In 1989, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources created the Adopt-a-River program to help clean up the growing amount of trash lining the state's rivers. Since then, Minnesota Power has joined forces with over 200 other organizations to assist in the cleanup of Minnesota’s public waterways.

It is now time for Minnesota Power to take this initiative to a new level. MP's recreation compliance requirements are now providing increased opportunities for public use on and around reservoirs and rivers in Minnesota. This increase in recreational use has put added strain on the natural surroundings. There is now a growing daily challenge to clean up the man-made garbage that is accumulating throughout the waterways.

Minnesota Power’s Adopt an Island program has been created to meet this challenge. We are seeking devoted individuals, family, friends and organizations to join us in cleaning up an island or section of shoreline to promote a safe environment for everyone. Adopt an Island is launching its program on Fish Lake Reservoir and Rice Lake Reservoir in July 2007. The stewardship plan will include Island Lake Reservoir, Boulder Lake Reservoir and Whiteface Reservoir by 2010 as new recreation opportunities are developed.