The Minnesota River Citizen’s Advisory Committee (CAC)
One of the most influential and productive organizations was the Minnesota River Citizen’s Advisory Committee CAC, which was formed in May 1992. The committee consisted of 30 nominated individuals from various backgrounds, including farmers, business leaders, and environmentalists. Their ultimate goal is defined in their mission statement: "The Citizens' Advisory Committee shall develop a set of recommendations for improving water quality, biodiversity, and the natural beauty of the Minnesota River."
CAC Goals
Before devising their action plan, the committee heard testimony from environmental professionals and identified key issues concerning the Minnesota River's problems. In 1994, the committee released the report, Working Together: A Plan to Restore the Minnesota River. The action plan developed by MRCAC details all areas that must be addressed in order for the health of the Minnesota River to improve.
The action plan is composed of the following ten recommendations:
1) restore floodplains and riparian areas,
2) restore wetlands,
3) manage drainage ditches and storm sewers as tributaries,
4) improve land management practices,
5) monitor water quality throughout the Minnesota River Basin,
6) establish a "Minnesota River Commission" to oversee the clean-up effort,
7) establish local joint powers agreements,
8) improve technical assistance to local governments,
9) engage the general public, and
10) enforce existing laws.
Learn more about the CAC Recommendations:
Minnesota River Citizens' Advisory Committee Progress Report. January 1994. (pdf 970 k)
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