Tips and tales about keeping water clean
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.
Read More
In 2024, Minnesota deployed more than 800 watercraft inspectors to public boat launches around the state to help staunch the spread of zebra mussels, spiny waterflea, and other aquatic invaders. The goal? Preserve Minnesota’s famed “good life” and protect fishing, tourism, and cultural mainstays such as wild ricing and “up north at the cabin.”
One reason for optimism is that we are seeing fewer new infestations and better compliance with state laws for watercraft cleaning and inspections.
Unfortunately, however, the DNR still reported 41 new AIS infestations in Minnesota lakes and rivers last year.
Read More
Fourteen new zebra mussel infestations were discovered in Minnesota in 2024, including Big Carnelian Lake in northern Washington County.
While news of a new zebra mussel infestation is discouraging, it is important to remember that 96% of lakes in Minnesota do NOT have zebra mussels and can still be protected from future infestations if lakeshore landowners, contractors, boaters, and anglers commit to taking action.
Read More
From 2016 to 2023, the number of inspected watercraft In Washington County with drain plug violations dropped from 7% to 1%. This is an indication that watercraft inspections and AIS education programs are working.
Read More
During Starry Trek, scheduled this year for Aug. 20, volunteers gather at training sites to learn how to identify starry stonewort and then head out to local water accesses to search for signs of the invasive species.
Read MoreRecently, our office began looking at data collected from inspections during the first half of the summer, the results were astounding.
Read More
East Metro Water 