2025 Birch Lake Protection Program

Program Goal

Maintaining excellent water quality in Birch Lake for recreation is a shared goal for everyone in Minnesota. Recognizing the importance of Birch Lake as a valuable natural resource in Cass County, the Cass SWCD is introducing a Lake Protection Program to recognize property owners who have lakeshore lots that work to protect the water quality in Birch Lake.

Protection Program

The Birch Lake Protection Program will be completed in two phases. Phase I will use public aerial imagery to identify parcels with protective buffers. Phase II will confirm these findings through a boat review in June of 2025. Dock signs and shoreline recognition certificates will be awarded in July 2025.

How do I Qualify?

To qualify as a shoreline steward, your lot must meet the protection threshold. If it doesn’t yet meet this standard, there are straightforward steps you can take to get there. Try reducing or stopping mowing near the water, creating a natural buffer zone, managing rainwater runoff, avoiding fertilizers, and adopting other water-friendly practices. These small changes can make a big difference in protecting the shoreline and improving water quality, ensuring the lake remains a beautiful and enjoyable destination for recreation for future generations.