Greetings from the Minnewaska Lake Association (MLA)! The spring and summer of 2025 brought fantastic fishing and recreational opportunities, and despite some ice access challenges last winter, ice fishing remained strong. We’re proud that Minnewaska became a recognized MN Keep It Clean Lake in 2024, with 22 signs installed to remind everyone to keep trash and waste off the ice and out of the lake.
Last year’s 25th Annual Banquet was another sold-out success. Our projects are funded by memberships, banquet proceeds, and donations. MLA is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, so your donations are tax-deductible. We have several initiatives planned for 2026 and invite you to renew your membership and consider donating. Donations may now be allocated between General Fund, Aquatic Invasive Species, and Walleye Stocking.
The MLA continues to coordinate with the City of Starbuck regarding Aquatic Invasive Species surveys and treatments in the Starbuck Marina and the main lake. A comprehensive Point Intercept (PI) survey in 2025 established a baseline for aquatic plants (both native and invasive) leading to new discoveries and targeted management. We believe Minnewaska to be the largest lake in Minnesota with this entire lake sampling profile data.
Our walleye stocking program remains essential, with an additional 2,000 pounds of walleye fingerlings released last fall, totaling more than 1.2 million since 1998.
We thank the Pope County Land & Resource Department and the MN DNR for their past and continued financial help with the invasive species projects on Lake Minnewaska.
Thank you all for your ongoing support and dedication to Lake Minnewaska. We look forward to seeing you all at our 26th Banquet on June 27, 2026!
Respectfully,
Steve Nelson,
President, MLA