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1. Who should I contact about my ambulance bill?

If you have any questions about your ambulance bill, wish to make a payment or inquire about payment assistance, or if you have information to provide regarding your bill or insurance coverage, please call Andres Medical Services at 1-800-244-2345.

When calling, please have the patient name and the date of ambulance transport or invoice number ready for the customer service representatives.

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1. How did you get my address?

Your address was sampled at random from a list of all addresses from the post office. This is a standard service offered by the post office. It is not a city government file and no household member is named in the file.

2. What will be done with the results?

The City Council and staff will use the results as a progress report on how well the City is serving residents and delivering services. The questions related to customer service and quality of life directly measure areas that the Council has identified as strategic initiatives. Responses will also be used to evaluate City services and programs to make sure we are meeting the needs of residents and customers.

3. I live outside of the City limits. What should I do?

Please complete the survey. Even though you live outside the boundaries, you may use our services or participate in community activities and we want your opinions.

4. I received your survey, and while I own the property that it was sent to, I don’t live there. What should I do?

The resident of the property should complete the survey.

5. What is the purpose of requesting the person who most recently had a birthday complete the survey?

We have randomly selected households within our jurisdiction to receive the survey. We would also like to choose in an unbiased way a person within each household to complete the survey. This way we ensure the results are representative of our community as a whole. While it may seem a bit strange, using the “birthday method” is a simple way to select an adult from within each household without permitting bias in our results.

6. I am the person in my household who most recently had a birthday, but I am not very informed about the issues covered in the survey. Can I give the survey to someone else in my household?

We would prefer that you complete the survey. The “birthday method” described in the letter creates the most representative sample of our jurisdiction. You’ll be surprised at how much you can contribute.

7. I doubt that you are interested in my opinion, since I rarely leave my senior home. Should I really complete the survey?

Yes, the City is here to serve all residents, and it is important to us that we get feedback from a complete cross-section of our residents.

8. If I filled out the survey when I first received it, should I fill it out again now that I have received a second copy?

No, please don’t fill it out again. Because responses are anonymous, we don’t know who already completed a survey. Because we only want one response from each person, those who already sent in a survey should not return another one. The second copy is distributed as a reminder to all people selected to be sent a survey. Thank you for completing the first survey.

9. I was not sent a survey, but I would be happy to complete one, and I think you should be interested in my opinion.

The sample was designed to be as representative as possible of the population of our city, so by sending copies of the survey to people who request a copy, we would skew the sample and make the results less meaningful.

10. Why is “Hispanic” separate from “Race”?

We want to compare the demographic profile of those responding to the demographic profile of the municipality as presented by the Census. In order to be able to do this we asked our race and ethnicity question the same way the Census does. The census designates Hispanic as an ethnicity, not a race.

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1. Do I need a building permit?

Whether or not you need a building permit depends on the type of project. Please see Chapter 15.04.030 of the City Municipal Code to determine if a permit is needed, or contact the city building inspector at 715-426-3427.

2. How much are the impact fees?

The type and amount of impact fee will depend on the location of the proposed project. Please contact city staff at 715-426-3427 and provide your address so they may determine the impact fee(s).

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1. What time do the polls open and close?

All polling locations in the State of Wisconsin open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.

2. Where do I vote?

Residents vote in the district in which they live and cast their ballot at the polling location associated with their district. Please visit the My Vote Wisconsin website to determine your polling location.
My Vote Wisconsin

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1. How do I know if the stop light has a problem, or if I am doing something wrong?

Although the use of sophisticated technology allows signal light to operate more efficiently, it also introduces the potential for malfunctions to create significant traffic problems. Modern signal systems utilize electronic sensor loops to detect the absence and presence of vehicles. These detector loops are subject to the following modes of failure:

1. The sensors may not detect a vehicle waiting for a green light. This problem can be caused by a number of factors:
a. Vehicles stopping behind or in front of the detector loops. Drivers should pay close attention to the "Stop Lines" (12" - 24" thick white lines) at a signalized intersection making sure they stop and remain stopped just behind the stop lines.
b. The detectors may have malfunctioned due to a variety of reasons. Often, such a problem can be fixed by a technician visiting the signal controller cabinet and "resetting" the detector.
c. Physical makeup of vehicle is not detected by loop. Although this problem has been reduced by advancements in loop technology, occasionally problems still crop up If you repeatedly experience problems with your vehicle being detected, report the problem to the Engineering Department. Some adjustments to the sensitivity of the detectors are possible.

2. The sensors may detect a vehicle waiting for a green light even though one is not present. This can cause considerable problems with mainline traffic during peak volume hours because the signal will give large unnecessary periods of "green" to the minor street cross traffic which really does not exist. This problem is most always the caused by malfunctioning detectors. Often, such a problem can be fixed by a technician visiting the signal controller cabinet and "resetting" the detector.

Contact the Engineering Department at 425-0900 to report problems with the signal lights within the City. For additional information about traffic signals, click here.

2. How can I locate my property corners?

Newer lots in the City often have buried metal “property irons” at the corner of lots. A rented metal detector can help you to locate those. Older lots created quite some time ago likely only have “property irons” if a past owner or adjacent owner hired a professional surveyor to establish them. You may have documentation from when you purchased your property regarding the lot dimensions of the property and perhaps showing a physical location of your garage or home. From this information, you can approximate where the property lines are. One good step to take from a time/cost/neighborly relations standpoint is to talk to your neighbor to find out where they believe the property line is.

The only way for a property owner to accurately determine where his or her property lies is to hire a Professional Surveyor. Surveying firms are listed in the Yellow Pages. The City does not have a Professional Surveyor on staff and is unable to locate property lines for residents.

3. Are the Cascade Avenue crosswalks really safe?

Some drivers have raised a concern that the tall grass in the median may block the line of sight for an eastbound vehicle to see a pedestrian in the crosswalk of the westbound lane. This is good in that it discourages that driver from unnecessarily stopping and increasing vehicle delays. Some pedestrians may think “so what” and not think that such vehicle delays can affect them. They can! If vehicle delays reach an unacceptable level, solutions like pedestrian tunnels, bridges, or signals could be implemented. Most of these “solutions” are less friendly to pedestrians who want to cross the road as quickly and safely as possible.
Check out our fact sheet for more information.

One Minute City Rap: Cascade Avenue Crosswalks
One Minute City Rap: Cascade Avenue Crosswalk Safety

4. What's the difference between a Court and a Circle, or a Drive and a Road?

A Circle (Cir) is a roadway containing a closed loop beginning and ending at intersections with the same street, or where the looped street closes onto itself, that is not interrupted by a through roadway. A Court (Ct) is a cul-de-sac of eight lots or less that is not interrupted by a through roadway.

What’s the difference between a Drive and a Road or an Avenue and a Street? Ever wanted to change the name of the street you live on? Or wonder how names are chosen? Click here for these answers and more information about street naming.

5. Are marked crosswalks safer than unmarked crosswalks?

The City of San Diego conducted a study on the issue in the 1970s, and the report conclusions are often cited as the first comprehensive study of crosswalk safety. Investigators in San Diego observed over 400 intersections during a five-year study period. The results demonstrated that during the five-year period, 177 pedestrians were hit in 400 marked crosswalks compared to 31 pedestrians hit in 400 corresponding unmarked crosswalks.

The study reported that "...more pedestrian accidents occur in marked crosswalks than in unmarked crosswalks by a ratio of approximately 6:1. Furthermore, comparison of the volume of pedestrians using the marked and unmarked crosswalks shows that the crosswalk use ratio is approximately 3:1. This indicates, in terms of usage, that approximately two times as many pedestrian accidents occur in marked crosswalks as compared with unmarked crosswalks. Evidence suggests that this poor accident record is not due to the crosswalk being marked as much as it is a reflection on the pedestrians' attitude and behavior when using the marked crosswalk..."

River Falls Crosswalk Policy Summary
Safety Effects of Marked vs. Unmarked Crosswalks at Uncontrolled Intersections
Wisconsin Pedestrian Traffic Safety Facts

6. Why are roundabouts used instead of a signal light?

In a recent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety study of 24 intersections in the USA where stop control and traffic signals were replaced with Modern Roundabouts, there was a large drop in crashes. They have a 90% fatal crash reduction. Roundabouts reduce vehicle speed, minimize vehicle weaving, automatically establish right-of-way, and reduce points of conflict.

For more information about the safety of roundabouts or information about how to navigate a roundabout, click here.

For more information, The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has created videos on roundabout usage. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also has a short video as well as other general information.

7. Why can't we see through the roundabouts in River Falls?

Evaluation of sight distance at roundabouts includes both intersection sight distance and stopping sight distance. The fundamental principles of both forms of sight distance are the same at roundabouts as for other types of intersections and are dependent on vehicle speed. All City roundabouts are posted and should be driven at 15 mph. If you approach and travel through this intersection at 15 mph, there is adequate sight distance even though you cannot see through the center island.

Check out our fact sheet for more information.

8. Why doesn’t the city use Children at Play signs?

The City of River Falls often receives requests to install signs warning drivers of the possible presence of "Children at Play." These signs are deceiving and are ineffective. Drivers should expect the presence of children in residential areas. Studies show that devices attempting to warn motorists of normal conditions or conditions that are not always present do not achieve the desired safety benefits.

"Children at Play" signs may give parents and children a false sense of security as the sign is assumed to provide protection, which in reality it does not.

Due to these serious considerations, federal standards no longer include "Children at Play" signs. Special conditions such as warnings of school zones, playgrounds, parks and other recreational facilities, do warrant signing, as these are not easily anticipated by drivers.

9. Why don't they put in more stop signs to reduce speeding?

A stop sign is used to assign right of way at an intersection and to make sure that traffic flows smoothly and predictably. Because a stop sign is used to assign right of way at an intersection, it is not an effective means to control speeding. Research shows that where stop signs are installed as "deterrents" or "speed breakers," there are high incidences of intentional violations resulting in accidents.

When vehicles must stop, the speed reduction is only near the stop sign, and drivers tend to speed up between stop sign controlled intersections. When not required to stop by cross street traffic, only 5 to 20% of all drivers come to a complete stop, 40 to 60% will come to a rolling stop below 5 mph, and 20 to 40% will pass through at higher speeds. Signs placed on major and collector streets for the purpose of speed reduction are the most flagrantly violated.

Stop signs are not warranted in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) as an effective measure to reduce speeding. For more information about stop signs, click here.

10. How are speed limits set?

Speed limits are often taken for granted and, until a problem arises, most people pay little attention to them. When traffic problems occur, concerned citizens frequently ask why we do not lower the speed limit. There are widely held misconceptions that speed limit signs will slow the speed of motorists, reduce collisions, and increase safety. Most drivers drive at a speed which they consider to be appropriate, regardless of the posted speed limit. "Before and After" studies have shown that there are no significant changes in average vehicle speeds following the posting of new or revised speed limits.

Traffic engineers and police officers examine many traffic and road conditions to determine a reasonable speed limit. Speed studies are performed to determine the 85th percentiles speed, or the speed that 85 out of 100 vehicles travel at or below. Other conditions evaluated include number and type of crashes, number of cars, pedestrians, and bicycles, along with physical conditions of the road such as sidewalks, hills, curves, lanes, driveways, intersections, roadway surface, and traffic controls.

Generally speaking, a safe and reasonable limit is set at or below the speed at which 85% of the drivers drive. Posting an appropriate speed limit simplifies the job of enforcement officers, since most of the traffic is voluntarily moving at the posted speed. Blatant speeders are easily spotted, safe drivers are not penalized, and patrol officers aren't expected to enforce unrealistic and arbitrary speed limits.

For more information about speed limits, click here.

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1. Are property taxes paid to the city?

Both Pierce and St. Croix counties collect the first and second real estate tax installments for city residents.

2. Why did I receive a tax roll notice for unpaid charges?

By October 15 of each year, property owners may receive a notice of unpaid city or utility service charges that, if not paid, will be placed on the annual tax roll for that property. The City was advised by the Public Service Commission that properly applied charges for service could not be waived. If you believe you have accrued these charges in error, please contact Customer Service immediately at 715-425-0900.

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1. Who do I call if my garbage has been missed?

Contact Waste Management Customer Service at:

• Phone: 888-960-0008

2. What time do I need to put my garbage out?

Garbage and recycling must be placed at the curbside (or alleyside) by 6 a.m. on the designated collection day. Garbage pick up times can vary week to week. Just because your garbage is "normally" picked up at 10:00 a.m. does not mean that you can wait till 9 a.m. to put your garbage out. If the Hauler abides by the 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. pick up window, they are not obligated to pick-up garbage and recycling that was not curbside (or alleyside) when they arrive for collection.

3. Why can't I chose my own garbage hauler?

There are a number of reasons why the City of River Falls has chosen to contract for residential garbage collection though one hauler including:

• It is a sustainable practice reducing fuel consumption, pollution, and unnecessary damage to roads.
• It makes our neighborhoods cleaner, safer and quieter with less unnecessary truck traffic.
• Garbage trucks are the single biggest contributor to deterioration of our local neighborhood streets. Having one company's garbage truck travel down each city street rather than have four or more different garbage companies trucks drive down every street saves taxpayer money spent on road repair and maintenance.
• We know who to contact if there is a litter problem associated with garbage pickup.
• The monthly rate contracted for by the City is lower than would be obtained by individuals contracting for service. Talk to you friends in the surrounding townships and ask them what their monthly rate is. It only makes sense. It is most efficient for one hauler to pick up from each and every home in neighborhood rather than having to skip one that would be pickup up by another hauler.

4. Some weeks I don't even put out garbage, can I get a refund?

No, the garbage hauler still needs to make their rounds past your house. Tracking weekly collections from each and every address would likely add more administrative cost than it would save in pickup costs.

5. I don't recycle. I should get a break.

Everyone should recycle. It's the law and there is no itemized charge for recycling. If you don't recycle, you should pay more. Waste Management is able to sell recyclable materials whereas they need to pay to dump garbage in a landfill. Paying to dispose of materials that could be recycled and sold makes no sense. Furthermore, if you don't recycle, you will likely find your container inadequate and have to pay additional for garbage tags.

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1. I’m a former employee. How do I request a copy of my 1095-B form?

You can contact Human Resources at jisaac@rfcity.org or 222 Lewis St, River Falls, WI 54022 to request your 1095-B form. If you have further questions please call Human Resources at 715-426-3417.

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1. Do you take credit card payments?

Yes. You can pay your Court fees with a Visa, MasterCard, and American Express or Discover credit card. This option is offered through Point & Pay. See "Pay a Fine" within the Municipal Court website.

2. Do I have to report a change of address?

Yes, it is your responsibility to inform the court of any address change within five days. If you fail to provide the Court with the appropriate contact information, you may not receive proper notification in the future. This will result in a default judgment and further action may be entered against you. Please feel free to call or e-mail us with your new address.

3. I missed my court date and really wanted to appear. Can I get my ticket reopened?

To get a matter reopened, you must write a letter to the Judge explaining why you missed your Court date and request that it be reopened. The Judge may charge a reopening fee, ranging between $0 - $50, depending on how long after the Court date your letter is received and why you missed the court date. If the reopening request is more than three months past the entry of judgment, a hearing will be held before the Judge.

4. I didn't pay my fines, and now I'm suspended. What do I do now?

If this is the only suspension/revocation on your driving record, you must first pay your fine to the Court. Once paid, we will provide the State with the information. You must pay the Department of Transportation a reinstatement fee in order to have your privilege to drive in Wisconsin reinstated.

5. How long will this traffic charge remain on my record?

The points will remain on your record for one year from the date of the violation. The actual charge will remain on your record for three years - unless the charge is Operating While Intoxicated.

6. Is a payment plan an option?

You may ask the Court to set up a payment plan for you. This is done on a case-by-case basis, depending on your individual circumstances and must be approved by the Judge. If you do not follow the payment plan to which you agreed, the Court will impose the alternative sanction (either drivers license suspension, State Debt Collections, or jail) unless other satisfactory arrangements are made with the Court. When making a payment to the Court, make checks payable to: The City of River Falls.

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1. How do I get a copy of a police report?

The River Falls Police Department operates under Wisconsin's Open Records Law. Copies are $0.25 per page for 8 1/2 x 11.  Other media fees are pursuant to the City's Fee Schedule. Requests are processed in the order in which they are received by police department staff during posted business hours.  Complex reports may take longer. For further information click here.

Obtain an open records request form. Click here to email staff with any questions you may have.

Notice to Public - Access to Records (Pursuant to Wisconsin State Statute 19.34(1))

2. Does the Police Department do fingerprinting and when can I have my fingerprints done?

Yes, fingerprinting is done for citizens of the City of River Falls between Monday through Friday during our posted business hours. There is a $35.00 fee for this service. You must bring your fingerprint card with you, have it filled out in black ink, and have a valid picture ID. Please call the Police Department at (715) 425-0909 to schedule an appointment. We cannot fingerprint for Wisconsin teaching licenses. Please go to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction for fingerprinting information.

3. I'm hosting a party, is there anything I should do?

Yes, there are several guidelines you should know about. Click here for House Party Success.

Interested in hosting a block party?  Check out our Special Event Application.

4. Why did it take so long for the Police to come when I called them?

All requests for Police services are assigned to priority based on the seriousness of the incident and the potential for injury or damage to property. At times, calls of less urgent nature must be delayed so that we can respond immediately to emergencies.

5. Why do they ask so many questions when I call the police?

Dispatchers are trained to try to get as much information as possible to best determine the nature of the problem and its seriousness. On emergency calls, the Dispatcher may have already given the information to Officer while continuing to ask additional questions.

6. Can the Police open my car if I have locked my keys inside?

No, the Police Department does not unlock car doors. There are several local businesses that provide this service for a nominal fee. They are: •Bowen's 715-425-2626 (during business hours) •Jensen Automotive 715-425-9702 (8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.) •Jerry's Inc. 715-425-2706 (24 hours a day) •Swede's Service 715-425-5377 (day); 715-425-6445 (day or evening) ** In case of emergency, i.e. child locked inside, officers may assist.

7. Someone has abandoned a junk car in my parking lot or on my property. Can the Police tow it away for me?

The Police Department has an abandoned / junked vehicle ordinance prohibiting such vehicles from being left for an extended period of time on public or private property. If you think that a vehicle may have been abandoned or junked, please call the Police Department. Generally, a vehicle parked on private property without consent of the property owner may be ticketed by the Police, but removal is the property owner's responsibility. A vehicle parked on private property, (in violation of the ordinance), with the property owner's consent may be ticketed and ultimately removed by order of the Municipal Court.

8. How can I find out if someone is in jail, when someone in jail can be visited and any other information about persons in jail?

The River Falls Police Department does not have a jail. Please contact the Pierce County Jail directly at 715-273-5051 or the St. Croix County Jail at 715-386-4752 to inquire about someone.

Another resource is Wisconsin VINE (WI-VINE). WI-VINE is an online resource where crime victims and the public can access information about offenders who are in the custody of the County Sheriff and also receive automated notification if the status of the offender changes. This service is provided by your County Sheriff and the Wisconsin Department of Corrections in order to keep crime victims and the public informed regarding individuals placed into the county jail.

Victims and other citizens can register for VINE (Victim Information & Notification Everyday) by calling the toll-free number 1-888-944-8463 or visiting the website. You will be able to register to receive automated telephone notification and/or email notification when there is a change in the offender's custody status. The Wisconsin VINE service is anonymous and confidential.

9. Where do I go to pay my Traffic/City Ordinance Violation citation or Parking Ticket?

Traffic/City Ordinance Violation Citations are processed through the River Falls Municipal Court, located at 222 Lewis Street. If you have any questions about paying for a Traffic/City Ordinance Violation citation or you would like to set a hearing date, please contact the Municipal Court directly at 715-426-3429. 

Parking tickets can be paid by mail or in person at City Hall, 222 Lewis Street, or at the Police Department, 2815 Prairie Drive. Parking Tickets may also be paid online. http://www.remit-online.com/715222 or using the button on our webpage.

Pay your parking ticket online.

10. Can I make a Police report at any time of day and do I need to make an appointment?

The Police Department will respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week to requests for police assistance. Normal business hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. The Police Department entrance is open 24 hours a day with a direct phone line to the dispatcher.

11. How do I request City assistance with a special event?

If you are requesting road closures, barricades or assistance from the Police Department or Department of Public Works, please complete the City of River Falls Special Event application and submit.  Please submit your request with enough time for City staff to review and coordinate.  The document can be found here.

12. Can I make a Police report over the telephone or does a police officer have to come to my house?

Non-emergency reports can be made online using the reporting feature on this website, or by phone. Contact the Police Department at 715-425-0909. An Officer may be dispatched to your home or business to meet with you to follow-up with your report. If you find it more convenient you may come to the Police Department at 2815 Prairie Drive to meet with an Officer.

13. What is a restraining order and how do I get one?

A restraining order is a court order that orders someone not to hurt you, to stay away from you, move out of the house, have no contact with you or stop harassing you. Information about restraining orders can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Justice website.

14. We have a problem with speeders in our neighborhood. What can we do about it?

Call the Police Department at 715-425-0909 or notify us. We have two speed trailers that can be used to collect data in your area that we can then evaluate the speeds and consider assigning directed patrol for speed enforcement.  

15. I have a question regarding the rights and responsibilities of landlord's and tenants. Where can I get information on this topic?

The River Falls Police Department generally does not get involved in investigating or giving advice relating to this topic as they are usually civil issues and not criminal. One of the best resources for information on this topic is a booklet entitled "Landlord's and Tenants, The Wisconsin Way," published by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. The booklet can be accessed by accessing this link:  A Guide for Landlords and Tenants.

16. Should I report suspicious activity in my neighborhood?

Yes! The importance of citizens calling to report crimes or suspicious activity cannot be overemphasized. Crime prevention and the solution to crimes or violations already committed depend greatly on information provided by citizens. The dispatcher who takes your call will ask questions about the activity to determine its nature and ask for a description of the people involved. Information such as a vehicle's license plate number, color, make or a persons clothing, hair, build, etc... are important. You may be asked if an officer may contact you in person for further information / clarification. You can also leave us a tip on the Crime Stoppers web site.

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1. Where does the renewable energy come from?

As a member of WPPI Energy, we have access to a portfolio of renewable energy projects developed exclusively for this program.

These resources include electricity generated by two wind turbines located on the Buffalo Ridge in southwest Minnesota, wind farms in Dodge County and Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin and Joice, Iowa, and a biogas-to-energy facility in Wisconsin's Fox Valley.

2. How will the renewable energy be delivered to my home or business?

Electricity generated by the renewable resources will be fed into the electric power grid along with all other power sources serving our community. While it isn't possible today to deliver electricity from renewable sources directly to your home or business, your support for the Renewable Energy Program will enable us to increase the amount of clean, green resources that are a part of our power supply.

3. Can businesses participate?

Yes. Commercial, industrial, and agricultural customers are encouraged to sign up. Please contact River Falls Municipal Utilities at 715-426-3442 for details.

4. Why does renewable energy cost more?

Although many renewable resources such as wind, sunlight, and moving water are free, the technologies for capturing this energy are still more expensive than traditional power plants. By choosing renewable energy, you help lower these energy resource costs and increase the amount of electricity generated from clean energy sources.

5. Where does your investment in renewable energy go?

Every dollar you invest in renewable energy is used to foster the growth of renewable resources. Most of it is allocated to the development of renewable resources, such as additional solar and wind energy projects. The rest is used to build support for renewable energy among customers like you, as well as businesses and organizations in your community.

Broad support for renewable technologies across our communities and our nation will add up to greater demand, which in turn, will increase the investment made in renewable energy.

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1. Are property owners liable for injuries resulting from a failure to remove snow or ice from a sidewalk?

No. Although a municipality can, by ordinance, require property owners to remove snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property, the owner of premises abutting a municipal sidewalk are not responsible to individual for injuries that result from the failure to remove snow or ice from the sidewalk. The long-standing rule in Wisconsin is that maintenance of a municipal sidewalk is a non-delegable duty and therefore, the municipality rather than the landowner is responsible for injuries caused by traveling on a snowy or icy municipal walk. However, municipalities are afforded some protection by Wisconsin Statute Section 81.15, which prohibits an action for damages for injuries sustained because of a natural snow or ice accumulation unless the accumulation existed for three weeks.

If a resident fails to remove snow and ice as required by ordinance, that resident is subject to a forfeiture if the ordinance imposes one, and the municipality can perform the work itself and charge the property owner for the removal as a special charge under Wisconsin Statute Section 66.0627.

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1. What do you do if you observe someone washing or dumping something other than storm water in a storm drain?

Putting anything other than storm water in a storm drain is illegal. If you observe any illegal dumping please contact the Engineering Department immediately at 715-425-0900 or contact the Police Department after hours at 715-426-0909. If we can respond while the dumping is occurring or shortly after, we can hopefully contain it, prevent discharge to the river, and clean it up properly.

2. Don't all these storm water pond breed mosquitoes?

No, there are 53 known mosquito populations in the state of Wisconsin. Only one of those is the main carrier of the West Nile Virus (WNV), the Cultex mosquito. Cultex mosquitoes do not breed in deep ponds; they only lay their eggs in shallow stagnant water. They typically fly only 1/4 mile from where the hatch. Therefore, eliminating shallow, stagnant water will eliminate the breeding grounds for the Cultex mosquito.

The current standards of the City of River Falls call for storm water ponds to be at least four feet deep. The dry ponds and infiltration ponds within the City are designed to drain in 48 hours. Typically, mosquito larvae require four days (96 hours) to fully develop; therefore, the dry ponds and infiltration ponds are not wet long enough for mosquito breeding.

For additional information, click here, or check out the following links:
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Center for Disease Control (CDC)
US Environmental Protection Agency
National Pesticide Information Center
Department of Health and Family Services
WI West Nile Virus / Dead Bird Hotline: 1-800-433-1610

3. Why is there so much algae in Lake George?

The development of an algae bloom depends upon local conditions and site-specific characteristics. But they generally occur where there are high levels of nutrients, principally phosphorus, together with warm, sunny and calm conditions.

The main source of nutrients in Lake George is sediment, which has accumulated behind the dams since they were constructed over 100 years ago. This sediment resulted from poor upland soil conservation practices that were generally followed prior to 1960.

What kinds of options are there for removing the algae? Is it harmful?

Typically, the first steps taken target the control of the external sources of phosphorus and can include: encouraging the use of phosphorus free fertilizers; improving agricultural practices, reducing urban run-off; and restoring vegetation buffers around waterways.

Lakes are very slow to recover after excessive phosphorus inputs have been eliminated. Furthermore, it’s extremely difficult to achieve recovery of lake conditions without additional in-lake management. This is due to the fact that lake sediments become phosphorus rich and can deliver excessive amounts of phosphorus to the overlying water. When dissolved oxygen levels decrease in the bottom waters of the lake (anaerobic conditions), large amounts of phosphorus trapped in the bottom sediments are released into the overlying water. This process is often called internal nutrient loading or recycling.

Alum is used primarily to control this internal recycling of phosphorus from the sediments of the lake bottom that result in algae. On contact with water, alum forms a fluffy aluminum hydroxide precipitate called floc. Aluminum hydroxide (the principle ingredient in common antacids such as Maalox) binds with phosphorus to form an aluminum phosphate compound. This compound is insoluble in water under most conditions so the phosphorus in it can no longer be used as food by algae organisms. As the floc slowly settles, some phosphorus is removed from the water. The floc also tends to collect suspended particles in the water and carry them down to the bottom, leaving the lake noticeably clearer. On the bottom of the lake the floc forms a layer that acts as a phosphorus barrier by combining with phosphorus as it is released from the sediments.

For additional information, click here.

4. I am thinking about sealcoating my driveway, is there anything I should know?

Get the Facts! We found a great information sheet out of New Hampshire that explains how seal coat can be dangerous and what to do about it.

Coal-tar and asphalt based sealants are used across the nation to protect and beautify parking lots, roads and driveways. These sealants are used commercially and by homeowners on driveways, playgrounds, and parking lots.

Scientific studies have identified coal-tar sealcoat (CTS) as a major source of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination in urban areas for large parts of the nation. PAHs are a concern because several are suspected or probable human carcinogens and are also toxic to aquatic life. The research is still ongoing with regard to PAHs and there are no acute or chronic exposure levels in the US at this time.

Other communities are noticing elevated levels of PAHs in their storm water pond sediment and are finding that is it very costly to properly dispose of this contaminated sediment. In River Falls, we have over 90 storm water management ponds that collect sediments prior to water discharging to the river.

Asphalt based sealants are similar to coal tar in their use and application. Asphalt sealants are also cheaper than CTSs; however, their effective life is shorter at 4-6 years as opposed to 8-10 years. The main advantage is that pure asphalt sealants are not carcinogenic.

Due to the significant cost of PAH-contaminated sediment disposal, the use of CTSs could have future financial impacts on the City. We are asking for your cooperation in using asphalt based sealcoat if you choose to sealcoat your driveway or parking lot. If you are hiring a professional, ask which type of sealant they use.

5. Can I empty my pool or hot tub into the street?

The City of River Falls does not require a permit to discharge pool water. To protect the environment, the following “Best Management Practices” apply to water discharged from swimming pools and hot tubs:
• It is recommended that discharge water be directed to grass and/or landscaping.
• If irrigating on site is not possible, water may be discharged off the owner’s property, provided it is directed to a curbline gutter of a paved street.

How to drain your pool or spa:
• Prior to irrigating or disposing of the water, shut off the chlorination system (if you have one) or stop adding chlorine.
• Let the water in the pool or spa “sit” for at least one week to reduce the chlorine or bromine level until it is undetectable and temperature is at air temperature. Discharging chlorinated pool/spa water into streams in harmful to fish and other aquatic life.
• Measure the pH. It should fall within a range of 6.5-8.5 prior to discharge. Discharge water should not be cloudy or discolored as this typically indicates a pH imbalance.
• As the water is discharging, it must be monitored to ensure that it does not cause any erosion or flooding. Erosion is most likely to occur at houses on a bluff that discharge to the rear yard down the steep slope.
• Discharges may not run onto a neighbor’s property or across a sidewalk
• If a pool or spa has been acid washed, the water may not be discharged off the pool/spa owner’s property.
• Water from backflushing pool filters should not be discharged to a stream, ditch or storm sewer. Backflush from pool filters must be discharged to the sanitary sewer or on-site septic tank and drain field system.

6. Why is Storm Water Management a big deal? And what is the City doing?

As rain falls to the ground it becomes known as storm water. Storm water that falls on pervious surfaces (grass, fields, natural areas, etc.) soaks into the ground without running off into streams and lakes. Storm water that falls on impervious surfaces (roofs, driveways, roads, sidewalks, etc.) is not allowed to soak into the ground and runs off into streams and lakes. As land is developed, trees are cleared and houses, buildings, and parking lots replace them. Runoff on hard surfaces occurs faster and in greater volumes. Increased runoff can create erosion problems, increase water pollution, and destroy stream habitat. Impervious surfaces also reduce groundwater recharge, which is a critical factor for cold-water streams such as the Kinnickinnic.

Check out our information sheet to find out about different types of storm water management features that the City utilizes to improve the effects of storm water.

7. Are there different kinds of pervious pavements?

Yes, there are many different types of pervious pavement, for more information about a few of them check out our fact sheet on pervious pavements .

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1. Who is responsible for caring for boulevard trees in front of my residence?

The City of River Falls is responsible for all trees and other vegetation located within the boulevard area between the curb line and property line. Only the City is allowed to plant and prune trees within this area unless permission is granted by the City Forester and a site assessment is made. If there is an issue with trees or vegetation in the boulevard area notification will be given to the homeowner in the form of a door hanger prior to work commencing.

2. How can I find out who owns a tree close to the boulevard if I’m unsure?

The City can check the boulevard width on your property and if a tree is within the boulevard using our mapping system by calling the City Forester’s office at 715-426-3467.

3. What can I do to my boulevard tree regarding maintenance?

Residents are encouraged to water their boulevard trees if there is an extended hot and/or dry spell. Staking of young trees is also allowed.   If your boulevard tree has sucker shoots coming up from the base or trunk, you are allowed to cut these shoots off. Any other tree maintenance must be done by city crews.

4. The boulevard tree in front of my house needs pruning. When will the City be pruning my tree?

The City tries to maintain a 4-5 year trimming cycle and plans to visit every boulevard tree at least once in a five year span, but due to excessively snowy or cold winters the pruning cycle may be altered. If there is an imminent tree issue involving the safety of the public (ex. large hanger, cracked tree, severe decay), please call 715-426-3467.

5. How can I get a tree planted in my boulevard?

There are many factors that go into planting a tree in the boulevard. Tree spacing, overhead and above ground conflicts, and boulevard size are all some of these factors.  If you would like to have a tree planted by the City or plant a tree in the boulevard yourself, please call the Forester’s office and have a consultation to make sure that the tree you want to plant is the tree that should be planted in a particular location. The City will typically plant trees in early to mid-October and new tree requests are typically fulfilled at this time.

6. The City has planted a tree in my boulevard. What can I do to help it grow?

The City will follow up with watering a newly planted tree at least twice after it is planted in October. This is usually enough to get into the winter months. However, the spring and summer following planting residents are encouraged to water their new tree as needed based on conditions. The City will also put a ring of mulch around a newly planted tree.  Keeping this mulch layer around the tree for the first two years after planting will help the tree to hold moisture and protect the roots of the tree as they establish.

7. The City planted a tree in the boulevard that I’ve never heard about before. Why is that?

Our goal at River Falls Urban Forestry is to make a healthy, diverse, and resilient urban forest. Many years ago entire streets were lined with beautiful American Elm trees. Dutch Elm Disease swept through the area and devastated our elm population. Now 30 years later, we have beautiful Ash trees lining some of our streets once again. Emerald Ash Borer will sweep through our area and devastate our Ash population. Since 2004, the City of River Falls has been striving to improve diversity in our entire tree population. We cannot limit the tree species we plant to one, two, or even five species. Our new guideline for tree diversity has a target goal of no more than 15 percent of any genus of trees in a tree population. Our approved boulevard tree list has many trees both native and non-native in an effort to make our urban forest more resilient from the next large scale pest or disease. We encourage homeowners to also find new non-invasive species that they can plant on their private property to help strengthen our forest diversity.

8. Does River Falls have Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)?

Emerald Ash Borer(EAB) was discovered in River Falls City limits in July 2019 on the south end of the City.  The infested trees have since been cut down but regular monitoring will now take place every spring to identify new EAB infested trees. River Falls has also initiated its action plan to begin to remove select Ash trees from the City before they become infested. 

New detections of EAB are hard to detect.  EAB infested trees won’t show much exterior stress until a couple years after infection. Adult EAB insects can only travel about a ½ a mile on their own; however, careless firewood movement of infected wood could move EAB across the City faster than expected.  

9. I think I’ve seen EAB or a tree with EAB. Who do I call to find out?

If you think your Ash tree has Emerald Ash Borer, please contact the City Forester at 715-426-3467 or by email.

10. How many Ash trees does the City have planted?

The City’s last all Ash tree inventory was conducted in 2012 and identified 2,053 ash trees on public property. Since then, the City has removed several of these trees but there are still close to 2,000 trees on public property. This number does not include Ash trees on private property. 

11. What is the City’s plan to handle the Ash tree population as EAB spreads?

The City of River Falls has been preparing for Emerald Ash Borer for over 12 years.  The City stopped planting Ash trees on the boulevard and in parks in 2004 and has made a concentrated effort to remove any Ash tree that is in decline in anticipation of EAB.  The next steps are to systemically chemically treat several high-value Ash trees and to start wide scale removal of smaller ash trees <12" that don't provide the benefits of larger, more mature Ash trees.  Any trees scheduled for removal will be marked prior to removal to inform neighbors of the impending removal.  The remaining stumps will be ground by the City during the following summer following the removal. Any tree removed will eventually be replaced, but with the amount of Ash trees being removed replacing every Ash tree will not be achievable in any given year. 

Although the City will only be chemically treating a few boulevard Ash trees,  the City will also allow homeowners to treat the trees in front of their house if they desire to keep their boulevard tree. Documentation of treatment will need to be provided to the City to ensure that a treated tree is not taken down. Regular inspections will also take place looking for EAB on both private and public trees beginning every April. If public Ash tree(s) are identified to be infested with EAB, the City has contracted to have the tree(s) removed.  Notices will be sent to private tree owners informing them that they need to have their infested Ash tree removed within a given time of the notice.  The City anticipates EAB to spread to its peak in 3-5 years. A combination of chemical treatment, pre-emptive removals, and infested tree removals as EAB spreads will make the peak of Ash tree removals more manageable. 

12. What are the options a homeowner has for treating their Ash tree for EAB?

Ash trees can be chemically treated to control EAB using different application methods. Some of these methods a homeowner can administer and some require a professional arborist. The cost of the treatment will vary based on the type of chemical treatment used.  The University of Wisconsin Extension has an excellent publication about homeowner treatment which is linked to in the Urban Forestry page on the City website. If you want a professional treatment, please contact a certified arborist. It is important to know that treatment for EAB must be reapplied annually or biennially depending on the treatment administered. Treating an Ash tree only once will prolong its life by only a of couple years before the insect starts to attack the tree again. The City is currently in the process of having a few high value public ash trees treated for EAB. However, it is too cost prohibitive to have all the public Ash trees treated on a biennial basis. It is better to remove those trees and replace with a non-Ash species that would not have to be treated.  Homeowners will have to make the same decision whether to chemically treat or remove Ash trees on their private property as Emerald Ash Borer spreads.

13. Can I have the Ash trees in my boulevard treated?

The City does allow for homeowners to have the Aash trees in their boulevard treated as long as the City receives documentation stating when the treatment was administered, what product was used, and by whom. Treatment of any boulevard Ash tree would have to be administered by a professional arborist.  This data will be stored in our City tree inventory and will  be updated on a regular basis. This is to prevent accidental removal of treated trees when the City needs to remove infected Ash trees.

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1. What is a PHEV and how is it different from a standard hybrid vehicle?

Both standard hybrids and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) are powered by a combination of electricity and liquid fuels; however, PHEVs draw their charge from the engine and captured brake energy, as well as from the electrical grid when they are plugged into an electrical outlet. PHEVs also have a set of batteries that provide electricity to an electric motor, allowing the battery pack to be even further recharged by plugging-in.

PHEVs have traditional fuel tanks and internal combustion engines, so they do not face the range limitation of electric-only cars. As a result, the vehicles can travel up to 30 miles on electricity before using the standard, gas-electric operating system and get up to 100 miles or more per gallon.

2. What are the benefits of PHEVs?

The benefits of having a PHEV include:

• PHEV owners can expect up to an 85% reduction in gasoline use
• PHEVs also get about twice the fuel economy of a conventional vehicle and 30% to 50% better fuel economy than a standard hybrid (the electric equivalent of a gallon of gas costs less than $1 a gallon)
• Greenhouse gas emissions are significantly reduced with HEVs and PHEVs

3. Are PHEVs available today?

There are prototypes in operation today, but there are no commercially available PHEVs on the market. There are also many conventional hybrids, from sedans to SUVs, that have been converted to plug-ins. Some are getting up to 60 all-electric miles per charge.

4. How much gasoline would a PHEV use?

According to the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), half the cars on United States roads are driven 25 miles a day or less. Consequently, a plug-in with a 25-mile, all-electric range could eliminate gasoline use in the daily commute of tens of millions of Americans. Furthermore, drivers of PHEVs would only need to fill up with fuel a few times a year, versus the current 24 to 36 times a year on average.

5. Will PHEVs be slow?

No. A Toyota Prius, modified with a larger plug-in battery, has essentially the same accelerating power and speed capability of a current hybrid.

6. How much more will a PHEV cost than a conventional hybrid?

The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) estimates that, with mass production, the cost of a PHEV battery will add $2,000 to $3,000 to the cost of a conventional hybrid. Battery costs are likely to fall with increased production.