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Water

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Top irrigation in corn field.

We depend on clean water for drinking, recreation and irrigation. Fish and wildlife also depend on clean water. In Minnesota, fishing, hunting and water-based recreation are an important part of our economy.

Features

Building a rain garden

Rain gardens capture storm water runoff and allow it to soak into the ground. They remove pollutants, prevent erosion and prevent contaminated water from reaching surface waters.

Limiting impact of recreation on water quality

Minimize damage to water quality by following best practices for vegetation, beaches, swimming, boating, fishing and camping.

Agriculture and water

Agricultural drainage

Planning and design strategies for agricultural drainage systems, calculators and regulations

Crops and flooding

Learn more about dealing with flooded fields for different crop types.

Irrigation

Learn about irrigation scheduling, monitoring soil moisture and water quality.

Livestock and water

Livestock and manure can affect water quality. Learn more about managing livestock and manure responsibly to avoid negative impacts on your watershed.

Nutrients and water quality

Learn how nutrient applications in crop production can affect water quality.

Soil and water

Soil health has many connections to water. Learn more about the basics of soil health and tillage.

Lakes and wetlands

Lakes

Aquatic invasive species and other threats to water quality

Shoreland properties

Preventing erosion, maintaining septic systems, preserving natural landscapes

Wetlands

Wetland preservation, habitat for animals, flood control, water quality

Water and tribal nations

Water and land stewardship

Learn about water stewardship for people in Native lands with historical perspectives and practical information.

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© 2025 Regents of the University of Minnesota. All rights reserved. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. This work is supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.