Lakeshore
We love our lakes!
Minnesota’s lakes are the best! For generations we have looked to our lakes for relaxation, recreation, and creating memories. The thought of a weekend at the lake stirs up emotions many of us can’t put into words. Whether you are a resort regular, cabin owner, or just like fishing or boating, you understand the value of Minnesota lakes.
Lakes drive much of our economy in the North. Not only do we have some of the best water quality in the state, but the entire country! Our lakes and rivers are also the source of clean drinking water for many larger cities downstream.
Unfortunately, many of our waters are in danger to a host of threats. Over-development and land use disturbances near the shore deplete our natural shorelines and wildlife habitat. Storm water runoff, filled with contaminants like phosphorus and nitrates, can enter the water and cause changes to our water quality, throwing off the natural balance in our lakes and rivers.
Protecting Water
Properties that are directly connected to open water sources have greater potential to harm the quality of the water. Overdevelopment or broad land use conversion near water sources results in lower water quality. Storm water collects contaminants from buildings, and fertilized yard space. Impervious surfaces like the roof of a building or paved driveway/walkways, expedite the flow of storm water runoff. The contaminants, and additional nutrients/phosphorus that stormwater carries is harmful when it enters waterways. Just one pound of phosphorus rapidly grows into five hundred pounds of algae when it activates in water.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a naturally-occurring element found in manure, leaves, soil, and fertilizer. Under natural conditions, phosphorus is typically scarce in water. Human activities near shore, however, have resulted in excessive phosphorus loading into our lakes. For every one pound of phosphorus that finds its way into our lakes, 500 pounds of algae is able to form!
The good news: There are many simple conservation practices that can protect or even increase the water quality in our lakes!
Slow the Flow
Slowing and absorbing stormwater runoff is critical to protecting water quality!
Rain barrels are fantastic for capturing runoff from rooflines under a downspout.
Broken walkway and driveway surfaces, like stone or pebble, allow water to better soak into the ground.
The deep roots of trees and native plants act as a sponge, soaking up storm water runoff, and improving erosion risks.
Possibly most effective (and beautiful) are rain gardens with native flowers and plants. Strategically placed rain gardens do a fantastic job of soaking up excess water and nutrients before they enter the water.
Aquatic Invasive Species
The pressure many of our lakes see from recreational users can take a toll. As mobile as we are, (anglers, boaters, paddle boarders, kayakers, etc...) we hop from lake to lake with ease. Aquatic invasive species (AIS), or non-native aquatic plants, invertebrates, and fish are finding pathways through our movements.
Do your part to prevent the spread of AIS by remembering to Clean, Drain, and Dry your watercraft and equipment!
