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State Representative Paul Anderson
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-4317
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GUEST COLUMN
Uneven rainfall brings widespread impacts
By Rep. Paul Anderson
It appears there will be a special legislative session to deal with infrastructure damage caused by heavy rains in parts of the state. Both the northeast and southeast portions of Minnesota were hit by weather systems that stalled and dumped copious amounts of rain in a short period of time. Areas around Duluth, for example, received upwards of nine inches in a 24-hour period. Damage estimates to public property range over $100 million. No word yet as to when the governor will call us back into special session.
It’s amazing how quickly moisture can be used up by growing crops. When those last storm systems moved through the area two weeks ago, the soil profile was nearly full of moisture. Now, after days on end of hot temps and rapidly growing crops, most areas are in need of rain once again. The small grains have been pushed to maturity too quickly, while the corn in many areas is just beginning to tassel. That’s when the corn plants really need moisture and moderate temperatures. The forecast for this week doesn’t call for those conditions, as we are in line for several more days in the 90’s with high humidity.
Several new laws took effect on July 1, among which is a statute that doubles the fines for not cleaning boats and trailers when leaving lakes in Minnesota. Drain plugs must be removed from any boat being transported, even if it’s being moved from storage. Fines can range up to $500 for boat violations, and $100 for having weeds attached to a trailer. The biggest concern is trying to slow down the spread of zebra mussels, which are already in several of Minnesota’s most popular lakes. With all the lakes and public boat launch areas we have in Minnesota, it’s a logistical nightmare trying to ensure that all boats and trailers are free of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) when either leaving or entering a lake. It’s hoped that other methods of control can be adopted as science learns more about these pests, such as the control methods used on the sea lamprey, which was once thought to be a serious problem in Lake Superior.
I’d like to add my congratulations to Dr. Bill Hartmann, who was recently presented with an Outstanding Service Award by the College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Hartmann, who serves as the Minnesota state veterinarian, played a key role in the state’s handling of the recent outbreak of TB in cattle herds in northwestern Minnesota. That outbreak has now been controlled and the state has been re-certified as being TB-free.
While on the subject of veterinary medicine, a study released by the University of Minnesota Extension and the Department of Applied Economics has found the impact of the veterinary medicine industry on the state’s economy is about $1.5 billion. According to the report, private vet practices and clinics throughout the state account for most of the veterinary workforce as they employ nearly 8,000 workers, including 1,800 veterinarians. Only ten of Minnesota’s 87 counties do not have a private veterinary practice.
As one who formerly raised cattle, I realize the important role these folks play in Minnesota’s livestock industry. When I first came back home to farm, our vet was Doc Wilson of Starbuck, who was one of the finest people I’ve ever met. Veterinarians are on-call 24-7, and are there when we need them. Thanks to all those who work with animals, whether they’re pets or commercial livestock.
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