New rules and a permitting program directed at reducing future flooding and improving water quality will go into effect Dec. 1.

Cedar River Watershed District officials will begin enforcing the rules, which were approved unanimously in July by the CRWD Board of Managers following nearly two years of work. CRWD’s rules cover issues related to stormwater, flood plains, water body alterations, erosion control and enforcement. CRWD officials mentioned the rules fill gaps in existing federal, state and local regulations — and do not duplicate existing regulations.

One objective of the CRWD’s watershed management plan focuses on flood control that may prevent current flood conditions from getting worse.

“Our staff is ready to go with implementing the rules and permitting program,” said Bev Nordby, CRWD administrator. “We are excited about the many positives the watershed will experience from these new policies.”

Some areas that will require a CRWD permit include ditch cleaning and altering or filling land below the projected 100-year high-water elevation of waterbody or detention area.

Following a state statute, the CRWD made notifications about the upcoming rules and permitting program through letters sent to contractors, corn and soybean growers associations, local government entities, along with news releases and a public hearing before the rules were passed. CRWD staff also has been conducting an educational campaign on the approved rules through public awareness and resources on its website.

“If people have questions regarding when they need a permit, give our office a call,” Nordby said.

Copies of the rules are available at the Mower County Soil & Water Conservation District’s office in Austin and online at the CRWD’s website: www.cedarriverwd.org. Brochures with a summary of the CRWD rules also are available at the SWCD office. CRWD officials may be reached at 507-434- 2603.