Cottage Grove, Minnesota, experiences a humid continental climate characterized by warm, wet summers and cold, snowy winters. Throughout the year, temperatures typically range from 10°F to 83°F, with July being the warmest month, averaging a high of 82°F, and January the coldest, averaging a low of 7.5°F. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed, with June being the wettest month, averaging 3.74 inches of rainfall. Snowfall predominantly occurs from December to February, totaling up to 12.61 inches during the season.
In response to environmental challenges, Cottage Grove has implemented several initiatives to protect its natural resources. The city is in the process of renewing its Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP) as required by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). This program outlines strategies to protect local ponds, wetlands, and the Mississippi River from stormwater pollution.
Additionally, the city is addressing concerns related to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination. A new water treatment facility is currently under construction to ensure safe and sustainable drinking water for residents. This facility is part of a broader plan to treat existing public wells and add new water treatment plants to address PFAS contamination.
Furthermore, the Eagles Point Water Resource Recovery Facility, serving Cottage Grove and neighboring communities, provides advanced secondary treatment with ultraviolet disinfection to wastewater before discharging it into the Mississippi River. This facility has an excellent environmental record and regularly earns state and national awards for operational excellence.
Through these initiatives, Cottage Grove demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of its residents.