Lake Ratings
Target
Every Minneapolis lake is rated and receives a ranking of eight, nine, or 10 (with 10 being excellent) on the Lake Aesthetic and User Recreation Index (LAURI) by 2014.
Trend Analysis
The LAURI provides a snapshot of the conditions at the lakes during the summer season and provides a means for analyzing trends and identifying problems affecting our lakes. Five separate measurements that directly impact lake-user experiences are used to create the LAURI index.
- In 2012, Lakes Calhoun, Harriet, Cedar, and Wirth all met their LAURI target of 8, 9, or 10.
- Drought conditions resulted in improved bacteria levels at the beach and a new fishing dock led to better LAURI score at Lake Hiawatha.
- Better clarity and a higher habitat quality score based on a new DNR fish survey and MPRB plant survey led to a higher LAURI score for Powderhorn Lake.
- Most lakes' LAURI scores were slightly lower this year due to lower scores in aesthetics. The mild winter, early spring, and hot weather increased nuisance aquatic plant growth and brought earlier and more intense algae blooms to some lakes.
Data source: Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. View data.
Last updated Feb. 20, 2013