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Prior Lake News Compass
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Things are getting technical on Spring Lake this week as researchers begin a year-long study tracking radio-tagged carp to help improve our local water quality. While the fish are on the move, our Laker boys' tennis team is staying put at the top of the podium, having just secured their first-ever South Suburban Conference championship and an undefeated regular-season legacy! We’re also looking at some seasonal shifts, including the return of odd/even watering restrictions and a heartfelt farewell from Superintendent Michael Thomas as he prepares for his next chapter. Check out the "Somethin' 'Bout a Truck" family fun event and catch up with the latest city updates. Everything you need to stay in the loop is just a scroll away.
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Top Story
A researcher from the Prior Lake-Spring Lake Watershed District tracks carp that were tagged as part of a behavior study. (Photo provided by the PLSLWD)
Year-long carp study on Spring Lake aimed at producing better water quality
Residents who live, fish or play on Spring Lake may reap the benefits of two organizations working together to study common carp found in the lake. The study's ultimate goal is to identify where and when carp are concentrated in certain parts of the lake, making it easier for them to be captured and removed.
The joint project will have the Prior Lake-Spring Lake Watershed District working in tandem with the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) at the University of Minnesota. The study was expected to begin in early May and will involve implanting a small number of carp found in Spring Lake with a radio tracking device and then monitoring them for the next year.
City
 | Warm weather watering restrictions now in effect within Prior LakeAll irrigation and non-essential use of the municipal water supply system is restricted to odd/even days before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. daily, May 1 to Oct. 1, for residences with single family homes. |
 | Tickets on sale for Lakefront Music Fest being held July 10-11Prior Lake Rotary's Lakefront Music Fest, which has grown into one of the largest music festivals in the metro area, is scheduled for July 10-11 at Lakefront Park. |
More City News
Schools
 | Search has begun for new PLSAS superintendentThe Prior Lake-Savage Area School Board took the first steps in looking for its next superintendent during a special planning meeting held May 11, and a lone finalist is expected to be chosen by early June. |
 | Guest column: Superintendent's farewellAs many of you know, Superintendent Michael Thomas will be transitioning from his role as superintendent at the end of this school year after accepting the position of Superintendent for Hopkins Public Schools. Thomas wants to share his sincere gratitude as he prepares for this transition. |
Prior Lake in the Past
This weekly column contains summary excerpts of news items published in the Prior Lake American decades ago. We hope our readers enjoy remembering those who are mentioned from years past, and this feature provides historical perspective about how much the community has changed over the decades.
Prior Lake Police Log
This weekly report is based on information submitted by the Prior Lake Police Department for responses. All calls for service may not be included; all subjects arrested and named are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Obituaries
Sports
 | Laker boys' tennis team secures first-ever SSC championshipThe Prior Lake Lakers have officially solidified their regular-season legacy, finishing as undefeated South Suburban Conference (SSC) boys' tennis champions. |
More Sports News
Featured Event
 | May 19 | “Somethin' 'Bout a Truck” - Prior Lake Maintenance CenterChildren and adults will be able to climb in the equipment and explore more about the day-to-day activities of the public works department from 4 to 7 p.m. Activities will include painting a snowplow, a construction-themed obstacle course and food trucks. |
Events
May 15 | Music in the Park - Lakefront Park
Attendees are invited to bring a chair, sit back and enjoy the free Zero Below concert, playing classic rock and country hits from 6 to 8 p.m. Coolers are welcome (no glass), and food trucks will be on site with tasty treats for purchase.
May 16 | Food Truck Fest - Downtown Prior Lake
The downtown Prior Lake area will be filled with food and fun during the Food Truck Fest hosted by the Laker Educational Foundation from 3 to 7 p.m. Tasty food, treats, cold drinks and live music will make for a fun event.
May 17 | Crutches 4 Africa equipment collection - Prior Lake VFW
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Prior Lake Rotary will accept donations of mobility equipment that will be sent to Africa to help those in need.
May 21 | PLAY travel baseball golf tournament - The Wilds Golf Club
The event will begin with a noon shotgun start, followed by dinner and a silent auction. Community members who don't golf are still invited to enjoy the fun. Bingo will kick off at 4 p.m. with access to the silent auction and evening festivities.
May 23 | Basic archery classes - Cleary Lake Park
Archery for women is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon and provides an opportunity for women to learn about the basics of archery and elements of safety. A family archery course is also being taught.
May 29 | Home Front Heroes Gala - Brackett's Crossing Country Club
Hosted from 5:30 to 10 p.m. by founders Erik and Gina Therwanger, the purpose of the event is to award scholarships to honor the sacrifices of military spouses.
May 30 | Bike Safety Rodeo - Hidden Oaks Middle School
The free event will allow children to show off bike safety skills, have their helmet fit-tested and enjoy a bike obstacle course, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
June 10 | Annual Youth Fishing Derby - Cedar Lake
The event will provide children ages 10-15 with everything needed for a day of fishing on the lake, including bait, gear, food and beverages. Prizes will be awarded, and all participants will receive a gift.
June 10 | Chamber's annual golf tournament - The Wilds Golf Club
The event will include a day of golf, networking, on-course games and a happy hour reception with an awards presentation. Registration will begin that day at 7:30 a.m., followed by a shot gun start at 8 a.m.
In Case You Missed It
Top clicked stories from last week
Police respond to welfare check request; two found dead in PL home
PLSAS explores putting two referendum questions on November ballot
Addendum to superintendent’s contract approved after board debate
Northfield Public Schools hires PLSAS leader as its new superintendent
Work on roundabout at County Roads 23 and 68 will last until mid-July
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