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The MPCA studies, monitors, and regulates water pollutants to protect human health and the environment. Minnesota water quality standards strives to protect water for use, measures health of waters, and guides limits on what regulated facilities can discharge to surface waters.
Waterways in the northeastern part of the state are generally in better condition than those in the southern, central, and western regions.
Under the federal Clean Water Act, states must designate beneficial uses for all waters and develop water quality standards to protect each use.
The Clean Water Act established the framework for creating water quality standards and continues to help us protect Minnesota's prized lakes and rivers.
State agencies, counties, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and many others are engaged in protecting Minnesota lakes.
The MPCA has important roles in protecting and restoring waters in degraded conditions.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is planning amendments to rules governing water quality fees (Minn. R. ch. 7002 and 7083).
The MPCA studies, monitors, and regulates numerous water pollutants to protect human health and the environment. At the state level, three agencies share the monitoring and control of pollutants:the…
Water softeners produce much of the chloride that pollutes Minnesota’s waters. An MPCA grant aims to reduce that pollution with water softener replacement rebate programs.
Community wastewater treatment facilities and their operators play a critical role in maintaining a health community and preserving and protecting our waters.
Every two years, MPCA creates a list of impaired waters in the state that do not meet water quality standards.
Image Although Minnesota is rich in lakes and streams, Lake Superior is easily the most spectacular waterbody in Minnesota. Despite its immense size…
Minnesota water infrastructure projects in St. Cloud and Pipestone garner EPA’s top awards for innovation, excellence in protecting environment, health.
Removing of an old dam and restoring a creek's curves are improving habitat and water quality in the Pomme de Terre River Watershed.
What is the blue-green scum that looks like spilled paint?In lakes that are over-enriched with phosphorus and nitrogen, algae tend to prosper and create algae blooms. Blue-green algae and one type in…
Permits help the MPCA protect the environment.
MPCA seeks public comment on two draft industrial wastewater permits for U.S. Steel Corp.’s Keetac mining area and tailings basin in Keewatin, Minnesota. These permits will improve protections for wild rice waters and human health.
Wild rice is an important part of the biological community in many Minnesota lakes, streams, and wetlands, and a cultural resource to many, particularly members of the Dakota and Ojibwe Tribal Nations in Minnesota.
Guidance and recommendations for local officials dealing with public health issues related to blue-green algae.
Southeastern Minnesota is characterized by an unusual type of geography called karst, where the distinction between groundwater and surface water is blurry.