Edina, Minn., July 28, 2023 – The City of Edina’s Water Resources Manager, Jessica Wilson, was recently appointed to the State of Minnesota’s Clean Water Council by Gov. Tim Walz. The 28-member council, supported by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, advises the Legislature and Governor on the administration and implementation of the Clean Water Legacy Act, a statute to protect, enhance and restore the quality of surface water in Minnesota and protect groundwater from degradation.
Wilson is one of two representatives of Minnesota city governments and one of 17 voting members on the council. Other voting members include those representing soil and water conservation districts, watershed districts, county governments, tribal governments, township officers, nonprofits focusing on improvement of Minnesota lakes or streams, business organizations, environmental organizations, statewide farm organizations, statewide fishing organizations, and statewide hunting organizations.
“I am honored to join the Clean Water Council and collaborate with fellow Minnesotans in the mission to safeguard our water resources. I look forward to applying my experience and perspective on challenges and opportunities for protecting and restoring water resources in local government to the task,” said Wilson.
The council also includes nonvoting members from the Metropolitan Council, University of Minnesota, Board of Water and Soil Resources, Minnesota Senate, Minnesota House of Representatives and the following State Departments: Agriculture, Health, Natural Resources and Pollution Control Agency.
Wilson has a master’s degree in Water Resources Science from the University of Minnesota Duluth and a bachelor’s degree in Applied Science from the University of Wisconsin - Stout. She has been the Water Resources Manager for Edina since 2015. She is a certified floodplain manager and has been integral to Edina’s Morningside Flood Infrastructure Project, an innovative project that reduces the flood risk in the Morningside Neighborhood by expanding and lowering Weber Pond and the Lynn/Kipling pond area to increase floodwater storage during and after storms. She also leads environmental programs for the City, most recently beginning work on a Clean Water Strategy plan to address challenges faced in Edina’s lakes and creeks.
“It’s no surprise to those who know Jessica that she would be appointed to this very important council. In addition to the extraordinary work she does for the City of Edina, she also is a leader in her industry. She frequently is asked to present at conferences, training sessions and meetings. This is a well-deserved appointment, and she will represent us well,” said Engineering Director Chad Millner.
In a congratulatory letter acknowledging Wilson’s appointment to the council, Walz thanked Wilson for her future service.
“Your professional background and achievements have prepared you for this important position. The Lieutenant Governor and I extend our appreciation for your dedication to our great state as demonstrated by your desire to accept this position on the council,” the letter said in part.
The Clean Water Council meets monthly, and every two years prepares a report with policy and funding recommendations for the Legislature and the Governor. Wilson’s term will last nearly four years, ending Jan. 4, 2027. Her first council meeting will be Aug. 21.
For more information about the Clean Water Council, visit www.pca.state.mn.us/air-water-land-climate/clean-water-council. For information about the City of Edina’s water resources projects, including the Morningside Flood Infrastructure Project or the Clean Water Strategy plan, visit BetterTogetherEdina.org.