Since 2015, MCWD has worked with communities in the watershed’s headwaters to develop and implement a collaborative vision to improve water and natural resources, while integrating local development goals in the Six Mile Creek – Halsted Bay (SMCHB) Subwatershed.
Wassermann Lake Preserve Receives Design Award
MCWD is excited to announce that the Wassermann Lake Preserve received an American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Merit Award for General Design at the Minnesota Chapter’s Annual Banquet on April 24, 2026. MCWD and the City of Victoria completed the Preserve in 2021 to provide new lake-front recreation space for the surrounding community, while improving water quality and habitat in Wassermann Lake.
“Wassermann Lake Preserve has been a truly transformational project for our community, and it’s wonderful to see our work recognized at this level,” said Dana Hardie, Victoria City Manager. “While awards often highlight design excellence, what stands out to me is what we were able to accomplish through our shared vision and collaborative spirit.”
The Preserve connects visitors to the regional trail system, featuring paved paths and a scenic shoreline boardwalk. A picnic shelter, fire ring, and nature-based play area offer welcoming spaces for families to gather and play, complemented by interpretive exhibits that highlight the watershed’s hydrologic connections. The project also restored nearby shoreline and wetland habitats and included installation of a new fishing pier and kayak dock to enhance recreational access to the Lake. The Preserve is a testament to the value of meaningful partnerships and creative planning, serving as a shining example of Balanced Urban Ecology.
East Auburn Wetland Restoration Reaches Substantial Completion
MCWD, in partnership with the City of Victoria, recently completed construction of the East Auburn Wetland Restoration project, one of several projects the District is advancing as it works upstream to downstream within the SMCHB Subwatershed. The project included the installation of a sheet-pile weir to restore the hydrologic function of 11 acres of wetland and reduce nutrient loading by an estimated 45 pounds per year, improving water quality downstream in impaired East Auburn Lake. By establishing a more permanent pool of water, the restoration will also improve habitat for native wildlife.
During construction, invasive species such as common buckthorn were removed to support the establishment of native vegetation. Crews also completed minor site regrading and planted more than 40 plants across five native species to stabilize streambanks and strengthen ecological function.
In addition to the wetland restoration, MCWD and the City replaced the degraded pedestrian boardwalk that crosses the wetland and connects to the City’s system of over 53 miles of trails and sidewalks. While the new boardwalk is constructed, it will remain closed until the City completes a handrail installation to enhance user safety. For updates on trail access and closures, please visit the City’s website.
Also in this update
- Connecting With the Carver County Board of Commissioners