Photo Credit: Marceleen Mosher

Fast Facts about the River

The St. Croix River is one of the cleanest in the world! For the number of boaters that travel the waters each year that is a pretty impressive accomplishment. However, water quality is a growing concern on the St. Croix. Much of the land use in the upper St. Croix’s watershed is agricultural, which can lead to phosphorous filled runoff that increases unhealthy algal blooms. Another major concern for water quality is the increase in recreational use of the Lower St. Croix due to its proximity to the Twin Cities. Learn more about the St. Croix’s water quality here!

Ways to Protect the River

If you like to boat, make sure to protect the river in other ways. Always take your trash with you, recycle your recyclable materials, only use local firewood and remind your friends to be similarly conscientious.

The St. Croix River Association is dedicated to preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species as we protect, restore and celebrate the St. Croix River and its watershed.

Learn more about our programs and ways you can get involved by visiting our website at stcroixriverassociation.org.

The St. Croix River is known as one of the cleanest rivers in the Midwest. Yet all is not well, even with the St. Croix. In 2006 Wisconsin and Minnesota signed an agreement to work toward a 20% reduction in phosphorus loading in the St. Croix River Basin. This will help restore the St. Croix to a level closer to what existed in the 1940’s. more… During the summer, increased nutrients in the water can lead to blue-green algae bloom learn more… A Habitat Classification Report looks at the rivers and divides them into segments. This may help you better understand the rivers in regard to water quality. more… This document also has appendices. The St. Croix’s water quality is a major factor in the St. Croix having a mostly intact mussel population. This includes 40 species, two of which are on the endangered species list. Learn more about mussels. The United States Environmental Protection Agency maintains web sites with information pertaining to the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers. Information and resources highlighting the Namekagon Watershed. Information and resources highlighting the Upper St. Croix Watershed. Information and resources highlighting the Lower St. Croix Watershed.