Conservation district reports 499 monitored sites, proposes cannabis-scaled permit fees to address complex projects

Justin Hillsberg, the county’s soil erosion and sedimentation control administrator speaking for the Cass County Conservation District, summarized the district’s caseload and program priorities for the coming fiscal year.

Hillsberg reported the district is monitoring 499 total sites with 383 active permits, and provided a detailed breakdown: 258 open and compliant sites, 53 sites under violation, 53 pending permit applications, 15 noncompliant sites, 4 waived/other sites, and 110 closed sites. He said 68 sites in violation or noncompliant status are the program’s current priority.

To improve fairness and program sustainability, Hillsberg said the district is reevaluating its fee structure and developing a separate fee schedule for exceptionally large, complex commercial projects in the cannabis industry so fees scale with oversight needs. He said the change aims to ensure the district has resources to provide proper oversight on large sites while balancing enforcement with outreach and contractor education. Hillsberg referenced planned educational outreach to local contractors and an upcoming trade show (early 2026) as part of the strategy.

Hillsberg said the district is working with local colleges as a volunteer source for natural resource work and is prioritizing educational outreach to prevent future violations.

Ending: The board heard the conservation district’s report and thanked staff for the update. The district will return with fee proposals for board consideration at a future meeting.