Our Lakes

The 1,178 acres comprising the Fairmont chain of lakes, is a part of a 400 square mile, 20,000-acre watershed. Just south of town, the water flows north through a reservoir from North Silver Lake. These waters are a part of the Minnesota River Watershed, taking our water north all the way up to St. Paul where it enters the Mississippi River and ultimately flows to the Gulf of Mexico. So not only do we want to enjoy our lakes and waters here, but we are responsible for the water that is leaving our state!

Enjoy these lakes all year round! Paddling, Swimming, Boating, Fishing, Skiing, Skating, Snowshoeing, Pond Hockey, Ice Fishing and more!

Lakes MapShoreline and N-S Distance

Shorebirds

Shorebirds commonly seen: Ducks, Geese, Pelicans, Seagulls, Cormorants, Herons and Coots. Most shorebirds arrive in April. Occasionally we will see Eagles and our state bird, the Common Loon. Puddle or Dabbler type of ducks commonly seen: (those that are able to lift off from the water or land immediately and feed with their bottoms tipped up) Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Wood Duck and the Black Duck. Diver type of ducks commonly seen: (those that have to first patter along the water surface for several yards before they can lift off the water to become airborne) Bufflehead, Canvasback, Redhead and the Ringneck. These guys dive deep depths to feed.

Turtles

Turtles commonly seen: Snapping turtle, Painted turtle and the Soft Shell turtle.

Kids and Pets

Kids and Pets are great fun to boat with, just make sure all are safe! Kids with life jackets and dogs on a leash. Yes, Fairmont has a ‘leash law’ but also a Dog Park! After boating let your dog out to play at Fairmont’s 1.5-acre dog park located at 1450 South Prairie.

Algae

Algae: The green microscopic plants that sometimes appear in our lakes are a natural part of any aquatic environment. Most are harmless, but extreme blooms can occur, and if that occurs, don’t swim where it’s thick or a blue-green color.

Fish

Fish Species: There are over 15 species of fish caught in our lakes. Muskies were introduced in 2016.