The Future of Southern Minnesota Lakes Conference Returns To Inspire Action on Lake Planning, Preservation, and Restoration

Mankato, MN— Jan. 8, 2026 — ISG is bringing back The Future of Southern Minnesota Lakes Conference for its fourth year from March 6–7, 2026 creating space for lake association members, environmental professionals, and community leaders dedicated to preserving and restoring Southern Minnesota lakes. Building on the success of the past three years, the conference, hosted at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center in Mankato, will offer participants practical tools, innovative strategies, and resources to make a measurable impact on lake water quality.

Agenda

This year’s conference introduces a new Lake Management Planning Workshop on Friday, March 6, during which attendees will have the opportunity to develop their own lake management plans with support from subject-matter experts. Participants will leave the workshop with plan outlines and next steps to implementing their plans. We recommend a minimum of two attendees per organization for this event. If you cannot secure a second attendee, a commissioner, Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) staff, or nearby lake association member may participate. A social hour and networking event on Friday evening will offer additional opportunities for collaboration and idea sharing.

The conference will commence on Saturday, March 7, and attendees will participate in interactive shoreline management activities, explore case studies on lake dynamics, and gain insights into best practices for lake restoration.

"The Future of Southern Minnesota Lakes Conference is a one-of-a-kind event that brings together passionate people who truly care about protecting our lakes," said Julie Blackburn, ISG’s Water Business Unit Leader. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see ideas from this conference turn into action and improve our communities."

Registration Information

Registration is now open! Sign up for the Lake Management Planning Workshop by February 6, 2026, and for the conference on Saturday by March 6, 2026. Space is limited, so early sign-up is encouraged. For more information about the conference and to reserve your spot, visit bit.ly/2026lakesconference-isg.