FAQ's

Q. How large will the channels and bridges be between the lakes, and what size of boat will they accommodate?
A. Ideally we would like to see the channels large enough to accommodate a safe walkway under Hwy. 8 and with enough width and height for a standard size pontoon boat with its top up.

Q. Would the channels increase water transfer between the lakes affecting the water levels?
A. The DNR has been observing the water flow since the County drain project started, and has observed the water flow in both directions. During high water cycles, the lakes do not vary more than .03 feet and equalizes within 3 days. Only during a drought and extreme low water levels have the lakes separated and varied their water levels. The water levels only affected by "Mother Nature", and the Chisago Lakes drainage project.

Q. Will connecting the lakes cause a significant increase in visitors crowding our lakes?
A. The number of visitors is directly related to the number of available parking spaces for trailers at the existing public landings. Instead of one lake with concentrated traffic, it will be disbursed among 5 lakes for boat users. The ones who will use the lakes more are those living on them. Also the cities strictly enforce the "no parking " laws on city streets next to the boat landings.

Q. Will connecting the lakes increase my taxes or will I be assessed for them?
A. The channels and bridges proposed under Hwy. 8 in Center City and Lindstrom would be covered by MNDOT and the monies already allocated for Hwy. 8 improvements. The Channel and bridge between North Lindstrom Lake and North Center Lake is a county road. It is our intent to obtain these monies for improvements through fund raising, donations (general and public) and public grants without local tax assessments.

Q. How many acres and miles of shoreline would be available to boaters if the lakes were connected?
A. The combined lakes would consist of 3,075 acres, and over 32 miles of shoreline. This is why it was once called "Big Lake".

Q. If the lakes were connected, would it help promote economic development and real estate values in the Chisago Lakes Community?
A. Without a Doubt! The common bond between Center, Chisago, and Lindstrom Cities are our Lakes. When the channels are restored our communities will once again be navigable by water. Each city is individually unique but with the shared commonality of our lakes.