General Glossary

Environmental Responsibility and
Liability Act. The Minnesota State
Superfund.

The wearing away of land surfaces
by the action of wind or water

A lake that has a high level of
plant nutrients and biological
productivity and a low oxygen
content.

The aging process by which lakes
are fertilized with nutrients.
Natural eutrophication will very
gradually change the character of
a lake. Cultural eutrophication is
the accelerated aging of a lake as
a result of human activities.

A nutrient-rich lake -- usually
shallow, "green" and with limited
oxygen in the bottom layer of
water.

Cooling surface waters, activated
by wind action, sink to mix with
lower levels of water. As in
spring turnover, all water is now
at the same temperature.

An investigation to determine
which course of action should be
taken, based on which is the most
cost effective. Often preceded by
a remedial investigation.

A group of bacteria found in the intestinal tract of humans and
animals, and also found in soil. While harmless in themselves,
coliform bacteria are commonly used as indicators of the presence
of pathogenic organisms and other disease-causing bacteria, such
as those that cause typhoid, dysentery, hepatitis A and cholera.
Measured in number of bacteria per 100 milliliters of water.
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Failing septic systems and runoff from feedlots are common
sources of fecal coliform in water samples.

A lot or building or a group of
lots or buildings used for the
confined feeding, breeding or
holding of animals. This
definition includes areas
specifically designed for
confinement in which manure may
accumulate or any area where the
concentration of animals is such
that a vegetative cover cannot be
maintained. Lots used to feed and
raise poultry are considered to be
feedlots. Pastures are not animal
feedlots.

Fuels derived from organic
substances such as coal, petroleum
and natural gas.