​Protecting Dakota County’s valuable surface water and groundwater resources is an important responsibility for everyone who lives and works here.

Dakota County helps protect water quality every step of the way. The County maintains safe drinking water by making sure unused wells are sealed, septic systems are maintained, and regulations are followed. The County protects surface water from contaminants by promoting best practices for fertilizers and reducing stormwater runoff. The County conducts environmental site assessments on brownfield sites for redevelopment or reuse, and regulates clean-up of contaminated sites.

The County is also active in watershed management, stormwater management, shoreland and floodplain regulation and Byllesby Dam administration and management. 

The County even has a role in the safety of recreational beaches and pools.