Invited Luncheon Speaker - September 5, 2006, James L. Arndt, Ph.D.

Hydrogeology, Pedology, and Botany of the Seminary Calcareous Fen, Carver County, Minnesota.

Abstract
Calcareous fens are peat-accumulating wetlands dominated by distinct groundwater discharge characterized as circum-neutral to alkaline with high concentrations of calcium and low dissolved oxygen content. The chemistry provides environments for specific and often rare hydrophytic plants. Calcareous fens are protected and potential impacts regulated under various Minnesota Statutes and Rules. Because of their dependence on groundwater discharge, hydrologic impacts to calcareous fens can result from projects impacting groundwater far distant from the fen itself.

The presentation summarizes a Phase 1 characterization of the Seminary Calcareous Fen that was performed in support of a Tier 1 EIS being prepared to evaluate alternatives proposed for a new river crossing at Trunk Highway 41 (TH 41). Topics covered include:

• Background information on calcareous fen regulation in Minnesota and on the hydrology, soil, water chemistry, and vegetation characteristics used to identify calcareous fens in Minnesota,
• The local and regional hydrogeologic context to understand calcareous fen function and characteristics at the Seminary Fen site,
• Historic land use impacts to the Seminary Fen, and
• Specific hydrology, soils, water chemistry, and vegetation characteristics of the Seminary fen.

Biography

Jim is a licensed and certified Professional Soil Scientist with 25 years of experience. He obtained an MS and PhD in soil science from North Dakota State University and a BS in soil science and natural resource management from the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point. He currently works for Natural Resource Group and previously worked at Peterson Environmental Consulting and North Dakota State University.