River channels change in shape and direction over time. But climate change and agriculture are accelerating the process. In recent decades, the flow of water through local rivers has steadily increased. The Le Sueur River’s flow has doubled over the past 60 years. (1/3)

Before European settlement, wetlands, lakes, and prairie potholes covered the Greater Blue Earth River Basin. These systems filtered and slowed the water entering the river. Urban development and agriculture has removed more than 90% of these wetlands. (2/3)

Now, increasing rainstorms and snowmelt remove tons of sediment far more quickly. And the streams and rivers are changing, in response. Erosion has intensified. Trees are falling down into the river. Rivers are widening.

Learn more: https://blueearthcountyhistory.com/we-are-water-minnesota/ (3/3)