A group of neighbors in Minneapolis recently wanted to improve water quality in Diamond Lake. According to Theresa Oberg of the Cook County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD), that group has made a huge difference, thanks to a grant provided by the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment. Oberg said the lake water quality had been declining because water that rolls off of roofs, yards, and streets in the surrounding area carries pollutants into the lake. The residents worked with Minnesota Waters and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District to apply for a grant from the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR). After receiving the grant, rain gardens and other conservation projects that capture and reuse rainwater were completed at 34 homes near the lake. “This citizen-led project is one example of a few people making a positive impact on water quality,” said Oberg.
“Competitive state grants are now available for water quality projects, so we want to talk with anyone who is interested in helping us take advantage of the opportunity to bring those dollars to our area,” said Oberg.
Is there a lake, river or stream in your area that you want to protect or restore? Do you have a group of like-minded neighbors who can help build community support for on-the-ground projects that will make a difference? If so, you are encouraged to contact Cook County SWCD and find out what you can do to apply for state grants for water quality projects.
To find out what kinds of projects are eligible, see the summaries of previously funded grant projects on the BWSR website: www.bwsr.state.mn.us/cleanwaterfund/ stories .
Lake associations and other community nonprofit organizations are especially encouraged to contact Cook County SWCD about a new “Citizen and Community Participation Program.” This new program is an opportunity for community organizations to increase citizen participation in efforts to protect and restore water quality.
For more information, contact Oberg at (218) 387-3647.
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