Local watershed districts, including the Carnelian-Marine-St. Croix, Comfort Lake – Forest Lake, and Ramsey-Washington Metro, are tapping into new funds from the state to reduce flood risk.
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Chasing rainbows in the shallows
Seeing rainbows in the water at a stream or wetland near you? It could be from pollution, but not always! Learn how to tell the difference between natural sheens and spilled oil.
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Staying warm and upright during Minnesota’s winters
Twenty-five years later, I’m still wearing that same pair of snow pants and mukluks and I’ve picked up a few additional tricks for staying warm and upright during Minnesota’s winters.
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Local cities find innovative strategies to reduce chloride pollution
From heated sidewalks to GPS-based snow plow systems, local cities are taking big steps to reduce chloride pollution.
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Owl and fisher with a side of fox
Many wildlife species are becoming more abundant in our area, thanks to reforestation and conservation efforts.
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Will derby ducks sail on a cleaner creek in 2025?
The City recently restored a 300ft stretch of degraded stream along 3rd Ave. N near Perro Park, in partnership with Middle St Croix Watershed Management Organization (MSCWMO) and the Washington Conservation District. The goal of the project is to stabilize the streambank, reduce the amount of sediment and phosphorus flowing downstream to the St. Croix River, and improve habitat along Perro Creek.
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The Science of Leaves
Leaves are the primary source of organic matter in a woodland ecosystem and release essential nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen as they decompose. In urban and suburban environments, however, fall leaves can also be a major source of stormwater pollution.
Studies show street sweeping can reduce phosphorus concentrations in stormwater by up to 80%.
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The art of finding green leaves in a dull brown forest
It was a bare tree, brown leaf, bummer kind of day.
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Tending trees and lake on the edge of the Northwoods
In recognition of his many years of volunteer efforts tending trees and water on the edge of the Northwoods, Tom Furey was selected as the Washington County Conservation Cooperator of the year for 2024. He also received a Watershed Champion award from the CLFLWD at their 25th Anniversary celebration in September.
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Connecting at the Confluence
Sarah Lilja is the artist in residence at South Washington Watershed District and has spent the past year capturing images of people, places, and projects in the watershed. Her photography will be on display at Carpenter Nature Center (12805 St. Croix Trail S, Hastings) from November 5 – December 5 in an exhibit entitled Connecting at the Confluence: Photographs of natural places & community connections in the South Washington Watershed District. The exhibit opening on Nov. 7, 6-8pm is free and open to the public.
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East Metro Water 