The Yellow Medicine River Watershed is located in Southwestern Minnesota and drains approximately 665 square miles. The hydrologic atlas describing the characteristics of the watershed contains three sheets. These sheets describe the water budget, ground water, and surface water of the drainage area.

Rapidan Dam is located on the Blue Earth River. A permit was granted for the redevelopment of this dam for electricity production. the operation of this dam had been observed to have adverse effects on the fish communities of the river. This study was completed prior to the dams renewed operation so that it might be used for comparison with a study after the dam began producing power. The researchers found that the major sport fish harvested in 1984 was channel catfish. Secondary sport fish caught were walleye and northern pike. Fish-kills were observed due to low levels caused by the dam.

The River Survey Report contains a variety of studies performed on the Minnesota River between Mankato and the Mississippi River. First, there is an explanation of the geology and topography of the area. The next section contains physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the river. The findings of the survey indicated that the Minnesota River is highly susceptible to quick runoff and the erosion that results. The authors do not believe that a full scale river reclamation project is practical, however, they do suggest that limiting the pollution inputs is possible.

This publication is the first biological survey of the section of the Minnesota River that flows from Lac Qui Parle Dam to Mankato. The purpose of the study was to gain an understanding of what fish species were present and in what numbers so that fisheries managers could make informed decisions. The survey contains a list of the fish species that were collected and some of its tributaries. Also included are a description of the watershed and river, discussion of the effects of pollution, and a history of fisheries management.