Inver Grove Heights, 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 a low of 64°F. The coldest month, January, sees average lows around 7.3°F and highs near 23.4°F. Annual precipitation averages 34.2 inches, with the wettest months being May and June.
Environmental Initiatives
The city is proactive in preserving its natural resources. The Environmental Advisory Commission (EAC), a nine-member citizen body, reviews environmental issues such as land alteration permits and wetland replacement applications. The EAC also promotes public awareness of local environmental concerns. Meetings are held as needed on the fourth Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers.
Water Resource Management
Inver Grove Heights is home to over 630 lakes and wetlands and borders the Mississippi River. To protect these vital water bodies, the city has implemented several programs:
- Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP): This program aims to reduce pollutants in stormwater runoff through public education, illicit discharge detection, and construction site runoff control.
- Wellhead Protection Plan: Designed to safeguard groundwater aquifers supplying municipal drinking water, this plan identifies potential contamination sources and outlines measures to prevent pollution.
Residents can contribute by redirecting water runoff to gardens, planting native vegetation, and keeping debris out of storm drains.
Recent Environmental Concerns
In recent years, the city has faced environmental challenges. In December 2022, 11 bald eagles were found poisoned near a local landfill, likely from consuming carcasses of euthanized animals disposed of at the site. After rehabilitation, six of these eagles were successfully released back into the wild.
Additionally, in June 2026, Inver Grove Heights enacted a temporary moratorium on data center construction amid public concerns over environmental impacts, including water usage and energy consumption. This reflects a broader apprehension about the expansion of AI-related infrastructure and its ecological footprint.
Understanding the local climate and participating in environmental initiatives are crucial for maintaining the health and sustainability of Inver Grove Heights’ natural resources.