Lake Aesthetic and User Recreation Index
for Lake Calhoun
Click here for Current Beach Conditions
Lake Calhoun is part of the Chain of Lakes, a regional park near downtown, that contributes to Minneapolis’ reputation as one of the most liveable cities in America. Home to wind surfing, sea kayaking, canoeing, sailing, fishing and swimming, it is one of the most popular recreation destinations in the Twin Cities. With the Minneapolis skyline in the distance, visitors rent canoes, eat at the Tin Fish Restaurant, play volleyball, and skate, bike and walk the three miles around the lake.
Lake Calhoun rates excellent in aesthetics and water clarity and has low bacteria levels. It does, however, have high amounts of invasive Eurasian watermilfoil.
The Lake Aesthetic and User Recreation Index (LAURI) was developed by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board to give the public information about the recreational suitability of Minneapolis lakes In 2009 the LAURI was changed to give a more accurate, and science based indicator for the public.
The revised LAURI has five indices:
The LAURI was developed to provide recreational users with an additional source of information about the status of MPRB lakes. Aesthetics can be difficult to evaluate since they are dependent on one’s own experience and preferences. But LAURI provides lake users with an easily understandable recreational suitability indicator for MPRB lakes that incorporates aesthetics and the health of the lake. Data is collected during the growing season (May to September).
