 Funding Plan Implementation…………………………………………………………31 Information and Education Strategy………………………………………………….32 Monitoring and Evaluation …………………………………………………………….33 Plan Goals and Objectives……………………………………………………………..34 Sawyer County LWRM Workplan………..……………………………………………36 Appendices……………………………………………………………………………….41 Page 73 of 186 2 People Assisting with Plan Development Dan Tyrolt – Lac Courte Oreilles Conservation Department Nick Besasie – NRCS District Conservationist Steve Kariainen – LWFRC/County Board Member Kelsey Hyland – UW Extension Jean Accola – Sawyer County Lakes Forum Andrew Craig – DNR Katy Smith - DATCP Tim Seidl – Sawyer County Assistant Conservationist Ruth King – DNR Nonpoint Source Coordinator Kurt Schroeder- COLA Natalie Erler- Sawyer County Conservation Specialist/Invasive species Jay Kozlowski – Sawyer County Zoning & Conservation Administrator John Pinnow – Sawyer County Highway Commissioner Jenn Chakravorty – DATCP Allison Jonjak – Ag Rep Lisa Yager – NPS Lauren Haydon – DNR Helena Tiedmann – DNR Committee Members Steve Kariainen, Chairman Randy Neumann, Vice Chairman Kay Wilson Jim Evans Dale Magnuson Page 74 of 186 3 Plan Summary Plan Development Process The first Sawyer County Land and Water Resource Management Plan was completed in March 1999 and has been the basis for a revised plan in 2003, 2009, 2016, and 2026. The planning work groups consisted of technical staff representing state and federal agencies, as well as individuals representing agriculture, forestry, tribal and local governments. The current plan was revised by Conservation staff and reviewed by a work group. Identification of Concerns All areas of non-point source pollution are a high priority in Sawyer County. The Department will continue to address resource concerns from shoreline development and inappropriate land uses that threaten water quality, as well as forestry, recreation, local road maintenance, and agriculture issues. Information and education objectives are also high priorities and are included in the work plan. Plan Requirements The Land, Water and Forest Resources Committee must hold a public hearing to review the final draft of the county land and water resource management plan. After public review, the Land, Water and Forest Resources Committee must review and recommend approval to the Sawyer County Board. The plan will then be submitted to the Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Board (LWCB), and they recommend approval of the plan to the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) or recommend changes to the plan. Upon recommended approval from the Land and Water Conservation Board, the Sawyer County Board may approve the plan. Once DATCP receives approval from the Sawyer County Board, DATCP can issue an order approving the 10-yeat LWRM plan contingent on a 5-year review. Relationship between county plan and watershed plans The Plan addresses county-wide issues that are not addressed in the basin plans. Watershed and non-point source pollution control goals, as indicated in basin reports, 9 Key Element and/or TMDL implementation plans, will remain a priority for the county and will provide funding opportunities to implement watershed and resource management plan objectives. Watershed Management Plans The EPA has identified nine key planning elements that are critical for protecting and improving water quality. Nine key element watershed plans can be used to restore impaired waters or help protect unimpaired waters by reducing nonpoint sources of pollution. Complete plan information is available at the Department of Natural Resources Nine Key element Plan website - https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Nonpoint/9keyElement. As of 2025, two watershed plans are within Sawyer County: St. Croix plan and renewal and the Red Cedar basin plan. The county will continue to support, as staff and resources allow, implementing milestones established in these watershed plans to reduce nonpoint sources of pollution and meet TMDL based reduction goals. Resource Assessment Lake Shoreline Development: Within the last thirty years, the county has experienced tremendous growth as former tourists have become full-time residents or owners of waterfront property and vacation homes. Protection of Outstanding and Exceptional Resource Waters and DNR Priority High Quality Watersheds and Waters: Sawyer County has 205 named lakes and hundreds of miles of streams and rivers, many of which are designated by the Department of Natural Resources as exceptional, outstanding, or high-quality resource waters. Appendix F also Page 75 of 186 4 describes DNR’s recent prioritization of high-quality waters and watersheds within Sawyer County for protection. Wetland Protection: In addition to an abundance of surface waters, wetlands account for approximately 20.2 percent of the county’s acreage. Groundwater Protection: Groundwater quality impacts the quality of lakes and streams. It is the source of drinking water for 100% of County residents. Reduce Nonpoint Source Pollution: Non-point source pollution is the primary threat to surface and groundwater resources within the county. Although nutrient levels within some surface waters have slightly increased, there are signs that the increases are adversely affecting water quality. Location of Resources: The St. Croix River Basin spans both Wisconsin and Minnesota. The Lower Chippewa River Basin encompasses 314,375 acres of wetlands, 2,602 miles of streams, and 447 lakes and flowages. The Upper Chippewa River Basin encompasses the majority of Sawyer County with a total of 4,051 miles of streams and 765 lakes. Impaired Waters According to the WI-DNR 2025 303(d) list of impaired water bodies, Sawyer County has several lakes not currently meeting water quality standards due to atmospheric deposition of mercury and total phosphorus levels. Land Use Sawyer County utilizes land and information modernization programs to evaluate land uses and provide assistance in developing programs. The majority of land within the county is forestry, followed by agriculture, residential, wetland, commercial, and industrial. Soil Loss Inventories Sawyer County was the first of the northern counties to prepare a Soil Erosion Control Plan. The primary goal of the plan is to reduce soil erosion of cropland down to, or below, allowable soil loss levels that meet the Natural Resources Conservation Service Technical guide standards. Development Trends Sawyer County has experienced tremendous growth in recent years. The draw to northern Wisconsin, and Sawyer County in particular, is the forest and water resources. The county’s growth has accelerated so rapidly that public officials are having difficulty maintaining and protecting the character of the Northwoods. All townships within the county have completed smart growth plans. Identification of Priority Farms There are very few farms remaining in the county. Dairy farming has declined to only a few operations, but some have larger herd sizes. Other former dairies have transitioned to cash grain operations. Cranberry production has always been a part of Sawyer County agriculture. Recently there has been an increase in small scale agriculture growing a diverse mix of livestock and specialty crops. Due to the small number of agricultural operations, all agricultural operations, in general, are considered a priority farm. Farms located in watersheds with a TMDL, or 9 key element plans will be part of the priority farm strategy. Our priority areas of resources concern are our lakes; however, agricultural requests for services are still ranked ahead of all other requests. Page 76 of 186 5 NR 151 Performance Standards and Prohibitions ATCP 50/NR 151 set forth state minimum performance standards and prohibitions for farms and urban areas. These performance standards and prohibitions were designed to achieve water quality standards by limiting nonpoint sources of pollution. It is the landowner’s or operators’ responsibility to meet the NR 151 agricultural performance standards and prohibitions. NR 151 Implementation Strategy The Sawyer County Zoning and Conservation Department will cooperate with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and other agencies to implement the NR 151 agricultural performance standards across the county and on priority farms. The extent of implementation of the components of the implementation strategy will be dependent upon the availability of funding for staffing, support, and cost share funds for completion. Partners in the Land and Water Resource Management Plan Sawyer County has been fortunate to have a dedicated group of individuals from a variety of agencies who have worked to preserve and protect our resources for many years. We also have a broad base of volunteers in this community. These professional and volunteer partnerships will be vital to the achievement of the plan’s objectives. Funding Plan Implementation This plan will be the basis for future funding initiatives. Grant funds will be sought to supplement funding from local, state and federal sources. We will continue to participate in programs developed by federal and state agencies and utilize those dollars to the greatest extent before seeking private funding. Information and Education Strategy Information and education objectives are included in the work plan, with a timeline that focuses on an annual basis. Information and education have been a high priority in the past and continues to be important in carrying out the department goals. Monitoring and Evaluation An important component of any long-range plan is to monitor and evaluate the success of strategies developed to meet goals. As information is compiled over the next ten years, trends and comparisons can be evaluated and programming adapted to meet plan objectives. The Zoning and Conservation (ZAC) Department staff will be the party responsible for compiling, reviewing, and reporting on implementation of plan objectives. Plan Goals and Objectives The goals and objectives established in this plan represent priorities for natural resource management in Sawyer County carried out by the ZAC staff with help from partner agencies. Priority goals and objective items are printed in bold. Goal 1: Reduce environmental impacts of agricultural non-point source pollution. Objective 1: All farms have and utilize a nutrient management plan Objective 2: Control barnyard runoff Objective 3: All cropland erosion be reduced to tolerable soil loss level Objective 4: Educate producers of various size operations on land and water resources Page 77 of 186 6 Goal 2: Protect, enhance, and restore natural shoreline structure and function Objective 1: Educate shoreline property owners on the benefits of natural shorelines Objective 2: Install shoreline restoration/protection projects Objective 3: Protect existing shoreline ecosystems and habitat Objective 4: Mitigation plan guidance and approval Objective 5: Educate boaters on wake impacts to shorelines Goal 3: Control and monitor invasive species Objective 1: Survey, monitor, and map invasive species Objective 2: Educate the public on the prevention, early detection, and control of invasive species Objective 3: Seek funding sources and partnerships for invasive species control Goal 4: Reduce soil erosion caused by forest road building & stream crossing activities Objective 1: Educate private landowners planning to harvest timber Objective 2: Monitor logging sites and provide consultation to logging operators Objective 3: Seeding and planting of abandoned forest roads Objective 4: Connect with and help private forest landowners Goal 5: Protect land and water resources through land use/comprehensive planning and enforcement of zoning regulations Objective 1: Establish county wide land use planning standards Objective 2: Require mitigation and restoration of shoreline violations or specialized projects Objective 3: Require grading permits for disturbed slope areas or areas in excess of 10,000 sq. ft. Objective 4: Support groundwater protection and conduct groundwater mapping Goal 6: Promote Ecological Health and Restoration Objective 1: Encourage private landowners to establish wetland restorations and enhancements Objective 2: Educate public on the value of wetlands and related regulations Objective 3: Annual Tree Sale program Objective 4: Annual Native Plant Sale Objective 5: Educate landowners on the importance of natural ecosystems Page 78 of 186 7 Introduction The need for local leadership in natural resources management is an important component included in the federal Farm Bills and Wisconsin Act 27, which redesigned Wisconsin’s non-point source pollution program in 1997. Act 27 led to passage for 151 performance standards by DNR and ATCP 50 technical standards and best management practices to meet NR 151 by DATCP. These actions by elected officials and policy makers reaffirmed that local leadership is the key to successfully managing and protecting our natural resources. Locally led natural resource management is based on the principle that communities are best suited to identify and resolve local natural resource problems. More importantly, it is local government’s responsibility to engage in land use management processes to target federal funding such as NRCS Cost Share dollars, which ultimately impact the quality of the natural resources of Sawyer County. Sawyer County, like most northern Wisconsin counties, is faced with ever increasing public demands on our unique natural resources. This plan is an important tool to guide local government, various state and federal agencies, and individuals as we strive to improve and protect our natural resources. Plan Development Process As a result of 1997, Wisconsin Act 27, Chapter 92.10 of the Wisconsin Statutes was amended to include a county land and water resource management planning program. The first Sawyer County Land and Water Management Plan was completed in March 1999 and has been the basis for a revised plan in 2003, 2009, 2016, and this plan. The previous plans were developed through discussions with local citizen and technical advisory groups. The planning work groups consisted of technical staff representing state and federal agencies, as well as individuals representing agriculture, forestry, tribal and local governments. The 2027-2036 plan was revised by Conservation staff and reviewed by a work group. The current plan has been revised by staff and reviewed by a work group which met on May 13, 2025 and June 12, 2025 at 9 a.m., and July 17, 2025 at 10am. A public hearing was held on December 10, 2025 at 8:30 a.m., at which time the revised Plan was reviewed by the Sawyer County Land, Water, and Forestry Resources Committee. The Land and Water Resource Management Plan was approved by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors on _______________at 6:30 p.m. To achieve the best plan, and meet specified goals and timelines, Sawyer County will rely on partnerships with organizations as well as individuals with an interest in protecting our natural resources. Page 79 of 186 8 Identification of Concerns All areas of non-point source pollution in Sawyer County are ranked as a top priority in this plan. The Department will continue to address resource concerns from shoreline development and inappropriate land uses that threaten water quality, as well as forestry, recreation, local road maintenance, and agriculture issues. Information and education objectives are also top priorities and are included in the work plan. The climate information and future climate trends forecasts within appendix H of this plan will also be reviewed by Sawyer County when addressing concerns and working to meet the objectives within this plan. Plan Requirements The requirement for a county land and water resource management plan was created in the 1997-1999 Biennial Budget Bill, Wisconsin Act 27 with amendments to Chapter 92.10 of the Wisconsin Statutes. In addition, elements of ATCP 50 and NR151 must be included in current plans. These mandates established a county planning process for:  Conserving long-term soil productivity;  Protecting the quality of related natural resources;  Protecting and enhancing water quality; and  Addressing severe soil erosion problems. The Land, Water and Forestry Resources Committee must hold a public hearing for review of the final draft of the county land and water resource management plan. After public review, the Committee must review, approve, and recommend approval of the plan to the County Board. The plan must be submitted to the Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Board (LWCB) and Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). DATCP will review the plan, make recommendations, and take action on the plan submitted by each county. Upon LWCB recommendation for approval and County Board approval, DATCP will issue an order approving the 10-year plan contingent on a 5-year review. Relationship between county plan and watershed plans Sawyer County is divided between three HUC-8 watershed basins (Figure 1) and 13 HUC-10 watersheds (Figure 2). The majority of land is within the Upper Chippewa Basin (green). The southwestern corner of the county falls within the Lower Chippewa Basin (purple) and the northwestern corner in the St.Croix Basin (brown). The LWRM Plan addresses county-wide issues that are not addressed in the basin plans. Watershed and non-point source pollution control goals, as indicated in prior basin reports, TMDLs and 9 Key Element watershed plans, will remain a priority for the county and will provide funding opportunities to implement watershed and resource management plan objectives. Page 80 of 186 9 Figure 2 HUC-10 watersheds in Sawyer County Figure 1 HUC-8 watersheds in Sawyer County Page 81 of 186 10 Resource Assessment Lake Shoreline Development An ongoing environmental priority in Sawyer County is to improve water quality and maintain or repair endangered shoreline ecosystems. The value of clean and beautiful lakes, streams, and rivers has been essential to the County’s growth and tourism industry. For many years, healthy aquatic ecosystems were the norm in the sparsely populated county. Within the last thirty years, the county has experienced tremendous growth as former tourists have become full-time residents or owners of waterfront property and vacation homes. According to the Sawyer County Housing Market Profile Report put together by University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Extension, Sawyer County has some of the highest shares of seasonal and recreational housing units of any county in the United States and ranks in the top 150 counites for total seasonal and recreational housing units (see below). An estimated 47.7% of housing units are classified as seasonal, recreational, or occasional. Since this data is from 2015-2019, we can infer that this percentage is slightly higher since the COVID-19 Pandemic had a major influence on housing in the County. The majority of lake lots on larger lakes are 100 feet wide and have been developed. Recent trends are toward development of small lakes and more marginal shorelines. As can be expected, loss of shoreline habitat and reduced water quality have been results of this growth. More information on Recreational Housing Trends: https://sawyer.extension.wisc.edu/files/2025/05/Sawyer_county_housing_profile_fin al_v3.pdf Page 82 of 186 11 Figure 3a. Percentage of seasonal & recreational housing units Figure 3b. Percentage of seasonal & recreational housing units Page 83 of 186 12 Protection of Outstanding and Exceptional Resource Waters Sawyer County has 205 named lakes and hundreds of miles of streams and rivers, many of which are designated by the Department of Natural Resources as exceptional or outstanding resource waters (Appendix F). A unique resource for Sawyer County and northern Wisconsin is the Chain of Lakes which includes: Big Round, Grindstone, Lac Courte Oreilles, Whitefish, and Sand. This chain of clear water lakes consists of approximately 12,918 acres of surface water. The rare trophic qualities of these lakes make them an important resource that must be preserved for future generations. Wetland Protection In addition to an abundance of surface waters, wetlands account for approximately 20.2 percent of the county’s acreage according to the Wisconsin DNR Wetland Inventory. Non-point source pollution is the primary threat to resources within the county. Development along shorelines contributes to the degradation of waters from building site erosion, dramatic increases in impervious surfaces, improper application of lawn care chemicals, reduction of shoreline buffers, and disturbance of the near shore aquatic habitat. To help support wetland protection, Sawyer County has a 40ft setback from wetlands which is larger than other counties. Secondary non-point concerns are sedimentation caused by poor logging and agriculture practices. Groundwater Protection The Lac Courte Oreilles (LOC) Tribe is currently working with the Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) to conduct a groundwater study and mapping for the LCO reservation. Sawyer County is currently exploring the option to also work with the WGNHS to also have groundwater study and mapping done for the rest of the County. This study would provide baseline data to support our economy, forestry, recreation, and tourism. It would also potentially show flow direction, groundwater levels, and areas that are more susceptible to contamination. Several towns have facilitated voluntary well water testing to residents in the past. The County currently offers well water testing to all residents through the Health and Human Services Department (HHS) as well as requires testing for all short-term rental properties. Currently, the well-water testing data has not been analyzed, but as more data is acquired, HHS would like to study the data to look for county-wide trends. We recognize and support the importance of well-water testing, and we encourage county residents to get their wells tested. If the complied data shows any concerning trends that correlate with our programs, we will offer assistance to HHS to address these issues. Page 84 of 186 13 Reduce Nonpoint Source Pollution Paleoecological core studies have been completed by the Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Science Services staff on four Sawyer County lakes, all are considered outstanding waters. In terms of all the Wisconsin lakes studied by DNR staff, the Sawyer County lakes consistently had some of the lowest mean sedimentation rates for the last 150 years. However, from the 1970’s to the mid- 1990’s the sedimentation rates began to increase, with significant increases noted since the mid-1990’s. Based on the information gathered from the lake core samples, this elevated rate of sedimentation is likely due to anthropogenic activities, most likely shoreline development. Although the nutrient levels have only increased slightly, there are signs that the increases are adversely affecting water quality in some lakes. The greater concern is the overall trend that the core samples have identified. Location of Resources The county’s surface water (lake) acreage is approximately 54,000 acres bordered by 850 miles of shoreline. The following illustrates how surface water is distributed among the basins: St. Croix River Basin https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/TMDLs/StCroix.html The St. Croix River Basin spans both Wisconsin and Minnesota. Portions within Sawyer County include the Totagatic River (SC20) with 66 percent of the watershed forest and 20 percent wetland, the Upper Namekagon River (SC22) with 70 percent of the watershed forested and 15 percent wetland, and portions of the Trego Lake and Middle Namekagon River (SC21) watershed with 64 percent forested and 16 percent wetland. The St. Croix River basin has approved TMDL for total phosphorus. The St. Croix TMDL phosphorus reduction goals align with Sawyer County’s priorities for reducing non-point source pollution. As a partner, Sawyer County will continue to work towards achieving those goals and objectives of the TMDL over the next ten years. The following tables illustrate the specific watershed surface waters: St. Croix River Basin – Streams within Sawyer County Watershed No. of Streams Miles of Streams Miles/Classification Totogatic River (SC20) 4 73 73-DEF Upper Namekagon River (SC22) 4 43* 37-ORW/COLD; 2- ERW/COLD; 4- DEF Trego Lake-Middle Namekagon (SC21) 3 60 34-ORW; 2-ERW; 24-DEF *Includes 5 miles of the Namekagon River downstream of the Hayward dam noted as especially important for rare species of freshwater mussels. Page 85 of 186 14 St. Croix River Basin – Lakes within Sawyer County Watershed No. of Lakes Surface Area Classification Totogatic River (SC20) 10 2,916 1-IA;1-IIA; 1-IID; 1-I-Ins; 2-II-Ins; 4-None Upper Namekagon River (SC22) 10 1,249 1-IA; 1-IIA; 2-I- Ins; 2-II-Ins; 4- None Trego Lake-Middle Namekagon (SC21) 7 383 1-IIA; 1-I-Ins; 1- II-Ins; 4-None Page 86 of 186 15 Figure 4. St. Croix River Basin Page 87 of 186 16 Lower Chippewa River Basin https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Watersheds/basins/lowerchip The basin as a whole encompasses 314,375 acres of wetlands, 2,602 miles of streams, and 447 lakes and flowages. Sawyer County has an insignificant portion of the basin’s streams and only 23 of the lakes with a combined acreage of 2,687. The few streams included are listed as outstanding or exceptional waters (Benson Creek, Forty-one Creek, Knuteson Creek, Sucker Creek, and Thirty-three Creek.) Sawyer County, as a part of the basin, is willing to assist with any activities within to execute the goals and objectives of the plan. The portion of the Lower Chippewa basin within Sawyer County is part of the Red Cedar sub-watershed. The Red Cedar sub-watershed is subject to a TMDL for phosphorus and has a nine key element plan - https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/TMDLs/TainterMenomin.html Figure 5. The Red Cedar River Basin including Tainter Lake and Lake Menomin The following tables illustrate the specific watershed surface waters: Lower Chippewa River Basin – Streams within Sawyer County Watershed No. of Stream Miles of Streams Miles/Classification Red Cedar Lake (LC11) 8 28 17-Cold(I); 2- WWSF; 9-WWFF Lower Chippewa River Basin – Lakes within Sawyer County Watershed No. of Lakes Surface Acres Classification Red Cedar Lake (LC11) 23 2,687 14-1C; 5-1D; 2- 2B;2-2C Page 88 of 186 17 Upper Chippewa River Basin https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Watersheds/basins/upchip The majority of Sawyer County lies within this basin with a total of 4,051 miles of streams and 765 lakes. Wetland acreage for the basin was not available and the DNR cites a lack of water quality data as a significant roadblock in assessing water quality. The most current documentation is the Upper Chippewa River Basin Water Quality Management Plan published in 1996. Since this basin covers a large area of the land base, Sawyer County has an active role in contributing to the health of the basin. We will continue to assist landowners and partners to improve the ecological health of the basin. The following tables illustrate the specific watershed surface waters: Upper Chippewa River Basin – Streams within Sawyer County Watershed No. of Streams Miles of Stream Miles/Classification Lower North Fork Flambeau River (UC11) 14 141 10-Cold(I); 25-Cold(II); 19-Cold(III); 87-DEF Thornapple River (UC18) 16 217 7-Cold(I); 7-Cold(II); 203-DEF Weirgor Creek & Brunet River (UC19) 31 333 42-Cold(I); 26-Cold(II); 19-Cold(III); 246-DEF Couderay River (UC20) 15 138 16-Cold(I); 6-Cold(II); 116- DEF East Fork Chippewa River (UC21) 29 299 8-Cold(I); 26-Cold(II); 30- Cold(III); 235-DEF Lake Chippewa (UC22) 13 67 9-Cold(I); 4-Cold(II); 54- DEF West Fork Chippewa River (UC23) 20 254 2-Cold(III); 252-DEF Upper Chippewa River Basin - Lakes within Sawyer County Watershed No. of Lakes Surface Area Classifications Lower North Fork Flambeau River (UC11) 8 1,472 3-1A; 1-1C; 3-2D Thornapple River (UC18) 0 0 0 Weirgor Creek & Burnet River (UC19) 21 2,246 6-1C; 2-1D; 5-2C; 7-2D Couderay River (UC20) 43 17,123 9-1A; 12-1C; 2-1D; 4-2A; 2-2B; 6-2C; 8-2D East Fork Chippewa River (UC21) 9 1,183 1-1A; 1-2A; 2-2C; 5-2D Lake Chippewa (UC22) 36 19,526 7-1A; 8-1C; 4-1D; 2-2A; 8-2C; 5-2D West Fork Chippewa River (UC23) 36 5,819 7-1C; 7-1D; 1-2A; 4-2C; 17-2D Page 89 of 186 18 Palaeoecological studies have been completed on several lakes within the Couderay River (UC20) watershed. Studies were conducted by Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Science Services and have been completed on Grindstone, Whitefish, Round and Sand Lakes. Results indicate all the lakes have some of the lowest mean sedimentation rates of the 48 Wisconsin lakes studied to date. However, all the lakes have indicators that note increased nutrients since the mid-1990’s which is probably due to increased nutrient runoff from soil amendments in lawns near the lakeshore. Increased productivity has begun to adversely impact lake oxygen levels in the bottom waters. This deep-water loss of oxygen is an early sign of cultural eutrophication. Figure 6. Sawyer County Watersheds Source: Wisconsin DNR – Surface Water Data Viewer - 2025 Page 90 of 186 19 Impaired Waters The WI-DNR 2024 303(d) list of impaired water bodies is charted below. (also see map, Appendix G) Official Name WBIC Water Type County Pollutant Impairment Status - 2025 Nelson Lake 2704200 Lake Sawyer Total Phosphorus Excess Algal Growth 303d Listed Birch Lake 2113000 Lake Sawyer, Washburn Total Phosphorus Impairment Unknown, Excess Algal Growth 303d Listed Lake Chetac 2113300 Lake Sawyer Total Phosphorus Excess Algal Growth, Eutrophication 303d Listed Lac Courte Oreilles* 2390800 Lake Sawyer Unknown Pollutant Low DO 303d Listed Moose Lake 2420600 Lake Sawyer Mercury Mercury Contaminated Fish Tissue 303d Listed Black Lake 2401300 Lake Ashland, Sawyer Mercury Mercury Contaminated Fish Tissue 303d Listed Winter Lake (Price Flowage) 2381100 Flowage Sawyer Mercury Mercury Contaminated Fish Tissue 303d Listed Loretta Lake 2382700 Flowage Sawyer Mercury Mercury Contaminated Fish Tissue 303d Listed Windigo Lake 2046600 Lake Sawyer Mercury Mercury Contaminated Fish Tissue 303d Listed Upper Holly Lake 2394600 Lake Sawyer Mercury Mercury Contaminated Fish Tissue 303d Listed Ghost Lake 2423000 Lake Sawyer Mercury Mercury Contaminated Fish Tissue 303d Listed Page 91 of 186 20 Lac Courte Oreilles * = In 2021, WDNR, using its phosphorus assessment methods in its 2022 Wisconsin Consolidated Assessment and Listing Methodology Guidance (WisCALM) (WDNR, 2021), compared the most recent five years of data from LCO to the statewide total phosphorus criteria for two-story fishery lakes. None of the three main LCO basins “clearly exceeds” the phosphorus criterion of 15 μg/L and, therefore, were not listed as impaired for TP, despite upward trends. Then, in 2022, DNR designated LCO with a 10ug/L TP site specific criteria because the statewide TP criterion of 15 μg/L was determined not sufficient to protect the cold-water community (i.e., whitefish survival during the most stressful seasonal warm periods). DNR also determined there are multiple factors impacting the fishery in LCO. Phosphorus is a controllable factor, while some of the other factors such as temperature and sediment characteristics may not be controllable and are outside the department’s regulatory authority. In 2025, LCO has low dissolved oxygen (DO) impairment due to an unknown pollutant. Lac Courte Oreilles, Musky Bay ** = From 2014-2020 Musky Bay was measured below the 40ug/L TP criteria and was delisted: no TMDL necessary. For the same time period, the remaining Lac Courte Oreilles Lake was determined below its 15 ug/L TP criteria and was not listed as impaired for TP. See Lac Courte Oreilles description above. During the summer of 2025, the Wisconsin DNR received a DRAFT nine key element plan for the Lac Courte Oreilles Lake watershed for review (see map below). The plan was co-developed by the Courte Oreilles Lake Association (COLA), the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Conservation Department and Limnotech contractor. The plan identifies and sets goals to reduce sources of phosphorus within the 69,000 acre size watershed to help improve water quality within Lac Courte Oreilles and other lakes. One-third of the watershed is located within reservation boundaries, with the remaining area located within the ceded territory within Sawyer County. The Wisconsin DNR will closely coordinate with the US EPA, Sawyer County, Limnotech, and the LCO Conservation Department during plan review. Page 92 of 186 21 Figure 7. Watershed map of LCO showing major tributaries and drainage pathways into the lake Identification of Priority Farms Sawyer County’s methodology for identification of farms is rather simplistic. There are very few active farms remaining in the county. Dairy farming has been reduced to only a few operations, but are following the trend towards larger herd sizes. Other former dairies have transitioned to cash grain operations. Cranberry production has always been a part of Sawyer County agriculture. The majority of agricultural land is located in the central or along the western border of the county – see appendix D land use map. Recently there has been an increase in small scale agriculture growing a diverse mix of livestock and specialty crops. Due to the small number of agricultural operations in the county, all farm operations, in general, are considered a priority farm; farms within watersheds with a TMDL or 9 element plan will be part of the priority farm strategy. Our priority areas of resources concern are our lakes; however, agricultural requests for services are still ranked ahead of all other requests. Page 93 of 186 22 Inventory 1. Integrate feedlot inspection and modeling into our field visits for the Department of Natural Resources wildlife damage and abatement program. BARNY 2 will be used for phosphorous and COD delivery. 2. Agricultural fields will be checked for compliance with tolerable soil loss levels using submitted nutrient management plans. 3. Contact ag producers within a 303D listed impaired watersheds for total phosphorus TMDL or 9 key element plans but not covered above. Action 1. Farms that are not currently meeting requirements of NR 151 and ATCP 50 will be notified. 2. Farms that are “critical sites”, under a Department of Natural Resources “notice of intent”, in an agricultural impacted 303D listed or TMDL phosphorus watershed, or farms that have significant problems with manure management, excessive nutrients, or cropland erosion will be notified of such problems and be encouraged to voluntarily implement conservation practices to meet NR 151 and ATCP 50 . Historically, such farms are non-existent in Sawyer County. 3. Farms found not in conformance with number 2 and do not voluntarily comply will be referred to the Department of Natural Resources for further action. NR 151 Implementation Strategy The Sawyer County Zoning and Conservation Department will cooperate with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and other agencies to implement the NR 151 agricultural performance standards. The extent of implementation of the strategy components outlined below will depend upon the availability of funding for staffing, support, and cost share funds for completion. Collaboration with DNR staff will also be completed, as necessary, to implement the strategy The following principles will guide implementation of the NR 151 agricultural performance standards in Sawyer County: • Encourage voluntary participation and use a cost sharing program to adopt agricultural conservation practices • Implement most cost-effective practices with an emphasis on nutrient management and meeting tolerable soil loss • Coordinate DATCP or DNR funding for conservation practices to meet the agricultural performance standards with other cost share opportunities Page 94 of 186 23 1. Conduct information and education activities Sawyer County will distribute information and educational material. The information may be distributed via newspapers, newsletters, handouts, public information meetings, and one-on-one contacts. The educational materials will be designed to meet the following objectives: • Educate landowners about Wisconsin’s NR 151 agricultural performance standards and prohibitions, applicable conservation practices, and cost share grant opportunities; • Promote implementation of conservation practices necessary to meet performance standards and prohibitions; • Inform landowners about procedures and agency roles to be used statewide and locally for ensuring compliance with the performance standards and prohibitions. 2. Select and evaluate parcels for compliance with standards and prohibitions A. See Priority Farms Strategy B. Onsite evaluations procedure: o Contact an owner of a parcel within an agricultural impacted 303D listed or TMDL phosphorus watershed, or farms that have significant problems with manure management, excessive nutrients, or cropland erosion, and schedule site evaluations. o Conduct onsite evaluations o Determine and document the extent of current compliance with each of the performance standards and prohibitions o Use the site visit to review farm plans and operation and maintenance compliance for current program participants. o Where non-compliant, estimate costs and eligibility for cost sharing. 3. Document and report compliance status A. NR151 status report Following completion of records review and on-site evaluation, prepare and issue NR 151 status report to owners of the evaluated parcels. This report will convey the following information at a minimum: o Current status of compliance of individual parcels with each of the performance standards and prohibitions. o Corrective measure options and rough cost estimates to comply with each of the performance standards and prohibitions for which a parcel is not in compliance. o Status of eligibility for public cost sharing. Page 95 of 186 24 o Grant funding sources and technical assistance available from federal, state, and local government, and third-party service providers. o An explanation of conditions that apply if public cost share funds are used. o A timeline for completing corrective measures, if necessary. o Signature lines indicating landowner agreement or disagreement with report findings. o Process and procedures to contest evaluation results to county and/or state. The Land Conservation Committee will review cases of contested compliance evaluation results at a regularly scheduled LCC meeting. o If necessary, consult with DNR staff during or after issuance of NR 151 status reports B. Maintain public records. Keep and maintain evaluation and compliance information as public record. 4. Secure cost sharing and technical assistance / Issue NR151 Notice Voluntary component o Receive request for cost-share and/or technical assistance from landowner. o Confirm cost-share grant eligibility and availability of cost-share & technical assistance. o Develop and issue cost-share contracts (including BMPs to be installed or implemented, estimated costs, project schedule, and notification requirements under NR 151.09(5-6) and/or 151.095(6-7). (Appendix A) Non-voluntary component o In the event that a landowner chooses not to install corrective measures either with or without cost sharing, issue landowner notification per NR 151.09(5-6) and/or 151.095(6-7). o If eligible costs are involved, this notification shall include an offer of cost sharing. o If no eligible costs are involved, or if cost sharing is or was already made available, the notification will not include an offer of cost sharing. Page 96 of 186 25 5. Administer funding and technical assistance A. Execute cost-share agreement. If cost-sharing is involved, finalize and execute cost-share agreement including schedule for installing or implementing BMP(s). B. Provide technical services and oversight. o Provide conservation plan assistance o Review conservation plans prepared by other parties o Provide engineering design assistance o Review engineering designs provided by other parties o Provide construction oversight o Evaluate and certify installation of conservation practices C. Re-evaluate parcel. o If site is compliant, update "NR 151 Status Report " and issue "Letter of NR151 Compliance." o If not compliant, seek non-regulatory remedies or initiate enforcement action. o Consult with DNR staff, as necessary, when re-evaluating parcels or issuing letters of noncompliance. 6. Enforcement activities Notify DNR of enforcement action needed. This will be pursued in circumstances where: A. A breach of contractual agreement including failure to install, implement, or maintain BMPs according to the provisions of the agreement occurs OR the landowner has failed to comply with a notice issued AND non-regulatory attempts to resolve the situation have failed. B. Schedule enforcement conference. If landowner is found to be out of compliance, the LCC will notify the appropriate Department of Natural Resources staff to set up the enforcement conference. C. Participate in enforcement conference. The Zoning & Conservation Department (ZAC) will provide technical assistance and participate in an enforcement conference formally initiated by DNR. D. Initiate enforcement action. Refer cases to DNR for enforcement. The Sawyer County Manure Storage Ordinance or other ordinances which incorporate standards may be used. Page 97 of 186 26 7. Monitoring compliance • Conduct periodic evaluations to verify ongoing compliance. • Respond to public complaints alleging noncompliance • Noncompliance that threatens public health and safety will be immediately referred for enforcement action through appropriate county and state entities. • New property owners will be made aware of or have access to NR 151 compliance information 8. Annual reporting of program activities and progress • Maintain and convey a record of annual site evaluations showing their location and compliance status. • Maintain a record of estimated costs of corrective measures for each evaluated parcel. • Maintain and convey a record showing parcels where public cost sharing has been applied to implement standards and prohibitions, the amount and source of those funds, and the landowner share. • Maintain and convey a record and location of parcels receiving notification and violation letters. • Maintain and convey a record of the annual cost of technical and administrative assistance needed to administer agricultural performance standards and prohibitions, as established in NR151. • Consult with DNR, as necessary, to review annual NR 151 reports and records. Land Use Sawyer County utilizes land and information modernization programs to evaluate land uses and provide assistance in developing programs. The county tax lister’s database has been modified to include designation of shoreline property owners which can be used as an educational tool. The majority of land within the county is forestry followed by agriculture, and residential land. The following (Table 1) reflects estimated acreage for commercial, industrial, forestry, wetlands, agriculture, and residential land usage within the county. The general land use map in Appendix D shows land use distribution within the county and reflects Table 1 categories. Page 98 of 186 27 Table 1. Sawyer County Zoning Statistics Unincorporated Areas Only Zoning District Name Acres Percent of County A-1 Agricultural-1 95,363.0 11.04% A-2 Agricultural-2 11,186.3 1.3% C-1 Commercial-1 3,035.2 0.35% F-1 Forestry-1 584,368.5 67.66% I-1 Industrial-1 1,034.4 0.12% PUD Planned Unit Development 285.9 0.03% R-1 Residential-1 7,678.8 0.89% RR-1 Recreational Residential-1 66,867.3 7.74% RR-2 Recreational Residential-2 22,920.2 2.65% W-1 Wetland/shoreland-1 1,460.2 0.17% Sources: Sawyer County GIS Data & 2021-2041 Sawyer County Comprehensive Plan. Soil Loss Inventories Sawyer County was the first of the northern counties to prepare a Soil Erosion Control Plan (see Appendix B). The Soil Erosion Control Plan was approved by the Land and Water Resource Board in August, 1998. The primary goal of the plan is to reduce soil erosion of cropland caused by water erosion on all cropland in the county to allowable soil loss levels that meet the Natural Resources Conservation Service Technical guide standards by the year 2000. Freeon, Magnor, and Padus soils make up the majority of Sawyer County’s cropland. These soils are nearly level to moderately sloping and are suited for farming, except they are limited by a short growing season. *There have been no updates to this plan, however the goals and information are still relevant today. Development Trends Sawyer County has experienced continued growth in recent years. Census data for the period from 2010 to 2020 indicates a county population growth rate of 9.2% compared to the state rate of 3.6%. The population data reflects growth in individuals that are full time residents and does not accurately reflect the seasonal population fluctuations that occur. Sawyer County has one of the highest recreational housing ratios (over 45%, 2020 Census) in the state and country ranking in the top 150 counties for total seasonal and recreational housing units (Sawyer County Housing Market Profile, University of Wisconsin- Madison Division of Extension). What draws individuals to northern Wisconsin and Sawyer County in particular are the Northwoods and waters. The County’s growth has accelerated so rapidly that public officials are having difficulty maintaining and protecting the character of the Northwoods. All townships within the county have completed smart growth plans. Page 99 of 186 28 County zoning regulations for shorelines have been revisited by a committee comprised of technical, lake association members, and other interested individuals. In 2011, a stand-alone Sawyer County Shoreland/Wetland Zoning Ordinance was passed. Within this ordinance it listed “wilderness lakes” that were arrived at on a numeric point system developed by the Land and Water Conservation Department. This was a unique step toward small lake protection in the State. However, in 2015 state laws changed and the classification system can no longer be used. Grading Permits Sawyer County issues permits for any filling or grading of any area which is within 300 feet landward of the ordinary high-water mark (OHWM) of navigable water and which has surface drainage toward the water and on which there is either: 1.) Any filling or grading on slopes of more than 20%, 2.) Filling or grading of more than 1,000 sq. ft. on slopes of 12% to 20%, 3.) Filling or grading of more than 2,000 sq. ft. on slopes less than 12%, 4.) A grading permit is required for any filling or grading in excess of 10,000 sq. ft. within 1,000 feet of the OHWM of navigable lakes, ponds, flowages, OR within 300 feet of the OHWM of navigable rivers and streams. NR 151 Performance Standards and Prohibitions Wisconsin’s NR 151 Performance standards and prohibitions are a main point in land and water resource management plans. In addition to county ordinances, Sawyer County will utilize the NR 151 compliance, enforcement and appeal procedures and state standards as identified in the following: ▪ NR 151, Wis. Admin. Code & ATCP 50 ATCP 50/NR 151 set forth state minimum performance standards and prohibitions for farms and urban areas. These performance standards and prohibitions were designed to achieve water quality standards by limiting nonpoint source water pollution. It is the landowner’s responsibility to meet the agricultural performance standards and prohibitions. The role of Sawyer County Zoning and Conservation Department is to assist them in doing so. NR 151 Non-Agricultural Performance Standards Construction sites >1 acres-must control 80% of sediment load from sites. Stormwater management plans (>1 acre after 10-1-04) o Total suspended solids o Peak discharge rate o Infiltration o Buffers around water NR 151 Agricultural Performance Standards For farmers who grow agricultural crops: o Meet “T” on cropped fields o Follow a nutrient management plan designed to limit entry of nutrients into waters of the state. o Maintain an average P Index of 6 or less on croplands, pastures and winter grazing areas; do not exceed a P Index of 12 in any individual year. Page 100 of 186 29 For farmers who raise, feed, or house livestock: o No direct runoff from feedlots or stored manure into state waters o No unlimited livestock access to waters of the state where high concentrations of animals prevent maintenance of adequate or self- sustaining sod cover o Follow a nutrient management plan when applying or contracting to apply manure to limit entry of nutrients into waters of the state For farmers who have plans to build a manure storage structure: o Maintain a structure to prevent overflow, leakage, and structural failure o Repair or upgrade a failing or leaking structure that poses an imminent health threat or violates groundwater standards o Close a structure according to accepted standards o Meet technical standards for a newly constructed or substantially-altered structure For farmers with land in water quality management area (defined as 300 feet from a stream, or 1,000 feet from a lake or areas susceptible to groundwater contamination): o Do not stack manure in unconfined piles o Divert clean water away for feedlots, manure storage areas, and barnyards located within this area This regulation is available from the Department of Natural Resources or this web site, http://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/nr/100/151/Title ▪ ATCP 50, Wis. Admin. Code which establishes nutrient management and sheet/rill erosion standards; establishes technical standards for cost-shared practices; and establishes cost-sharing requirements for existing facilities and practices if non-DNR funds are used. This regulation is available at this web site: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/ATCP50.aspx ▪ Comprehensive Planning Law, ss. 66.1001 and 16.965, Wis.Stats. which defines a comprehensive plan as containing 9 elements; requires public participation; and establishes plan adoption procedures, imposes a consistency requirement (after January 1, 2010) between plan and local land use actions. This regulation is available from the Department of Administration or this web site: https://doa.wi.gov/Pages/LocalGovtsGrants/Comprehensive-Planning.aspx ▪ Sawyer County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinances established standards for waste storage, waste storage closure, setbacks for buildings and structures from navigable waters; controls removal of shoreline vegetation; imposes permit and other requirements for filling, grading, and dredging near shorelands; regulates development including lake access, island development resorts and condominiums, lake classification development standards, establishes building setbacks from natural features, authorizes intervention to abate a hazardous condition or nuisance; provides compliance procedures including a board of adjustment for variances and appeals, notice requirements, public hearings, enforcement and penalties such as forfeitures Page 101 of 186 30 for violations, review and appeals. The Shoreland-Wetland Protection and Waste Storage ordinances are available from the Sawyer County Zoning and Conservation Department, 10610 Main Street Suite 49, Hayward, WI 54843 or from this web site: https://www.sawyercountygov.org/225/OrdinancesRules-Bylaws Partners in the Land and Water Resource Management Plan Sawyer County has been fortunate to have a dedicated group of individuals from a variety of agencies who have worked to preserve and protect our resources for many years. We also have a broad base of volunteers in this community. These individuals participate in annual events such as Fishing Has No Boundaries, Lumberjack World Championships, American Birkebeiner, and the Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival. These events are unique to Sawyer County and rely on high quality natural resources and provide us with committed volunteer resources. These professional and volunteer partnerships will be vital to the achievement of the plan’s objectives. Agencies and programs involved in implementing our plan include: Department of Natural Resources- The Zoning & Conservation Department has an extensive working relationship with the Department of Natural Resources. NR 151 Performance Standards have been a collaborative effort with the County performing the field work and the local DNR acting as the enforcement arm. Other DNR programs include surface water grants, rapid response grants for invasives, watershed planning and nonpoint source program, the Wildlife Damage and Abatement program, recreational boating facilities, and others. The DNR utilizes the expertise of the Zoning & Conservation Department for implementing mitigation after shoreline citations as well as acting as a liaison for both private property owners and governmental entities with environmental issues. University of Wisconsin Extension- University of Wisconsin - Extension is used as an educational resource for various topics including, but not limited to, agricultural water quality, nutrient and pest management, dairy, grazing management, and specialty crops such as cranberry production. They offer on the ground local assistance to farmers and conservation professionals, as well as opportunities to engage with statewide demonstration, research, and education initiatives that advance goals laid out in the land and water resource management plan. Lac Courte Oreilles Tribe – Tribal Conservation efforts mimic County efforts and there is a free flow of information, ideas, and equipment between the LCO tribe and the County. This is a true partnership and greatly improves the effectiveness of both departments. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) - The County Conservationist attends local work group meetings of the NRCS EQIP program. Large agricultural projects are generally “piggy-backed” utilizing federal and state funding with county design and installation inspection. There is little in the way of Page 102 of 186 31 Wetland Reserve program and Conservation Reserve program acreage in Sawyer County. NRCS also provides engineering assistance to the County. Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP)- DATCP provides crucial funding for staffing as well as structural or SEG funds for the implementation of practices. The standards and specifications used by the department, as well as many regulatory practices, are promulgated by the DATCP. The Bureau of Land & Water Resources has been an invaluable tool to completing this Land and Water Resource Management plan. DATCP also provides engineering assistance to the County. Sawyer County Zoning – Sawyer County Zoning is the enforcement branch for many of the County’s regulations in land use. The Zoning & Conservation Department provides mitigation for shoreland properties and assists with implementation of the NR 135 Non-Metallic Mining and Reclamation Program. Sawyer County Forestry – The Forestry Department utilizes the Zoning & Conservation Department for assistance when necessary. Lake Associations – Lake associations play a vital role in the education of lake residents and protection of water resources. Sawyer County has many active lake associations including the Sawyer County Lakes Forum who will utilize the plan as they work towards common goals and objectives to protect water quality and habitat. Funding Plan Implementation This plan will be the basis for future funding initiatives. Grant funds will be sought to supplement funding from local, state and federal sources. We will continue to participate in programs developed by federal and state agencies and utilize those dollars to the greatest extent before seeking private funding. A state-approved county- wide plan will be a great source of information and guidance as we seek both private and governmental funding. Sawyer County has cost-share programs to assist and provide technical assistance to install shoreline buffers in critical riparian areas and other shoreline protection and other practices. We have utilized and will continue to utilize the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection SWRM cost-share program for NR243 Notice of Discharge compliance. As needed, we have utilized volunteers from community organizations to curb the invasion of purple loosestrife in our water ways. In cooperation with Department of Natural Resource staff, we provide technical assistance and supplies to volunteers for raising beetles for the biological control of these invasive species. We will continue to rely on these valuable volunteer resources to implement lake protection projects. Page 103 of 186 32 The Zoning & Conservation Department has written and received grants from private and governmental sources to implement projects. As competition for monetary resources increases, it will be vital to the success of future projects to be competitive in the grant writing process. Department staff is trained in this area and will continue to target a wide variety of sources for procuring grants. In addition to volunteer assistance and grants, the County will seek funding from state and federal programs including:  Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources non-point source funding (TRM), stewardship grants, lake planning grants, surface water grants, dam repair and modification, brownfield site assessment and remediation grants, shoreline protection, and lake protection grants  Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection funds for shoreline protection and funding for soil and water resource management plan implementation  USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service Programs  Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association Scholarships Information and Education Strategy Information and education objectives are included in the work plan, with a timeline that focuses on an annual basis. County staff made information and education a high priority in the past and will continue to do so. Information and education strategies include:  Education and promotion of best management practices, nutrient management plans, grazing management, conservation tillage, tree planting, prevention, identification, and mapping of invasive species, cost-share programs and wetland benefits to agriculture producers.  Education and promotion of best management practices for riparian areas, prevention, identification and mapping of invasive species, wetland function and benefits, shoreline zoning regulations, water quality testing, and tree sale program for landowners, students and general public.  Education and promotion of best management practices, tree planter availability, cost-share programs for seeding and planting, wetland benefits, prevention, identification and mapping of invasive species, and technical assistance availability to logging operators and landowners. Various formats will be utilized to present information and will be dependent on the audience and topic. Local media will be a key source of dispersing information. County staff will continue to provide presentations and information to local governments, lake associations, schools, and other special groups as requested. As needed, staff will produce computerized presentations, slide shows, hand-outs, and demonstration models to meet educational goals. There currently are many Page 104 of 186 33 excellent publications which will also be utilized whenever possible to avoid duplication of efforts. Monitoring and Evaluation An important component of any long-range plan is to monitor and evaluate the success of strategies developed to meet plan goals. Due to funding constraints, agencies responsible for natural resources rarely have the dollars and/or staff to adequately evaluate and monitor water resources. Volunteers from lake associations, schools, and other interested groups will be utilized to assist in our water monitoring and evaluation efforts. Details of tools to measure progress in addition to monitoring and evaluation efforts are outlined in the work plan. Lakes located within Reservation boundaries will be monitored by the LCO Conservation Department. They measure many aspects of trophic status and perform a variety of tests including phosphorous, chlorophyll A, secchi disk, total P, multi- parameter profiling for temperature and dissolved oxygen, and total suspended solids in streams. Water quality monitoring and data collection on other County lakes will involve a partnership between the County, lake association volunteers, Department of Natural Resources staff, and Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Conservation staff. This team effort will also apply to the monitoring of invasive species. Whenever possible, students from area schools will also participate in monitoring and data collection. Testing includes secchi disk, dissolved oxygen, and total phosphorous. Sawyer County contains very few acres of farmland that erodes at a rate greater than the tolerable level. Farmland within the county will be monitored for erosion as defined in relevant programs. The County conservationist will continue to monitor over-all farming best management practices and continue to promote the adoption of nutrient management plans in the day-to-day department operations. Forestry staff from the county and Department of Natural Resources will be utilized to monitor best management practices pertaining to logging site erosion and access road construction. The county conservationist will provide technical assistance as requested to monitor logging sites, stream crossings, and recreational trails within the county forest. Evaluation of the success of a land and water resource management plan can be measured on a short-term basis with progress tools and metrics established within the work plan. Many of our objectives can be measured within the work plan but changes to resources may take as much as a generation to be significant. As information is compiled over the next five to ten years, trends and comparisons can be evaluated and programming adapted to meet plan objectives. Zoning & Conservation Department staff will be the party responsible for compiling, reviewing, and reporting the success of plan objectives. An annual report will be prepared and reviewed by the Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee. Recommendations Page 105 of 186 34 and/or adjustments to the plan are an expected occurrence and will be discussed at the regular monthly LW&FR Committee meeting and during the 5-year review of the LWRM plan with the Land and Water Conservation Board. Plan Goals and Objectives The goals and objectives established in this plan represent priorities for natural resource management in Sawyer County carried out by the Zoning & Conservation staff with help from partner agencies. The activities needed to reach these goals will be implemented over the course of time established in the work plan. Priority goals and objective items are printed in bold. Goal 1: Reduce environmental impacts of agricultural non-point source pollution. Objective 1: All farms have and utilize a nutrient management plan Objective 2: Control barnyard runoff Objective 3: All cropland erosion be reduced to tolerable soil loss level Objective 4: Educate producers of various size operations on land and water resources Goal 2: Protect, enhance, and restore natural shoreline structure and function Objective 1: Educate shoreline property owners on the benefits of natural shorelines Objective 2: Install shoreline restoration/protection projects Objective 3: Protect existing shoreline ecosystems and habitat Objective 4: Mitigation plan guidance and approval Objective 5: Educate boaters on wake impacts to shorelines Goal 3: Control and monitor invasive species Objective 1: Survey, monitor, and map invasive species Objective 2: Educate the public on the prevention, early detection, and control of invasive species Objective 3: Seek funding sources and partnerships for invasive species control Goal 4: Reduce soil erosion caused by forest road building & stream crossing activities Objective 1: Educate private landowners planning to harvest timber Objective 2: Monitor logging sites and provide consultation to logging operators Objective 3: Seeding and planting of abandoned forest roads Objective 4: Connect with and help private forest landowners Goal 5: Protect land and water resources through land use/comprehensive planning and enforcement of zoning regulations Objective 1: Establish county wide land use planning standards Objective 2: Require mitigation and restoration of shoreline violations or specialized projects Page 106 of 186 35 Objective 3: Require grading permits for disturbed slope areas or areas in excess of 10,000 sq. ft. Objective 4: Support groundwater protection and conduct groundwater mapping Goal 6: Promote Ecological Health and Restoration Objective 1: Encourage private landowners to establish wetland restorations and enhancements Objective 2: Educate public on the value of wetlands and related regulations Objective 3: Annual Tree Sale program Objective 4: Annual Native Plant Sale Objective 5: Educate landowners on the importance of natural ecosystems ZAC Work Plan for Implementation in 2027 The ZAC staff that are available and needed to fully implement the activities outlined in the work plan are listed below. ZAC Permanent Staff Assistant Conservationist 1.0 FTE $ 69,560 Conservation Technician 1.0 FTE $ 75,600 ZAC Administrator 0.5 FTE $ 53,400 Total Staffing Cost 2.5 FTEs $198,560 *Partners and volunteers will be utilized as projects allow. **These staffing costs are from 2024, and costs are likely to increase Page 107 of 186 36 SAWYER COUNTY ANNUAL LWRM WORKPLAN STARTING IN 2027 (and updated annually through 2036) *Priority items are listed in bold. Goal 1: Reduce environmental impacts of agricultural non-point source pollution Objective Actions Annual Staffing/Funding Costs Measure Progress Tool(s) All farms have and utilize a nutrient management plan Educate farmers on the need for a nutrient management plan Provide nutrient management farmer education (NMFE) training Apply for NMFE grant funding $7,500 staff time Number of farms utilizing nutrient management plans (assist 1 farm per year) Number of acres included in nutrient management plans (100 acres) Reduce fertilizer and pesticide used (assist 3 farms) Control barnyard run-off Install conservation practices $1,500 cost-share Number of farms meeting performance standards (bring 1 farm into compliance) All cropland erosion be reduced to a tolerable soil loss level Educate farmers on grazing management Develop conservation plans for all cropland Promote conservation tillage Promote cover crops $2,500 Number of acres utilizing grazing management (assist 1 farm) Number of conservation plans (3 plans) Number of acres using conservation tillage or planted in cover crops (40 acres/year) Educate producers of various size operations on land and water resources Educate on performance standards Explore strategies with small scale farms $300 # of partnerships Meet with 1 producer Page 108 of 186 37 Goal 2: Protect, enhance, and restore natural shoreline structure and function Objective Actions Annual Staffing/Funding Costs Measure Progress Tool(s) Educate shoreline property owners on the benefits of natural shorelines Provide presentations and media releases to lake associations Provide technical on- site visits as needed $1,200 Number of presentations (3 each per year) Number of site visits made (40 visits per year) Install shoreline restoration/protection projects Provide technical assistance for projects Provide cost-share funds for projects $28,000 mix of technical assistance and cost-share Number of site visits made (40 visits per year) Number of projects installed (6,000 feet of shoreline) Protect existing shoreline ecosystems and habitat Advocate for improved shoreline zoning regulations $100 Implement shoreline protection zoning ordinances Mitigation plan guidance and approval Provide technical assistance to landowners $1,000 Numbers of plans approved (30 plans) Educate boaters on wake impacts to shorelines Provide educational materials $250 Materials distributed (3 associations/ organizations) Page 109 of 186 38 Goal 3: Control and monitor invasive species Objective Actions Annual Staffing/Funding Costs Measure Progress Tool(s) Survey, monitor, and map invasive species Monitor lakes with known AIS Survey lakes with no known AIS Encourage lake associations to develop volunteer monitoring programs Monitor terrestrial invasive species $35,000 Lakes Monitored (3 lakes) Lakes Surveyed (3 lakes) Lake Associations with monitoring programs (3 lake) Number of invasive species reported Educate public on the prevention, early detection, and control of invasive species Provide invasive species identification trainings to public Educate public on the importance of prevention $1,000 Number of trainings (3 per year) Number of individuals trained Seek funding sources and partnerships for invasive species Apply for grants Partner with local organizations $1,000 Annual grants Partnerships Page 110 of 186 39 Goal 4: Reduce soil erosion caused by forest road building & stream crossing activities Objective Actions Annual Staffing/Funding Costs Measure Progress Tool(s) Educate private landowners planning to harvest timber Provide best management practices literature with cutting permits $250 Number of best management practice manuals distributed Monitor logging sites and provide consultation to logging operators Provide prompt response to requests for technical assistance $150 Number of technical site visits related to logging operations Seeding and planting of abandoned forest roads Help landowners with seed selection $150 Number of acres of abandoned roads planted Connect with and help private forest landowners Promote assistance in local media $100 Number of landowners assisted (1 per year) Goal 5: Protect land and water resources through land use/comprehensive planning and enforcement of zoning regulations Objective Actions Annual Staffing/Funding Costs Measure Progress Tool(s) Establish county wide land use planning standards Sawyer County Comprehensive Plan in conjunction with other Sawyer County Zoning Ordinances $250 Number of rezone cases or Conditional Use Permits to protect land, water, and ag use Require mitigation and restoration of shoreline violations of specialized projects Provide restoration plans for shoreline violations and educate landowners on the values of natural vegetation $500 Feet of restored shoreline Reduced number of violations Require Grading Permits for disturbed slope areas or areas in excess of 10,000 sq ft. Stop loose earth material from entering waterbodies with erosion control measures $500 Number of permits issued Support groundwater protection and conduct groundwater mapping Partner with WGNHS to conduct study $106,000* *2- year study cost Plan completion and implementation Page 111 of 186 40 Goal 6: Promote Ecological Health and Restoration Objective Actions Annual Staffing/Funding Costs Measure Progress Tool(s) Encourage private landowners to establish wetland restoration and enhancements Provide technical assistance and funding to landowners $10,000 Cost-Share NRCS or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Number of wetland acres established No net loss in wetland acreage Educate public on the value of wetlands and related regulations Provide educational information to lake associations, schools, and media $1,000 Number of educational contacts Annual tree sale program Advertise tree sale in local media $3,000 Number of trees sold Establish native plant sale Advertise native plant sale $250 Number of plants sold Educate landowners on the importance of natural ecosystems Continue to distribute educational materials $100 Number of educational materials Page 112 of 186 41 Appendices Appendix A – Conservation/Best Management Practices Appendix B – Soil Erosion Control Plan Appendix C – General Soils Map Appendix D – General Land Use Map Appendix E – Watersheds that fall within Sawyer County Appendix F – ORW/ERW & Healthy Watersheds, High- Quality Waters - DNR Appendix G – Impaired Waters Map Appendix H – Sites with Soil & Groundwater Contamination Appendix I – Climate Information Page 113 of 186 42 Appendix A - Conservation/Best Management Practices COST-SHARE PRACTICE/FUNDING SOURCE TABLE PRACTICE or ACTIVITY ATCP 50 Reference Funding Source Units of Measureme Land taken out of agricultural production (Cost-share contract must list the new or existing farm practice that takes land out of production) 50.08(3) Structural Acres Riparian land taken out of agricultural production (CREP Equivalent) (Cost-share contract must list the new or existing farm practice that takes land out of production) 50.08(4), 50.42(1) Structural Acres Manure storage systems 50.62 Structural Number Manure storage closure 50.63 Structural Number Barnyard runoff control systems (specify components including heavy use area protection) 50.64 Structural Number Access road 50.65 Structural Linear Ft. Trails and walkways 50.66 Structural Linear Ft. Conservation cover 50.663 SEG1 Acres Conservation crop rotation 50.668 SEG1 Acres Contour farming 50.67 SEG1 Acres Cover crop – single species + termination 50.68(1) SEG1 Acres Cover crop – single species 50.68(2) SEG1 Acres Cover crop – multi-species 50.68(3) SEG1 Acres Critical area stabilization 50.69 Structural Number Diversions 50.70 Structural Linear Ft. Feed storage runoff control systems 50.705 Structural Number Field windbreaks 50.71 Structural Linear Ft. Filter strips 50.72 Structural Acres Grade stabilization structures 50.73 Structural Number Habitat diversification 50.733 SEG1 Acres Harvestable buffers 50.738 SEG1 Acres Hydrologic restoration 50.74 Structural Acres Livestock fencing 50.75 Structural Linear Ft. Livestock watering facilities 50.76 Structural Number Milking center waste control systems 50.77 Structural Number Nutrient management for cropland or pasture 50.78(1) SEG1 Acres Page 114 of 186 43 COST-SHARE PRACTICE/FUNDING SOURCE TABLE PRACTICE or ACTIVITY ATCP 50 Reference Funding Source Units of Measurement Nutrient management for Silurian 50.78(2) No Funds Available Acres Nutrient treatment systems 50.785 Structural Number Pesticide management 50.79 Structural Number Prescribed grazing 50.80 1. Management plan 50.80(1) No Funds Available Number 2. Fencing (not permanent) 50.80(2) No Funds Available Linear Ft. 3. Fencing (permanent) 50.80(3) Structural Linear Ft. 4. Establish permanent pasture (seeding) 50.80(4) Structural Acres Relocating or abandoning animal feeding operations 50.81 Structural Number Residue management 50.82 SEG1 Acres Riparian buffers 50.83 Structural Acres Roofs 50.84 Structural Number Roof runoff systems 50.85 Structural Number Sediment basins 50.86 Structural Number Sinkhole treatment 50.87 Structural Number Stream bank and shoreline protection 50.88 Structural Linear Ft Stream restorations 50.882 Structural Linear Ft Stream Crossing 50.885 Structural Linear Ft Strip-cropping 50.89 SEG1 Acres Subsurface drains 50.90 Structural Number Terrace systems 50.91 Structural Linear Ft Underground outlet 50.92 Structural Number Verification depth to bedrock 50.925 No Funds Available Number Waste transfer systems 50.93 Structural Number Wastewater treatment strips 50.94 Structural Linear Ft Water and sediment control basins 50.95 Structural Number Waterway systems 50.96 Structural Acres Well decommissioning 50.97 Structural Number Wetland restoration 50.98 Structural Acres Engineering services provided in connection with a completed cost-share practice for which Structural revenue may be used (also refer to 50.40(7)). 50.34(4) Structural Other practices with DATCP’s written approval 50.40(3)(a) Page 115 of 186 44 Appendix B – Soil Erosion Control Plan SAWYER COUNTY SOIL EROSION CONTROL PLAN Prepared by: Sawyer County Land and Water Conservation Department May 1997 Note: This is the most up to date data that we have and there have been no updates to this plan since 1997. Since the completion of this plan the county no longer participates in the Farmland Preservation Program, however some of the goals and objectives are still relevant today. Page 116 of 186 45 SAWYER COUNTY SOIL EROSION CONTROL PLAN OBJECTIVES AND GOAL OF THE SOIL EROSION PLAN This document is the soil erosion control plan for cropland in Sawyer County, Wisconsin. The plan was developed and written under the supervision of the Land & Water Conservation Committee within the guidelines set forth by the Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection and is submitted to comply with the requirements of Chapter 92.10 Wis. Stats, and ATCP 50.12 Wis. Admin. Code. This soil erosion control plan is part of Sawyer County’s long-range planning strategy to improve soil and water resource management. A public hearing on the original plan was held on November 3, 1995, and approved by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors on November 14, 1995. The current plan was approved unanimously by the Sawyer County Land & Water Conservation Committee in 1997. The purpose of the plan is to direct conservation efforts systematically and use the conservation dollars in the most effective manner possible until cropland within the entire county meets acceptable soil loss levels. The primary goal of the Sawyer County Erosion Control Plan is to reduce soil erosion of cropland caused by wind and water erosion on all cropland in the County to allowable soil loss levels that meet the Natural Resources Conservation Service Technical Guide standards by the year 2000. The soil erosion control goals under Chapter 92.10 and ATCP 50.12, Wis. Administrative Code are as follows: By January 1, 2000, no individual cropland field in the state will have a soil erosion rate at which exceeds T-value. By July 1, 2005, no individual cropland field in the state will have erosion rates which exceeds 2 times T-value. SOILS, GEOLOGY AND LAND USE Sawyer County is in northern Wisconsin with a total acreage of 866,560 of which 21,100 acres are in cropland. Freeon, Magnor and Padus soils make up the majority of Sawyer County’s cropland. These soils are nearly level to moderately sloping land and are suited for farming, except they are limited by a short growing season. There is currently no soil survey available for Sawyer County. A current listing of soil series names and K factors used to calculate erosion rates is found in Appendix 8. See Appendix 1 for land use distribution from the Northern Wisconsin Cropland Study, February 1995, Appendix 3 for existing land use, Appendix 5 for the county watershed boundaries, Appendix 9 for a map of the major soil types, and Appendix 10 for topography. Page 117 of 186 46 CROPLAND SOIL EROSION IN SAWYER COUNTY Appendix 4 and Appendix 2, from the Northern Wisconsin Cropland Study, Feb., 1995, reference information on the estimated average annual sheet and rill erosion in the county. Most of this erosion information is currently available only on a county-wide basis. Other field specific information can be found on the local database. The information in the current database estimates the weighted average T-value for the county to be 5.0 T/A/Y, the weighted average soil erosion rate to be 2.6 T/A/Y, and the highest soil loss rate on a field to be 5 T/A/Y. The database erosion estimates are based on one percent of the 21,100 acres of cropland in Sawyer County [ Wisconsin Agricultural Statistics – 1994 ]. STRATEGY FOR IMPLEMENTATION Since little specific cropland field information is available, the Sawyer County Zoning & Conservation Department believes that beginning a voluntary educational approach now is the best means of achieving adoption of erosion control practices on as broad a county- wide basis as possible. The county will provide educational and technical assistance for the installation of soil conserving practices. County staff will also hold informational meetings for farmers to discuss the potential for implementation of shoreland management ordinances under s. 92.17 Stats. Additionally, the county conservation staff will inventory areas where crop rotations, tillage, and soil type are likely to cause erosion above the tolerable soil loss level (T). The majority of this inventory will be completed before the year 2000. This will enable county staff to determine priority areas where these soil conserving practices are most needed. Erosion control practices will then be emphasized for these priority areas. These priority areas will be designated based on: • The total amount of erosion occurring in each area; • The extent to which current estimated erosion rates for cropland fields exceed the soil erosion control standards; • The off-site damages, including water degradation caused by soil erosion; • The extent to which the soil erosion is preventable; • The cost of preventing the erosion; • The feasibility of implementing the erosion control strategy; and • Other factors identified by the land conservation committee. Soil erosion rates and progress made toward the “T by 2000” goal will be tracked through the county database that contains current cropping conditions of individual fields. The database will enable the Sawyer County Land and Water Conservation Department to track where practices are needed. As fields are inventoried, the practices are planned and installed, the database will be updated to reflect progress made towards the “T by 2000” goal. This progress will be submitted annually to DATCP in the Accomplishment Report. Landowners and/or land users will be notified of current soil erosion rates on individual land parcels when the farm conservation plan is developed and monitored for compliance with conservation programs. The conservation plan will contain suggested management practices for reducing soil erosion. During the development or revision of this conservation plan, landowners or land users may present information related to the accuracy of the determined erosion rate. Page 118 of 186 47 In addition to these goals, Sawyer County has a soil and water conservation policy (see Appendix 7) in effect that sets standards for croplands of participants in the Farmland Preservation Program. This policy includes standards for developing and administering farm conservation plans under ss. ATCP 50.18 and 50.20, Wis. Administrative Code. See Appendix 6 for a listing of participants in the Farmland Preservation Program that have farm conservation plans implemented. The following agencies were utilized in development and preparation of the erosion control plan: Department of Natural Resources, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, University of Wisconsin – Extension, and the county land information office created under s.59.88(3). The Sawyer County Land and Water Conservation Department will continue to work with these agencies to coordinate conservation programs with the priorities of this plan. This will be accomplished by requesting that all agencies consider the goals in this plan when making decisions concerning where conservation efforts are to be directed. State and federal conservation programs, and their respective cost sharing will be promoted to landowners in the designated priority areas to assist them in implementing the goals of this soil erosion control plan. Currently the Environmental Quality Incentives Program overseen by the Farm Service Agency is unfunded. State funds from Ag Shoreland Management may be available in the future pending grant approval. CONSERVATION PRACTICES RECOMMENDED Most of the soil erosion occurring on Sawyer County cropland is preventable using proper conservation practices. Because the main purpose of this erosion control plan is to meet the “T by 2000 goal”, the erosion control measures outlined in this plan will focus mainly on those for cropland even though other soil erosion sources exist in this county. A variety of conservation practices are available for the control of cropland soil erosion. The practices range from structural, such as the installation of terraces and the construction of grassed waterways, to cultural management such as conservation tillage, and contour farming. An objective of the county soil erosion control program is to identify those conservation practices that would most effectively address soil erosion problems in the County. Preference will be given to the conservation practices that allow producers to raise essentially the same crops they were producing in the past. The recommendation of this Soil Erosion Control Plan is to use conservation tillage or crop rotations with little corn and long term hay due to the fact they are the easiest to implement without extensive capital outlay. Conservation tillage eduction will be provided to individuals developing a conservation plan, and peer education from producers presently employing conservation practices will also be used. Projected management practices and Staff Time Needs: Amending crop rotations 700 acres 250 hours Conservation tillage 300 acres 50 hours Contour farming 0 acres 0 hours Critical area planting 50 acres 100 hours Grassed Waterways 5 acres 100 hours Field diversion 0 acres 0 hours Page 119 of 186 48 Click below to view all the appendices for the Soil Erosion Plan: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OyIaQGy0TSz-tZZKhQw2gH4KbN5Oc-Ld/view?usp=sharing Page 120 of 186 49 Appendix C - General Soils Map Page 121 of 186 50 Appendix D - Sawyer County General Land Use Page 122 of 186 51 Appendix E- County Watersheds Watersheds that Fall within Sawyer County (All or a Portion of) Watershed Code Name Watershed Area (acres) Area (sq miles) Total Stream Miles Total Lake Acres Total Wetland Acres NPS Priority Watershed Year NPS Stream Ranking NPS Lake Ranking NPS Groundwater Ranking NPS Overall Ranking LC10 Brill and Red Cedar Rivers 190,518 297.7 265 6,282 15,832 0 Med Med High High LS14 Upper Bad River 86,198 134.7 213 1,110 20,386 0 NR NA Low Low SC22 Upper Namekagon River 126,591 197.8 135 6,298 19,027 0 NR NR Low Low SC20 Totagatic River 211,156 329.9 275 6,681 42,970 0 NR NR Low Low SC21 Trego Lake - Middle Namekagon River 172,087 268.9 218 4,463 28,205 0 NR NR Low Low UC19 Weirgor Creek and Brunet River 207,357 324.0 407 2,241 39,377 0 Low NR Low Low UC12 Butternut Creek 49,706 77.7 81 1,375 13,530 0 NR Med Low Low LC11 Red Cedar Lake 89,609 140.0 168 6,893 7,429 0 Low Med Low Low UC07 Lower Flambeau River 82,319 128.6 152 252 13,319 0 NR Low Low Low UC21 East Fork Chippewa River 195,300 305.2 311 2,431 65,074 0 NR Low Low Low UC08 Lower South Fork Flambeau River 128,098 200.2 187 607 42,849 0 NR Low Low Low UC11 Lower North Fork Flambeau River 98,541 154.0 172 2,087 20,812 0 NR Low Low Low UC18 Thornapple River 147,184 230.0 244 193 38,871 0 Low Low Low Low UC23 West Fork Chippewa River 182,257 284.8 257 6,208 60,036 0 Low Low Low Low UC22 Lake Chippewa 117,057 182.9 118 4,828 14,304 0 Low Low Low Low UC20 Couderay River 135,838 212.2 212 18,301 14,698 0 Low High Low Low Page 123 of 186 52 Appendix F- ORW/ERW & Healthy Watershed, High-Quality Waters Sawyer County Outstanding & Exceptional Water Resources https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/SurfaceWater/Standards.html Waterbody Name Portion within ORW/ERW Classification Status Badger Creek All ORW Barker Lake All ORW Beaver Creek All ORW Benson Creek All ORW Blaisdell Lake All ORW Buckhorn Tributary All ORW Camp Smith Lake All ORW Eddy Creek All ORW Evergreen Lake All ORW Grindstone Creek All ORW Grindstone Lake All ORW Hayward Lake All ORW Lac Court Oreilles All ORW Lake Chippewa All (Chippewa Flowage) ORW Little Weirgor Creek All ORW Maple Creek All ORW McDermott Brook All ORW Mosquito Brook All ORW Namekagon River All ORW Nelson Lake All ORW Osgood Lake All ORW Pacwawong Lake All ORW Perch Lake (T42N R6W S25) All ORW Phipps Lake All ORW Round Lake (Big Round) All ORW S Fork Flambeau River From the Price County line to the Junction w/ the N Fork of the Flambeau River ORW Sand Lake All ORW Spider Lake All ORW Swan Creek All ORW Teal Lake All ORW Unnamed Tributary to Little Wiergor @ S33 to S34 T37N R7W All ORW Whitefish Lake All ORW Alder Creek All ERW Bean Brook All ERW Bear Creek All ERW Blueberry Creek All ERW Brunet River Above town road in S27 T40N R4W ERW Brunet River Tributary S18 T38N R5W to S24 T38N R6W All ERW Casey Creek All ERW Chippanazie Creek All ERW Chippewa River Tributary S2 T38N R6W All ERW Connors Creek Flambeau R to Little Connor Creek ERW Couderay Creek Tributary @ S17 to S18 T39N R8W All ERW Dead Man Creek All ERW Deer Creek (Winter Township) T38N R4W S36 and downstream ERW Page 124 of 186 53 Flambeau River Tributary @ S10 to S9 T38N R3W All ERW Flambeau River Tributary @ S11 to S14 T39N R3W All ERW Flambeau River Tributary @ S14 to S13 T37N R4W All ERW Flambeau River Tributary @ S18 to S30 T38N R3W All ERW Flambeau River Tributary @ T37N R3W S27 (Bull Creek) All ERW Flambeau River Tributary @ S1 to S12 T39N R3W All ERW Forty-One Creek All ERW Hackett Creek S29 T37N R3W to County line ERW Hatchery Creek All ERW Hauer Creek All ERW Hemlock Spur Creek All ERW Knapp Stout Creek All ERW Knuteson Creek Above Wise Lake in S36 T38N R9W ERW Lac Courte Oreilles Tributary @ T39N R8W S5 All ERW Lake Chippewa Tributary @ S17 to S9 T39N R7W All ERW Long Creek Tributary S7 T38N R3W to outlet ERW Moss Creek All ERW Namekagon River Tributary @ S13 T41N R9W All ERW Pipestone Creek All ERW Price Creek Flambeau River up to road crossing in S12 T37N R3W ERW Spooky Bay Creek All ERW Sucker Creek Above Highway 48 ERW Swift Creek Above Tuscobia Trail ERW Thirty-three Creek All ERW Yarnell Creek All ERW Page 125 of 186 54 Page 126 of 186 55 Healthy Watersheds, High-Quality Waters (WI DNR) Background & General Overview In 2022, the DNR's Water Quality Program launched the Healthy Watersheds, High- Quality Waters (HWHQW) initiative. This new focus on the "already healthy" waterbodies and watersheds – or land area draining to a lake, stream or wetland – is intended to celebrate these treasures and draw attention to the ecological, financial and societal benefits of protecting clean water. This initiative utilized the US EPA Watershed Recovery Potential Screening Tool to model watershed health at the HUC12 scale throughout the state. The DNR also identified individual high-quality lakes, streams, rivers, and wetlands utilizing existing monitoring data and resource classifications. Lakes, streams, and rivers with at least two of the following attributes are considered HQWs: 1.) unique or rare resource, 2.) attaining state water quality standards, or 3.) good to excellent biotic integrity. Also included are unique wetlands and those with least disturbed or reference conditions. The modeled watersheds (HUC12 scale) can be sorted statewide and by major drainage basin (HUC6). As outlined in the Wonderful Waters of Wisconsin Action Plan (2022), the 30% healthiest ranked watersheds in the state and within each major drainage basin are the geographic protection priorities for this statewide plan. The HWHQW website features the accompanying technical report, action plan for implementing protection strategies, and ready-made maps and information dashboards. Historically, much of the DNR's emphasis has been to restore polluted waters as required by the federal Clean Water Act. Evidence is mounting, however, that actively protecting healthy water resources is a wise public investment, and the shift towards protection efforts is growing nationally. Identifying watershed protection priorities also serves to expand funding opportunities as more agencies, such as the EPA, promote the use of watershed planning for protection efforts. Modeling & Assessment Results for Sawyer County Here are the overall results for Sawyer County based on the 2021 WI DNR modeling and assessment effort. For the most up to date information, please refer to the HWHQW webpage: High-Quality Waters in Sawyer County include: • 43 High-Quality lakes, rivers, and streams • 8 Healthy Wetlands • 6 Rare & Unique Wetlands In Sawyer County, there are forty-seven (47) HUC12 watersheds that were modeled as part of the HWHQW initiative. This includes watersheds whose area overlaps with other counties. Page 127 of 186 56 Watershed Protection Priorities (Top 30th Percentile) in Sawyer County include: • Forty-One (41) watersheds (87%) are considered Statewide Watershed Protection Priorities • Twenty-Four (24) watersheds (51%) are considered Chippewa River Basin (HUC6) Watershed Protection Priorities • One (1) watershed is considered a St. Croix Basin (HUC6) Watershed Protection Priority Page 128 of 186 57 Page 129 of 186 58 Page 130 of 186 59 Page 131 of 186 60 Page 132 of 186 61 Appendix G- Impaired Waters Page 133 of 186 62 Appendix H – Sites with Soil & Groundwater Contamination Page 134 of 186 63 Appendix I- Climate Information June 4, 2025 Sawyer County Climate Information Description of Included Figures Climate Summary: 1. Climate normals for Winter, Sawyer County, WI, 1991-2020. Climate normals are 30-year averages which provide a baseline for understanding a location’s typical conditions. Climate normals for Sawyer County show that it has a typical continental climate, with significant seasonal variability, warm summers, and very cold winters. Image source: Wisconsin State Climatology Office. https://climatology.nelson.wisc.edu/wisconsin-historic-climate-data/climate-normals-by-location/ Historical Trends: 2. Annual average temperature for Sawyer County, WI, 1895-2024. Long-term temperature records show that Sawyer County is becoming warmer, with average annual temperatures increasing by approximately 3° F since 1950. Much of this warming has occurred in winter, with average winter temperatures increasing by 6° F, compared to 3° F in spring and fall and 2° F in summer. Image source: NOAA Climate at a Glance. https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/climate-at- aglance/county/time-series/WI-113/tavg/12/12/1895- 2024?base_prd=true&begbaseyear=1901&endbaseyear=2000&trend=true&trend_base=10&begtrendy ear=1950&endtrendyear=2024 For seasonal breakdowns, see https://wicci.wisc.edu/wisconsin- climatetrends-and-projections/ 3. Annual precipitation for Sawyer County, WI, 1895-2024. Long-term precipitation records show that overall, annual precipitation totals have increased slightly in Sawyer County. Since 1950, annual precipitation has increased by approximately .22 inches/decade (~5%). Image source: NOAA Climate at a Glance. https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/climate-at-a-glance/county/time-series/WI-113/ pcp/12/12/1895- 2024?base_prd=true&begbaseyear=1901&endbaseyear=2000&trend=true&trend_base=10&begtrendy ear=1950&endtrendyear=2024 4. Precipitation trends by season, 1950-2023 (clockwise from top left: winter, spring, fall, summer). While annual precipitation totals have not changed much in recent decades (+~5%), seasonal precipitation trends tell a different story. There is significant variation by season and across the state, especially in summer precipitation. Summers in have become much wetter in central Wisconsin and drier in the northern and southeastern parts of the state. This pattern is seen in Sawyer County, where summer has gotten 15% drier, but winter and fall have gotten 20% wetter. Spring has gotten 15%wetter. Image source: Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts. https://wicci.wisc.edu/wisconsin-climate- trendsand-projections/. Data from NOAA Climate at a Glance. Future Projections: 5. Projected change in annual average temperature. Like most of Wisconsin, average annual temperatures in Sawyer County are expected to increase by the mid-21st century compared to recent historical averages (1981-2021). Sawyer County is expected to warm more than other parts of the state (+~6 ° F) Image source: Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts. https://wicci.wisc.edu/wisconsin- climatetrends-and-projections/ Page 135 of 186 64 6. Projected change in average temperature by season (clockwise from top left: winter, spring, fall, summer). Historical temperatures trends (Figure 2) are expected to continue, with temperatures in Sawyer County increasing in all seasons, but more so in winter and fall. Sawyer County is projected to see some of the largest increases in winter temperatures statewide (+~6-7° F) Image source: Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts. https://wicci.wisc.edu/wisconsin-climate-trends-and-projections/ 7. Projected change in the number of below-freezing nights per year. Sawyer County is expected to see warmer winters, with very cold temperatures occurring less frequently. For example, Sawyer County is projected to see 20-40 fewer nights below freezing per year by the mid-21st century (right) compared to the recent historical average (left). Image source: Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts. https://wicci.wisc.edu/wisconsin-climate-trends-and-projections 8. Projected change in the frequency of extreme precipitation events. Sawyer County is expected to see an increase in extreme precipitation events of all magnitudes. Top left shows the historical frequency of rainfall events with >2 inches per day of precipitation compared to future projections (top right). Bottom left shows the historical frequency of very extreme events (>5 inches per day) compared to future projections (bottom right). Image source: Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts. https://wicci.wisc.edu/wisconsin-climate-trends-and-projections/ For more on extreme rainfall, see the Wisconsin Rainfall Project: https://her.cee.wisc.edu/the-wisconsin-rainfall-project/ 9. Projected change in precipitation by season (clockwise from top left: winter, spring, fall, summer). In Sawyer County, annual precipitation is projected to increased by approximately 5%. However, precipitation changes are expected to vary considerably by season. Winters are projected to see the largest increase in precipitation, followed by spring and fall. Summer projections are more uncertain, and models diverge on whether increases or decreases are expected. Though average summer precipitation totals might not change significantly, greater extremes (e.g., more severe droughts, floods, and extreme precipitation events) are expected. Image source: Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts. https://wicci.wisc.edu/wisconsin-climate-trends-and-projections Page 136 of 186 65 Page 137 of 186 66 Sawyer County, Wisconsin Average Temperature 1950-2024 Trend Page 138 of 186 67 Sawyer County, Wisconsin Precipitation 1950-2024 Trend Page 139 of 186 68 Sawyer County Page 140 of 186 69 Projected Change in Annual Average Temperature Sawyer County Page 141 of 186 70 Projected Change in Mean Temperature by Season Sawyer County Page 142 of 186 71 Projected Change in Below-Freezing Nights Sawyer County Page 143 of 186 72 Projected Change in Extreme Precipitation Page 144 of 186 73 Projected Change in Precipitation by Season Sawyer County Page 145 of 186 G.G2PA3P"9F0A@F9@P 2C.DG?2@GPA3P.GID.=P2FAID02FP  '' ' '' AD?P  P 2JPP !APG82PAI@HLPA.D1PA3P #' "!
'"9F0A@F:@P A.D1P2?/2DFP @P.00AD1PK:G8PF20G9A@PP
P.@1PF20G9A@P P
PA3PG82P"9F0A@F9@P G.GI2FPK2PD20A??2@1PG82P6>=AK9@7PC2DFA@FPGAP.0GP.FP .IG8AD9M21P2?2D72@0LP4;E2PK.D12@FP4BDPG82PCD2J2@G9A@P.@1PFICCD2FF:A@PA3P6D2FGP5D2FP:@PG89FP0AI@GLP6DPG82PL2.DP'.@1P.F< LAIDP.CCDAJ.=PA3PG89FPAD7.@9M.G9A@P=9FG P  '' ' (2(+12"(/22#")(-*#"2 ""2"2#$)2(*2 ,!)2 !),(2(2%&02## (2 *
 !2 (2(2 2 #()*2(-2 0"2)*"2 2 #()*2(-2 2C.DG?2@GPA3P.GID.=P2FAID02FP .D<P.==FP"9F0A@F9@P $% $& .G2 3PG82P!AK@PA3P 0.(2 3PG82P!AK@PA3P "2 2 3PG82P!AK@PA3P '(2 2 3PG82P9HLPA3P 0.(2 3PG82P9HLPA3P 0.(2 LP#$$ #%&&'()*+P.G2P%$,P-P AI@HLPA.D1P8.9DC2DFA@P 1/5/2026 Page 146 of 186 Page 147 of 186 Page 148 of 186 Page 149 of 186 Page 150 of 186 Page 151 of 186 Page 152 of 186 Page 153 of 186 Page 154 of 186 Page 155 of 186 Page 156 of 186 Minutes of the February 12, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Finance Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members (X) Present: Others Present: Chair: John Righeimer Mike Markgren Vice Chair: Stacey Hessel Liz Klein Marc Helwig Ron Buckholtz Tom Duffy - Absent Rhandi Ehn Jeff Hoehne Brian Lehner Call to Order – Mr. Righeimer called the meeting to order at 8:30 am. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call taken and quorum was met. Meeting Agenda – Set Public Comments – None Minutes from the previous meeting dated: January 8, 2026 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Helwig Second by: Mr. Hoehne Motion carried without negative vote. Treasurer’s Report – Mr. Lehner provided a written report on tax collections and delinquent parcels. Finance Department Report - Ms. Ehn reviewed monthly sales tax revenues, Budget Performance Reports for December 2025 and January 2026, and January CIP purchases. Department Financial Updates-- Land Records Department---Ms. Ehn reviewed 2025 and January 2026 financials for the Land Records Department. 2025 revenues came in at 201% of budget; 2025 expenses came in at 85% of budget. January numbers are on track for this department. Surveyor Department—Ms. Ehn reviewed 2025 and January 2026 financials for the Surveyor Department. 2025 revenues came in at 578% of budget; expenses at 88%. January numbers are on track for this department. Zoning Department—Ms. Ehn reviewed 2025 and January 2026 financials for the Zoning Department. 2025 revenues came in at 130% of budget; 2025 expenses came in at 82%. January numbers are on track for this department. Forestry Department—Ms. Ehn reviewed 2025 and January 2026 financials for the Forestry Department. 2025 revenues came in at 234% of budget; expenses came in at 99%. A GNA grant and stumpage are not reflected in these revenues. January numbers are on track for this department. Page 157 of 186 Investments Review and Update— The December investment report was provided: interest rates are dropping; County CD investments are still holding above 4%. Elected Official Wages- Elected Official Wages— A resolution proposing the next term of wages for elected officials was presented by Mr. Markgren. The proposed 2027 base wage for the Clerk of Court is set at $76,501; 2028 is $78,414; 2029 is $80,374 and 2030 is $82,384. The proposed 2027 base wage for County Sheriff is $101,005; 2028 is $103,530; 2029 is $106,118 and 2030 is $108,771. Resolution 2026-____Establish Elected Officials Wage was approved for forwarding to County Board on a motion by: Ms. Hessel Second by: Mr. Helwig Motion carried without negative vote. Board Appointed Committee Updates— None Correspondence, Reports from Conferences and Meetings – None Future Agenda Items – None Adjournment – 9:04am Next Meeting- March 12, 2026 Time: 8:30 am Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 158 of 186 1 SAWYER COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Resolution No. _________ RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING SALARIES OF, AND PROVIDING HEALTH INSURANCE INFORMATION REGARDING, ELECTED OFFICIALS WHEREAS , pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 59.22(1)(a), the salaries of the Sawyer County (“County”) Clerk of Court, and County Sheriff must be established by the County Board of Supervisors; and WHEREAS, Wis. Stat. § 59.22(1)(a) does not preclude adjustments to fringe benefits during the term of office, as confirmed in Cramer v. Eau Claire County, 2013 WI App 67; and WHEREAS, the County has an interest in establishing the salaries at a level that attracts public interest in attracting candidates to run for the positions; and WHEREAS , the County has offered health insurance benefits to elected officials under the same terms and conditions as management staff, as may be modified by the County from time to time; and WHEREAS, the County acknowledges that each elected county official must pay the Employee- Required Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) Contribution Rate, as such rate may be adjusted by the Employee Trust Fund Board; and WHEREAS, the County Administration and Finance Committees reviewed the information set forth below at its meeting on February 12, 2026 and recommended its adoption by the County Board of Supervisors. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED , the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors hereby establishes the salaries of the County Clerk of Court, and County Sheriff according to the below schedule for each year of the term and that health insurance be offered to elected officials under the same terms and conditions as offered to management staff, as may be modified by the County from time to time: Position 2027 2028 2029 2030 Clerk of Court $76,501 $78,414 $80,374 $82,384 County Sheriff $101,005 $103,530 $106,118 $108,771 FISCAL IMPACT Clerk of Court $12,058 $1,913 $1,960 $2,009 County Sheriff $15,921 $2,525 $2,588 $2,653 Total $27,979 $4,438 $4,549 $4,662 (These estimated costs include the fiscal impact of salaries only and do not include the fiscal impact of health insurance or any other fringe benefit, such as WRS contribution rates.) Page 159 of 186 2 Information contained in this Resolution was recommended for adoption by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors at its meeting on February 19, 2026, by the Sawyer County Administration and Finance Committees on February 12, 2026. Administration Committee _ __________________________________ ________________________________ 3 1 Ron Kinsley, Chair Ron Buchholz, Vice Chair 3 3 __________________________________ ________________________________ John Righeimer, Member Stacey Hessel, Member 3 6 ____________________________________ 3 7 Tom Duffy, Member Finance Committee ___________________________________ _________________________________ John Righeimer, Chair Stacey Hessel, Vice Chair ___________________________________ _________________________________ Tom Duffy, Member Jeff Hoehne, Member ___________________________________ Marc Helwig, Member ____________________________________________________________________________ This Resolution is hereby adopted by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors this 19th day of February, 2026. _____________________________________ __________________________________ Ron Kinsley, Liz Klein, Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Chairman Sawyer County Clerk Page 160 of 186 Minutes of the February 10, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Health and Human Services Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room, Sawyer County Voting Committee Members Present: Others Present: Chair: Kay Wilson Liz Klein Alicia Carlson- Virtual Vice Chair: Tweed Shuman Mike Markgren Marshal Savitski Julia Lyons Chuck Van Etten Julie McCallum Jeff Hoehne Sarah Inczauskis Lorraine Gouge- Excused Caitlyn Myren Dawn Petit- Absent Cole Myren Vacant Joe Bodo Dr. Sabrina Dunlap- Absent Pam Mueller Call to Order – Chair Wilson called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was confirmed. Roll Call was taken; a quorum was met. Meeting Agenda – Motion to move item 14c to 14b by: Mr. Shuman Second by: Mr. Savitski Motion carried without negative vote. Public Comments – None Minutes from the previous meeting dated: January 6, 2025 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Hoehne Second by: Mr. Savitski Motion carried without negative vote. Appointment of new HHS Board member- Pam Mueller introduced herself to the committee and shared her background in HHS, and current roles on the Sawyer County Housing Authority, Food Shelf and Ventures. Motion to appoint Pam Mueller to the vacant position on the HHS Board by: Ms. Wilson Second by: Mr. Shuman Motion carried without negative vote. Outside Committee Reports- LCO Liaison— No report Senior Resource Center— A written report was provided by Joey Johnson. Administration— The HHS Acronym/Terms glossary and HHS organizational chart have been included as standing agenda items. Ms. Lyons updated the committee on the Strategic Plan. There are several openings in HHS due to retirements. Joe Bodo has come back to HHS to provide CCS AODA services in addition to his work as a consultant. Ms. Lyons discussed collaboration with mobile crisis and other program staff to handle difficult client placements. Ms. Lyons expressed concerns about the Sawyer County Record publishing court records containing sensitive information about minors. Ms. Lyons discussed concerns about the use of AI and keeping protected health information private; the department is looking for a secure AI platform. Page 161 of 186 Ms. Lyons reviewed the HHS Strategic Plan and updated the committee on efforts to meet plan goals. Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)— Ms. Lyons reported that ADRC has been very busy in recent months and protective placements of individuals are an ongoing concern. Behavioral Health— A written report was provided. Ms. Carlson discussed integrating licenses and possible ways to combine substance abuse and mental health treatments. The 2025 Mobile Crisis review was presented by Ms. Myren. There were 209 assessments in 2025. The report showed a variety of data points and it was noted that the number of elderly needing assessments is growing. Mental Health Expense reports were provided. Children, Youth & Family Services— Ms. Lyons reported that CPS received 263 reports in 2025, of which 96 were screened in; 85% within 24 hours. The overall number of out-of-home care placements has decreased since 2020. Youth Justice- YJ had 3 referrals in December; there are 39 active clients. Ms. Inczauskis presented a 2022-2024 data analysis, showing that Sawyer County has a higher number of juvenile delinquency (violent and criminal offenses) than most other counties in Wisconsin, placing 5th highest in 2022- 2023 and 7th highest in 2024. Sawyer also has higher risk clients than other Wisconsin counties, based on the YASI assessment tool. Youth Diversion and Truancy- Ms. Inczauskis presented the truancy report, showing a high success rate since it was initiated. There were 37 referrals in 2025; 82% were Native American children. Economic Support— The Northern Income Maintenance Consortium written report was provided. Ms. Lyons commented that Wisconsin had an issue with child care fraud in the past and had instituted policies to correct abuses; a more detailed look into child care will be on the March agenda. Public Health-- Ms. McCallum provided a written report; respiratory illnesses have decreased since January; there are two cases of measles reported in Wisconsin. The Chequamegon Environmental Health Consortium has placed Sawyer on Conditional Agent status due to deficiencies in 2025; the department is working through a corrective action plan. Fiscal— Ms. Lyons provided the HHS fiscal reports. Board Appointed Committee Updates— None Correspondence, Reports from Conferences and Meetings-- None Future Agenda Items— None Meeting Date/Time – The next meeting of the Health and Human Services Board will be Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 6:30 pm in the Board Room. Meeting adjourned at 7:53pm Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 162 of 186 Minutes of the February 9, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Economic Development and UW-Extension Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members Present: Others Present: Chair: John Righeimer Mike Markgren Mindy Simons Vice Chair: Stacey Hessel Laura Bruce Ariga Grigoryan Tom Duffy Lori Baltrusis Steve Kariainen Tawonga Zakeyu Randy Neumann Call to Order – Chair Righeimer called the meeting to order at 8:30 am. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call was taken. Quorum was met. Meeting Agenda -- Set Public Comments – None Minutes from the previous meeting dated: January 5, 2025 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Neumann Second by: Mr. Kariainen Motion carried without negative vote. Library— UW Extension—Ms. Baltrusis reported on the vision statement and County goals. Ms. Zakeyu, the new Regional Agriculture Educator, was introduced. Ms. Grigoryan discussed the results from the Town of Draper’s community survey. Mr. Righeimer requested information on other township participation in similar surveys. Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau Report— Ms. Simons reported on search engine optimization, which includes Google and YouTube ads, publication ads and social media engagement, and how it impacts Sawyer County. She spoke regarding the excellent winter conditions as it relates to outdoor recreation and sports and the positive impact it has on the community. NWRPC Report— None SC/LCO Economic Development Corporation Report— Ms. Hessel read an email report from Mr. Lamoureaux. She reported on the Talent Recruitment and Thrive Grants. Mr. Righeimer requested an update on a proposal for commercial EV charging station. Trail Reports-- Mr. Neumann reported for the Sawyer County Snowmobile Alliance on motorized trails; the report included updates on the current trail conditions, local business updates, snowmobile safety classes, and fundraisers. There was no report for Non-Motorized trails . Board Appointed Committee Updates – No reports Page 163 of 186 Correspondence, Reports from Conferences— Ms. Hessel reported the Biofuel bill will be voted on this week. Future Agenda Items – None Adjournment – 8:57 am Meeting Date/Time – The next meeting of the Economic Development and UW-Extension Committee will be Monday, March 9, 2026 at 8:30 am in the Board Room. Minutes recorded by Laura Bruce, Elected Official Deputy Clerk Page 164 of 186 Minutes of the Meeting of the February 12, 2026 Sawyer County Administration Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members (X) Present: Others Present: Chair: Ron Kinsley Mike Markgren Vice Chair: Ron Buckholtz Liz Klein Tom Duffy- Absent Gary Elliot John Righeimer Mike Coleson Stacey Hessel Call to Order –Chair Ron Kinsley called the meeting to order at 10:00 am. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call taken; quorum was met. Meeting Agenda – Set Public Comments – None Minutes from the previous meeting dated: January 8, 2026 Motion to approve by: Mr. Righeimer Second by: Mr. Buckholtz Motion carried without negative vote. County Clerk Report- Ms. Klein provided a written department report. The department updated the Notary policy, created a Senior Resource bulletin board and is updating elections documents and procedures. Valentines for Veterans and Meals on Wheels were collected in the Clerk’s office. The ballots for the April 7 election shipped today. Ms. Klein is attending the WCCO conference and a PIO training course in March. Veterans Service Office Report - Mr. Elliot provided a written report of January department activity: 594 phone calls, 1081 letters/emails/faxes sent and 168 office visits. VSO contacts have been steadily increasing. 18 disability claims were filed in January with $54,234.17 awarded in Veterans’ favor. The department is co-hosting counseling sessions at La Crosse Vet Center, hosting Coffee & Conversation, and hosting a Northern WI Tribal VSO training for 20 counties. The social media report was provided. The VSO will be delivering Valentines for Veterans again this year. Veteran’s Tribute Update- The environmental results came back clean on the building site. Mr. Markgren provided a timeline for next steps: purchase, demo, design and bid packages, with a proposed build starting in June and completed by Veterans Day. Motion to move the Veterans Tribute forward with purchase, as presented by Mr. Markgren, with contingency of a fuel oil tank being removed by owner by: Stacey Hessel Second by: Mr. Buckholtz Motion carried without negative vote. Information Technology Department Report - Mr. Coleson provided a written IT report on ongoing IT projects. Page 165 of 186 Human Resources Report - A written report was provided on staffing and recruiting for open positions within the county. Namekagon Transit Garage- Transit received a grant to build a garage at their site, which is located on County Property. Discussion included concerns about the placement interfering with Fair parking, and the County paying insurance on the building. These issues will be addressed by Mr. Markgren prior to the County Board decision. Motion to approve for forwarding to County Board by: Mr. Buckholtz Second by: Ms. Hessel Motion carried without negative vote. County Administrator Report— Mr. Markgren updated the committee on the staff survey responses for the Wellness Day, work with Adam Lamoreaux on a grant that did not have enough local participation to apply for, closing out 2025 financials, and monthly meetings for the radio tower project. He reported progress on the WOJB tower. CJCC had a well-attended meeting and will present changes to their Bylaws at County Board. Justice Point received a $10,000 donation from a community member. Elected Official Wages— A resolution proposing the next term of wages for elected officials was presented by Mr. Markgren. The proposed 2027 base wage for the Clerk of Court is set at $76,501; 2028 is $78,414; 2029 is $80,374 and 2030 is $82,384. The proposed 2027 base wage for County Sheriff is $101,005; 2028 is $103,530; 2029 is $106,118 and 2030 is $108,771. Resolution 2026-____Establish Elected Officials Wage was approved for forwarding to County Board on a motion by: Mr. Righeimer Second by: Mr. Buckholtz Motion carried without negative vote. Mr. Markgren presented a resolution requesting the State help pay for the cost to counties for internet security. Resolution 2026-____Establish Membership with MS-ISAC was discussed and approved on a motion by: Mr. Righeimer Second by: Mr. Buckholtz Motion carried without negative vote. Board Appointed Committee Updates – Namekagon Transit is meeting today Correspondence, reports from conferences and meetings– None Future Agenda Items- Continue work on Veterans Tribute Adjournment – 10:56 am Next Meeting: March 12, 2026 Time: 10:00 am Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 166 of 186 RESOLUTION NO. 2026- SUPPORTING WISCONSIN ESTABLISHING A MEMBERSHIP WITH THE MULTI-STATE INFORMATION SHARING AND ANALYSIS CENTER (MS- ISAC) WHEREAS, the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) provides vital cybersecurity services, including 24/7 threat monitoring, incident response, and cyber threat intelligence, to more than 18,000 state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) government organizations supporting the nation’s critical infrastructure, including public hospitals, public utilities, K-12 schools, and law enforcement; and WHEREAS, local governments—particularly rural and under-resourced counties—have relied heavily on MS-ISAC services to protect government systems, data, and public services; and WHEREAS, without MS-ISAC services, government organizations are increasingly vulnerable to cyber-attacks, including those originating from foreign adversaries; and WHEREAS, recent federal funding reductions to MS-ISAC have significantly weakened the nation’s overall cybersecurity defense posture; and WHEREAS, counties across Wisconsin have been required to seek alternative means to maintain cybersecurity protections following the loss of federal funding; and WHEREAS, MS-ISAC has indicated that membership fees paid by individual counties would be refunded or applied toward additional services should the State of Wisconsin establish a statewide membership in the future. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors that Sawyer County supports the State of Wisconsin establishing a membership with the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) to cover the cost of membership for all State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial (SLTT) government organizations within Wisconsin. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Sawyer County Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the Governor of the State of Wisconsin, members of the Wisconsin Legislature, all Wisconsin counties, and the Wisconsin Counties Association for their consideration. This Resolution is recommended for adoption by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors at its meeting on February 19, 2026, by this Sawyer County Administration Committee this 12th Day of February, 2026 _______________________________ ___________________________________ Ron Kinsley, Chair John Righeimer, Member Page 167 of 186 _______________________________ ___________________________________ Ron Buckholtz, Vice Chair Stacey Hessel, Member ________________________________ Thomas Duffy, Member ______________________________________________________________________________ This Resolution is hereby adopted by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors this 19th day of February, 2026. _________________________________ ____________________________________ Ron Kinsley, Chair, Liz Klein, County Clerk Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Page 168 of 186 1 County Administrator’s Report February 2026 Personnel Sawyer County In-Service & Wellness Day Post-Event Staff Feedback Summary (54 Responses) Sawyer County staff provided feedback following the In-Service & Wellness Day held at the Hayward Wesleyan Church. Overall, responses indicate the event was well received, with strong satisfaction ratings in key areas including the facility, scheduling, and wellness session options. Roughly half of the participants responded to the survey that I put out. Overall Satisfaction Results (1–5 Scale) Category Average Rating Overall satisfaction with the event 4.22 / 5 Location & facilities 4.54 / 5 Schedule and pacing of the day 4.41 / 5 Morning wellness session options 4.28 / 5 These results show the majority of staff were satisfied with the overall event and found the venue and structure to be effective. Courthouse Closure Feedback • Did closing the Courthouse improve participation? 52 Yes / 2 No Staff Connection & Engagement • Able to better connect with coworkers across the County: 48 Yes / 6 No Expectations of the Event • Beyond expectations: 16 • Met expectations: 36 • Below expectations: 2 Staff Comments – Highlights What staff liked most included: • Having choices in breakout sessions • Wellness-focused topics • Opportunity to connect with coworkers • Ability to attend due to closure of offices • Keynote speaker and variety of sessions Suggestions for improvement included: • More large group activities • Minor facility comfort improvements (temperature noted) • Continued variety and expansion of breakout session topics The Keynote session was a new topic to many – Emotional Intelligence. The graph below reflects that fact and also how well staff felt the speaker explained the concept and applied it to daily life. Page 169 of 186 2 Economic Development/Marketing Worked with Adam Lamoureux, Executive Director of the SC LCO Economic Development Corp, regarding the potential of applying for the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation’s Talent Recruitment Grant. If awarded, this would help to defray costs of recruiting employees from outside the state. Adam then met with several business to inquire about the need. Only two found it to be valuable, so we did not feel that we could meet the requirement of positions to be filled through the program. Finance Continue to work on closing out 2025. This will be a process that goes into March. We are also prepping for the 2025 audit as they will begin asking for things around the end of this month. Public Safety Radio Network Work is underway. We continue to meet weekly. We are making progress on the WOJB tower lease. The TGB has expressed that public safety is their priority. CJCC The Executive Committee will be meeting the last Friday in February. Approved additional changes to the bylaws to clean up some language and clarify the replacement of resigning Committee members. Justice Point received a $10,000 donation from a community member! Dave Dixon mentioned that they have space for additional kids in their Wednesday evening program. It was mentioned that Weiss Library also has kids programming on Monday evenings. Hayward United Methodist Church Pastor Grace Baldridge gave an update on efforts to serve the area homeless. There is a search for a warming house for people stay spend a night when needed. Those in need should reach out to the Salvation Army as a first point of contact. Page 170 of 186 Minutes of the February 11, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members Present: Others Present: 1. Non-voting member Chair: Julia Lyons Liz Klein 2. Vice Chair: Judge Elaine Smith Ron Kinsley 3. Dave Dixon Becky Barry 4. Mike Markgren Kristi Kare 5. Mike Woller Leslie Strapon 6. Lorraine Gouge Sari Torstenson 7. Doug Mrotek- Bryan Deyo Designee Sarah Inczauskis 8. Bruce Poquette Grace Baldridge 9. Katie Belanger 10. Judge John Yackel 11. Marc Helwig 12. Judge Monica Isham- Absent 13. Marshal Savitski 14. Kathy McCoy 15. Bill Trepanier 16. Amanda Lokker- Virtual Call to Order—Chair Julia Lyons called the meeting to order at 12:02 pm. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call was taken. Quorum was met. Meeting Agenda – Motion to move item 14 to 9 and 13 to 10 by: Mr. Savitski Second by: Mr. Helwig Motion carried without negative vote. Public Comments – None Minutes from the previous meeting dated: January 14, 2026 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Helwig Second by: Judge Smith Motion carried without negative vote. Community Services Updates— Pastor Grace Baldridge from United Methodist informed the committee about the group Safe Place Resource Center, which has been looking to buy or build a shelter for the homeless.In the meantime, the community-based volunteers provide small services including laundry, bus tokens, warm clothes and transportation to community members in need. It was recommended to contact the Salvation Army for access to services. Youth Justice— The January YJ report was provided by Ms. Inczauskis. A detailed report on juvenile delinquency was reviewed: Sawyer County is in the top 5-7 in the state for the highest rates of serious juvenile offenses, and has a higher-risk client profile than other counties. Truancy and Diversion program efforts are yielding good results; 82% of the participants are Native American. Executive Committee- Meeting scheduled for February 27 Page 171 of 186 Review CJCC Bylaws- Several updates to the CJCC Bylaws were reviewed. Motion to approve the amended CJCC Bylaws to incorporate the recommendations as presented by Judge Smith by: Mr. Helwig Second by: Mr. Savitski A roll call vote was taken: Judge Smith- aye, Dave Dixon- aye, Mike Markgren- aye, Mike Woller- aye, Lorraine Gouge- aye, Bryan Deyo- aye, Bruce Poquette- aye, Katie Belanger- aye, Judge Yackerl- aye, Marc Helwig- aye, Marshal Savitski- aye, Kathy McCoy- aye, Bill Trepanier- aye, Amanda Lokker- aye. Motion carried over 2/3 without negative vote, to be forwarded to County Board for approval. Jail Report-- Lt. Woller reviewed a written jail report for December with arrest data by race and gender. There was an average of 60 inmates incarcerated with a 72 % unemployment rate at the time of booking, 3 on electronic monitoring. Justice Point— Ms. Barry updated the committee on Justice Point programs and statistics. There are 115 active pre-trial clients, 10 active Diversion clients, and 4 active Treatment Court clients. Ms. Barry reviewed Deflection Programs, a $10,000 donation from a community member, TAD Recovery Court site visit and staff training, and current jail programs. Justice Point is still waiting for the Reaching Rural site visit report. Ms. Barry announced she is stepping down as Director; CJCC members and the Tribe offered good wishes. Justice Point Administrator Leah_______ spoke about hiring a new director and invited CJCC members to the second round of interviews on February 24th. HHS— Public Health— No report this month Outside Committee Reports – None Correspondence, reports from conferences and meetings – None Future Agenda Items – None Adjournment – 12:54 pm Next Meeting: March 11, 2026 Time: 12:00 pm Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 172 of 186 J a n u a r y 2 0 2 3 P a g e 1 | 4 Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) Bylaws Article I: Name and Creation The name of this council shall be the Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. It will be referred to as the “CJCC” throughout these Bylaws. The CJCC was created as part of a state-wide initiative to further the Mission set forth below. The CJCC is recognized by the Sawyer County (the “County”) Board of Supervisors as an ad hoc committee of the County Board of Supervisors. Article II: Bylaws The CJCC has authority to adopt these Bylaws. These Bylaws have been reviewed, approved and adopted both the CJCC and the County Board of Supervisors. Article III: Vision and Mission VISION: Utilizing evidence-based practices making the criminal justice system a better investment toward improving the quality of life in Sawyer County. MISSION: To promote implementation of effective criminal justice policies and practices maximizing justice and public safety Article IV: Duties and Powers 1. The CJCC is created to act in an advisory capacity to both constitutionally elected officers and committees of the County Board of Supervisors which oversee programs and services related to criminal justice. The CJCC shall recommend to appropriate parties or committees actions including the creation, elimination or modification of programs, policies and procedures including the evaluation of the Sawyer County Criminal Justice Programs in accordance with the Sawyer County Criminal Justice Vision and Mission. 2. The CJCC shall help ensure coordinated efforts. Proposed policy changes relating to criminal justice may be brought to the CJCC for review and for recommendations to the appropriate committees or entity. 3. The CJCC may assist the County in setting priorities for the Sawyer County Criminal Justice System. 4. The CJCC shall assist in sharing the responsibility as it relates to new programs. It is understood that new directions and programming may involve some unforeseen consequences. It is the CJCC’s responsibility as a whole to support its recommendations. 5. The CJCC may perform such other general functions necessary to implement its responsibilities, as directed by the County Board. Page 173 of 186 J a n u a r y 2 0 2 3 P a g e 2 | 4 6. The CJCC may designate necessary subcommittees or workgroups to accomplish their work as well as be assigned responsibility for oversight of programs in absence of an existing oversight committee. 7. Notwithstanding any provision in these Bylaws, the CJCC shall be subject to and conduct itself according to the County Board of Supervisors’ Policy and Procedure Manual, as may be amended. 7.8. The CJCC will work with the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe, a tribe located within the exterior boundaries of Sawyer County, to reach consensus in fulfilling the CJCC Vision and Mission. 8.9. The CJCC shall be subject to all State of Wisconsin Statutes, codes, Executive Orders and other applicable laws and regulations. Article V: Structure Section A: Membership. The CJCC shall consist of sixteen (16) members (the “Members”). The CJCC shall have fifteen (15) voting members (the “Voting Members”), and the Chair shall be a non-voting member, as described in Article VI below. All the positions listed below, unless the position is elected Chair as described in Article VI below, shall be permanent Voting Members of this CJCC: a. Two (2) Sawyer County Circuit Court Judges or designee as approved by CJCC b. Sawyer County Sheriff or designee c. Sawyer County District Attorney or designee d. Sawyer County Jail Administrator or designee e. Sawyer County Administrator f. Two (2) tribal government representatives g. State Public Defender Office representative h. Wisconsin Department of Corrections representative i. Two (2) Sawyer County Board of Supervisor j. Two (2) residents of Sawyer County k. LCO Tribal Judge l. Sawyer County Health and Human Services representative (staff) Section B: Adding Positions. 1. The CJCC may recommend to the County Board of Supervisors that additional positions be added to the CJCC, as the CJCC deems appropriate. 2. Adding positions to the CJCC will require an amendment to the Bylaws Article V, Section A: Membership. Adding a CJCC position requires a 3/4 majority of the appointed number of Voting Members and confirmation by the County Board of Supervisors. 3. If the newly -created position requires an election by the CJCC, then the CJCC will Commented [ES1]: There was discussion to change this language? Should it be changed One (1) Sawyer County Circuit Court Judge? Commented [JL2R1]: We are giving them the option of a designee as approved by the CJCC Page 174 of 186 J a n u a r y 2 0 2 3 P a g e 3 | 4 conduct an election to fill the position at the next regularly -scheduled CJCC meeting after the position is created. A CJCC appointment requires a majority vote of the Voting Members and confirmation by the County Board of Supervisors. Page 175 of 186 J a n u a r y 2 0 2 3 P a g e 4 | 4 4. If the newly-created position requires an appointment by a department or organization, the Chair shall contact the department/organization and ask that a representative be appointed. All additional positions to the CJCC shall require confirmation by the County Board of Supervisors. Section C: Removal and Resignation. 1. Any CJCC Member may be removed by the County Board of Supervisors, with or without cause, after a recommendation by the CJCC and a 2/3 a majority vote of the Voting Members. 2. Removal of a CJCC Member can be placed upon the agenda under CJCC New Business by the Chair or by a written petition from another Member submitted to the Chair. 3. If a Member is removed, the Chair shall contact the department/organization the removed Member represented and ask that another representative be appointed. 4. If the removed Member held a CJCC-elected position, the CJCC shall hold an election to fill the position at the next regularly-scheduled CJCC meeting after the Member is removed. Appointment of the new Member upon removal of another Member requires a majority vote of the Voting Members and shall be confirmed by the County Board of Supervisors. 5. A Member is eligible for removal from the CJCC due to nonparticipation after missing three (3) meetings, without sufficient cause, in a calendar year. Sufficient cause is to be determined by the Chair. Removal of a Member for nonparticipation requires a majority vote of the Voting Members and confirmation by the County Board of Supervisors. 5.6. Any CJCC Member may resign upon his/her written request to do so. It is not necessary to give a reason for such resignation, but the resigning member may give one if they wish to do so. 6.7. A position on the CJCC may be removed only though an amendment to the Bylaws Article V, Section A: Membership. Removal of a CJCC position requires a 3/4 majority of the appointed number of Voting Members and shall be confirmed by the County Board of Supervisors. Section D: Authority of the CJCC. The CJCC has no legal authority to order changes to Sawyer County’s Criminal Justice System, but it may bring about changes through consensus by the participating departments, agencies and the County Board of Supervisors. The CJCC reviews policies and programs within the criminal justice system and makes final recommendations to all justice system partners. Section E: Meetings. Formatted: Highlight Formatted: Font: 12 pt Formatted: Justified, Indent: Left: 0.4", Hanging: 0.25", Right: 0", No bullets or numbering, Tab stops: Not at 0.65" Page 176 of 186 J a n u a r y 2 0 2 3 P a g e 5 | 4 1. Meetings of the CJCC shall be set by the CJCC at the end of their session for the following month. Notice of CJCC meeting times and locations shall be provided to all Members and duly posted in compliance with open meeting statutes. Page 177 of 186 J a n u a r y 2 0 2 3 P a g e 6 | 4 2. Minutes of the CJCC meetings shall be documented and distributed to all Members of the CJCC. Minutes will also be posted in compliance with open meeting statutes. The CJCC Chairperson shall designate someone to take minutes for all CJCC meetings. 3. Recommendations of the CJCC will be made by a majority rule vote of Voting Members. Section G: Quorum. A quorum must be complied with at all CJCC meetings. A quorum requires a 51% majority of Voting Members to be in attendance. Article VI: Officers 1. The officers of the CJCC shall be a Chair and Vice-Chair. The CJCC shall elect officers biennially at the May meeting of even -numbered years. Such officers shall take office upon election. If an officer resigns or is removed, a replacement officer shall be elected by the CJCC at the next regularly-scheduled CJCC meeting. 2. The Chair shall be responsible for filing End-of Year Reports with the County Clerk. The Vice-Chair shall file an End of the Year Report with the Chair. 3. It shall be the responsibility of the Chair and Vice -Chair, in coordination with the County Administrator to: a. Develop and cause to be published CJCC Agendas. b. Prepare materials for CJCC Members in preparation for scheduled CJCC meetings. Materials may be emailed to Members when appropriate. c. Any other actions that the Chair deems necessary for the efficient functioning of the CJCC. 4. The CJCC Chair is a quasi -nonvoting member of the CJCC and subject to the following: a. The Chair can only vote in order to break a tie. b. The Vice-Chair retains their Voting Member status on the CJCC. If the Vice- Chair acts as the Chair in the Chair’s absence, (s)he may not vote for that meeting unless it is to break a tie. 5. The Chair shall preside at all CJCC meetings. The Vice -Chair shall preside in the absence of the Chair. Article VII: Change in Bylaws 1. Any Voting Member may propose an amendment to the Bylaws. Proposed amendments to the Bylaws are to be included on the agenda of a CJCC meeting, any action taken on the proposed amendments must be made at a subsequent meeting of the CJCC and will require a minimum 2/3 majority vote of the appointed number of Voting Members. 2. Any amendment to the Bylaws shall be confirmed by the County Board of Supervisors. Formatted: Highlight Page 178 of 186 Executive Summary Sawyer County’s Strategic Plan establishes a clear, Board-directed framework to guide decision-making, policy development, and resource allocation for the coming years. This plan is the result of a collaborative and transparent process led by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors, with direct input gathered during August committee meetings in which Supervisors identified their top three priority areas for each department under their respective jurisdictions. That input was compiled, categorized, and presented to the full County Board for consideration and formal action at the September meeting. Through this process, the County Board identified and ranked the following Top Five Strategic Areas of Focus to guide Sawyer County’s work moving forward: 1. Budgeting & Finance 2. Operational Efficiency & Innovation 3. Affordable / Workforce Housing 4. Workforce: Retention, Compensation, Culture & Staff Development 5. Mental Health These focus areas reflect both current operational realities and long-term community needs. Together, they balance fiscal responsibility, effective service delivery, workforce sustainability, and the overall health and well-being of Sawyer County residents. The Strategic Plan is intended to be a practical, living framework rather than a static document. Departments will be asked to align their operations, initiatives, and budget requests with these focus areas and to implement measurable goals in at least two of the identified priorities. This alignment will strengthen coordination across departments, improve transparency, and ensure County resources are directed toward outcomes that matter most to the Board and the public. Implementation of the Strategic Plan will be supported through future budget discussions, operational planning, and ongoing collaboration between the County Board, committees, and department leadership. A deeper review of expectations and next steps occurred at the October 15, 2025 Department Head meeting, with continued evaluation and refinement as progress is made. By adopting this Strategic Plan, Sawyer County affirms its commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources, continuous improvement in County operations, support for a strong and stable workforce, and the mental and economic well-being of the community it serves. Page 179 of 186 Page 180 of 186 Sawyer County Strategic Plan 1. Introduction and Purpose Sawyer County is committed to responsible governance, strong fiscal stewardship, efficient operations, and the overall well-being of its residents and workforce. This Strategic Plan provides a clear framework to guide decision-making, policy development, and resource allocation across County departments. This plan is the result of a structured strategic input process conducted during August 2025 committee meetings, where County Supervisors identified their top three Areas of Focus for each department under their committee jurisdiction. These inputs were compiled, categorized, and presented to the Sawyer County Board for discussion and formal prioritization at the September Board of Supervisors meeting. The resulting priorities reflect shared values and County-wide challenges that will shape planning, budgeting, and operations in the coming years. Mission Statement Responsible Stewardship Operational Excellence Community and Workforce Well-Being Vision Statement Sawyer County envisions a financially sound, innovative, and compassionate community where residents and employees alike can prosper. Through responsible stewardship, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we aim to be a model of effective local government— empowering a healthy, supported workforce and enhancing the quality of life for every individual we serve. 2. Strategic Planning Process The Sawyer County strategic planning process included the following steps:  Supervisor Input: At August committee meetings, County Supervisors identified their top three Areas of Focus for departments under their jurisdiction.  Data Consolidation: Supervisor input was compiled and grouped into common themes.  Board Review and Voting: The consolidated themes were presented to the County Board, which voted to identify County-wide strategic priorities.  Priority Ranking: The Board established the Top Five Ranked Areas of Focus based on voting results. Page 181 of 186 This Strategic Plan reflects those priorities and establishes a shared direction for departments and committees. 3. County-Wide Strategic Priorities Based on feedback and formal action by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors, the following Top Five Ranked Strategic Priorities have been identified: 1. Budgeting & Finance 2. Operational Efficiency & Innovation 3. Affordable / Workforce Housing 4. Workforce: Retention, Compensation, Culture & Staff Development 5. Mental Health These priorities will guide County leadership, departmental planning, and resource allocation decisions. 4. Strategic Priority Framework Each department will be expected to align its operations and initiatives with at least two of the five strategic priorities. Departments will identify goals, strategies, and measurable outcomes that support these focus areas. Priority 1: Budgeting & Finance Board Support: 9 votes Objective: Ensure responsible, sustainable, and transparent financial management that supports County services today and in the future. County Goals:  Responsible and sustainable spending  Balanced budgeting and ongoing financial monitoring Key Focus Areas:  Long-term financial planning and forecasting  Budget transparency and accountability  Effective use of levy, grants, and shared revenue  Monitoring and controlling operational costs Strategic Objectives May Include:  Strengthening multi-year financial planning and forecasting Page 182 of 186  Improving budget transparency and clarity  Evaluating program costs and outcomes  Pursuing grants and alternative funding sources  Maintaining adequate fund balance and reserves Key Measures May Include:  Balanced budgets  Audit outcomes  Fund balance trends  Cost savings or cost avoidance initiatives Priority 2: Operational Efficiency & Innovation Board Support: 7 votes Objective: Improve efficiency, effectiveness, and service delivery through innovation, process improvement, and thoughtful use of technology. County Goals:  Efficient operations to reduce costs  Innovative solutions and improved customer service Key Focus Areas:  Streamlining processes and reducing redundancies  Leveraging technology and data for decision-making  Enhancing service accessibility and responsiveness  Encouraging cross-department collaboration Strategic Objectives May Include:  Reviewing and streamlining internal processes  Leveraging technology to improve service delivery  Enhancing interdepartmental collaboration  Reducing duplication of services  Improving customer service and response times Key Measures May Include:  Process improvement outcomes  Technology implementation milestones  Reduced processing times  Improved service metrics Page 183 of 186 Priority 3: Affordable / Workforce Housing Board Support: 7 votes Objective: Support housing solutions that meet the needs of the County’s workforce and vulnerable populations, while promoting sustainable development. County Goals:  Affordable housing for workers  Addressing homelessness and housing instability Key Focus Areas:  Supporting housing development and partnerships  Addressing regulatory barriers to housing  Coordinating with regional, state, and nonprofit partners  Integrating housing considerations into County planning efforts Strategic Objectives May Include:  Supporting housing development initiatives  Reviewing regulations impacting housing supply  Partnering with municipalities, developers, and non-profits  Aligning County policies with housing goals  Seeking funding opportunities related to housing Key Measures May Include:  Housing units supported or facilitated  Policy or ordinance updates  Partnerships established Priority 4: Workforce: Retention, Compensation, Culture & Staff Development Board Support: 5 votes Objective: Recruit, retain, and develop a skilled and engaged County workforce through competitive compensation, supportive culture, and professional development. County Goals:  Employee retention  Staff development and cross-training Page 184 of 186 Key Focus Areas:  Competitive and equitable compensation structures  Employee engagement and workplace culture  Training, succession planning, and leadership development  Cross-training to enhance service continuity Strategic Objectives May Include:  Reviewing compensation and classification structures  Supporting employee training and professional development  Enhancing workplace culture and communication  Promoting employee wellness and engagement  Improving recruitment and retention strategies Key Measures May Include:  Turnover and vacancy rates  Training participation  Employee engagement indicators  Recruitment outcomes Priority 5: Mental Health Board Support: 5 votes Objective: Promote community well-being by strengthening mental health services and addressing substance use challenges. County Goals:  Community care for mental health  Addressing substance abuse problems Key Focus Areas:  Access to mental health and behavioral health services  Substance use prevention and treatment  Collaboration with healthcare providers and community partners  Supporting prevention, crisis response, and recovery efforts Strategic Objectives May Include:  Strengthening mental health service delivery  Supporting prevention, early intervention, and crisis response  Enhancing partnerships with service providers Page 185 of 186  Promoting mental health awareness and education  Supporting employee mental wellness initiatives Key Measures May Include:  Service access and utilization metrics  Program participation  Partnership outcomes  Wellness initiative implementation 5. Departmental Alignment and Accountability Department Heads were asked to:  Identify at least two strategic priorities that align with their department’s mission and operations  Develop department-specific goals and action steps tied to those priorities  Identify performance measures or indicators where applicable  Incorporate strategic priorities into annual budget requests and work plans These alignments were reviewed and discussed during a Department Head meeting on October 15, 2025. 6. Implementation and Review The Strategic Plan is intended to be a living document. Implementation will occur through:  Guide annual and long-term budgeting decisions  Encourage alignment across departments and committees  Provide a framework for departmental work plans and goal setting  Lead Committee and Board discussions  Measure progress toward County-wide goals The County Board may periodically review and update strategic priorities to ensure continued relevance and responsiveness to community needs. 7. Conclusion This Strategic Plan reflects the collective input and direction of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors. By aligning departmental efforts with these shared priorities, Sawyer County will continue to strengthen fiscal responsibility, operational effectiveness, workforce stability, and community well-being. Together, County leadership and staff can make measurable progress on these important priorities while continuing to provide high-quality services to the residents of Sawyer County. Page 186 of 186