Minnesota’s water benefited in the1990s from new efforts aimed at promoting conservation, protecting wetlands, preventing pollution from on-site wastewater treatment systems and correcting problems from leaking tanks and unsealed wells. Soundings: A Minnesota Water Plan Assessment, just released by the Environmental Quality Board, reports progress in carrying out the 14 objectives relating to integrating water management, protecting and conserving water resources and focusing on lakes, wetlands, rivers and ground water contained in the 1991 Minnesota Water Plan.

Federal funds are decreasing, leaving the state and local governments with increased burdens. While funding grows tighter, both state and local governments need new approaches to safeguard water supplies and ensure adequate wastewater treatment.