Water Quality

Water Quality Monitoring

The quality of water in our lakes and rivers affects the health and diversity of fish and wildlife, recreation, aesthetics and human health.   Staff monitors lakes and streams for a variety of characteristics and pollutants to help determine the health of the water.

Visit lake monitoring page	Visit stream monitoring page

Reports

Maps

The Water Quality Map is interactive and shows water quality data from lakes and rivers in the county. When in the map, select by lake name or stream name to see water quality information. 

Stormwater

Stormwater runoff is rainwater or snow-melt that runs off of streets, parking lots, rooftops and compacted lawns. It is the leading cause of water pollution in the United States. As stormwater flows over streets and other hard surfaces, it collects and carries pollutants such as oils, chemicals, bacteria and sediments taking them to lakes, rivers and wetlands.  To reduce pollutants from runoff, entities including Carver County, may be required to have a  Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System permit. 

Total Maximum Daily Loads

Lakes and rivers that do not meet water quality standards set by the State of Minnesota are listed as impaired and must complete the Total Maximum Daily Load process.  This process determines the sources of pollutants to the lake or river, and creates an implementation plan to improve the water quality and return the water body to its designated use. Carver County Water Management Organization has completed a number of TMDL projects, found on the Projects & Reports page.

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