Water QualityMinneapolis is known as the City of Lakes, boasting beautiful lakes, rivers, and streams which residents and visitors enjoy for swimming, boating, fishing, and relaxing along the shores. From recreational use to bird and wildlife habitat, our waters fulfill many functions and keeping them clean is a priority for all residents.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board monitors several of our lakes in order to keep tabs on quality. The Trophic State Index (TSI) levels may vary due to a number of factors: climate, timing of rain, wind direction, temperature, aquatic plants, fish, alum treatments, watershed loading, and many others. There are swimming beaches at many of the city's lakes and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board monitors for E. coli which is linked to gastrointestinal illness. If E. coli levels pose an immediate health risk, the beach will be closed until levels are safe. See related indicators in Combined Sewer Overflow and Permeable Surfaces. Learn MoreTake ActionReports |
