The Rice Creek Rules!

Every so often, watershed districts revise and update rules that govern water protection practices and policies. This allows watersheds to keep up-to-date with current best practices and helps ensure healthy and safe water resources for future generations.

Right now, the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) is doing just that. And before adopting these new rules, the Watershed District invited watershed residents and interested parties to voice their opinion.

Thats where we (you, too) come into play. These rules essentially govern water quality in lakes and streams throughout the watershed — which drains directly into our Mississippi River. This is an excellent opportunity to voice your support for the great work the RCWD has done in drafting new rules that:

  1. Minimize harmful runoff to lakes and streams
  2. Encourage low-impact building and road design
  3. Protect water quality across the watershed (and help keep our beloved Mississippi River clean.)

That said, the RCWD could also improve these new rules in a few areas. New technology and innovative construction techniques mean that treating stormwater runoff from roads is more effective than ever. Were asking the RCWD to amend the proposed rules to require new road projects (and some road redevelopment) to use these new techniques in protecting our lakes and streams.

For more information about these rules and what you can do to help, please contact Trevor Russell, FMRs Watershed Program Director, at 651-222-2193 x 18 or through our contact form.

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Upcoming Events

November 1 - 20, 2025
Online
Three options: October 20, October 28, November 22, 2025
Hidden Falls Regional Park, St. Paul
Thursday, December 4, 2025 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm
F-O-K Studios, St. Paul

Our River Campaign:
It all starts here

At the heart of this new campaign is the vision of a healthy Mississippi River.