South Washington County is a place made up of many different places and communities. Here’s an update with some of what’s been happening or else due to take place soon around the area: Afton

While the revised FEMA flood maps for 2021 extend from the river into town just a little more than before, the good news for now at least is that extreme flooding appears unlikely at present, with constant monitoring of the river level at Stillwater. Speaking of which, the river is currently projected to top out at 80.3 feet this week based on current projections, while flood stage is defined as starting at 87 feet. With rain and other events all contributing to river flow, however, that forecast can change rapidly, with residents of the St. Croix and Mississippi riverbanks able to monitor official river levels online at water.weather.gov—and remember: not all home insurance policies, carry flood insurance, a potential lack that’s better addressed beforehand, rather than too late.

Cottage Grove

Mayor Myron Bailey took time out recently in his mayor’s moment for the month of March to look at the history of Cottage Grove’s K9 program, which stretches back with some gaps to the city’s effective founding in the mid-20th century.

Meanwhile with the spring thaw now in operation, the City of Cottage Grove is also reminding its residents and dog walkers that picking up number two from man’s best friend contributes to environmental health in the city and downstream.

“Most dog owners pick up after their pets, which is great for water quality,” the city reports. As for those who don’t, the city reminds that “left in yards and park, dog feces can be washed into storm culverts sending fecal coliform and E. coli into neighborhood ponds or even into the Mississippi River when it rains and during spring thaw.”

That’s bad news and a source of pollution, with city ordinances firmly arrayed against the leaving of animal excrement in parks for nature to simply wash away. “Please do the right thin: Toss bagged poop in park trash cans,” the City asks residents.

Newport

Coming out as strongly opposed to the proposed closure of Newport Elementary, the Newport City Council approved a resolution of protest March 17 to present to the school board March 24, while the larger plan itself awaits approval on April 21. With Newport sporting a school since 1860 and settled since 1837, many in the area are taking the district’s plan personally. “They’re ripping apart a community,” it was shared at the March 17 Council meeting. Newport may not be growing at the same rate Cottage Grove or Woodbury are, but it is still growing, the Council noted. That said, the plan to close Newport Elementary isn’t yet final. That decision will be made on April 21 at the next public school board meeting.

Woodbury

Echoing Cottage Grove in its stand against fecal coliform and E. coli from dog poop reaching area waters, Woodbury has a message for dog owners: pick up the exhaust!

“Keep our trails and waterways clean – pick up after your dog!” The city says, adding that it’s against city ordinance. “Plus it’s gross!” The city tells residents.