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Class 2: Aquatic life and recreation beneficial uses

Minnesota has revised state water quality standards to incorporate a tiered aquatic life use (TALU) framework for rivers and streams.

Blue-green algae and harmful algal blooms

When temperatures climb and the summer sun beats down, conditions are ripe for Minnesota lakes to produce harmful algae blooms, some of which can be harmful to pets and humans.

Volunteer monitoring reports and data

Volunteer water monitors collect valuable data used by agencies and organizations across the state to protect and manage Minnesota’s waters.

Branch of Buffalo River improves, thanks to local partners

Significant restoration work by organizations in the area have made the south branch of the Buffalo River a water-quality success story.

Extreme weather concerns bring together partners

MPCA, MDA, BWSR host fourth annual Ag-Urban Partnership Forum event focused on water quality

Apply for financial assistance

Financing is available for public entities in Minnesota to expand or improve stormwater infrastructure.

Most Minnesota lakes in good shape

MPCA studies shows 75% of Minnesota lakes meet standards for recreation. Clean Water Fund dollars help answer water quality questions.

Vessel discharge

In addition to the vessel requirements in the EPA VGP and Minnesota’s ballast water general permit, vessels must follow the requirements in Minnesota Statutes and Minnesota’s 401 certification of the VGP.

Upper Iowa River

The Upper Iowa River is a 156-mile-long tributary of the Mississippi River that rises in Mower County in southeastern Minnesota near the Iowa border. It then flows south through three Iowa counties before flowing into the Mississippi. It drains nearly 641,000 acres (1,005 square miles).