Water Quality Management
Met Council protects water quality, public health
We develop plans to preserve and manage the region's water resources
Residents of the Twin Cities metro area count on clean drinking water. They value the water quality of the region’s lakes, streams, and rivers. While many public, private, and nonprofit organizations have a role in protecting water quality, the Metropolitan Council is responsible under state law for developing an overall, regional approach to water planning and management.
The Met Council’s 2040 Water Resources Policy Plan lays out strategies to address water quality challenges. We work with our partners using an integrated approach. The goal is for human activity to have no adverse impact on water quality.
Metropolitan Council Environmental Services approaches water quality with a watershed focus to control pollution from point (specific) and nonpoint (diffuse) sources. We bring together agencies and organizations in partnerships for collaborative planning and implementation.
Our key water quality activities and information
- Monitor and analyze water quality on area lakes, river segments, and streams.
- Ensure that treated wastewater discharged from our treatment plants meets state and federal permit standards.
- Partner with public, private, and nonprofit groups to improve water quality.
- Facilitate Twin Cities Water Monitoring and Data Assessment Group, a public sector water resources partnership to establish and promote standard practices for water monitoring, analysis, and data stewardship.
- Review watershed plans and local water plans prepared by all local governments in the region.
- Host and support the EIMS - data management and reporting system for the Council's lake, river, and stream monitoring.
- Prepare summary reports of monitoring and assessment efforts.
- Prepare special reports, such as our trend assessment report on area rivers and streams.
- Provide guidance and technical assistance related to nonpoint-source pollution and best management practices.
- Provide guidance and direction for watershed planning and local water planning.