Laserfiche WebLink
The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District classifies Stubbs Bay water quality as poor. The bay is <br />impaired for excess nutrients due to phosphorus loading. This impairment results in nuisance algae <br />blooms that limit the recreational use of this water body. <br />Figure 1. Stubbs Bay Water Quality (MCWD) <br />External phosphorous loading into Stubbs Bay has been reduced by protection of upland wetlands, storm <br />water management regulations, conversion of land in the Stubbs Bay watershed from agricultural to <br />residential and by projects done by the City of Orono and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District in <br />the early 2000s. While more phosphorous loading models may be needed, it is believed the primary <br />reason for the high phosphorous levels in the bay is internal loading. <br />The SBLID will consider the development of water quality studies/plans or the implementation of water <br />quality improvement projects (e.g. phosphorous sequestration) as part of a comprehensive approach to <br />bay management. Such projects would likely require grant funding and/or a financial partnership with a <br />governmental organization such as the MCWD or the LMCD. <br />In accordance with Minnesota statutes, section 103B.571, for all projects proposed by the SBLID with a <br />cost in excess of $5,000; a published notice and written notice shall be mailed at least ten days in advance <br />to SBLID property owners and required local and state entities. <br />Problems: <br />1.Eurasian watermilfoil, curlyleaf pondweed, and other AIS diminish the health of and interfere with <br />recreation in Stubbs Bay. <br />2.Other AIS, including flowering rush, starry stonewort, and spiny water flea, may become established <br />in Stubbs Bay are likely to have adverse impacts to the health and enjoyment of the bay. <br />3.Water quality in the Stubbs Bay is impaired for excess nutrients due to phosphorus loading. This <br />impairment results in nuisance algae bloom s that impact the ecological health and limit the <br />recreational use of this water body. <br />Objectives: <br /> <br />