Lake Minnetonka is an unique waterbody because each of the forty-two bays that form this lake vary in surface area, depth, and water quality. The LMCD is committed to enhancing the enjoyment of Lake Minnetonka by preserving its water quality through aquatic invasive species management and pollution prevention.
For more information, the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD), Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), and University of Minnesota all have great resources that everyone can access to learn more about the water quality of Lake Minnetonka as well as other Minnesota lakes and rivers.
The MCWD water quality lake grading method was developed in 1989. It shows how one lake measures up compared to other lakes in the area and indicates the conditions of the open water. Three water quality measurements are combined to create each lake grade and whatever lake grade is given considers what is average or normal for lakes in a given area.
Every two years, the MPCA assesses all waters in the state and creates a list of impaired waters as required by the Clean Water Act. This list is based on intensive water monitoring of major lakes and streams along with data from outside partners. It is used to set pollutant-reduction goals needed to restore impaired waters. More information can be found using the link.
This map provides satellite derived water clarity data for over 10,000 Minnesota lakes including Lake Minnetonka. Give it a look to find out how clear your lake is.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has lots of great information about lake water quality monitoring, blue-green algae, water pollutants, and water quality initiatives. Visit the link to learn more.
To learn more about ways the LMCD is managing Lake Minnetonka Water & Aquatic Invasive Species, visit Water Quality & AIS for more information.