“Ever wonder where Minnehaha Creek begins?” That’s the question we’ll answer as we explore Sixmile Creek. This creek is more than just a waterway. It’s the headwaters of the Minnehaha Creek watershed.
Sixmile Creek flows through Hennepin and Carver Counties. It drains a large area south and west of Lake Minnetonka. The creek eventually flows into Halsted Bay. This bay is the westernmost part of Lake Minnetonka.
The origin of the name Sixmile Creek remains unclear. Though locals joke that someone bad at measurement probably named it. It is about 11 miles long. From Parley Lake to Lake Minnetonka, it stretches about six miles.
The Six Mile Creek watershed covers approximately 17000 acres. That is about 69 square kilometers. Several lakes feed into Sixmile Creek. These include Lake Pierson, Marsh Lake, and Wasserman Lake. Also, Lake Auburn, Lunsten Lake, Parley Lake and Mud Lake contribute. Other lakes in the watershed are Carl Krey Lake, Church Lake, and Crosby Lake. Don’t forget Stieger Lake, Stone Lake, Sunny Lake, Turbid Lake, and Zumbra Lake.
However, not all is well. Five waterways within the Six Mile Creek-Halsted Bay area are impaired. Issues include invasive carp and stormwater runoff. Degraded wetlands and agricultural impacts also pose challenges. Halsted Bay receives significant pollution. In fact, it is the most degraded bay on Lake Minnetonka.
Thankfully, efforts are underway to improve the situation. The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District designated Six Mile Creek-Halsted Bay as a focal geography in 2015. A 10-year plan aims to improve water quality and habitat.
The Six Mile Marsh Prairie Restoration is a prime example. This project restored connections between Six Mile Creek and its wetlands. By converting cropland to native vegetation, soil health improved. This helps filter nutrients and improve water quality.
The Six Mile Marsh Prairie encompasses restored prairie, wetlands, and oak savanna. New trails connect to the Dakota Regional Trail. This creates recreation opportunities for all.
Visitors can explore the restored tallgrass prairie and wetlands. Interpretive signage explains the ecosystems’ role in the hydrologic cycle. Damon Farber designed an immersive experience. This minimizes construction impact. It creatively interprets the landscape.
Hikers can overlook interconnected ecosystems. A 3D map orients visitors within the watershed. Hammock-style loungers invite relaxation. Take a moment to appreciate the unique landscape.
Through dedicated partnerships and restoration projects, Sixmile Creek is seeing improvements. These efforts enhance water quality and preserve natural habitats. Next time you’re near Lake Minnetonka, remember the journey of Sixmile Creek. It’s a story of challenges, restoration, and the importance of preserving our headwaters.