A. General (Section 3 IV) A. General (Section 3 IV)

A. General

The engineer must consider several factors when determining the relative scope of the preliminary and final surveys. If insufficient detail is taken during the preliminary survey, much of the previous work may be retraced during the final survey, resulting in extra costs. However, if the preliminary survey is too detailed, much of the work will not be utilized if substantial project changes are made during the hearing process. Likewise, regulatory and reviewing agencies may request additional field data during the preliminary survey stage. It is recommended that the preliminary survey be made as complete as possible, meaning that the work is completed close to the standards demanded during the final survey. It is the responsibility of the engineer to select the appropriate level of detail at the preliminary survey stage to provide accurate estimates of the proposed project's cost, to meet the needs of reviewing agencies, and at the same time minimize surveying costs of the project.

Note: Caution must be exercised during the preliminary survey to ensure that costs do not exceed the petitioner's surety bond. As the preliminary survey becomes more detailed in nature, the engineer must keep the petitioners' attorney and the drainage authority informed about cumulative costs - including an estimate of costs yet to be incurred. Additional surety bonds may need to be provided as work progresses.

After the engineer's preliminary report has been filed with the drainage authority (as required by Minn. Stat. § 103E.251 or Minn. Stat. § 103D.711) the DNR will issue a commissioner's preliminary advisory report to the drainage authority as outlined above.

The drainage authority will conduct a hearing on the engineer's preliminary report. The commissioner's preliminary advisory report is reviewed at that hearing and public testimony is taken. Provided that the project is not dismissed, the county or joint board drainage authority will order 'the engineer to make a detailed survey with plans and specifications for the proposed drainage project and submit a detailed survey report to the drainage authority as soon as possible.” Minn. Stat. § 103E.265. No further reports are required for a watershed drainage authority.