In the land of 10,000 lakes, water is central to life—whether for drinking, recreation, or the health of ecosystems across the state. Long before European settlers arrived, and continuing today, the Dakota people have cherished Minnesota’s waterways. Even the name “Minnesota” comes from the Dakota phrase Mni Sota Makoċhe, meaning “the land where the water reflects the skies.”
One of those waters, Bassett Creek (known in Dakota as Ȟaȟá Wakpádaŋ, meaning “Creek to the River of the Falls”), flows through Golden Valley before joining the Mississippi River. Today, like many bodies of water across the state, it faces environmental challenges.
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, over 5,000 lakes, rivers, and streams—about 40 percent of Minnesota’s surface waters—are considered impaired. Common issues include high levels of nutrients, bacteria, sediment pollution, declining fish or aquatic insect health, and elevated chloride levels from road salt.
Bassett Creek is listed as impaired due to excess bacteria and chloride. Chloride pollution, primarily from winter salt use, is especially harmful because once it enters waterways, it does not break down. Just one teaspoon of salt can permanently pollute five gallons for water.
What You Can Do
You can help protect Minnesota’s waterways by making small changes in your daily habits:
- Properly dispose of household chemicals and medications
- Switch to PFAS-free cleaning and personal care products
- Pick up litter to keep it from washing into storm drains
- Reduce salt use on driveways and sidewalks during winter by using smart salting techniques
Golden Valley residents can also take direct action by joining this month’s community cleanup. The Golden Valley Environmental Commission and the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission will co-host a watershed cleanup on Friday, April 19, from 10 am to 1 pm. Volunteers should meet at City Hall to collect supplies and return collected waste.