Assessing the Role of MN Lake Associations in Improving Water Quality

Examining Water Quality Governance in Minnesota

Achieving water sustainability and safe drinking water for all Minnesotans requires approaches that address water quality challenges holistically.

In the United States and Minnesota, the primary policy tools for mitigating water pollution were established through the Clean Water Act (CWA) of 1972 and its subsequent amendments. The governance framework around clean water established by the CWA can broadly be conceived in terms of two types of water quality standards: discharge limits, which regulate pollution at point sources of pollution; and ambient standards, which set environmental condition goals for surface waters. Minnesota has had relative success implementing discharge limits, while achieving ambient water quality standards has lagged behind.

To better understand this gap, this project team examined the role of lake associations in the management of water quality. 

Outcomes

• Conducted a survey that was sent to 500 lake association leaders with about 130 usable responses. Matched survey results with remote sensing data illustrating trophic state index and compared trophic state index for the years 1987-2022
• Held a webinar for Minnesota Lakes and Rivers advocates to disseminate research
• Found internal consistency in governance seems to be associated with higher water quality