Zebra mussels and starry stonewort spread to more Minnesota lakes

This summer, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has reported new infestations of aquatic invasive species – zebra mussels and starry stonewort – at a dozen lakes across the state. The discoveries underscore the inherent challenge of protecting Minnesota waterways in a state with more than 11,000 lakes, thousands of natural and manmade connections, and countless ways to access the water from public and private lands.

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Living dinosaurs roam the rivers

Lake sturgeon were nearly hunted to extinction in the late 1800s and early 1900s but can now be found throughout the St. Croix River, as well as in tributaries including the Namekagon and Kettle Rivers.

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Aug. 21 clinic will offer free nitrate and chloride testing for homes with private wells

During the clinic, volunteers will run a screen test to measure nitrate and chloride (salt) and will also offer one-on-one consultations to discuss wellhead protection and groundwater concerns, including arsenic, bacteria, pesticides, and Perfluorinated Alkylated Substances (PFAS). PFAS testing will NOT be conducted at this clinic.

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Brown’s Creek winds its way toward cleaner water

This summer, the Brown’s Creek Watershed District completes a large-scale stream restoration project, designed to reduce bank erosion, manage floodwaters during large rain events, and improve habitat for fish along a half-mile stretch of Brown’s Creek that flows between McKusick Ave. and the Brown’s Creek State Trail.

Members of the community are invited to view and learn about the Brown’s Creek stream restoration during a tour on Aug. 12 (6:30pm) and a community festival on Sept. 20 (10am-1pm).

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