This largest lake in the watershed is used for a variety of recreational activities.
Lake Owasso is major regional recreational resource used for fishing, boating, waterskiing and swimming. Roseville’s Central Park North (along the south shore of the lake) and Owasso County Park in the city of Shoreview (on the north side) provide two public access points including a boat launch and a public swimming beach. Lake Owasso receives water from Bennett Lake and Lake Emily.
Lake facts
| Tributary area | 2,175 acres |
| Downstream waterbody | Lake Wabasso |
| DNR code | 62‑0056P (click for LakeFinder data) |
| Surface area | 375 acres |
| Average depth | 11 feet |
| Maximum depth | 37 feet |
| MPCA designations | Deep lake; impaired for mercury |
| Accountable municipalities | Roseville, Shoreview, Ramsey County |
| Nutrient water quality classification | At risk |
Water quality
The following graphs show the growing season average measurements in Lake Owasso for chlorophyll-a, total phosphorus and secchi transparency. Lake Owasso is sampled for water quality parameters every two weeks from May through September.
Lake Water Level
Note: Readings during winter months while the lake is frozen may show rising numbers, which is an indicator of snow and ice on the lake rather than the water level.
Past projects
Notable District water quality improvement projects in the watershed include:
Central Park Elementary School
Carp Management – Owasso Chain
More information
You can find detailed information on Lake Owasso and its tributary area in our watershed management plan.