Biological Survey of the Minnesota River

During the summers of 1978-1982 37 miles of the Minnesota River underwent a biological survey. This survey included both fish and insect species. The survey listed 53 species that comprised the fish community of the reaches studies by this project. Sampling of benthic invertebrates showed Hydropsychiae, Ephemoroptera and Chironomidae to be the major constituents of the benthic community. It was determined that agriculture, erosion, turbidity and nutrient levels are all factors which are detrimental to the native flora and fauna of the Minnesota River Valley.