Well, that’s a kick in the pants! How disheartening to read the front page article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune on Monday and read about green scum and fish kills in Albert Lea lakes.

Probably even worse is how the writer pits citizens against one another. This should not be a “farmer versus city folk” argument. We all have a role in damaging the system and also a part in working to improve and restore the watershed.

Perhaps the one good thing about this embarrassing article is that it can be a catalyst for the community to become more educated and involved — not only in attending meetings, but taking steps personally to reduce run off. It would be helpful if the Albert Lea Tribune would provide advance notice reminders of the SRRWD meetings, the Lakes Foundation, and other relevant meetings. It would also be beneficial for the SRRWD to hold community meetings updating the public on its plans, especially concerning the dredging. I suggest that the board also listen to the input and ideas from the public.

The fact is that the water quality is improving, but we still have a long way to go.

 

Rachel Christensen

Albert Lea