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View of lake through trees

Markgrafs Lake

Markgrafs Lake

Lake Description

Markgrafs Lake is a medium sized lake located in a residential area of Woodbury. A shoreline trail surrounds the lake and is frequented by local neighbors.

Aerial image of a dark blue lake among green trees in a suburban area

Lake Details

LocationWoodbury
Shallow/DeepShallow
Surface Area45 acres
Average Depth3 ft
Maximum Depth7 ft
Impairment StatusImpaired for nutrients since 2006
Downstream WaterbodySouth Wilmes Lake

Water Quality in Markgrafs Lake

Markgrafs Lake is one part of a multi-lake system. When water levels are high enough, water flows from Markgrafs Lake through a storm sewer system, and discharges to Wilmes Lake South Basin. During an extreme storm, like a 100-year flood, water can be pumped to Powers Lake.

In general, Markgrafs Lake experiences high nutrient levels, contributing to algal blooms and poor water quality. Testing has shown the concentration levels of phosphorus and chloropyll-a have exceeded state standards. Water clarity has historically been poor. In the last decade, chloride has been added to regular monitoring. Chloride concentrations in Markgraf Lake have exceeded state standards.

The Markgrafs Lake subwatershed contains many major roadways, commercial developments, and residential neighborhoods. This means that much of the subwatershed is impervious surface, like roads, sidewalks, driveways, roofs, and parking lots. An impervious surface cannot be penetrated by water, meaning water runs off the surface. This is how stormwater is generated. As the water flows, it picks up fertilizer, trash, pet waste, fallen leaves, grass clippings, chloride road salt, and car waste. All of these things contribute to high levels of nutrients that cause algae blooms and creates poor water quality.

Monitoring Data

Markgrafs Lake Fisheries

There are no MNDNR fish survey or stocking data available for Markgrafs Lake. For more information about fish consumption advisories, visit the Minnesota Department of Health Fish Consumption Guidance page.

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