Are the levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in our major rivers changing?
Nutrients: What’s in our rivers?
Speakers from the U.S. Geological Survey, Metropolitan Council, and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency explain the ongoing water quality monitoring efforts in rivers near Minnesota's borders, types of data collected, and how the data are used to determine changes in river nutrient levels. They also will provide insights into how far the nutrient levels will have to come down before meeting nutrient reduction goals.
Updating Minnesota's strategy
These experts, researchers, and scientists are among 50 people working to complete a 10-year update to the Minnesota Nutrient Reduction Strategy. Established in 2014, this strategy guides our state's efforts to reduce nutrient pollution.
Events like this one are designed to keep you updated through the lengthy revision process. Watch for web postings, emails, and additional informal information sessions. Public comments will be sought on the draft revision in the second half of 2025.
Excessive nutrients, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, pose a significant problem for Minnesota’s lakes and rivers as well as downstream waters including the Great Lakes, Lake Winnipeg, and the Gulf of Mexico. When nutrient levels exceed natural conditions, they can cause excessive algae growth, low levels of oxygen, toxicity to aquatic life, and unhealthy drinking water.