The Department of Natural Resources is lowering the water level of a lake in Sartell to get rid of its algae-blooming habitat.

The DNR says Little Rock Lake has been listed as impaired water by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency because of large amounts of phosphorus. The high concentrations have contributed to algae blooms.

By lowering the water level, the DNR expects to improve water quality by stabilizing shoreline, removing excess nutrients and encouraging natural plant growth.

The process is called a drawdown, and is proposed to last through the end of August.

Shallow levels could affect recreation on the Mississippi River since it’s connected to the lake.