REPORT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Environmental Assessment
Proposed Xcel Energy 1.5 mile 115 kV Electric Transmission Line
From Chanhassen to Chaska
to Serve the City of Chaska’s Lake Hazeltine Substation
Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
Docket No. E002/LR-18-90
City of Chaska
Carver County, Minnesota
May 1, 2018
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Table of Contents
List of Acronyms ................................................................................................................................... iii
1.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 Proposed Project and Project Need .................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Project Location .................................................................................................................................. 1
1.3 Alternative Routes .............................................................................................................................. 1
1.4 Construction Schedule ........................................................................................................................ 2
1.5 Project Cost ......................................................................................................................................... 2
2.0 Regulatory Framework ............................................................................................................................ 2
2.1 Permit Requirement............................................................................................................................ 2
2.2 Environmental Assessment Requirement ........................................................................................... 2
2.3 Public Participation / Scoping of Environmental Assessment ............................................................ 3
2.4 Conditional Use Permit ....................................................................................................................... 3
3.0 Engineering Design, Right-of-Way Acquisition, and Construction .......................................................... 4
3.1 Engineering Design.............................................................................................................................. 4
3.2 Right-of-Way Acquisition .................................................................................................................... 5
3.3 Construction Procedures .................................................................................................................... 6
3.4 Maintenance Procedures .................................................................................................................... 8
4.0 Assessment of Impacts and Mitigation ................................................................................................... 8
4.1 Description of Environmental Setting ................................................................................................. 8
4.2 Impacts on Human Settlement ........................................................................................................... 9
4.2.1 Socioeconomics ............................................................................................................................ 9
4.2.2 Displacement ............................................................................................................................... 9
4.2.3 Noise ............................................................................................................................................ 9
4.2.4 Aesthetics ................................................................................................................................... 11
4.2.5 Cultural Values ........................................................................................................................... 11
4.2.6 Transportation ........................................................................................................................... 11
4.3 Impacts on Public Health and Safety ................................................................................................ 12
4.3.1 Electric and Magnetic Fields ...................................................................................................... 12
4.3.2 Electric Fields ............................................................................................................................. 12
4.3.3 Magnetic Fields .......................................................................................................................... 13
4.3.4 Stray Voltage .............................................................................................................................. 14
4.4 Impacts on Land-based Economies ................................................................................................... 14
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4.4.1 Recreation and Tourism ............................................................................................................. 14
4.4.2 Agriculture.................................................................................................................................. 14
4.4.3 Mining and Forestry ................................................................................................................... 15
4.5 Archaeological and Historic Resources ............................................................................................. 15
4.6 Natural Environment......................................................................................................................... 15
4.6.1 Air Quality .................................................................................................................................. 15
4.6.2 Water Resources ........................................................................................................................ 16
4.6.3 Wetlands .................................................................................................................................... 16
4.6.3 Flora and Fauna .......................................................................................................................... 16
4.6.5 Rare and Unique Natural Resources .......................................................................................... 18
5.0 Regulatory Permits and Approvals Required ........................................................................................ 19
Tables
Table 1 Proposed Structure Specifications
Table 2 Common Noise Sources and Levels
Table 3 Noise Standards by Noise Area Classification
Table 4 Audible Noise (dB) For 115 kV Transmission Line
Table 5 Calculated Electric Fields (kV/M) For 115 kV Transmission Line Design
Table 6 Calculated Magnetic Flux Density (MilliGauss) For 115 kV Transmission Line
Table 7 Sources and Amounts of Magnetic Fields
Table 8 Regulatory Permits and Approvals Required
Figures
Figures 1-0 – 1-8 General Vicinity Map
Figures 2-0 – 2-8 Proposed Project Site Map
Figures 3-0 – 3-8 Wetlands and Proposed Transmission Line and Right of Way
Figure 4 Aerial Photograph Example of Transmission Line Construction Using Mats
Figure 5 Photographic Rendering of Proposed Structures at Lyman Blvd. and Audubon Rd.
Appendices
Appendix A Notice Lists
Appendix B EA Scoping Letter and Public Comments
Appendix C Agency Correspondence
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List of Acronyms
BMPs Best Management Practices
CUP Conditional Use Permit
dB, dB(A) Decibel, Decibel A-weighted
DNR Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
EA Environmental Assessment
EMF Electromagnetic fields
EQB Minnesota Environmental Quality Board
kV Kilovolt
kV/M Kilovolts per meter
LGU Local Governmental Unit
LHS Lake Hazeltine Substation
MPCA Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
MW Megawatts
NESC National Electrical Safety Code
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
OSA Office of the State Archaeologist
PUC Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
ROW Right-of-way
SFD Swan Flight Diverter
SHPO State Historic Preservation Office
SWPPP Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers
USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service
Environmental Assessment - 115 kV Electric Transmission Line to Lake Hazeltine Substation
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1.0 Introduction
1.1 Proposed Project and Project Need
Northern States Power Company, a Minnesota Corporation d/b/a Xcel Energy, Inc., (Xcel Energy)
proposes to construct a transmission line approximately 1.5 miles in length. It will consist of a double
circuit, 115 kilovolt (kV) transmission line with conductors on 18 structures, bus, and associated
facilities. This transmission line is needed to serve as the electric transmission source for the City of
Chaska’s recently constructed Lake Hazeltine Substation (LHS).
Chaska planned and built the LHS to serve 50 megawatts (MW) of electric load in the city. This
substation adds capacity for load growth and reliability. LHS replaces the downtown Chaska Substation’s
24 MW load. Chaska removed the downtown substation from service in April of 2014. LHS was also
necessary to serve the customers on the north end of Chaska made up of primarily industrial customers.
The LHS was constructed with six feeders and two spare feeders; State Highway 41 will have two feeder
circuits running north; there will be two feeder circuits running south; there will be one feeder circuit
providing electricity to the Peavey Industrial Park and one feeder circuit for the Crosby Industrial Park
that will be a tie to Bluff Creek Substation.
The proposed transmission line will connect to the high-side switch of the LHS transformer. The high-
side facilities will be configured in a 115 kV-bus in-and-out configuration. The proposed transmission line
will operate at 115 kV standards to meet the long-term needs of the LHS and the Chaska area’s electric
service load.
1.2 Project Location
The Project is located in Carver County, Minnesota, beginning in Chanhassen and ending at the Lake
Hazeltine Substation in Chaska. The selected route extends from the southeast quadrant of the
intersection of Lyman Boulevard and Audubon Road in Chanhassen to the new LHS located on Columbia
Court North in Chaska. The transmission line is located in the west half of Section 22, Township 116N,
Range 23W and the north half of Section 21, Township 116N, R23W (Figures 1-0 – 1-8). The proposed
transmission line route will begin by connecting to an existing transmission line that is parallel to the
east side of Audubon Road as shown in the proposed project site map (Figures 2-0 – 2-8). One structure
will be constructed there to support this connection. The route of the proposed transmission line will
follow parallel the southwesterly side of Lyman Boulevard to the south side of the Twin Cities and
Western Railroad track where it will turn to the southwest. Following parallel the railroad to the north
shore of Lake Hazeltine, the transmission line will cross the railroad track in a northwesterly direction
along the west side of Columbia Court North ending at the proposed LHS. Much of this alternative route
uses an existing electric distribution corridor; it is the most distant alternative from nearby residences;
and it has the least wetland resource and impact (Figures 3-0 – 3-8).
1.3 Alternative Routes
The Project route was selected after assessing other alternative routes in consultation with the cities of
Chaska and Chanhassen. One alternative would have begun at the Bluff Creek Substation and followed
the north side of Lyman Boulevard for about 3,000 feet to the railroad track and following the north or
south side of the railroad track to Lake Hazeltine where it would turn northwest and connect the Lake
Hazeltine Substation. This alternative was not selected because of engineering and easement challenges
Environmental Assessment - 115 kV Electric Transmission Line to Lake Hazeltine Substation
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and greater wetland impact. It was also closer to houses and the Chanhassen High School. A second
alternate route was investigated which would use the existing transmission corridor east of the Bluff
Creek Substation and extend north approximately 3,000 feet to the railroad and then follow the south
side of the railroad southwest for approximately 5,200 feet to Lake Hazeltine then cross the railroad
track and connect to the Lake Hazeltine Substation. This alternative was not selected because it was
considerably longer, had greater wetland impact and was closer to the high school play fields and
several houses located north of the railroad track.
1.4 Construction Schedule
Xcel Energy anticipates Project construction to begin in the spring-summer of 2018 with a projected in-
service date of approximately September 15, 2018. Project construction is expected to be staged over
this period and take approximately twelve weeks.
1.5 Project Cost
The approximate Project cost is $2,449,000.
2.0 Regulatory Framework
2.1 Permit Requirement
The proposed transmission line project falls under the Minnesota Power Plant Siting Act, (Minn. Statue
§216E and Minn. Rules Chapter 7850) for transmission projects over 100 kV and requires a permit from
the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC). However, for eligible projects, a utility may seek
approval from the local governmental unit (LGU) that has jurisdiction over the site or route in lieu of
applying to the PUC for a Route Permit. The proposed 115 kV transmission line project is eligible for
local review.
Xcel Energy elected to follow the local permit review process set forth in Minn. Stat. §216E.05; Minn.
Rules 7850.5300 to permit the proposed transmission line and associated facilities. As required by Minn.
Rules 7850.5300 Subp.3, Xcel Energy notified the PUC of the intent to seek local approval of the project
and that notice of the project was mailed to those persons on the Power Plant Siting General
Notification list. A copy of this notice is included in Appendix A. A letter from the Department of
Commerce confirming that the PUC received notification that Xcel Energy intended to seek local
approval is also included in Appendix A.
The majority of this project is located in the City of Chaska with a smaller portion in the City of
Chanhassen. An agreement was reached between the two cities that Chaska would be the responsible
governmental unit for approval of the project and preparation of the Environmental Assessment (EA).
The Chanhassen resolution letter for assignment is attached (Appendix A).
2.2 Environmental Assessment Requirement
In accordance with Minn. Rules 7850.5300 Subp. 5, the local unit of government with jurisdiction over
the project, City of Chaska, must prepare an EA. The EA contains information on the human and
environmental impacts of the proposed project and addresses methods to mitigate impacts.
When the EA is complete, the City must publish a notice in the Environmental Quality Board (EQB)
Monitor that: (1) indicates that the EA is available for review, (2) specifies how a copy of the document
may be reviewed, and (3) details the procedures for the public to submit comments on the EA to the
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City of Chaska. A final decision on the project cannot be made until at least ten days after the notice
appears in the EQB Monitor.
2.3 Public Participation / Scoping of Environmental Assessment
On January 17, 2017, on behalf of the City of Chaska, Xcel Energy sent landowners surrounding the
project a notice of the project, a map showing the project, the proposed EA table of contents, and a
form to providing an opportunity to comment on the scope of the EA and an invitation to the public EA
scoping open house at the City of Chaska. January 31, 2018 the City of Chaska and Xcel Energy held an
open house in the Council Chambers at Chaska City Hall from 5PM to 7PM to provide the public an
opportunity to provide comments on the scope of the EA and view maps and ask questions about the
project. The landowner notice of the project and names of those who signed the provided attendance
sheet are in Appendix B. No written public comments were received regarding the EA scoping of the
project. Regulatory comments received on project for the EA are provided in Appendix C.
2.4 Conditional Use Permit
The cities of Chaska and Chanhassen are the governing bodies for Conditional Use Permits (CUP)
required for their respective portions of the proposed project. Pursuant to Chaska’s Zoning Ordinance
Section 2.3(b), electric transmission lines are considered an “essential service”- a use by conditional
permit in all zoning districts. Pursuant to Chanhassen’s Code of Ordinances Division 1 Sec. 20-901,
overhead transmission lines in excess of 69 kV shall require issuance of a conditional use permit through
any district located in the city (City of Chaska, 2018). Xcel submitted the CUP application to the City of
Chaska and it was reviewed and approved to the Chaska City Council on March 14, 2018.
In Chaska, Section 1.2 of the City’s Zoning Ordinance states “[t]he basic purpose of this Ordinance is to
ensure public health, safety, and general welfare in accordance with the official ‘Comprehensive Plan’ of
the City of Chaska, and with adopted development goals, policies and proposals contained therein.” In
order to achieve the objectives of the Comprehensive Plan certain uses, including “essential services,”
are permitted subject to a Conditional Use Permit. The project constitutes a “privately owned and
operated essential service” as defined by Section 2.3 of the Ordinance. Section 2.3 of the City Zoning
Ordinance also provides that above ground structures for private essential services shall be classified as
a conditional use in all zoning districts.
In Chaska, the proposed transmission line is an essential service that will provide electrical transmission
support for existing and future development within the designated service area of Chaska as defined in
the City’s 2030 Comprehensive Plan. Thus, the proposed project is consistent with the City’s
Comprehensive Land Use Plan and the intent of the City Zoning Ordinance.
In Chanhassen, the project is subject to the Code of Ordinances Division 1, Sec 20-901 for overhead
transmission Lines and specifically for Article IV Division 2, Conditional Use Permits Sec. 20-231 and 20-
209, since the project proposes construction and operation of an overhead transmission line in excess of
69 kV. The project is subject to the Chanhassen City Council, in addition to the standards established in
article IV, as they may also impose other conditions as deemed necessary to protect the public health,
safety and welfare.
Xcel Energy designed the transmission project to comply with Chanhassen’s Code of Ordinances and the
12 general issuance standards listed in Sec. 20-232, thus the proposed project use is suitable with
Chanhassen’s ordinances.
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A draft copy of the Chanhassen CUP application was submitted to the City of Chanhassen for review and
a formal application will be submitted when the application is complete.
After the EA is finalized, and notice of the EA has been published in the EQB Monitor, and the comment
period requirements have been met, the City of Chaska and the City of Chanhassen will each hold public
hearings and the respective city councils will make final decisions on Xcel Energy’s request for CUPs from
Chaska and from Chanhassen.
3.0 Engineering Design, Right-of-Way Acquisition, and Construction
3.1 Engineering Design
The proposed transmission line was designed using single pole, horizontal or braced post structures
composed of weathered steel. The poles will range in height from 80 to 110 feet high with a span length
of averaging 400 feet. Structures will be constructed on 6 to 10-foot diameter reinforced concrete
foundations. Tangent structures will have smaller foundations and angle/dead-end structures will have
larger foundations. Eighteen (18) structures will be installed to suspend the wires (conductors)
overhead. Table 1 summarizes the proposed structure specifications. Photo 1 below shows a typical 115
kV tangent structure.
Table 1: Proposed Structure Specifications
Line
Type
Structure
Type
Structure
Material
Right-
of-Way
Width
(feet)
Structure
Height
(feet)
Foundation
Foundation
Diameter
(feet)
Span
Between
Structures
(feet)
115 kV
double
circuit
Single
pole,
horizontal
or braced
post
insulator
Weathered
steel
25 - 75
80-110
Reinforced
concrete
6 to 10
diameter
concrete
foundations
350-400
The proposed transmission line was designed to meet or exceed relevant state and national code
standards including the National Electric Safety Code, North American Electric Reliability Corporation,
and Xcel Energy design standards.
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Photo 1. Weathered steel, horizontal braced post, concrete footing.
3.2 Right-of-Way Acquisition
A right-of-way (ROW) width of 25 to 77.8 feet will be required for the construction of the transmission
line (i.e., approximately 12.5 to 37.5 feet on either side of the centerline of the transmission line route).
Tree removal and vegetation clearing will occur within the right-of-way along the transmission line route
prior to construction, and vegetation will be maintained following construction as necessary to meet or
surpass operation and safety standards. For transmission lines, utilities acquire easement rights across
certain parcels to accommodate the facilities. The evaluation and acquisition process includes title
examination, initial owner contacts, survey work, document preparation, and purchase. An Xcel Energy
land agent has contacted the landowners in the project area and will continue to work with landowners
to acquire any new right-of-way and/or modify existing right-of-way easements as necessary.
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Additionally, the land agent will work with landowners to address any construction needs, impacts,
damages, or restoration issues.
3.3 Construction Procedures
Construction will begin after Xcel Energy obtains and acquires approvals for property and rights-of-way,
soil conditions are determined, and the project design is completed. The timing of construction will take
into account requirements that may be in place due to permit conditions, weather, system loading
issues, and available workers and materials. Project construction will comply with regulatory, industry,
and Xcel Energy standards regarding safety procedures, clearance to ground, utilities, and buildings,
ROW widths, erecting pole structures, and stringing conductors, as applicable.
Xcel Energy will use a variety of general and specialized construction equipment for construction and
operation of the transmission line project. This equipment will include as needed: tree removal
equipment, mowers, cranes, tracked skid loaders, backhoes, digger-derrick line trucks, track-mounted
drill rigs, dump trucks, front-end loaders, bucket trucks, bulldozers, excavators, flatbed tractor-trailers,
flatbed trucks, pickup trucks, and concrete trucks.
Equipment access for structures one through three will be primarily from Audubon Road. Access for
structures four through eighteen of the project will be from designated areas such as private parking
lots or accessible portions of the parcels where the transmission line will be constructed. Where
practicable, construction will proceed within the corridor from one structure to the next. The new right-
of-way may also be accessed from the Lake Hazeltine Substation site.
The construction process will follow the survey construction staking. Staking will involve location and
monumentation of features shown on the construction plans including temporary laydown yards,
project ROW, structure locations, utilities, access property boundaries, and entrances. Erosion control
measures will be set in place before construction following the project erosion control plan.
Structures, insulators, conductors, and other products and supplies will be delivered to the Lake
Hazeltine and or Bluff Creek Substations or staging areas within easements or within the ROW adjacent
to the designated structure location. In some cases additional space (temporary lay down areas) may be
required. These areas will be selected for their location, access, security, and ability to efficiently and
safely warehouse supplies. The areas will be chosen to minimize excavation and grading. The temporary
lay down areas outside of the transmission line right-of-way will be secured from affected landowners
through rental agreements as necessary.
Removal of woody vegetation is the next step in the construction process. It involves removal of trees
and shrubs that may interfere with the laydown areas, and construction, and operation of the
transmission line. Trees and shrubs will be mulched in place or hauled from ROW corridors according
with landowner agreements and permit conditions.
In wetlands, tree and shrub roots will not be displaced in order to avoid disturbance of wetland soils,
thereby avoiding placement of dredge or fill material in wetlands. No plant materials growing outside a
wetland or soils will be placed inside that wetland.
Construction mats will be delivered and temporarily placed over designated work areas, wetlands, and
sensitive areas. A typical work area will cover approximately 100-foot by 100-foot around a structure.
Between structure work areas, a construction mats access route 8-24 feet wide will be used where
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needed. Construction will take place on these mats to limit interaction with public road traffic, to
confine equipment access to prescribed areas, to provide a stable work platform for equipment and to
minimize soil compaction, and to minimize impact to vegetation. A recent Google aerial photograph
shows an example of transmission line construction using mats on the northeast side of the intersection
of Lyman Boulevard and Audubon Road in Chanhassen (Figure 4).
Ground disturbance will be primarily limited to the 18 structure locations. Soil will be removed as
structure foundation holes are drilled according to engineering plans. Drilled foundation holes will range
from approximately six to ten feet in diameter; this is a surface area ranging from approximately 28 to
80 square feet each. The depth of each structure foundation will depend upon the structural integrity of
the soils and the diameter of the structure. Common depths range from 20 to 60 feet deep on this
project. Equipment operators will load removed soil into dump trucks where it will be hauled to an
upland area thereby avoiding impacts to wetlands or adjacent land. Immediately following foundation
drilling, steel reinforcing cages and anchor bolts will be installed in the holes and concrete will be
poured. Concrete from a local batch plant will be trucked to the site. The concrete foundations will be
allowed to cure for several days following the engineer’s prescribed schedule before structures are set
in place.
Steel structure components will be hauled unassembled on semi-trailers and placed in the ROW
adjacent to their foundation. Assembly of structure sections and installation of arms, insulators, and
hardware will occur while the structure is on the ground. The structure is then lifted, placed and secured
on the foundation using a crane.
After structures are erected, insulators, conductors and shield wires will be installed by establishing
stringing setup areas within the ROW. Conductor stringing operations require brief access to each
structure to secure the conductor wire to the insulators or to install shield wire clamps once final sag is
established according to the design. The wires will be pulled with a rope lead that connects to every
structure through a dolly attached at the insulator/clamp location. The transmission line will be tested,
energized and placed into service. Construction mats will be removed from the ROW and post-
construction restoration will take place.
Following construction, disturbed areas will be restored to their original condition to the maximum
extent practicable and as negotiated with the landowner. Post-construction activities include:
• Removing and disposing of construction debris;
• Removing any temporary facilities (e.g., staging and laydown areas);
• Employing appropriate post-construction erosion control measures;
• Reseeding and mulching disturbed areas; and
• Restoring disturbed areas to their original condition to the extent possible.
In locations where excessive soil compaction has occurred, Xcel Energy will use various methods to
correct the over-compacted soil to the extent possible and as negotiated with landowners.
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3.4 Maintenance Procedures
Transmission lines are designed and maintained to operate for decades and require only moderate
maintenance. Transmission infrastructure has very few mechanical parts and is built to operate and
withstand weather extremes. With the exception of severe weather such as extreme winds and heavy
ice storms, transmission lines rarely fail.
Transmission lines are automatically taken out of service by the operation of protective relaying
equipment when a fault is detected on the system. Interruptions are usually momentary. Scheduled
maintenance outages are infrequent. The average annual availability of transmission infrastructure
approaches 99 percent.
Xcel Energy will occasionally use the transmission line ROW to perform inspections, maintain
equipment, and repair damage. Scheduled route maintenance will also be conducted for weed control
and removal of woody vegetation that would interfere with the operation of the transmission line.
4.0 Assessment of Impacts and Mitigation
The proposed project will be constructed primarily in a corridor that had been previously disturbed from
agricultural, industrial, rail, or electrical distribution line activity. Along portions of the project corridor,
the proposed transmission structures will be designed to currently or in the future, carry and replace an
existing distribution line. The permanent surface impact from each structure is less than 80 square feet.
As a result, permanent impacts to the environment are expected to be minimal. As described below,
Xcel Energy will further minimize temporary environmental impacts, such as fugitive dust, rutting, and
soil compaction, by using construction mats in sensitive areas and employing construction best
management practices (BMPs) as applicable.
Correspondence received from state and federal agencies that reviewed the project are included in
Appendix C.
4.1 Description of Environmental Setting
This project is located within the Minnesota and Northeast Iowa Morainal Section (222M), a section
within the biogeographic province known as the Eastern Broadleaf Forest Province under the Ecological
Classification System (ECS) developed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the
United States Forest Service (DNR, 2010). Agriculture, commercial, industrial, and residential
development have changed the original landscape throughout the area. Vegetation at the time of the
Public Land Survey consisted primarily of oak woodland and maple basswood forest (Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources, 1988). The project corridor had been converted to agricultural and
urban commercial and industrial use.
The proposed project corridor is zoned open development industrial and planned industrial
development in Chaska Rural Residential Zoning District (R). In Chanhassen the transmission line
corridor is zoned Agricultural Estate District (A2).
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4.2 Impacts on Human Settlement
4.2.1 Socioeconomics
Socioeconomic impacts resulting from the project will be primarily positive, as the expanded capacity in
electric energy infrastructure resulting from the project will provide electric service needs to support
surrounding development in the City of Chaska. During construction, which is expected to take
approximately twelve weeks, there would be a small positive impact on the local community due to
revenue created from expenditures of the construction crews (i.e., local community services, hotels,
restaurants, construction materials). No permanent jobs will be created by this project.
4.2.2 Displacement
The nearest residence is located 350 feet from the proposed transmission line in Chanhassen and 645
feet in Chaska. The nearest building is located 450 feet in Chanhassen and 10 feet in Chaska. Operation
of the new transmission line will not displace any residences or businesses and will not affect any public
services.
4.2.3 Noise
Transmission lines can generate a small amount of sound energy during corona activity where a small
electrical discharge caused by the localized electric field near energized components and conductors
ionizes the surrounding air molecules. Corona is the physical manifestation of energy loss, and can
transform discharge energy into very small amounts of sound, radio noise, heat, and chemical reactions
of the air components. Several factors, including conductor voltage, shape and diameter, and surface
irregularities such as scratches, nicks, dust, or water drops can affect a conductor’s electrical surface
gradient and its corona performance.
Noise emission from a transmission line occurs during certain weather conditions. In foggy, damp, or
rainy weather, power lines can create a crackling sound due to the small amount of electricity ionizing
the moist air near the wires. During heavy rain the background noise level of the rain is usually greater
than the noise from the transmission line. As a result, people do not normally hear noise from a
transmission line during heavy rain.
Since human hearing is not equally sensitive to all frequencies of sound, the most noticeable frequencies
of sound are given more weight in most measurement schemes. The A-weighted scale corresponds to
the sensitivity range for human hearing. Noise levels capable of being heard by humans are measured in
dBA, which is the A-weighted sound level recorded in units of decibels.
A noise level change of 3 dBA is barely perceptible to human hearing. A 5 dBA change in noise level,
however, is clearly noticeable. A 10 dBA change in noise level is perceived as a doubling of noise
loudness, while a 20 dBA change is considered a dramatic change in loudness. Table 2 shows noise levels
associated with common, everyday sources.
In Minnesota, statistical sound levels (L Level Descriptors) are used to evaluate noise levels and identify
noise impacts. The L 5 is defined as the noise level exceeded 5% of the time, or for three minutes in an
hour. The L 50 is the noise level exceeded 50% of the time, or for 30 minutes in an hour.
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Table 2: Decibel Levels of Common Noise Sources
Source: (Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, 2015).
Land areas, such as picnic areas, churches, or commercial spaces are assigned to an activity category
based on the type of activities or use occurring in the area. Activity categories are then categorized
based on their sensitivity to traffic noise. The Noise Area Classification is listed in the Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) noise regulations to distinguish the categories.
Table 3 identifies the MPCA established daytime and nighttime noise standards by noise area
classification. The standards are expressed as a range of permissible dBA within a one-hour period; L 10
is the dBA that may be exceeded 10 percent of the time within an hour, while L 50 is the dBA that may
be exceeded 50 percent of the time within the hour.
Table 3: Noise Standards in dBA by Noise Area Classification
Noise Area
Classification
Daytime Nighttime
L10 L50 L10 L50
1 65 60 55 50
2 70 65 70 65
3 80 75 80 75
The nearest residence is located 350 feet from the proposed transmission line. Noise levels produced by
a 115 kV transmission line are generally less than outdoor background levels and are therefore not
usually audible.
The EPRI “Transmission Line Reference Book, 345 kV and above,” Chapter 6, provides empirically
derived formula for predicting audible noise from overhead transmission lines. Computer software
produced by the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) (BPA, 1977) is also frequently used to predict
the level of audible noise from power transmission lines that is associated with corona discharge.
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Audible noise is predicted for dry and wet conditions, with wet conditions representing a worst case.
These procedures are considered to be reliable and represent International best practice.
Xcel Energy performed computer modeling using the BPA 1977 software under the worst case wet
conditions scenario for operation of a 115kV transmission line. It indicated that the audible L5 and L50
noise levels (discussed above) modeled at the edge of the 75-foot-wide right-of-way (37.5 feet from
centerline) would be at 22.2 and 18.7 dBA, respectively, well below the MPCA nighttime L50 limit of 50
dBA for Noise Area Classification 1. These findings are shown in Table 4.
Table 4: Audible Noise (dBA) for a 115kV Transmission Line
Structure Type
Noise L5
(37.5 Feet From Centerline)
Noise L50
(37.5 feet From Centerline)
Horizontal Post 115kV Steel
Pole Single Circuit
22.2 18.7
4.2.4 Aesthetics
The proposed structures will be 80 to 110 feet tall and constructed of weathered steel with a span of
350 to 400 feet. Over portions of the route, the transmission line will be located in the corridor over an
existing distribution line. The new transmission structures were designed to be able to replace several of
the existing distribution structures by attaching the distribution line conductor to the new transmission
structures lower arms. Utilizing an existing electrical power corridor will minimize the proliferation of
electrical structures. Required tree removal for safe transmission operation along scattered portions of
the project ROW will result in a minor change in the appearance of the area.
Figure 5 shows a photo rendering of the proposed 115 kV structures at the intersection of Lyman
Boulevard and Audubon Road by the nearest residence which is located 350 feet from the proposed
transmission line route. The proposed project will add to transmission structures currently in place.
Potential negative aesthetic impacts to adjacent property owners will be minimal. The transmission line
will be most visible from Lyman Boulevard where the proposed project will be located adjacent to the
road for approximately 3,200 feet.
4.2.5 Cultural Values
Cultural values include those perceived community beliefs or attitudes in a given area, which provide a
framework for community unity. The region surrounding the project area has cultural values tied to a
growing suburban community with residents of Chanhassen and Chaska having median ages of 39.4 and
35.3 years respectively. The communities provide a variety of access to schools, developed parks, trails
and community recreation. The proposed project is not expected to conflict with the cultural values of
the project area.
4.2.6 Transportation
The proposed project will have limited temporary impact during construction on local traffic. Access to
the transmission line construction corridor will be from Lyman Boulevard. Most equipment movements
will be from private lands adjacent to the project corridor. Temporary lane closures will be coordinated
with the transportation staff of the cities of Chaska and Chanhassen and Carver County. The traffic
impact will minimally occur during structure delivery foundation and structure construction and
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conductor stringing operations. Road related permits will be acquired by Xcel Energy as needed from the
cities or Carver County prior to any work activities that may affect roadways.
4.3 Impacts on Public Health and Safety
The project has been designed and will be constructed and operated in compliance with all applicable
industry and Xcel Energy standards regarding clearance to ground, clearance to crossing utilities,
clearance to buildings, strength of materials, and right-of-way widths. Additionally, established Xcel
Energy and industry safety procedures will be followed during and after installation of the transmission
line.
The proposed transmission line will be equipped with protective devices to safeguard the public from
the transmission line if an accident occurs, such as a structure or conductor falling to the ground. The
protective devices include breakers and relays located where the line connects to the Lake Hazeltine
Substation. The protective equipment will de-energize the line should such an event occur. Proper
signage will be posted warning the public of the risk of coming into contact with the energized
equipment.
4.3.1 Electric and Magnetic Fields
Electromagnetic fields (EMF) refer to electric and magnetic fields produced when electricity flows
through wires. EMF is produced in all wires when electricity is flowing, in power lines, home wiring,
video displays, and appliances. The lower frequencies associated with power lines are referred to as
extremely low frequencies (ELF). EMF is separated into electric fields (EFs), measured in kilovolts per
meter (kV/m), and magnetic fields (MFs), measured in MilliGauss (mG). These fields are dependent on
the voltage and the current carried in the wire, also known as the conductor. The intensity of the electric
field is proportional to the voltage of the conductor, and the intensity of the magnetic field is
proportional to the current flow through the conductor. Transmission lines operate at a power
frequency of 60 hertz (cycles per second).
4.3.2 Electric Fields
There is no federal standard for transmission line electric fields. The PUC, however, has imposed a
maximum electric field limit of 8 kV/m measured at one meter above the ground on other permitted
transmission lines. The standard was designed to prevent serious hazards from shocks when touching
large objects parked under AC transmission lines of 500 kV or greater.
For the proposed transmission line, the maximum modeled electric field between structures one and
two was calculated to be 0.931 kV/m measured at one meter above the ground directly on the
transmission centerline. This proposed project maximum electric field value is below the PUC maximum
electric field value.
Table 5 displays the modeled electric fields around the centerline of the proposed transmission line at
station 167 between structures one and two, near the intersection of Lyman Boulevard and Audubon
Road.
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Table 5: Modeled Electric Field (kV/M) vs. Offset From Centerline For The 115 KV
Transmission Line (one meter above ground)
Structure
Type
Operating
Voltage
(kV)
Distance to Proposed Centerline
-150’
-100’ -50’ -30’ 0’ 30’ 50’ 100’ 150’
Horizontal
or Braced
Post 115kV
Steel Pole
Double
Circuit
115 0.025 0.014 0.25 0.56 0.93 0.56 0.25 0.014 0.024
4.3.3 Magnetic Fields
There are presently no Minnesota regulations pertaining to MF exposure. Xcel Energy provides
information to the public, interested customers and employees so they can make informed decisions
about MFs. The following links provides additional information related to electric and magnetic fields.
https://www.xcelenergy.com/community/public_safety/electric_and_magnetic_fields.
http://www-ehs.ucsd.edu/LBCI/LIPA_Magnetic_Field_Levels_Around_Homes.pdf
The modeled magnetic field profile around the proposed transmission line is shown in Table 6. Magnetic
fields were calculated at a point directly under the transmission line centerline (0 feet) where the
conductor is closest to the ground. The same method was used to calculate the magnetic field at the
various distances shown up to 150 feet from the transmission centerline. The magnetic field profile data
show that magnetic field levels decrease rapidly as the distance from the centerline increases
(proportional to the inverse square of the distance from source).
Table 6: Modeled Magnet Field (milliGauss (mG)) vs. Offset At Station 167 Between
Structures 1 and 2 For The 115 kV Transmission Line (one meter above ground)
Structure
Type
Current
(Amps)
Distance to Centerline (feet)
-150 -100’ -50’ -30’ 0’ 30’ 50’ 100’ 150’
Horizontal or
Braced Post
115kV Steel
Pole Double
Circuit
115 3.6 7.0 15.6 21.1 26.16 21.2 15.7 7.0 3.6
Table 7 is shown as for a representation of the magnetic fields people regularly encounter by common
appliances at various distances.
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Table 7: Sources and Amounts of Magnetic Fields
The nearest dwelling will be more than 350 feet from the proposed transmission centerline. Values of EF
and MF will be similar to background levels at this distance. The levels of MF produced by the proposed
transmission line at the ground will be similar to those of appliances and machines encountered by
people on a daily basis in their home and workplace (Xcel Energy, Inc., 2016).
4.3.4 Stray Voltage
Stray voltage is a condition that can occur on the electric service entrances to structures from
distribution lines. More precisely, stray voltage is a voltage that exists between the neutral wire of the
service entrance and grounded objects in buildings such as barns and milking parlors. Because
transmission lines convey power for subsequent distribution and are not connected to non-utility
structures, stray voltage is not encountered in such lines. Therefore, no impacts related to stray voltage
are expected from the proposed transmission line.
4.4 Impacts on Land-based Economies
4.4.1 Recreation and Tourism
Recreational areas in Chaska and Chanhassen are located within approximately one mile of the project
area. These include: Chanhassen High School, Bluff Creek Preserve, Hazeltine National Golf Course and
Chaska Par 30 Golf Course, Stonecreek and Power Hill Parks, designated trails and public open space
parcels. The construction and operation of the proposed transmission line will not impact these
recreation areas or otherwise impede recreation opportunities near the project. There are no other
tourist attractions in the vicinity of the project; therefore, no impacts to tourism are expected from the
project.
4.4.2 Agriculture
Structures one through three are located on or adjacent to agricultural land. Permanent agricultural
impacts will be limited to the area around each structure, a total of approximately 300 square feet of
land, and the potential hindrance to equipment operation around the pole structures. Construction of
the transmission line will require repeated access to structure locations to install foundations,
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structures, and conductors. Equipment used in this process may include drill rigs, concrete trucks,
backhoes, cranes, boom trucks, and assorted small vehicles. Operation of these vehicles across the
subject property can cause temporary impacts such as rutting and soil compaction, particularly in wet
conditions. Affected landowners or their tenants will be compensated for the use of their land through
easement payments. Additionally, Xcel Energy will compensate affected landowners for any crop
damage and soil compaction that occurs as a result of the project. Mats will be used to minimize
construction impacts on sensitive land and wetlands.
4.4.3 Mining and Forestry
There are no active mining or forestry areas in the vicinity of the project; therefore, the proposed
project will not impact mining or forestry resources. Trees exist in patches adjacent to the proposed
transmission line near the railroad and the Lake Hazeltine Substation. Tree removal within the
approximately 75-foot-wide right-of-way will be required to accommodate the transmission line. The
trees along this corridor are not an economically significant resource.
4.5 Archaeological and Historic Resources
In January of 2018, a review of records at the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and
the Minnesota Office of the State Archaeologist (OSA) identified three archaeological sites and six
inventoried historic architectural properties outside of the proposed transmission ROW but within one
mile of the project area. One of the historic architectural resources, the Albertine and Fred Heck House,
is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. None of the nine identified cultural resource sites are
located within the project corridor.
Prior to construction, an archaeologist will conduct a field investigation for archaeological resources at
each proposed structure and report the findings to the OSA. Xcel Energy will work with the OSA to
comply with state regulations related to archaeological and historic resources.
As there are currently no known archaeological or historical resources identified within the proposed
project route, no impacts are anticipated. Should archeological artifacts be discovered during field
investigation or construction, Xcel Energy shall cease work and consult with SHPO and or the OSA before
continuing work in the area of discovery. While avoidance would be the preferred action, should
impacts to archaeological resources be encountered, mitigation for may include resource investigations
and/or additional documentation through data recovery.
4.6 Natural Environment
4.6.1 Air Quality
Transmission lines do not appreciably affect air quality, there will be no permanent environmental
impacts to air quality from the operation of the transmission line. Minor temporary effects on air quality
may occur during construction of the proposed project as a result of exhaust emissions from
construction equipment and other vehicles, and from fugitive dust that may become airborne during
right-of-way clearing or construction activities in dry conditions. Xcel Energy will employ construction
BMPs, such as the use of construction mats in sensitive areas and wetlands, use tracking control at
access roads and wetting dry surfaces as necessary, to minimize the amount of fugitive dust created by
construction activities. Potential impacts to air quality from exhaust emissions are expected to be
negligible because of the relatively short construction timeframe.
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4.6.2 Water Resources
The proposed transmission line will cross a wetland area associated with Lake Hazeltine which is a DNR
Public Water (Figure 3-0 – 3-8). The DNR Division of Lands and Minerals regulates utility crossings on,
over or under any state land or public water identified on the Public Waters and Wetlands Maps. A
license to cross Public Waters is required under Minn. Statute §84.415 and Minn. Rules Chapter 6135.
Xcel Energy will work with the DNR on this permit and will file for a utility crossing license as required.
The DNR Division of Waters requires a Public Waters Work Permit for any alteration of the course,
current, or cross-section below the ordinary high water level of a Public Water or Watercourse.
Structures 14, 15 and 16, each having a foundation of 10 feet in diameter or less and an area of 80
square feet or less will be constructed in the northern, emergent wetland portion of this designated
DNR Public Water. Temporary construction impacts to the basin will be minimized by constructing on
mats and employing erosion control measures such as the use of waddles and silt fencing to control
sedimentation and prevent material discharge to surface waters. Additionally, disturbed soils will be
stabilized by promptly re-vegetating or mulching following completion of construction.
4.6.3 Wetlands
Wetlands along the corridor were located using GIS datasets including the National Wetland Inventory
(NWI), the National Hydrography Dataset (NHD), LiDAR from MnTOPO, a series of aerial photographs,
and the USGS quadrangle map. Wetlands were avoided to the extent practicable by selecting the route
with the least wetland impact and by spanning wetlands where possible. Of the 18 structures proposed
for the project, nine structures will be constructed in wetlands (Structures 3, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and
16). Impacts to wetlands were minimized by limiting impacts to the structure foundations. The
permanent unavoidable wetland impact from each structure in wetlands will be the reinforced concrete
foundation which will be 10 feet in diameter or less which will result in 80 square feet of wetland impact
per structure or less or a total impact of 780 square feet for the nine structures in wetlands. Temporary
wetland impacts will be minimized by constructing the transmission structures and installing the
equipment and conductors from wood mats. Soil excavated from the structure bored foundation holes
will be immediately loaded into dump trucks and deposited at a designated upland soil disposal location
off-site.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was contacted regarding the proposed project. In a reply letter dated
February 23, 2018, (Appendix C), the USACE indicated that a Department of Army permit may be
required for the proposed project. Since each of the nine structure in wetlands would displace 80 square
feet each, wetland impacts resulting from the project would be 780 square feet, and this may qualify for
a USACE Regional General Permit (RGP-3-MN).
4.6.3 Flora and Fauna
The DNR was contacted for comments regarding natural resources related to the proposed project. In a
reply dated February 2, 2018, the DNR provided comments recommending an alternative route analysis,
discussion of bird diverters, a required DNR Public Water license for Lake Hazeltine, and review of the
Natural Heritage Information System (NHIS) data (Appendix C). Each of these items are addressed
throughout this EA.
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Vegetation
The proposed transmission line corridor is primarily in a disturbed corridor as a result of electrical
distribution, industrial and agricultural development. The existing vegetation includes perennial grasses
such as smooth brome and Kentucky bluegrass, forbs such as goldenrod, and scattered shrubs and trees,
primarily box elder, American elm, green ash, buckthorn and cottonwood. Vegetation in wetlands is
predominantly reed canary grass and cattails.
Disturbance to vegetation will be minimal and limited because mass grading and clearing is not
proposed for the Project. Grasses and forbs will be cleared where structures are proposed. This is
typically an area 10 feet in diameter or less per structure. Trees and shrubs with growth potential
greater than 15-20 feet in height, will be cleared within the proposed ROW prior to matt placement and
structure installation. Woody plant clearing may be accomplished using chainsaws, mowers, and tree-
cutting equipment. Vegetation will be cut at, or slightly above, the ground surface. Rootstock or stumps
will be left in place unless transmission structure installation or construction access requires otherwise.
Landowners will be notified as early as possible prior to construction to allow them to harvest trees
within easement boundaries prior to the initiation of clearing. Trees, shrubs, and slash, will be either cut
and removed from the project and disposed, scattered within the place where removed, placed in
windrow piles, or chipped within the right-of-way. Vegetation removed from non-wetland areas will not
be disposed into wetland areas. Non-merchantable felled material may also be removed from the right-
of-way.
Consistent with DNR recommendations, Xcel Energy will limit vegetation removal to the minimum
extent necessary to safely construct and operate the transmission line.
Wildlife
Wildlife habitat in the Project area is largely disturbed and limited by agricultural, industrial and railway
development. Wildlife species may use vegetated and wetland portions of the project site for forage and
cover. Mammalian species that are likely to occur in and near the Project area include species typically
found in suburban and industrial areas such as white-tailed deer, cottontail rabbit, striped skunk, red
fox, coyote, and a variety of small rodents (e.g., mice, squirrels, and voles) (Hazard, 1982).
Avian species that are likely to occur in and near the Project area include American crow, American
robin, wild turkey, black-capped chickadees, white-breasted nuthatch, house sparrow, ring-billed gulls,
Canada goose and mallard (Janssen, 1987). An active bald eagle nest exists adjacent to the Project Area
on the west side of the railroad tracks near Structure 15. Xcel Energy is coordinating with the USFWS to
avoid adverse impact to bald eagles associated with this nest.
There are likely reptile and amphibian species, such as northern leopard frog, American toad, painted
and snapping turtle and common garter snake in the wetland areas near the Lake Hazeltine substation
and where the transmission line runs adjacent to the railroad track. Woody vegetation clearing
necessary for project construction and ROW maintenance may result in a small loss of vegetative cover
habitat; however, no significant wildlife impacts are anticipated. Areas where vegetation is temporarily
disturbed will be reseeded using a locally native seed mix in compliance with agreements with
landowners.
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Avian Collisions
As the project is adjacent to Lake Hazeltine, newly constructed transmission lines may affect waterfowl
and other bird species, as birds have the potential to collide with all elevated structures, including
power lines. Avian collisions with transmission lines can occur in proximity to agricultural fields that
serve as feeding areas, wetlands and water features, and along riparian corridors that may be used
during migration.
The electrocution of large birds, such as raptors, is more commonly associated with small distribution
lines than large transmission lines. Electrocution occurs when birds with large wingspans come in
contact with two conductors or a conductor and a grounding device. Xcel Energy’s design standards for
transmission and distribution lines provide adequate spacing to minimize the risk of raptor
electrocution.
Xcel Energy has been working with various state and federal agencies for over 20 years to address avian
issues. In 2002, Xcel Energy Operating Companies, including Xcel Energy, entered into a voluntary
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to work
together to address avian issues throughout its service territories. The MOU sets forth standard
reporting methods and the development of Avian Protection Plans (APP) for each state that Xcel Energy
serves. APPs include designs and other measures aimed at preventing avian electrocutions as described
in guidance provided by the Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC, 2006) and the guidelines
for developing APPs (APLIC and USFWS, 2005). The APP for the Minnesota Territory is complete and
retrofit actions for areas with potential avian impacts are underway across the territory. Xcel Energy also
addresses avian issues related to transmission projects by:
Working with resource agencies such as the DNR and the USFWS to identify areas that may be
appropriate for marking transmission line shield wires with bird diverters; and
Attempting to avoid areas known as primary migration corridors or migratory resting areas.
In most cases, the shield wire of an overhead transmission line is the most difficult part of the structure
for birds to see. Xcel Energy has successfully reduced collisions on certain transmission lines by marking
the shield wires with Swan Flight Diverters (SFDs), which are pre-formed spiral shaped devices that are
wrapped around the shield wire.
Avian Impact Mitigation
Since the potential for avian collisions exist at the subject site near Lake Hazeltine, the proposed
transmission line has been approved for the installation of bird diverters between structures 14-18 near
Lake Hazeltine.
4.6.5 Rare and Unique Natural Resources
The DNR was requested to conduct a Natural Heritage Rare Features Database review the project. The
August 2, 2017 DNR response obtained indicated DNR did not believe the proposed project would
negatively affect any known occurrences of rare features (Appendix C).
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5.0 Regulatory Permits and Approvals Required
Xcel Energy will obtain all necessary permits and approvals prior to project construction. Permit
requirements or approvals anticipated for this project are shown in Table 8. Agency correspondence
related to the project can be found in Appendix C.
Table 8: Regulatory Permits and Approvals
Government Unit Type of Permit Regulated Activity
Minnesota DNR License to Cross Public Waters/
Wetlands
Utility Crossing Over Designated
Pubic Water (Lake Hazeltine)
US Army Corps of Engineers Regional General Permit 2017-
02360
Utility Project Construction in
Wetlands
City of Chaska Wetland Conservation Act
Utility Exemption
Utility Project Construction in
Wetlands
City of Chaska Conditional Use Permit Construction of Transmission
Line
City of Chaska Conditional Use Permit Construction of Transmission
Line
6.0 References
Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC). 2006. Suggested Practices for Avian Protection on
Power Lines: The State of the Art in 2006. Edison Electric Institute, APLIC, and the California
Energy Commission. Washington, D.C. and Sacramento, CA.
http://www.aplic.org/uploads/files/2643/SuggestedPractices2006(LR-2).pdf Accessed April,
2018.
APLIC and USFWS. 2005. Avian Protection Plan (APP) Guidelines. Prepared by the Edison Electric
Institute’s Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS). http://www.eei.org/ourissues/TheEnvironment/Land/Documents/AvianProtectionPlanGuidelines.pdf,
Revised April 2005, Accessed April, 2018.
Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). 1977. Description of Equations and Computer Program for
Predicting Audible Noise, Radio Interference, Television Interference, and Ozone from A-C
Transmission Lines. Technical Report ERJ-77-167.
City of Chaska. (2018, 04 28). Chaska Zoning Ordinance . Retrieved from
https://www.chaskamn.com/DocumentCenter/View/385
Cowardin, L. M., V. Carter, F. C. Golet, E. T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater
Habitats of the United States. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service,
Washington, D.C. Jamestown, ND: Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Online.
https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/documents/classwet/index.html (Version 04DEC1998).
Electric Power Research Institute – EPRI. 1982. Transmission Line Reference Book: 345 kV and Above.
Second Edition.
Hazard, E. B. 1982. The Mammals of Minnesota. University of Minnesota Press, Minneapolis.
Janssen, R. B. 1987. Birds of Minnesota. University of Minnesota Press, Minneapolis.
Environmental Assessment - 115 kV Electric Transmission Line to Lake Hazeltine Substation
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Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 2010. Ecological Classification System.
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/ecs/index.html. Accessed April, 2018.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Public Waters Inventory Maps - Metro Area. Carver 2.
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/waters/watermgmt_section/pwi/maps_metro.html Accessed April
2018.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. (1988). Natural Vegetation of Minnesota At the Time of
the Public Land Survey 1847-1907. St. Paul: DNR.
Minnesota Legislature - Office of the Reviser of Statutes. 2010. Minnesota Statutes, Laws and Rules.
https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/pubs/. Accessed December, 2017.
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. 2015. A Guide to Noise Control in Minnesota. Revised November,
2015. http://www.pca.state.mn.us/publications/p-gen6-01.pdf
United States Census Bureau. Census 2000 Data for the State of Minnesota.
http://www.census.gov/main/www/cen2000.html. Accessed May 2018.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Data Gateway. http://datagateway.nrcs.usda.gov/.
Accessed April, 2018.