MPCA Lake Classification

An event that galvanized the formation of this lake association was a decision by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency in 2016 to reclassify Silver Lake as wetland instead of a shallow lake. Members of the association felt strongly that the lake should remain classified as a shallow lake.

Here are the criteria from the MPCA.

We mounted a lobbying campaign in the Fall of 2016 to have the classification changed..

• Here is Marc's analysis.
• Here is the presentation that Marc gave to the watershed district.

Brock had numerous discussions with the MPCA, and he posted a public comment to the MPCA Draft Impaired Waters List. We are very pleased to say that our lobbying efforts were successful. On Dec. 1, the MPCA concluded:

"During the 2016 assessment of Silver Lake, information was gathered to determine if the lake met the definition of a shallow lake or if it was a wetland. Input from Riley Purgatory Bluff Creek Watershed District, MPCA staff, and local stakeholders was reviewed. The MPCA has determined that Silver Lake should remain in the shallow lake category. This basin does have characteristics of both shallow lakes and wetlands, however, the local use of Silver Lake is more indicative of a shallow lake. It will be added to the 2018 Draft Impaired Waters List because the 2016 watershed assessments are part of the 2018 listing cycle."

Having Silver Lake listed as an impaired lake by the MPCA is significant. We can apply for grants for projects aimed at promoting lake health. Furthermore, we can lobby the watershed district, local municipalities, the DNR, and the state to take active steps to improve water quality.