GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT: CAPACITY ASSESSMENT AT THE LOCAL LEVEL: A SURVEY OF MINNESOTA ASSOCIATION OF SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICTS

This report describes a capacity assessment of Minnesota Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) staff to engage in groundwater protection. The study was conducted by the Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) and Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD). The overarching goal of the study was to examine local capacity and capacity building programs for groundwater management. The primary objectives of the study were to: 1. Assess the capacity of SWCD staff to engage in groundwater protection 2. Evaluate the impact of tailored groundwater workshops on participants' knowledge and confidence about groundwater protection