Formed in 1980 as an alternative to designation of the river into the National Wild and Scenic River System, the Mississippi Headwaters Board (MHB) works to protect and preserve the first 400 miles of the Mississippi River in Minnesota.
A joint powers board of Clearwater, Beltrami, Cass, Hubbard, Itasca, Aitkin, Crow Wing and Morrison Counties, the MHB is mandated by Minnesota Statutes 103F.361-377 to enhance and protect the natural, cultural, historic, scientific and recreational values of the headwaters region.
MHB achieves its goal of river protection through cooperative land use planning in the eight counties, in conjunction with the Chippewa National Forest and the Leech Lake Indian Reservation.
MHB promotes water quality monitoring, education and stewardship activities for shoreland property owners, and embraces the efforts of local citizens, students and government groups who work together to protect the river in their community and preserve the splendor of this national treasure.
MHB's success in protecting the Mississippi River is seen in the clean water the leaves the Headwaters region on its journey to the Gulf, a legacy for future generations.