Water quality and conservation, lakeshore preservation, and our lakes' varying levels all play important roles in the quality of life for each resident, and all citizens are responsible for the health of these resources. Many lakes in the City of Prior Lake are ultimately affected by what happens on the land draining into them. In the same way homeowners and farmers fertilize their lawns and fields to create a lush green lawn or plentiful crops, fertility in ponds and lakes cause undesirable effects like algae blooms and floating mats of vegetation. In addition to over-fertility, water quality is affected by bacteria, chlorides, petroleum, and a variety of toxic chemicals. Because green is not the color we want the lakes to be, everyone needs to reduce the amount of fertility the water receives.

Residents can do their part by doing these simple things:

• Sweeping dirt, leaves and grass clippings from streets
• Preventing and controlling soil erosion, especially on active construction sites
• Composting lawn clippings, leaves and pet waste, never allowing them to wash into the storm drain
• Using lawn fertilizers sparingly and only when a soil test recommends it, and never using banned phosphorus fertilizers
• Leaving a buffer of natural vegetation between your manicured lawn and nearby water
• Keeping vehicles well-tuned and leak free 
• Never dumping household chemicals or motor oil down the drain or onto land

For more simple things you can do, visit the Metro WaterShed Partners website.

Summer Algae Blooms - When in Doubt, Best Keep Out

When temperatures climb and the summer sun beats down, conditions are ripe for Minnesota lakes to produce algae blooms, some of which are harmful to pets and humans. Algae blooms are common throughout the summer, with different species appearing from time to time. While many types of algae are not harmful, when in doubt, best keep out! The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) maintains a webpage with helpful information about blue-green algae and harmful algae blooms.

If you believe you or your pets are experiencing adverse health effects due to contact with, or ingestion of, lake water/algae, seek medical attention immediately. Potential harmful algae blooms should be reported to the MPCA at 651-757-2419.

Report Unwanted Discharge

If you see stormwater system problems like sediment flowing to a pond, large amounts of litter in a stormwater structure, unauthorized dumping into stormwater drains, polluted stormwater ponds, or if you have any other concerns, call the Public Works Department at 952-447-9896. For more information, review these documents:

• The Solution to Stormwater Pollution
• After the Storm

The public is encouraged to review the City’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP) document and provide input on the adequacy of the SWPPP. Contact Public Works at pwadmin@priorlakemn.gov or 952-447-9896 to provide input.