What Low Lake Levels May Mean to You

Below normal precipitation since last fall has been on the forefront of discussion for many Lake Minnetonka residents. While the water may seem low now, historical lake levels were similar in 2000 and 2009. Additionally, levels were dramatically lower in the late 1980s and early 1990s.  

The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) reported last month the water level reading on Lake Minnetonka to be 927.93 feet. When lake levels fall below 928.0 feet, the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (LMCD) Code states that the Board of Directors may approve a resolution that allows for temporary dock length extensions for licensed (multiple dock facilities) and unlicensed (primarily residential) sites on Lake Minnetonka.  

An overview of those Code sections (Code Sections 1.07, subd. 9 and 2.01, subd 2d, respectively) and their specific conditions that apply can be found on the LMCD’s website at www.lmcd.org, under "Rules and Regulations." The MCWD will begin taking regular lake level readings this month. Those readings, projected April precipitation, and the LMCD Code will be discussed by the LMCD Board at their March 28th regular board meeting.

For further information on the LMCD Code pertaining to temporary low water dock extensions, contact the LMCD office at (952) 745-0789. For information on the current and historical Lake Minnetonka water level readings and Grays Bay Dam discharge rates, as well as management policy and operational procedure questions for the Grays Bay Dam, please visit the MCWD’s website at www.minnehahacreek.org or contact their office at (952) 471-0590.