Become a Lake Steward
Lake Stewards is a program of Minnesota Lakes and Rivers that supports lakefront property owners in protecting and restoring natural shorelines. Through simple actions like planting native vegetation and reducing runoff, participants help improve water quality and strengthen habitat for fish and wildlife.
Start by taking the “Are You a Lake Steward?”
(Click here for the quiz) to assess how your property impacts water quality.
You’ll be connected with a trained Lake Steward Evaluator from our Cedar Lake Association , a neighbor who knows your lake well. They’ll schedule a site visit to walk your property and offer personalized tips to restore habitat, reduce erosion, and manage runoff. If your property meets the criteria, you’ll proudly earn a Lake Steward sign—a visible symbol of your commitment to protecting Minnesota’s lakes for future generations.
Here are a few of our lake stewards!
More Ways To Help...
According to the MPCA, Cedar Lake water quality is impaired, and here's how YOU can help
Property Owners:
1. Plant a rain garden
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This is one of the most efficient residential BMPs (Best Management Practices) to remove pollutants before they enter the lake
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Rice County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) offers resources and potential cost-share or incentive programs to help install rain gardens
2. Re-establish or maintain native plants along the shoreline
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MNDNR has a Restore Your Shore webpage to help
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Curious how your current shoreline measures up? Take this quick assessment at Score your Shore
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Be a Lake Steward
3. Septic system compliance
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An estimated 50% of the septic systems in Cedar Lake's drainage area are non-compliant
Farmers:
1. Cropland best management practices (BMPs)
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Implement no till, conservation till, and cover crops, or convert cropland to grassland
Visitors to Cedar Lake:
1. Donate to/join the CLA
2. Help keep the lake clean -- double check your boat prior to launching to ensure no spread of AIS
