Minnehaha Creek Watershed District
The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District's Mission is to protect, improve and manage surface and groundwater resources. The Minnehaha Creek in its name refers to the water link from Lake Minnetonka to the Mississippi River. The watershed is much bigger than that lake or creek, and includes 29 communities, and encompasses 181 square miles (470 km2). It stretches West from about Minnehaha Falls to Saint Bonifacius and North to Maple Plain. It includes 129 lakes and 8 major creeks in Hennepin and Carver counties. Some of the other lakes in the district are: Calhoun, Harriet, Nokomis, Parley, Minnewashta and Katrina.
The MCWD uses scientific research and monitoring, public education, grant programs, permitting, and collaborative initiatives with local governments, agencies, and residents, to protect the region’s lakes, rivers, and streams. Established in 1967, the MCWD was created under the Minnesota Watershed District Act. The 1955 act charged watershed districts with integrating water management efforts among city, county, and state agencies. Districts receive funding through local property taxes.
The District's office is located in Minnetonka, Minnesota. Its leadership is made up of seven Board Members and a Citizen Advisory Committee.