By James Larson
Stillwater is in a time of quiet change—one measured in fractions of degrees, in deeper rainfall, and in shifting seasons. These gradual shifts matter, especially when it comes to our weather and environment. Here’s a look at what’s happening locally, how it’s affecting lakes, rivers, plants, wildlife, and what our community is doing about it.
Warming winters, warmer waters
In Minnesota, winter has been warming faster than any other season. Average low temperatures during winter have climbed sharply since the 1970s—making deep freezes less common. Meanwhile, our lakes and rivers are following suit. In recent decades the water temperatures in July and August have rose by around 3 to 4 °F when compared with fifty years ago, and many lakes are freezing over later in fall and thawing earlier in spring. The result? Longer growing seasons, changes in ice cover, and shifts in aquatic life.
More frequent heavy rainfall and runoff concerns
Heavy rainstorms—think 2-, 3-, or 4-inch downpours in a single day—are becoming more common across Minnesota. These intense events tax stormwater systems and can cause erosion, sewer overflows, and nutrient runoff. South Twin Lake, on Stillwater’s western edge, is already suffering from high phosphorus levels and poor water clarity. Development and uncontrolled runoff threaten its health and that of surrounding waterways.
Natural areas under pressure
Our woodlands, wetlands, and agricultural zones are important buffers that protect water quality, reduce flood risk, and support wildlife. Locally, the Land and Water Legacy Program has protected nearly 2,000 acres of natural land in Washington County with the goals of preserving waterways, wetlands, drinking water sources, and scenic open space. Conservation easements and parks, including riverside and creek corridors, are part of this effort.
Seasonal tips for residents
- Winter: Use minimal salt for de-icing, collect sand and avoid letting it wash into waterways.
- Spring: Clear leaf and debris from gutters, pull invasive plants before they spread, and consider delaying clean-ups to protect emerging insects.
- Summer: Keep rain gardens maintained, avoid overwatering lawns or using chemicals heavily, and plant natives to support pollinators.
- Autumn: Plan removal of non-native woody species like buckthorn, gather observations of local lake clarity, and think ahead for next spring.
What’s being done locally
Sustainability groups in Stillwater are active partners in responding to these shifts. The Natural Resources Workgroup of Sustainable Stillwater MN runs programs like Adopt-A-Raingarden and lake restoration projects to reduce run-off and improve water quality. Meanwhile, the community is gearing up for Valley Climate Action Week in mid-September, an event devoted to local climate solutions, education, and volunteer efforts.
Weather will always change—sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly. But as we’ve seen, the environment responds to even small changes in temperature, rainfall, and land use. In Stillwater, protecting our lakes, woodlands, and rivers means paying attention, and acting ahead of trouble. We’ll all feel the difference.