With 126 lakes, countless wetlands and miles of streams in the District, we know that citizen leaders are essential part of protecting and improving our waters. In September of 2006, the Minnehaha Creek watershed District and the state-wide non-profit Minnesota waters began a unique partnership, called the Watershed Association Initiative (WAI) . Through this program the MCWD wants to activate groups of citizens who have come together with the common value of protecting their local water resources.

The scientific expertise, organizational development resources, and citizen-led conservation experience that both the MCWD and Minnesota Waters provide are important for a strong start and a sustainable future for lake, stream, and watershed associations.

River, lake or watershed groups often form around a particular concern for water or shoreline protection. The initial discussion concerning the need for a group generally requires a few meetings and a couple principal leaders, spurring interest and sustaining follow-through.

Minnesota Waters has useful guidebooks available to member lake/river associations to build their organizational capacity and prepare them to improve and protect our waters. To learn more about Minnesota Waters and to become a member click here.

Minnehaha Creek Watershed District has an interactive kiosk, water models, mini golf courses and much more available for you to check out. Please visit MCWD's General Public page for more information.