MPCA report details water quality problems in MN portion of Des Moines River Basin

Sixty-seven stream segments and 24 lakes in the Des Moines River basin in southwest Minnesota are impaired for swimming and aquatic life, according to reports just released by the state Pollution Control Agency. Among problems found: phosporus levels, E-coli and fecal coliform bacteria, and suspended solids. The agency recommends possible remedies including planting cover crops, changing tillage practices, using less fertilizer, diversifying crops, and better practices for applying manure to cropland. The M-P-C-A is taking public comment on the reports through January 6th. The Des Moines River basin includes parts of Cottonwood, Jackson, Lyon, Martin, Murray, Nobles, and Pipestone counties.