White Bear Lake suit against DNR moves forward

A lawsuit against the Department of Natural Resources over dropping water levels on White Bear Lake should go forward, a Ramsey County judge has ruled.

The White Bear Lake Restoration Association claims the DNR has been allowing too much water to be drawn from an aquifer that affects the lake's water levels.

The property and business owners group cites a study by the U.S. Geological Survey showing White Bear Lake's water level has dropped five feet in the last decade. The low levels have closed beaches and caused property owners to lose water access or be forced to extend docks.

The DNR had asked Judge Margaret Marrinan to dismiss the lawsuit. The judge refused, noting the White Bear Lake group is questioning how the DNR has managed its responsibility as a gatekeeper in deciding who can withdraw the water.

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