Quality of Water - Quality of Life

The SLPA works to protect the quality of water in the Big Spirit Lake watershed and to maintain and enhance the quality of life for the people who use it.

Spirit Lake North Watershed Project

SLPA has recently launched a campaign to fund the Spirit Lake North Watershed Project, which will permanently protect approximately 195.50-acres within the Iowa Great Lakes Watershed in Jackson County, MN. Land protected will become a Waterfowl Production Area owned and managed by the USFWS and open to public recreation.

Featured Projects

Docks & Access Points

Public docks create access for all users on Big Spirit Lake.  The SLPA works to create, maintain and enhance docks and other access points for boaters as well as winter visitors.

Mini-Wakan

As the crown jewel of the Work Projects Administration buildings on Big Spirit Lake, the SLPA was instrumental in saving and remodeling the lodge at Mini-Wakan State Park.

Water Quality

As a part of the “Quality of Water” goal, the SLPA participates in efforts to assess water quality and reduce excess nutrients and runoff into Big Spirit Lake.

Fireworks

The July 3rd fireworks display over Big Spirit Lake is the largest yearly expenditure for the SLPA and results in ongoing fundraising efforts.

Bulrush Preservation

Along the shoreline in Anglers Bay grows the largest, best quality stand of bulrushes to thrive in the Iowa Great Lakes.

Other Projects

In addition to the major projects, The SLPA participates in several smaller projects that contribute to quality of water and quality of life.

Latest News

2024 Events

  • July 3, Pancake Breakfast - Mini-Wakan State Park
  • July 3, 10:00 PM Fireworks on Big Spirit Lake
  • August 17 - SLPA Annual Meeting - Mini-Wakan State Park

2024 Board Meeting Dates

All meetings begin at 8:00 am on the second Saturday of the month, April to October, at the Orleans City Hall unless otherwise noted.

  • April 13 - Board Meeting - Orleans City Hall
  • May 11 - Board Meeting - Orleans City Hall
  • June 8 - Board Meeting - Orleans City Hall
  • July 13 - Board Meeting - Orleans City Hall
  • August 10-11 Event - Okoboji Blue Water Festival
  • August 17 - Annual Members Meeting and Board Meeting - Mini-Wakan State Park Lodge
  • September 14 - Board Meeting - Orleans City Hall
  • October 12 - Board Meeting - Orleans City Hall