Minnesota pollinators face a daunting array of challenges. Habitat loss, pesticides, pathogens, pollutants and the effects of climate change all affect declining native pollinator populations. At times, addressing these challenges can seem overwhelming. …

Clean Water Funds from BWSR, backing from Red Lake Watershed District and Red Lake County support agricultural practices that mend gullies, focus on Lower Clearwater River —

Two Central Minnesota lakes’ removal from the impaired waters list reflects the cumulative effects of rural conservation, Clean Water Fund-backed stormwater treatment in Kimball, Watkins —

Clean Water Fund-backed, watershed-focused work reversed a trend in declining water quality. It also built partnerships and changed the way the SWCD approaches conservation projects. —

In a one-time, two-month pilot in Murray County, foraging sheep provided required CRP maintenance, spurring regrowth with hoof action, nibbling

From across Minnesota, examples of BWSR-backed water quality work that contributed to proposed removals from the state’s impaired waters list in 2022

Despite setbacks, the Aakres have expanded practices they started with assistance from the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. They’ve added more conservation practices on their own, and have come out ahead in the long run. —

Beltrami SWCD’s Clean Water Fund-backed project in Bemidji targets nutrient-impaired Lake Irving, but its benefits extend to Lake Bemidji and beyond. The work will safeguard a source of Twin Cities drinking water, contain the flow in case of an oil spill, beautify a bike trail and increase pollinator habitat. —

After several wet years, most of Minnesota is experiencing severe drought. Many native plants can withstand dry periods due to their deep roots and other adaptations. The following species are among those observed in recent months to withstand drought conditions. Keep in mind that all plants need some water to…