In the late 1960s and early 1970s, because water clarity seemed to be diminishing, property owners sought new tests from scientists interested in water quality. If, in addition, the phosphorus input from all nonpoint sources, such as septic tanks, agricultural wastes, storm water runoff, and soil erosion could be significantly reduced, the water quality in the watershed could be restored to an acceptable level. After a lengthy series of meetings and legal research, those concerned came to the conclusion that only a watershed district, with its powers of enforcement and its abilities to assess and to obtain federal and state funding, could tackle the pollution problem in the Chain of Lakes. Though the original thrust of the CRWD and its five-member Board of Managers was the improvement of water quality in the Clearwater River and Chain of Lakes, its scope has grown into a complete program of water management within its boundaries. The CRWD has short term and long term goals.
Projects are underway to sewer two lakes.
Financial incentive is being provided by CRWD to property owners to buffer surface water and wetlands, two wetland treatment systems underway, and working with feedlot owners and operators as they comply with local ordinances. These efforts we feel, will help us attain our long-term goal of reducing the amount of phosphorus that enters surface water in the watershed district. A five-member Board of Managers governs the Clearwater River Watershed District. The Managers serve three-year terms on a staggered basis. The Wright County Board of Commissioners appoints two, the Stearns County Board appoints two, and the Meeker County Board appoints one.