ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is seeking public comments on Minnesota River water quality after releasing a draft report Monday.

The MPCA report listed two primary sources of concern for E. coli entering the Minnesota River: livestock from unpermitted animal feeding operations, and septic systems that represent public health threats.

This includes faulty septic systems and the illegal use of straight pipes carrying raw sewage fro homes or businesses directly to surface waters.

In addition, the MPCA determined that a handful of other potential sources, including discharge from wastewater treatment plans, municipal storm sewer systems, and permitted animal feedlot operations that are in compliance, are not likely to be substantial E. coli sources.

The most effective practice to reduce E. coli loads from human sources is to upgrade or entirely replace faulty septic systems. These actions eliminate a fecal bacteria source entirely, and should be a priority.

Additional strategies include annual septic system inspections to ensure compliance with state and county codes, and increased education about the real public health risks of septic systems when they are not properly maintained.

Overall, the level of impairment outlined in the report is low to moderate compared to the impairment of Minnesota River tributaries. However, addressing failing septic systems and adopting better manure management practices will help reduce bacteria levels and restore impaired reaches to meet water quality standards for aquatic recreation.

The draft report is available on the MPCA Minnesota River bacteria TMDL and strategies report webpage or at the MPCA Mankato office, 12 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 2165, Mankato, MN 56001.

Draft report comments should be sent to Scott MacLean, MPCA, 12 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 2165, Mankato, MN 56001 or email scott.maclean@state.mn.us.

Written comments must include a statement of your interest in the report and the action you wish the MPCA to take, including specific references to sections of the draft report you believe should be changed and the reasons for making the changes. Comments must be received by 4:30 p.m., Wednesday. March 6.

For more information, visit www.pca.state.mn.us.