“Red” is the word that likely inspired the name of the Vermillion River. Imagine the ochre deposits. Native Americans used them for body painting. That’s the likely origin of the Vermillion River’s name.
The Vermillion River is a vital waterway. It stretches almost 60 miles. The river flows through Scott and Dakota Counties. Finally, it meets the Mississippi River south of Hastings.
Interestingly, a significant portion is a designated trout stream. About 13.5 miles offer a rare trout habitat. It is quite unusual near a metropolitan area. Anglers come for catch-and-release fishing. They seek the elusive brown trout. The river was once known for trophy-sized trout. Now, those catches are rare.
The river’s health is closely monitored. Upstream, near Farmington and Lakeville, trout thrive. But downstream from the waterfall in Hastings, the water warms. This warmth supports different species. You’ll find northern pike and freshwater drum there. In 1940, a record black crappie was caught here. It weighed five pounds.
Centuries ago, the Vermillion River powered gristmills. Its water drove progress. Alexander Ramsey, a prominent Minnesotan, operated a mill here. Today, a park preserves the mill’s ruins.
Dedicated groups protect the Vermillion River. Minnesota Trout Unlimited invests in restoration. They remove invasive species. Buckthorn is a common target. The Vermillion Riverkeepers, a local volunteer group, also help. They work with the Department of Natural Resources.
Friends of the Mississippi River run the Vermillion Stewards Program. They organize cleanups and educational events. These efforts restore the watershed. They protect this essential resource.
The Vermillion River watershed is the largest in the Twin Cities area. It covers 372 square miles. It flows through several counties. This includes Scott, Dakota, and Goodhue. Before joining the Mississippi, the river drops dramatically. It creates a scenic gorge. The Vermillion River Bottoms are a Twin Cities treasure.
Despite urban growth, the Vermillion River remains. It’s a reminder of Minnesota’s natural beauty. It shows the importance of conservation. The river’s story continues. The Vermillion River remains a treasure. Its waters flow toward the future.