Collaborative Conservation Effort Restores Seven Mile Creek in Minnesota

Strategic Insights -

A nine-year collaborative conservation effort between the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Nicollet County Soil and Water Conservation District, and local property owners has successfully restored a vital waterway in the state. The project replaced a low-head dam with rock arch rapids, enhancing fish passage, water quality, and habitat for native species. The initiative was supported by property owners Steve and Betsy Bolint, who were pleased with the final outcome. The project's success showcases the effectiveness of cooperation between local stakeholders and state agencies in preserving Minnesota's natural resources.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Nicollet County Soil and Water Conservation District, and local property owners collaborated on a nine-year conservation effort to replace a low-head dam with rock arch rapids on Seven Mile Creek.
  • The project was funded with $490,000 from the Minnesota's Outdoor Heritage Fund, which was secured by the DNR in 2021 and administered by the Nicollet County SWCD.
  • The low-head dam was replaced with rock arch rapids, a design that mimics natural stream conditions, manages the gradient and energy of the stream, and effectively removes barriers for native species.
  • The project aimed to improve fish passage, water quality, and habitat in the immediate area and beyond, ultimately benefiting local wildlife and ecosystems.
  • The property owners, Steve and Betsy Bolint, were fully supportive of the project and pleased with the outcome, stating that it's "better for the creek and better for the wildlife."
  • The Outdoor Heritage Fund, created after the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment was approved by Minnesota voters in November 2008, provided partial funding for the project.
  • The project aligns with the fund's purpose of restoring, protecting, and enhancing wetlands, prairies, forests, and habitat for game fish and wildlife.
  • The collaborative effort demonstrates effective cooperation between local stakeholders and state agencies in preserving Minnesota's natural resources and showcases the benefits of conservation efforts.

Statistics:

  • The project spanned nine years, with a total budget of $490,000 funded by the Minnesota's Outdoor Heritage Fund.
  • The dam was removed in fall 2024, with final work completed in summer 2025.
  • The rock arch rapids design mimics natural stream conditions, effectively replacing traditional dams with more natural stream flows.
  • The project aims to improve fish passage for native species, which are often restricted by low-head dams.
  • The property owners reported that the project's outcome is "beautiful" and that they are "very pleased."

Sources:

  • Minnesota Department of Natural Resources press release
  • Jon Lore, DNR Clean Water Legacy Specialist, as quoted in the press release
  • Kevin Ostermann, Nicollet County SWCD Manager, as quoted in the press release
  • Steve Bolint, property co-owner, as quoted in the press release
  • Outdoor Heritage Fund, created after the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment was approved by Minnesota voters in November 2008