A meeting was held on Tuesday, January 8, 2008 at Clearwaters. In attendance were: Cathy, Dave, Jean, Sue, Susan, Norb, Gus, Georgette, Don, Tom D, and Mark.
Cathy announced the Police Department's agreement to house a permanent collection box in their lobby during staffed hours M-F 7:30-4:30. Gus is working with Jim Benson from the Utility on fabricating a steel drop box for beneath the lobby window. The group discussed marketing (counter signs, press release, cable access, Plain Talk, Insight, Corporation Communication at the Clinic, Living Well TV9, vet clinics, etc). Cathy will work with Premier Printing on flyers, posters, counter signs, and signs for the PD box and window.
The group also discussed future funding for this permanent program. Gus explained that he, Chief Stoik, and PD staff estimated that $2,000 annually should fund the program. Marshfield Utilities and Marshfield Wastewater Utilities both agreed to fund $500 each annually. Mark agreed to contact the Clinic, and Tom Drendel agreed to contact the Hospital to see if each would also fund $500 annually to support the permanent program. Sponsor names would be included on all marketing materials.
The group discussed what they would do with people who had items we couldn't collect (inhalers, nebulizers, sharps), and Norb offered that Walgreen's could work with those people and collect those items. He said the group could include Walgreen's name on marketing materials for a contact for those materials.
Monday, February 4, 2008 is the date we are planning as the kick-off for the new permanent program at the PD.
Mark asked if Groundwater Guardians had thought about getting involved with Pick N Save's reward program for purchases with their card.
Georgette spoke about the Marshfield Cultural fair at the UW Campus on February 23rd. She said the Sustainable Marshfield Committee is expecting to have a booth at the Fair to highlight the community's sustainability projects, including those that have been spearheaded by Groundwater Guardians. Georgette also mentioned that MACCI is having its annual Business Expo on April 3rd with a "green" business theme. Area businesses and organizations will be invited to display what they are doing in the area of sustainable enterprise. She also spoke about the Sustainable Marshfield Committee's objectives and strategies (ie: water conservation, phosphorous-free fertilizer, pharmaceuticals in wastewater, wellhead and groundwater protection, stormwater control, Mill Creek, and Utility improvements). Dave and Cathy explained about the PSC WaterSense program and the Utility's future involvement with this program and their recent award for low water losses in the community.
Sue Meyer asked about the Groundwater Guardian Green Site Program and Cathy explained that she has made several City contacts but has yet to find anyone interested in applying for this new Groundwater Foundation recognition and awards program that promotes better green site maintenance.
Future action: Cathy will work on marketing materials, Mark will contact the Clinic for funding and Corporation Communication for Living Well, Tom Drendel will contact the Hospital for funding, Gus will work with Jim on the collection container, Georgette will contact Ann Boson for possibility of Ministry future funding (sustainable).
A meeting was held on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 at Clearwaters. In attendance were: Cathy, Dave, Gus, Susan, Ron, Bridgett, Norb, Ed, Georgette, Don, Jeannie, and Marge.
Cathy provided the group a recap on the results of the past two collection events. Totals from both events: surveys 225, non-controlled 530 pounds, controlled 45 pounds. We have approximately $3500 left in our account.
Ron provided information on his involvement with the statewide pharmaceutical waste community group. He also spoke about the permanent drop off efforts underway in Lacrosse. This group has also applied for a pilot grant that would provide Rx mail back opportunities in the Milwaukee area.
The group then discussed the following possibilities for continuation of this program: explore permanent drop off location (perhaps PD), schedule another event in October (perhaps at fairgrounds), future event locations, qualifying results, and the possibility of Wood County continue the collection in May.
The group decided to go ahead with the October 27th event and try to secure the Fairground Junior Fair building, rather than utilize the mall location. If the fairgrounds will allow us to move one of the concrete barriers, traffic could flow through the fairgrounds North to South without leaving the vehicle. The group also decided to discontinue the use of surveys. We have already collected the information that we really want to know: where people are coming from, what they are bringing, how often they want the event, etc. The group felt it would speed up the process and be less confrontational for residents. We will still count cars/residents/families and still sort and count controlled substances.
It was decided we would investigate the possibility of a permanent drop off location, but would also watch and wait and see what happens with LaCrosse before we make any moves.
As for any future events, such as in May with Clean Sweep. The group decided it would be best if Wood County would pick up that event. The group acknowledged that we have other projects we would like to work on, but that it is important that collections still take place. If the county does not sponsor an Rx collection with Clean Sweep, we may consider doing one. However, it would be separate from the Clean Sweep event. It may be in the same location (Jr Exp Building), but we would not do surveys or ask questions from Rx residents.
Finally, the group discussed future projects. It was agreed that a water festival should be held this next program year. Cathy suggested Grant School, since we have not been there in many years. Dave agreed to make contact to see if there is interest at the school.
A meeting was held on Friday, March 2, 2007 at Best Western Clearwaters. In attendance were: Cathy, Dave, Jean Coy, Gus, Joe Pacovsky, Mark, Susan, Sue Meyer, Tom D, and Norb.
Cathy provided the results from our February 24, 2007 Rx Round-Up held at Walgreens. We surveyed 95 residents, collected 193 pounds of non-controlled substances, and 17 pounds of controlled substances. The surveys revealed that people think two collections a year is enough. Most residents found out about the event through our flyers, yard signs, banners, and radio and newspaper.
It was suggested for future events we contact area businesses with reader boards and ask them to advertise our collection event date and time.
The May 12th Clean Sweep event was discussed. Everyone thought we should participate. It was agreed that at least two pharmasists and three techs are needed for sorting and counting. Norb said Walgreens could provide one pharmacist. Cathy will contact Gary to see if the Clinic has staff that will volunteer for that event.
There was discussion on getting information on the bottom of patient information forms that would educate people about proper disposal and perhaps upcoming events. Norb and Gary discussed educating pharmasists at state wide conferences.
The details of the May 12th event were discussed. It was agreed that we would use our own surveys for this event and survey the people inside the building just before they turn over their items. It was also agreed that we will collect and weigh and dispose of all of our own items (both controlled and non-controlled) to save on costs and also keep better records for our group. Gus didn't see any problem with quantities and future disposal concerns.
Norb thought that April 1st would be a good date to start providing flyers to patients at all area pharmacies. Norb suggested putting our survey on the back of our flyers and having staff instruct patients to fill out this survey prior to the event and bring along with them to the collection. This would save on time and resources during the collection. Cathy will make these changes to the flyers.
Tom D suggested listing the date and location of the next event on the bottom of our flyers. If we can get a location and date set for October, Cathy will make those changes to flyers also.
There was discussion on having an event in October to promote National Pharmacy Month. Norb suggested the Woodridge Mall as a neutral location that would be easily accessible (especially to shoppers on a Saturday morning.) Gus is checking with mall management to see if we could set up a table in the main entrance near the south doors to collect items. This would likely be the first or second Saturday of October.
There was also discussion on various other locations (Fairgrounds, Senior Center, Walgreens, Clinic locations), however, the group thought the Mall might be the best location and decided to pursue that avenue.
Cathy will work on promotional materials and adding language about the survey that residents will be asked to fill out and also that the event is FREE.
The group spent time discussing our successful educational campaign and how this event has spread throughout the state. We also discussed pursuing once again our long-term goal of a "drop-box" collection. After further thought, it was decided that we should continue another year before persuing this avenue again with the DEA.
A meeting was held on October 10, 2006 at Best Western Clearwaters. In attendance were: Cathy, Ron, Jean Coy, tom T, Norb, Gus, Dave, Mark, Tom D, Ed, Sue M, Terri, Susan F, Bridget, Joe.
The group discussed various promotional avenues for our next take back program (bag stuffers, yard signs, power point presentation, group presentations, Leadership Marshfield, Roger's Cinema ad, etc)
Ideas about quarterly collections at area pharmacy's was also discussed, as well as continuing with the Clean Sweep collection in May 2007.
Norb agreed to check with his corporation to see if there would be support for a collection at Walgreen's (perhaps in Dec/Jan). The group thought it would be a good idea to have another collection - prior to the Clean Sweep collection in May 2007. It was decide a goal of quarterly collections would be best (three times at area pharmacy's and once with Clean Sweep).
Cathy will work on a Power Point presentation that could be used for group presentations. She will also look into a single page pharmacy bag stuffer and yard signs that could be reused (removable dates).
Sue Meyer agreed to contact area CBRF's and assisted living centers to research their policies for disposal of pharmaceuticals no longer needed.
The group also discussed planning a Water Festival for the spring of 2007. Many members agreed it was important to continue doing these festivals and agreed to volunteer to help. Ed said he would check with Washington School to see if they would be interested in working with us.
Cathy will email the group with our progress in each of the above projects.
A meeting was held on August 8, 2006 at Best Western Clearwaters. In attendance were: Cathy, Terri, Susan, Tom D, Georgett, Dave, Mark, Gus, Ron, Kent, Norb, Bridgett, Sue Meyer, Tom T, Nancy.
Cathy discussed the results of our Rx Round-Up program. 418 pounds of non-controlled substances were collected. Three additional containers of controlled substances were collected. The costs for the event were as follows: Printing materials $943.60, Food/Drink $60.97, Police Department (one officer/others were donated time) $225.00, Incineration Costs $632.36 for a total of $1,861.93
Two other communities have also advertised for similar events; Brown County and Milwaukee County.
Cathy shared our current financial situation with the group. We currently have $5430.18 in our Chamber Foundation account after all expenses from the Rx Round-Up event. We still are awaiting $2000 from Security Health which was promised for the event. It was decided by the group that the Rx Round-Up pharmaceutical take-back program should continue for another year - or more as funds are available.
The group then discussed the following topics: future of our finances, possible endowment fund, regulations and requirements, DNR/DEA involvement, future participation with Clean Sweep program, recycling drugs, CBRF's and their current practices, fundraising/marketing/educational ideas, future Leadership Marshfield group participation(Ron has a contact), future group objectives (bigger/better, sustainable, change/political), recommend the DEA use Marshfield as a pilot to study take-back events, long term goals for collection(quarterly vs ongoing drop-off).
After much discussion, the group decided to focus on three avenues of concentration for future take-back events: Policy and Change, Financial Development, and Educational Outreach. Cathy will email the entire group and ask for volunteers to form these three work groups. Dave and Mark plan to head up the Policy and Change group, Georgette the Financial Development group, and Cathy and Terri the Educational Outreach group.
In addition, the group was reminded by Dave that we originally agreed to focus our attention on education of youth and should try to schedule a water festival or similar event this year. Anyone willing to volunteer to help make this happen would be greatly appreciated.
It was suggested that the group meet again in October to discuss our progress with our work groups.
Cathy told the group that we had secured funding (verbally) from the following organizations: $1000 Groundwater Guardians, $2000 Marshfield Utilities, $2000 Marshfield Wastewater Utility, $2000 Marshfield Clinic, $2000 St Joseph's Hospital, $2000 Security Health Plan, $250 Marshfield Savings Bank, $100 Target.
The group discussed several details regarding the collection event on May 13, 2006 from 8 - noon at the Fairgrounds in Marshfield.
The following subcommittes were formed and individuals are being asked to volunteer to help with one of the groups:
Media/Marketing/Education - Cathy Lotzer chair Other volunteers: Nancy, Ron, Sue, Jordon, Bernice
This group will work on various promotional ideas for the event, such as: bag stuffers for pharmacies, brochures, banners, cable access, newspaper, radio.
The marketing must include information on products that will NOT be collected as well as information on packaging of the dropped off products. It was suggested that we
not limit the market area to Marshfield or Wood county - but collect from any location (don't turn anyone away).
Regulation - Mark chair Other voltuneers: Dick
This group will work on the DEA letter, pharmacy board support, local law enforcement support, etc.
Cathy will email the entire group and ask for volunteers for each subcommitte as well as volunteers for the May 13th event.
Jeni Lewis attended the meeting and plans to write an article on our plans for this upcoming event.
Cathy discussed possible ideas for 2006 ROA's, briefed the group on the Nebraska conference and Window on the World workshop, and then turned the meeting over to the pharmaceutical subcommittee to bring the group up-to-date on the progress with our take-back program.
Dave reviewed our progress (including estimated cost of the project). See the minutes below for details. Gary, Ron, and Mark also added information and ideas for sources of fundraising.
The following group members volunteered to make the following contacts:
Norb - Amy Sue Virwink, Walgreens Corporate (for advertising/promotional dollars)
Dave - Walmart, St Joseph Foundation, Marshfield Savings Bank
Tom - Rotary, Security Health
Mark - Tom Berger/Gannett,
Bernice - Target
Susan - Public Access
Cathy - Walmart, Sunrise Rotary
Terri - Leadership Marshfield, Marshfield Community Foundation
Jen - Community Foundations
Gary/Dave - Marshfield Clinic
Cathy will work with the subcommitte on a one-page flyer for members to use with their fundraising. We are looking for a catchy title to use on this promotional material.
Group members were asked to make their contacts prior to the second week of December, which is when we would schedule our next meeting. At that meeting, we will also address contacting the press.
Present were: Ron Dickrell, Gary Plank, Gus Wenzel, Nancy Eggleston and Dave Wasserburger. Also present were: Mark Heal representing Onyx and Jim Morrison representing the Dept. of Health.
It was decided to have Onyx present if we do hold a take-back program. This would place the responsibility on them for transportation, proper record keeping and proper incineration of all collected materials. Our (GWG) volunteers would not be exposed to any liabilities. Onyx will be also be working with the DeanCare take-back program in Madison.
We determined that the best time to hold a take-back program would be in conjunction with the spring 2006 Wood County Clean Sweep program. This would save us mobilization charges from Onyx.
Mark Heal , Onyx provided the following cost breakdown for set up similar to a cleansweep for medicines and controlled substances:
Many of these requirements are required by the DEA.
Items need to be packed into direct charges (burnable containers that will not be reopened) 5, 14 and 30-gallon fiber containers.
Medicine (uncontrolled substances) will be priced at $1.80/lb with a minimum charge per container of $75.00 each.
Controlled substances (Schedule 2-5) will be charged at:
5-gallon $125.00
14-gallon $260.00
30-gallon $485.00
In addition each shipment of Controlled Substances a Witness Burn Fee of $2,000 will be charged.
Mobilization to Collection site of 2 Onyx trained Personnel $750.00 (waived if held with Household cleansweep).
One DEA trained Onyx Person for collection of Controlled Substances $90.00 per hour.
One Onyx field person $60.00 per hour.
Conclusion:
Fixed costs plus allowing for 500 lbs. of uncontrolled substances (this is what Madison expects) and some container costs: $5,150.00
Schedule II-V Controlled Substances (Schedule 1 can not be taken). Estimate 10-30 gallon containers $4,850.00
Budget: $10,000.00
Gary announced that the Clinic and hospital were hosting a presentation by Charlotte Smith from PharmEcology, on hazardous material handling for medical facilities. He said that our group would be invited to hear her speak.
Mark reviewed his notes from his meeting with Grace Chen of Dean Clinic in Madison. She is working on their take-back program and has received an OK from the DEA on their chain of custody (homeowner - police - Onyx - incinerator in either Texas or Ohio). The restriction placed on their program was that controlled substances could NOT be co-mingled with non-controlled substances.
It was Mark's recommendation that our group put together a plan, write a letter to the DEA (similar to Dean Clinic's) to get approval for our own program, and get moving with our educational campaign for a Spring (April) 2006 one-day Saturday collection.
Nancy will contact Onyx to get an estimate on pricing for three - 55 gallon drums for pharmeceutical pick-up and disposal.
The group plans to meet again on Wednesday, October 26th at 12:00 noon at the utility office to put our plans into action and then schedule a full Groundwater Guardian meeting to solicate group participation in this project/event.
The group discussed various details of a take-back program and the fact that much information was still needed regarding regulations.
Gus said that the Marshfield Police Department is considering support of this program - but of course needs additional information regarding their involvement and costs. Dave agreed to contact the Hospital for incineration rates. Gary would make contact with the Clinic's reverse wholesaler, talk to pharmacy reps to see if there is any interest in financial support for this program, and also check on rules for pharmacy collection. Mark will contact Dean Care to set up an August meeting (now scheduled for 25th). Dean Care appears to be starting a similar program in the Madison area. Gus said he would check with other law enforcement and also check on DEA inventory/reporting requirements. Nancy said she would check with the Division of Health on grant writing.
The group plans to meet again in mid-September to report on their findings.
Mark began with a brief summary of information gathered on pharmaceutical waste disposal. He reviewed information related to educating users on proper disposal and also information related to drug collection centers. It was Mark's opinion/recommendation that the Clinic and Walgreens decide for themselves whether to participate in the DNR pilot program. Also, that Groundwater Guardians work with these pharmacies and/or with Wood County Clean Sweep for household drug collection.
Jordon reviewed information she obtained through various contacts regarding a take-back program. She also reviewed Dean Clinic's take back program and a meeting they are having on May 19th in Madison.
The group spent a great deal of time revisiting our direction and goals. After much discussion, it was decided we should contact the Marshfield Police Department to see if there would be cooperation from them for a secure drug collection on their site. Dave agreed to contact the Police Department and also Nancy from Wood County Clean Sweep. Norb, Gary, Chris, and Mark will also be involved during these contacts.
If we can arrange for a drug collection site, patient education would then follow - providing details of the drug collection site and procedures. Dave suggested we try to get help from next year's Leadership Marshfield class on the patient education portion of this project. It was also suggested that any agreements we can make with the State regarding facilitation of this program would be helpful (ie: direct disposal to St Joseph vs use of collection agency).
Cathy agreed to make contact with the Idaho Groundwater Guardian community that had a similar program once in place.
Group members will be emailed with a date and time for our next meeting.
On March 29, 2005 the Pharmaceutical Educational Campaign subcommittee met at Clearwaters. In attendance were:
Mark Borchardt, Ron Dickrell, Terri Hamus, Bernice Lansing, Cathy Lotzer, Sue Meyer, Jordon Ott, Arden Rindfleisch, Orin Toltzman, Dave Wasserburger, Jen Kingston, Gary Plank, Norb Salamonski, and Chris Gritt.
The group thought a better description of our short-term goal would include "recommended" disposal method rather than "correct or proper" disposal method.
Discussion included various recommendations group members came across in their individual research. No "one" good recommendation could be found. Group members researched National and State level at EPA, DNR, and various model programs throughout the country; including Maine, California, Minnesota, and Indiana.
Mark mentioned that Barb Bickford, DNR Medical Waste Coordinator, seemed very interested in our group focus and hinted at the idea of a Pilot Program with Marshfield for drug collection. Through additional contacts, he learned that the EPA seems to be telling "states" to make the call on recommendations.
Additional topics of discussion included:
State Lab of Hygiene currently monitoring 5 utilities for endocrine
disruptors, Cradle-to-Cradle website as a model for pharmacies as collection sites,
Hazardous Waste Conference being held in Chicago on Monday, April 11th, website
showing reduced quantities of medications dispensed appears to reduce waste disposal by 30%,
measuring disposal versus excretion is a priority for EPA, ways of measuring intervention
effectiveness (measure influent-measure volume collected-measure influent again),
broad scope of Groundwater Guardian Result Oriented Activity over several years,
involvement of Pharmacy Society, and using our group to "connecting the dots" with key players
in this project.
The group consensus was to get some additional key players involved in our group discussion. It was mentioned that Barb Bickford should be involved, as well as Bruce Kuhna from Marshfield Clinic. Mark agreed to make these contacts and let Cathy know of available dates for a 1/2 day meeting in April.
Norb agreed to contact the Minnesota and Maine Board of Pharmacies for information on their state's collection programs.
It was agreed that the scope of this project could get very big, very fast. However, the group agreed that it would be in our best interests to connect with other sources before moving forward with any educational efforts. The group could always backtrack toward education only if the scope of the project got off track.
Mark's handouts will be emailed to Cathy, who will in-turn email to all group members. A future April meeting date will also be communicated through email.
On February 22, 2005 the Pharmaceutical Educational Campaign subcommittee met at Clearwaters. In attendance were:
Mark Borchardt, Ron Dickrell, Terri Hamus, Bernice Lansing,Cathy Lotzer, Sue Meyer, Jordon Ott,
Arden Rindfleisch, Orin Toltzman, Dave Wasserburger, Jen Kingston, Gary Plank, and Norb Salamonski.
The group discussed the educational campaign and the importance of determining the "correct" disposal method before communicating this information within the community. Group goals included a short term goal of educating the community on the correct disposal method for unused and/or expired prescription and/or over-the-counter medications. This information could be communicated throughout the community by means of patient education, prescription bottle labeling, and posters and pamphlets available at Pharmacies throughout the community. It was also suggested that this information be shared with other state and national Groundwater Guardian communities, as well as other Pharmacies and Clinics and Hospitals. Assessments of the campaign were also discussed.
Long term goals would include working with Wood County Clean Sweep to incorporate into the annual program an unused and/or expired pharmaceutical collection component.
Group members said they would explore their various resources to determine the "correct" method and then share this information with the rest of the group.
It was also suggested a group plan or outline be made. Cathy will do this and share with the group for their comments/changes. The group will meet again on March 29th at 7:00 am.
On November 30, 2004, Groundwater Guardians for the Marshfield Area met at the Bestwestern Clearwater Conference Center for a breakfast meeting. Present were: Cathy Lotzer, Kent Mueller, Harry Borgman, Joe Pacovsky, Bernice Lansing, Dave Wasserburger, Sue Meyer, Tom Drendel, Susan Fenhaus, Bridget O'Brien, Mark Borchardt, and Jordon Ott.
Cathy gave a report on the topics presented at the Groundwater Guardian Conference and Designation Ceremony in Washington DC in November. Pharmaceuticals in drinking water was the focus of many sessions.
The following discussions then took place regarding future Result Oriented
Activities:
It was suggested the group work on an educational campaign directed at our
community on how to better dispose of unused pharmaceutical products.
Suggestions included a sticker on the container or sentence in the prescription
documentation to alert patients as to the proper disposal of unused products.
The group needs to research just what is the proper disposal before this notice
can be done. Suggestions also included partnering with local pharmacy's and
waste collection sites to perhaps have a collection site. Group members were
asked to research within their respective areas and pass along any additional
information they may find to Cathy or Dave. There was also discussion on the
possibility of doing testing to establish a benchmark of the existence of these
products in our area. Mark suggested that we may be able to use Wisconsin data,
rather than invest in doing this ourselves. Dave and Mark will be discussing
testing possibilities further.
We have one Water Festival request from Immanuel Lutheran school. In addition, Grant School is also overdue for a festival. Cathy will contact Paul Herder to see if he has any high school students who may be interested in working with us again this year with conducting festivals.
Other ROA ideas included an educational campaign directed at either elementary students (through the festival process) or adults and city officials on the importance of our water protection efforts and what is already being done within our community.
Sue Meyer also discussed her concerns with winter application of fertilizers on frozen ground and serving of water (most unused) at restaurants.
Tom Drendel spoke on phosphorus issues with regard to cattle feeding.
Jordon suggested using either Volunteer Day or Make a Difference day to encourage volunteers to clean up storm drains that have accumulated grass clippings, leaves, and/or other debris. Joe mentioned that the storm water permit process includes educational information required by the City. Jordon will contact the City to find out what their current plans are for storm drain cleaning.
Cathy reminded the group to pass along any information they obtain regarding pharmaceutical information and she would compile this information and email the group with future plans/thoughts.
Cathy also gave a brief overview of the Groundwater Guardian program for new members.
On October 19, 2004, Groundwater Guardians for the Marshfield Area met at the Holiday Inn Convention Center. Present were: John Jansen, Pete & Cathy Lotzer, Joe & Katherine Pacovsky, Kent & Cindy Mueller, Dave & Anita Wasserburger, Tom & July Turchie, Bridget O'Brien, Val Eiden, Karl & Cathy Zimmermann, Tom Drendel, Mike Bertram, Erick Boon, Leah Olson, Mark & Terri Hamus, Pat & Cathy Wingert, and Ron & Joni Dickrell.
John Jansen spoke to the group on: Changing Water Use Regulations in Wisconsin, Concerns over the use of water, High Capacity Well Law, Groundwater Management Areas, Groundwater Advisory Committees, Greak Lakes Protection Efforts - Annex 2001, Proposed Annex 2001 Rules and Implementation Schedule.
The group plans to meet again in November/December to plan for next year's ROA's.
On May 11, 2004, Groundwater Guardians for the Marshfield Area met at the Clearwaters Hotel and Convention Center. Present were: Cathy Lotzer, Ron Dickrell, Bernice Lansing, Tom Drendel, Tom Turchi, Kent Mueller, Jordon Ott, Terri Hamus, Dave Wasserburger, Bridget O'Brien, Cathy Wingert, Jerry Tetzlaff, Cathy Zimmermann, and Joe Pacovsky.
Topics of discussion included:
A copy of the UW's Rain Garden/Stormwater course being offered this summer was
distributed.
Cathy discussed the Groundwater Foundation's "10 for 10" campaign which is being started as an endowment fund for future scholarships, etc for the national Groundwater Guardian program.
Jordon Ott and Kent Mueller spoke on their Leadership Marshfield Storm Water Drain Stencil project. They hope to have the remaining stencils placed in the next few weeks. There was also dicussion on the future use of drain filters.
Terri Hamus gave an update on the status of our Griese Park Rain Garden sign. The sign is complete, the frame and pole are ready, and we hope to have installed very soon.
There was much discussion regarding a future site for our next Rain Garden. Site ideas were: House of the Dove, Hope Lodge, Oak Avenue Community Center, Arts Center, Research Foundation, High School, and Mall area. Cathy and Terri will review these locations and recommend the best site location to a subcommittee which will meet in the near future. Cathy Zimmerman will check into the House of the Dove location (if Master Gardeners have plans at this location.) Dave Wasserburger and Tom Turchi discussed the current work in progress at the Peach Avenue contamination site. Monitoring is still going on and some migration off site has been found. Two new monitoring wells have been installed.
Ron Dickrell mentioned that the Friends of Mill Creek training for testing will be done in June sometime. Anyone interested in volunteering for this project, please contact Ron.
On October 14, 2003, Groundwater Guardians for the Marshfield Area met in the downstairs meeting room of the utilty office. Present were: Ron Dickrell, Tom Drendel, Val Eiden, Susan Fenhaus, Terri Hamus, Marilyn Hansotia, Paul Herder, Cathy Lotzer, Joe Pacovsky, Tom Turchi, Dave Wasserburger, and Cathy Wingert.
Topics of discussion included:
A Water Festival to be conducted by Paul's honor students from the High School.
The students would be trained in the activities by GG volunteers and then
present the activities to the students at a festival to be held in March/April.
There was discussion on where to hold the festival. After much discussion it
was decided we should send out flyers to all local schools and decide based on
interest.
There was also interest in another festival to be held in a rural community such as Auburndale or Milladore. It was suggested that the same concept could be used here (their high school students present activities.)
The group then suggested several possible ROA's. Another rain garden was suggested. Dave will contact Orin to see if the bank might be interested as a new site location. Group members were encouraged to look for other possible locations also.
Tom Turchi suggested an activity to promote storm water management such as stenciling of fish at storm sewer drains. Dave will contact Leadership people to see if there might be interest in heading up such a project. Tom Drendel said he would check with local scouting groups to see if there is also interest.
Terri gave an update on the status of our signage for the Griese Park rain garden. Dennis Wibben has provided our group with a quote around $350 for this sign. Felkers have agreed to donate the post.
Marilyn mentioned that Wood County Master Gardens will have funds available in January and that we should submit a request for funds at that time. The funds could be used for future plant replacement and new mulch.
Dave gave an update on Peach Avenue.
On June 24, 2003 the Rain Garden subcommittee met at 7:00 am at the Marshfield Electric and Water Department. In attendance were: Jerry Tetzlaff, Sue Meyer, Cathy Zimmermann, Terri Hamus, Marilyn Hansotia, and Cathy Lotzer. Topics discussed included: a slide show of pictures from the site prep day and planting day, website updating, labeling of plants, signage, final costs(sod cutter $58, mulch $30, laminating sign $5, flowers $600, sign ~$500), and thank you party for all volunteers.
On May 29, 2003 the Rain Garden subcommittee met at 7:00 am at the Marshfield Electric and Water Department. In attendance were: Ron Dickrell, Terri Hamus, Marilyn Hansotia, Cathy Lotzer, Sue Meyer, Kris Keogh, Ed Englehart, Orin Toltzman, and Jerry Tetzlaff.
Terri reviewed the status of our grant application, which appears to be looking favorable. Terri also reviewed signage issues (layout, pricing, time frame, and location.)
Kris reviewed the site plan she designed as well as plant content. The rain garden will be approximately 450 square feet with approximately 400 plants.
Cathy reviewed a list of volunteers which include:
Wednesday, June 11th: Jerry Tetzlaff, Orin Toltzman, Ed Englehart, Marilyn
Hansotia, Cathy Lotzer, Ron Dickrell, Terri Hamus, Val Eiden, Dave
Wasserburger, Lee Babcock, Sheri Tomlinson, Donna Prepaloo, Kris Keogh
and for Saturday, June 14th: Lee Babcock, Sheri Tomlinson, Kris Keogh, Marilyn
Hansotia, Cathy Lotzer, Sue Meyer, Jerry Tetlzaff, Ron Dickrell, Terri Hamus
Marilyn reviewed a check list of needed items for the site prep day (Wed, June 11th) and planting day (Sat, June 14th.) Marilyn will recap this list and email to everyone.
Cathy will begin work on the Rain Garden Website, which will be included in our signage. The website should include pictures of the site preparation and planting as well as a list of plants contained within the garden.
Our next rain garden meeting was scheduled for Thursday, June 26th at 7:00 am at the utility office for the purpose of recaping the event.
On April 24, 2003 the Rain Garden subcommittee met at 7:00 am at the Marshfield Electric and Water Department. In attendance were: Terri Hamus, Jerry Tetzlaff, Kris Keogh, Orin Toltzman, Ed Englehart, Marilyn Hansotia, Cathy Lotzer, Ron Dickrell, and Dave Wasserburger.
Discussion included details of site preparation and planting. Wednesday, June 11th at 6:00 pm was selected for initial site preparation (with Thursday, June 12th as a rain-date.) Saturday, June 14th at 8:00 am will be the actual planting date. Volunteers are needed for both dates. Cathy Lotzer will mail notices to all members.
On May 8th, the Park, Rec and Forestry Committee will meet. Ed asked that we have something in writing to them which details our group's responsibilities with regard to maintenance.
Terri informed the group of a funding opportunity she became aware of through Golden Sands RD & C. Cathy Lotzer prepared the grand proposal. Terri said the group would be making final decisions on May 15th, and that she was told our group's proposal had great possibilities for being funded. Marilyn reported figures of approximately $700.00 for plants and shipping costs for 500 square feet of rain garden.
There was much discussion regarding signage. Dave Wasserburger and Terri Hamus volunteered to work on signage details. Ideas to be included in the signage were: plant graphics, web site information, Groundwater Guardian logo, and mission statement.
The Master Gardeners are sponsoring a Rain Garden workshop at the UW Ag Research Station on May 20th at 7:00 pm. Attendance is encouraged.
Ron Dickrell reported that Tom Jerow has recently completed a Power Point presentation on Rain Garden creation. Ron will try to obtain a digital copy of this presentation for Terri and Dave to work with for signage.
Our next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 29th at 7:00 am at the utility.
On February 27, 2003 the Rain Garden subcommittee met at 7:00 am at the Marshfield Electric and Water Department. In attendance were: Marilyn Hansotia, Cathy Lotzer, Ed Englehart, Jerry Tetzlaff, Sue Meyer, and Cathy Zimmermann.
Cathy Lotzer reviewed the site locations that were video taped and photograph by her and Terri Hamus. After discussion, it was decided that the Griese Park location (just west of the building) would be the best site. Rain Garden Site Location
Ed suggested that someone attend a Park, Rec, and Foresty meeting to seek official site approval. Marilyn and Cathy Lotzer agreed to attend on March 13th to request this approval.
Jerry will get facilities located on the site (buried electric lines.)
Construction, planting, and maintenance were next discussed. Saturday, June 14th was selected for the final construction/planting day. Site preparation including layout design, sod removal, and soil excavation will be done at an earlier date (an evening during the week - perhaps late May or early June.)
Cathy Zimmerman will check with the Master Gardeners to see if they would want to perform maintenance the first year or two as part of "service hours" required for their members. Other maintenance, including long term, would be requested of Groundwater Guardian members (perhaps twice a year a clean-up evening.)
Signage was also discussed. Cathy Lotzer will research previously done graphics. Marilyn will check with her contacts for signage information. It was agreed that the sign should be at the most north-western part of the project (closest to the bridge and path) to keep vistors out of the existing and future landscaping.
Our next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 24th at 7:00 am at the Marshfield Electric and Water Department.
On January 9, 2003 the Rain Garden subcommittee met at 7:00 am at the Marshfield Electric and Water Department. In attendance were: Marilyn Hansotia, Cathy Lotzer, Ed Englehart, Ron Dickrell, Terri Hamus, Jerry Tetzlaff, and Cathy Zimmermann.
After discussion regarding the project goal, the group decided on the following mission statement:
"To build a demonstration Rain Garden to reduce pollution, increase groundwater recharge and to promote and inspire Rain Garden creation in other locations such as residential areas, parks, businesses, and schools."
Group discussion also included topics such as funding, volunteer support, maintenance, signage, and location.
Cathy and Terri agreed to video tape Several possible locations (Griese Park, Fairgrounds, Oak & Adler, Clinic, Schools, UW) so the group could view together and further discuss at our next meeting.
The next Rain Garden subcommittee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, February 27th at 7:00 am at the Marshfield Electric and Water Department.
Following is a link to the UW Extension Rain Garden brochure this group is utilizing:
On December 11, 2002 Groundwater Guardians for the Marshfield Area met at the Marshfield Innkeeper.
In attendance were: Ron Dickrell, Tom Drendel, Val Eiden, Ed Englehart, Susan Fenhaus, Terri Hamus, Marilyn Hansotia, Bernice Lansing, Cathy Lotzer, Mark Nelson, Joe Pacovsky, Orin Toltzman, Dave Wasserburger, Nick Kumm, Bob Trussoni, Greg Kaster, and Lee Babcock.
Annual Entry Forms were discussed as well as future minutes being posted on the website rather than mailing.
Val Eiden and Cathy Lotzer gave a recap on the Annual Conference and Designation ceremony held in Oregon in November. The conference topics were very informative.
There was discussion on a Water Festival at Madison School. The first week of April 2003 was suggested. Festival educational presentations were discussed and after much discussion, the groups feeling was to stay with proven presentations we've used in the past rather than search for new ones.
Marilyn presented the Rain Garden concept to the group. After much discussion, the group decided to adopt this concept for a 2003 ROA. A subcommittee was formed and will meet in the near future to begin plans for a "community rain garden."
Dave updated the group regarding Peach Avenue. He also distributed copies of a recent letter from the DNR to Columbia regarding remedial action needed on site.
There was also discussion on 2003 being named the Year of Water by the United Nations. Promotional ideas and tools were discussed.
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