Water Connect Us All is the Minnesota Lakes & Rivers newsletter, sharing updates on statewide water protection efforts, legislative advocacy, aquatic invasive species prevention, natural shoreline stewardship, and lake association leadership. Explore the latest news, program updates, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved in protecting Minnesota’s lakes and rivers.
Minnesota cabin ownership is a cherished family tradition for many, but rising property taxes threaten this legacy. With average owners earning around $58,000, these aren’t just wealthy families. Legislative dismissal of their concerns could lead to the destruction of natural shorelines and a loss of memories, necessitating advocacy for fairer tax policies.
For the last ten years, Minnesota has led the nation in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS), supported through a state funding funding mechanism called County AIS Prevention Aid. Established in 2014 with the support of Minnesota Lakes & Rivers Advocates, this program allocates $10 million annually for local governments to implement targeted,… Read more »
Everyone who enjoys Minnesota’s lakes and rivers has a role to play in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). It’s not hard to understand why aquatic invaders like zebra mussels, spiny water flea, and curlyleaf pondweed are harmful to our waters. If you live on or recreate on an infested waterbody, you may… Read more »
Due to the wildfires in northern Minnesota, this event (originally planned for July 22nd) will now be held on August 12.
By Sami Selter, Associate Executive Director, MN Lakes & Rivers The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Roundtable is where the state agency reports on progress for key projects and programs and facilitates discussions among leaders in Minnesota’s natural resources fields. Minnesota Lakes and Rivers (MLR) has represented lake groups at this event for years,… Read more »
by Dylan Kinny, MLR Development Coordinator Happy Holidays! As the season of generosity is upon us once again, there are big changes on the horizon when it comes to charitable giving and your taxes. The new federal tax law passed this summer (2025) will change how you choose your tax deductions and deduct charitable gifts… Read more »
By Sami Selter Assoc. Exec. Director, MN Lakes & Rivers Curbs are the shorelines of the city. This past summer, Minnesota Lakes & Rivers, with funding from the Minneapolis Foundation, piloted the Minneapolis Lake Steward program. The initiative encouraged both homeowners and renters to take simple, positive steps to protect our lakes—planting native gardens, picking… Read more »
MN Lakes and Rivers is thrilled to partner with Broken Clock Brewing, Curiouso Coffee, Queermunity, Marcy Bikes, and local musicians Daisy Forester and Emma Jeanne for Tunes, Tunes & Loons — a lively, all-ages community bike ride across Minneapolis. The ride ends in celebration with live music, bike tune-ups, coffee, beer, and a spotlight on… Read more »
Guest Blog A Cleaner, Healthier Future for Our Lakes & Ponds Starts Now! Hello neighbors, If you’ve noticed murky water, algae blooms, or fewer fish in your lake or pond, you’re not alone. These issues are often caused by fertilizer runoff and low oxygen levels—but the good news is, we now have a natural, effective… Read more »