Environmental Impact
Safeguarding Lake Bemidji's Future
Northern Township Wastewater Treatment Initiative
The primary objective of the Northern Township Wastewater System is to protect and preserve the existing water quality conditions of Lake Bemidji now and long into the future. The need for a comprehensive wastewater system has become increasingly critical due to three main factors:
1. Known system failures
2. Numerous aging septic systems
3. Small, densely packed parcels with poor soils and a high-water table that limit effective nutrient filtration and hinder wastewater management
By implementing a state-of-the-art mechanical plant, we aim to protect Lake Bemidji’s water quality, support local economic growth, and ensure the long-term sustainability of our township.
Community Health
Environmental Protection
Sustainable Growth
Water Quality
Aging Septic Systems: A Growing Concern
One of the primary threats to Lake Bemidji’s water quality is the age and condition of the septic systems surrounding the lake. Over half of these systems are more than 25 years old, making them prone to failures and inefficiencies. As these systems age, they become less effective at treating wastewater, increasing the risk of leaks and contamination.
The transition from seasonal cabins to year-round residences has further strained these outdated systems, leading to higher levels of algae producing nutrients, like phosphorus, entering the lake. This not only threatens water quality but also public health.
The Northern Township Wastewater System offers a solution by replacing these end-of-life septic systems with a centralized system designed to manage wastewater safely and efficiently. This initiative is crucial for protecting Lake Bemidji’s ecosystem and ensuring the well-being of our community.
By addressing the issue of aging septic systems, we can significantly reduce the risk of contamination and preserve the lake’s water quality for years to come.
Many lots in the Bemidji area are decades old, small, and many people continue to convert cabins to year-round use. Space is limited for private systems and backup systems. A municipal system can free up space and help reduce septic failures that can negatively impact Lake Bemidji's water quality.
- Nathan Kestner, Regional DNR Ecological & Water Resource Manager
Current Water Quality Classification
MPCA Assessments
Lake Bemidji is currently classified by the MPCA as mildly eutrophic, which means it contains higher-than-ideal nutrient levels, particularly phosphorus, that can lead to the development of algae blooms. These blooms typically appear in late summer and are driven by an excess of phosphorus, which feeds the algae and accelerates its growth. While some nutrients are essential for a healthy aquatic ecosystem, too much can tip the balance, leading to degraded water quality and harmful impacts on the lake’s ecology.
Impact of Phosphorus Levels
Phosphorus and Lake Health
* Zebra Mussels, an aquatic invasive species, were first documented in lake Bemidji in 2018, and were likely present for some time before documented. An observed improvement in transparency and an apparent decline in phosphorous levels since that time is likely due to filter feeding by Zebra Mussels and sequestering large amounts of available nutrients (phosphorous) into Zebra Mussel biomass. However, it is important to note that those nutrients are still present in the ecosystem and once Zebra Mussels reach carrying capacity future die offs will eventually release and cycle those nutrients back into the system.
Data from RMB Environmental Laboratories and the MPCA show that phosphorus levels in Lake Bemidji frequently exceed the Northern Lakes and Forests Ecoregion impairment threshold of 0.03 mg/L. This puts the lake at risk of long-term degradation if phosphorus inputs are not controlled.
One pound of phosphorus can support up to five hundred pounds of algae, illustrating the profound impact even small amounts of nutrient runoff can have on a water body. The ongoing presence of aging and failing septic systems—over 50% of which are more than 25 years old—contributes significantly to phosphorus and bacteria loading, including E. coli, into Lake Bemidji. These issues can present serious health risks and degrade the lake’s overall ecological health.
There can be increased risk of pollution from systems in sandy soils, where onsite systems are densely sited, and drain fields are close the lake. So a centralized system reduces the risk of phosphorus enrichment to lakes compared to individual onsite systems.
- Edie Evarts, DNR Area Fisheries Supervisor
Groundwater Sensitivity
Soil Conditions and Contamination Risks
The soil conditions around Lake Bemidji are highly sensitive, with high hydraulic conductivity that allows water and contaminants to move quickly into the groundwater. This is particularly concerning because groundwater levels are often within three feet of the surface. Traditional septic systems struggle to effectively treat wastewater in these conditions, leading to a higher risk of untreated wastewater contaminating the groundwater and eventually reaching the lake. The Northern Township Wastewater System aims to mitigate this risk by eliminating individual septic systems, thereby protecting the lake’s fragile groundwater and soil ecosystem.
Future Protection
Safeguarding Lake Bemidji's Future
The Northern Township Wastewater System is a comprehensive solution designed to protect Lake Bemidji’s future. By replacing aging and ineffective septic systems, the project will significantly reduce phosphorus inputs, preventing harmful algae blooms and maintaining water quality. Additionally, it will protect sensitive groundwater and soil areas from contamination. This initiative is vital for preserving the lake’s aquatic habitats and ensuring it remains a healthy, enjoyable resource for both residents and visitors for generations to come. Join us in supporting this crucial project to safeguard Lake Bemidji’s future.