“Unfortunately, we’re seeing more and more people removing the vegetation along their shorelines and it’s causing a chain reaction in the aquatic food web that’s affecting fish, as well as insects and other wildlife," says Tom Langer, a biologist and riparian permit specialist with the Carnelian-Marine-St. Croix Watershed District.

From 2016 to 2023, the number of inspected watercraft In Washington County with drain plug violations dropped from 7% to 1%. This is an indication that watercraft inspections and AIS education programs are working. These watercraft inspectors have also blocked several boats from entering Big Marine Lake with zebra mussels attached.

There is a growing (pun intended?) movement across Minnesota as more and more people begin to think of their yards, not just as a place to relax and recreate, but also as a living landscape that can help to support wildlife and keep water clean. One group of people helping to fuel this movement is the Blue Thumb – Planting for Clean Water partnership, which was formed in 2007.

Learn about upcoming workshop, native plant retailers, garden templates, and other resources to help you go blue & green!