DNR plans new watershed management division

Shoreline restoration
The restored shoreline is designed to protect White Bear Lake's water quality. A similar project planned for another city park may have to be postponed, if the DNR has to cut back its matching program.
Photo courtesy of the City of White Bear Lake

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources plans to create a new division focused on watershed management.

Assistant DNR commissioner Larry Kramka says in the past, conservation efforts have been more focused on problem areas.

Now, the new division, which combines the Waters and Ecological Resources Divisions, will approach conservation by addressing the root causes of problems.

"We're hoping that this will allow us to better prioritize our efforts," Kramka said. "Instead of looking at land purchases in isolation, we're going to be able to look at them in a context of how they actually function on the ground in that watershed to deliver broader benefits like flood control or flood storage, clean water, filtering possibilities."

Kramka says the change will also increase efficiencies and cost savings within the DNR.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.