Middle St. Croix Watershed Seeks Input about Water Protection, Conservation

Officials want input on updating plans for lake and stream restoration between Afton and Stillwater.

By

/

/

2 minute read

Originally published on Stillwater Current, reprinted with permission.

Restoration work at the Lily Lake boat launch (Photo via Middle St. Croix WMO)
Restoration work at the Lily Lake boat launch (Photo via Middle St. Croix WMO)

Share your thoughts about water protection and conservation in the Middle St. Croix Watershed Tuesday., Sept. 2 from 1-4 p.m. at the Bayport Library.

What kinds of policies and strategies are needed to protect local lakes, streams, wetlands, groundwater, and the St. Croix River? Where is effort most needed to restore degraded waterways and protect high quality resources? Given limited staff and funding, which potential clean water projects are the most important to you?

The Middle St. Croix Watershed Management Organization (MSCWMO) is updating its Watershed Management Plan and has created draft goals, strategies and policies based on over 130 comments received from stakeholders in 2012 and 2013.

The watershed management is a joint-powers organization formed by the communities of Afton, Bayport, Baytown Township, Lakeland, Lakeland Shores, Lake St. Croix Beach, Oak Park Heights, St. Mary’s Point, Stillwater and West Lakeland Township.

The watershed includes the eastern half of Stillwater, including Lily Lake and Lake McKusick, as well as Perro Creek in Bayport. It also includes all of the land between Stillwater and the northern border of Afton that drains directly to the St. Croix River.

The MSCWMO is looking for input and suggestions on proposed updates to the 10 year management plan, as well as suggestions for priority projects to conserve and protect water resources in the area.

This will be an open-house style meeting; come anytime from 1-4 p.m.

Learn more about the MSCWMO and review the draft plan update. www.mscwmo.org.