Val Were, University of Minnesota Extension, 612-624-7430

Legislation such as the Clean Water Act of 1972 made water resources management an important part of environmental policy in Minnesota. Whereas in other states water quantity is often the issue, Minnesota is focused on improving the water quality of its abundant streams and lakes.

Monitoring is essential to assessing changes in water quality. By collecting and analyzing water samples, we can identify trends over time and also identify emerging problems. Where pollution control programs are implemented, monitoring helps determine whether the programs are working and in general helps direct pollution control efforts where they are most needed.

In 2006, the University’s Extension Program Outdoor Corps again provided water quality monitoring services to lake associations and communities for a fee. Clients received a lake sampling package that included temperature, dissolved oxygen and pH profiles and chemical analysis to total phosphorous and chlorophyll-a. They could also opt for a presentation at the end of the sampling season for an additional fee. Two adult supervisors and eight high school students worked during the summer sampling in Benton, Stearns, Cass, Crow Wing, Kandiyohi, and Meeker counties. Samples were collected at a total of 33 sites on 27 lakes and sent for total phosphorous and chlorophyll-a analysis to A.W. Research Lab in Brainerd. For more on the program and its activities, please visit http://www.outdoor-corps.net/.

In 2007, the Outdoor Corps team will not be providing water sampling services. We will focus on redesigning the program to ensure its long term sustainability, purchasing new equipment, applying for grant dollars, and building a stronger network of supporters. We plan to gather information from our clients, partners, and supporters this summer. If you are interested in participating in this process please call Val Were at 612-624-7430 or send an e-mail to were0005@umn.edu.

Posted in Lakes |