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MAP assists rural communities in the following states: Iowa Kansas Minnesota Missouri Montana Nebraska North Dakota South Dakota Wyoming See Contact Us page for corporate and field office contact information. |
Minnesota The following case studies are examples of the technical assistance MAP provides to small communities at no cost. To benefit from MAP's assistance, simply contact the Rural Development Specialist nearest you. Strandquist, Minnesota Strandquist, Minnesota is a very small community in the northwestern region of the state. On-site septic systems within the city were failing due to age and poor design. The State of Minnesota and Marshall County requested that MAP meet with the city to identify a cost effective solution for their wastewater needs. With a Median Household Income (MHI) of only $10,208, the financial capacity for the residents to build, maintain, and operate a facility was limited. MAP utilized the Office of Community Service(OCS) funding to provide technical assistance, resulting in hiring an engineer, preparation of an environmental report, community placement on state funding lists, preparation of funding applications, establishment of sewer ordinances and utility rates, and facilitating numerous public informational meetings. Funding for the $488,000 project came from an $117,900 state grant, $363,000 USDA/Rural Development grant, and $7,100 USDA loan. User fees would be a modest $14.50/month for this low-income community. After nearly three years of planning and preparation the construction commenced in the fall of 2001. Residents were enthusiastic as the heavy equipment rolled into town. The presence of loaders and trenchers used to bury the big pipes influenced everyday activities. Installation occurred, in the winter of 2002 To complete the central collection system, contractors installed an aerobic treatment facility and a sub-surface drain field. Connection to the new system will transpire this spring. Due to high ground water levels, Strandquist also installed a storm water system for $418,000 that was funded with a $311,000 grant and $107,000 loan from USDA. OCS funds provided MAP the ability to leverage state, federal, and local funds for Strandquist’s capacity building process. |
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