MARSHALL - The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is seeking individuals and families interested in adopting a lake or stream to measure water quality this summer.
More than 1,300 citizen monitors gather data for the MPCA, but more are needed to reach the 69,000 miles of rivers and more than 12,000 lakes in the state. Volunteers do a simple water clarity test in their favorite body of water twice a month during the summer. The MPCA provides equipment and training, and no prior experience is needed. Data gathered by volunteers extend the agency’s reach and complements the MPCA’s intensive water monitoring around the state.
See the list below of waters that need monitoring, or use the MPCA’s interactive map to find a nearby site. Become a volunteer or learn more about the program at pca.state.mn.us/water/citizen-water-monitoring, or call 1-800-657-3864.
Lakes in need of volunteer monitors: Clear Lake near Jackson, Okabena Lake in Worthington, Lime Lake in Avoca and Talcot Lake near Dundee. Streams include the Little Sioux River south of Lakefield, Heron Lake outlet northeast of Heron Lake, Kanaranzi Creek northeast of Adrian, Lime Creek east of Avoca, Elk Creek southeast of Luverne and Pipestone Creek west of Pipestone.
