Snelling Lake

Snelling Lake earns an F: phosphorus readings still being added and clarity at 1.6 ft signal heavy nutrient loading from the surrounding watershed.

At a TSI of 70, Snelling Lake reads as eutrophic — nutrient-rich enough that summer algal growth and reduced clarity are expected, not unusual. Snelling Lake is a shallow lake at 10 ft maximum depth, which means it warms quickly, mixes constantly, and amplifies nutrient inputs. At 103 acres, Snelling Lake fits the Minnesota median for monitored lakes, with 1.9 miles of shoreline. Within Hennepin County's 95 graded lakes, Snelling Lake ranks 61 — below the local median, though not at the bottom.

Snelling Lake carries an invasive watermilfoil record — boat-launch decontamination and shoreline care matter more here than at uninfested lakes. The fishery is bass-led, with 10 documented species across the lake's records. A documented public access point at Snelling Lake makes the lake usable for shore fishing, paddle craft, and trailered boats. The grade is based on limited monitoring — fewer than three independent measurement years contribute, so future updates may shift the letter.