Overview
Chanhassen has 12 Lakes that provide aesthetic, environmental and recreational value to the community. There are 7 recreational development lakes and 5 natural environment lakes. Several parks located on or near these recreational waters provide boat ramps, fishing access and/or swimming beaches along with trails and picnic areas.

Eutrophication

Lake Eutrophication is the process of plant growth, particularly algae stimulated by nutrient enrichment. Excessive nutrients in our lakes can cause accelerated eutrophication, and lead to detrimental effects such as algae blooms and fish kills. Excessive nutrient levels in lakes are caused by increased runoff from development that carries with it fertilizer from yards and agricultural fields, grass clippings, leaves, and other pollutants. Nutrients can also be released from the substrate and re-suspended in the water column. Eutrophication is one of the largest water quality concerns in the Metropolitan Area.