There are more than 500 bodies of water in Bloomington. they range from small ponds to large lakes. Most of these were here long before the City of Bloomington was incorporated. The City works hard to ensure that these waters and the ecology they support are treated and managed in a way that promotes ecological resiliency, adaptability, and ecosystem health.
Most of the lakes and ponds in Bloomington are considered shallow water systems. These are unique systems that support a complex ecology. One way you can help keep these waters healthy and clean is learn how they function. Check out this video made by the Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District to learn about shallow water lakes!
Recreation
There are many recreational opportunities within, and alongside, the Lakes and ponds in Bloomington.
Remember, when interacting with a body of water, take precautions not to spread aquatic invasive species. Click here for information on how to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Stormwater Pond Management
The majority of ponds in Bloomington are considered stormwater ponds. This means that pipes connect them to the City’s stormwater infrastructure network. Historically, most of these ponds were not connected to one another. Back then, the water that flowed into them was cleaned by the nearby forests or meadows.
Now-a-days, when it rains, because of the many roads, sidewalks, roofs, and other impervious surfaces, water moves very quickly. Without the historic forests and meadows, the water is able to pick up things on the ground, like dirt, leaves, and trash. It then carries all this stuff into stormwater drains which flow into ponds. That means, anything that was picked up by the water as it moved over impervious surfaces ends up in our ponds. This is a leading cause of water pollution in urban areas.
Check out this video to learn more about how Bloomington samples water quality:
Water testing in Bloomington Ponds
Why So Green?
Plants and algae in ponds and lakes are a common concern for residents. There are types of plants that are problematic and there are plants that are good. In any case, there are always going to be plants. Click the link below for more information on aquatic plants and management options.
Pond Vegetation Info Sheet
