What Attributes To The Clarity?

Stubbs Bay has two points where phosphorous enters:  Claussen Lake and the Stubb's Bay Creek that empties out of a wetland next to the Luce Line Trail.

Phosphorous also enters lakes and Stubbs Bay through the storm water sewer system and through direct run-off from the land.  During wet years, phosphorous levels go up when more water is flowing into the lake.

What Can I Do?

For detailed information on these topics and for more ideas, check out the pages under the "Protecting Water Quality" section on this site.  Check the resources listed below.

A new study of the lakes in north-central Minnesota shows just how much clear water can enhance the value of lakeshore property.

Researchers examined 1,205 residential property sales from 1996 to 2001.  They concluded that water clarity is very significantly related to the price per foot of lakeshore.

Water quality is a measure of how deep you can see into a lake.  It can be affected by pollution, erosion and other factors, including the removal of shore vegetation.

Parson, co-author of a study by researchers at Bemidji State University said "the worst practices include removing trees, native plants and aquatic vegetation in front of the property, and then moving everything down to the water and fertilizing the heck out of it." 

He also said "the golf-course look might increase property value in the short term, but such changes by too many owners will eventually alter the lake's ecology and degrade its water."