Information on Big Carnelian Lake

Ordinary High Water    863.90  

100-Yr. Flood Elev.   864.8(FEMA) 

Big Carnelian Lake is an exceptionally clean lake with a well-developed shoreline and excellent recreational opportunity. The shoreline is experiencing ongoing redevelopment pressure as small seasonal cabins are converted to year-around residences. The water quality of Big Carnelian is much better than that of many others in the watershed. Lake levels have been generally stable since the 1985 completion of the District outlet to the St. Croix River, but does rise and fall moderately with fluctuations in annual precipitation. Citizens are primarily concerned with protecting lake water quality which is most influenced by runoff non-point source pollution and discharges from Carnelian Creek.  Big Carnelian is listed on the EPA’s 303(d) list of impaired waters due to the mercury content in fish.