Water

River with fall trees along the edge of river

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.

Test your well water after flooding

After heavy rains or flooding is a good time to inspect your well and get your drinking water tested at a certified laboratory.

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.

Homes and water

Drinking water in Minnesota

Public water, well water, testing for contaminants

Flooding

Protect your home from flood damage, clean up after a flood

Septic system owners

Best management practices for septic system owners to keep their septic systems functioning properly

Water damage

Rain and ice damage, clean up, hazardous household products, septic systems

Watering lawns and gardens

How to water lawns, trees, shrubs and gardens

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

Urban stormwater

Education for stormwater professionals and communities

The stormwater education program promotes environmentally sound water resources management and policy implementation.

Rain gardens to capture stormwater runoff