State of the River

I recently attended the presentation " State of the River" at Hayes community Center in Apple Valley. This excellent presentation was put on by Friends of the Mississippi, The National Park Service and the Vermillion River Watershed.It was a fast paced presentation with facts and information on the Mississippi Minnesota,and Vermillion Rivers. The study  determined that these rivers and waterways have been compromised and are not healthy. One of the major problems to be singled out; the build up of silt in the Minnesota River and Mississippi .The  silt problem in turn affects Lake Pepin. A surprising and sobering piece of information put forward, was that  in 300 yrs Lake Pepin may dry up due to the buildup of silt.I learned there are things that I can do, and the general public can do.Take a look at any products that are anti bacterial in your homes and work places. If Triclosan is an ingredient, discontinue using, and dispose of it. Triclosan is surprisingly not only in hand sanitizers but shampoos and lotions and dish washing liquids to name just a few items. Triclosan has been found to be a major contributor to the silt problem in our waters.Please check labels on soaps and all personal care products and avoid these if they contain Triclosan.  This is an action I can do today,to promote the quality and health of our waters, for tomorrow.