• Secchi Disc Readings - BBLA began taking Secchi Disc readins in 1971. Presently, volunteers monitor and report on water clarity at 21 locations weekly during the summer.
• Diagnostic Study - BBLA promoted a key engineering study to analyze deteriorating lake water clarity. The study formed the basis for grants to clean up Fish Creek and other lake pollution sources.
• Clean Water Partnership Grant - BBLA received a grant to feed fundlot improvement along Fish Creek
• Water Testing - BBLA volunteers sample and test the water for phosphorus from twelve inflows.
• Buffer Strips - In 1999, BBLA began contracting with area farmers to establish 33 foot buffers on creeks and ditches flowing into Big Birch Lake.
• Support Septic System Upgrades - BBLA diagnostic study prompted County septic system upgrade mandate.
• Seminars to Educate Residents About Keeping Water Clean - Promoting shoreline Best management Practices and Zero Phosphorus Fertilizers.
• Long Range Planning - Developing Big Birch Lake watershed management plan.
• Walleye and Game Fish - Support for DNR walleye stocking and game fish surveys in Big Birch Lake.

Safety and Security - BBLA works with both Todd and Stearns County water patrols to assue safe lake use:

• Marking channel and shallow water hazards
• Reporting unsafe boating practices
• Signing public accesses

Working with Government Agenicies and Others - BBLA multiplies its effectiveness by connecting with public agencies to accomplish its program. These agencies include:

• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
• Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
• Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources
• Todd County and Stearns County Planning and Zoning Boards
• Sauk River Watershed District
• University of Minnesota Extension Service
• County Sheriff Departments
• Local Governments
• Minnesota Lakes Association and other area Lake Associations