Looking for more information on water quality management? Wondering what is happening locally to ensure water quality is a priority? Read on for more information on groundwater management, stormwater management, buffer programs, wetlands management and what you can do to help, as well!
Groundwater Management
Groundwater provides more than two-thirds of Minnesota households with drinking water. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency monitors the quality of our groundwater and protects it from contamination.
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Here are a few things to consider when it comes to qulaity groundwater:
Stormwater Management
Better management of stormwater is an effective way to improve water quality in Minnesota. If stormwater is not managed properly, it can have long lasting effects on our lakes, streams, and rivers.
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Additional resources
Buffer Program
The Buffer Program is another critical effort to help keep Minnesota waters clean. A buffer, also called a “riparian area,” is land that is adjacent to rivers, streams, lakes, or wetlands. Grass buffers keep pollutants such as phosphorus, nitrogen and sediment out of Minnesota waters.
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Additional resources:
For questions, contact:
Andy Rice
District Technician
Douglas SWCD
900 Robert St. Suite 102
Alexandria, MN 56308
320-763-3191 ext. 3
Wetlands Management
Wetlands, also called swamps, bogs, potholes or sloughs, provide environmental benefits. They help to improve water quality by filtering out sediments, nutrients, and toxic substances prior to washing into lakes and rivers. Wetlands also provide habitats for many animals, and particularly for those that can only survive in the inundated conditions.
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Additional resources
Watershed Plans
Learn about local Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies (WRAPS):
Total Max Daily Load (TMDL)
The U. S. Clean Water Act uses the term TMDL to describe a value of the maximum amount of a pollutant a body of water can intake and still meet water quality standards.
TMDL Study
Learn about these local TMDL projects: