Our History

RWMWD History

Early 1970’s

An early Joint Powers Agreement was created to address erosion and flooding concerns around Battle Creek. This agreement was the precursor to the formation of RWMWD.

1975

RWMWD is formed.

1977

The first watershed management plan is created.

1982

Battle Creek construction to manage flooding and erosion is completed.

1986

The second watershed management plan is approved. This plan merged the District’s watershed regulation, planning and construction activities with the related activities of cities, counties, and conservation districts located within District boundaries.

1996

Ownership and operation of the Beltline Interceptor outlet and pipeline was transferred to RWMWD from the City of St. Paul and the Metropolitan Council.

1997

The third watershed management plan is created. This plan marked the beginning of an integrated resource management plan.

2007

An updated management plan is approved and implemented.

2009

The Phalen Chain carp research project and carp management begins.  This project is one of the first of its kind and shows remarkable impact on water quality.

2012

RWMWD expands to include the former Grass Lake Water Management Organization (GLWMO) land area, which included seven lakes: Snail, Grass, Wabasso, Owasso, Emily, Judy and Bennet.

2012

A four year, multiphase project at Maplewood Mall completed, which now filters 67% of rainwater at the site. This project launched a an ongoing trend of larger, targeted retrofit grant installations with city, county, business, and faith community partners.

2017

The most recent Watershed Management Plan is adopted.

Want to know where watersheds came from?

Read a brief history of Minnesota watersheds.