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pond</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/pond.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Pond</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-12-11T15:07:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/12/05/try-chicken-grit-as-an-eco-friendly-alternative-to-salt/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/what-is-grit-for-chickens-pin-683x1024-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>what-is-grit-for-chickens-pin-683x1024</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/img_6019.png</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6019</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/too-much-salt.jpg</image:loc><image:title>too much salt</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/img_6011.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6011</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/screenshot-2025-12-01-113246.png</image:loc><image:title>Screenshot 2025-12-01 113246</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-12-01T17:52:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/11/28/beaver-love-a-new-initiative-aims-to-help-beavers-and-people-co-exist-in-harmony/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/american_beaver-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>American_Beaver (1)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/american_beaver.jpg</image:loc><image:title>American_Beaver</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5912.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5912</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5888.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5888</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5887.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5887</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5877.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5877</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5872.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5872</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5871.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5871</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5868.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5868</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5860.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5860</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-11-25T21:19:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/11/21/how-a-billboard-helped-to-transform-weeds-into-prairie/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5814.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5814</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5816.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5816</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5818.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5818</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5824.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5824</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5819.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5819</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/wendy-with-a-billboard.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Wendy with a billboard</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/oriental-bittersweet-vine-dellwood_2012.jpg</image:loc><image:title>oriental bittersweet vine - Dellwood_2012</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5840.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5840</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_5837.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5837</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_1650-medium.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1650 (Medium)</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-11-20T21:39:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/11/18/fish-with-a-side-of-anti-depressant/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/septicsmart-poster-bathroom-scaled-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>septicsmart-poster-bathroom-scaled</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/magnitude-of-detections.png</image:loc><image:title>magnitude of detections</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/img_1769.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1769</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-11-04T15:14:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/11/07/cattails-to-the-rescue/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/cattails-in-an-oakdale-wetland.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Cattails in an Oakdale wetland</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-11-03T20:46:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/10/31/improvements-at-square-lake-park-will-help-to-keep-the-water-pristine/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_5049.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5049</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_0143.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0143</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_1691-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Screenshot</image:title><image:caption>Screenshot</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_5559.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5559</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_5550.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5550</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_5536.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5536</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_5518.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5518</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_5517.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5517</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_5516.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5516</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_5515.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5515</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-10-28T21:48:39+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/10/23/minnesota-water-stewards-goes-statewide/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/better-bonfire.jpg</image:loc><image:title>better bonfire</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/john-goodfellow-2023-tree.jpg</image:loc><image:title>john Goodfellow 2023 tree</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/waterstewards_franconia_zoedealphoto33.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Water Steward Celebration</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/waterstewards_franconia_zoedealphoto29.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Water Steward Celebration</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/waterstewards_franconia_zoedealphoto7.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Water Steward Celebration</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/waterstewards_franconia_zoedealphoto26.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Water Steward Celebration</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/20201009_165124.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20201009_165124</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/20201009_171116.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20201009_171116</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/p1011858.jpg</image:loc><image:title>P1011858</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/david-nuccio-angie-wally-wadd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>David Nuccio, Angie, Wally Wadd</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-10-22T13:38:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/10/17/indigenous-led-organizations-work-to-re-connect-people-with-the-land/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_9197.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9197</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_1273.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1273</image:title><image:caption>People walk through Wakan Tipi</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2025-10-14T19:11:35+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/10/10/subtle-signs-of-a-changing-climate/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/searching-for-aquatic-insects-during-a-family-program-at-carver-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Searching for aquatic insects during a family program at Carver Lake</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_4618.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4618</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_4616.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4616</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_4619.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4619</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_4604.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4604</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_4612.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4612</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-10-07T19:40:09+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/10/03/fall-yard-garden-no-its-not-too-late-to-plant/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_4670.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4670</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_2061.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2061</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/img_2514.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2514</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/mow-leaves.png</image:loc><image:title>Mow leaves</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/375ca7e8-3c85-44d5-b2d2-b1072f14cf42.jpg</image:loc><image:title>375CA7E8-3C85-44D5-B2D2-B1072F14CF42</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/photo-output-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo-output (2)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/asters-blooming-in-october.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Asters blooming in October</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-10-03T20:27:58+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/09/19/meet-our-2025-natural-shoreline-award-winners/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/horselegdockview18july2018.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>HorselegDockview18July2018</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/horselegdock18july2018.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>HorselegDock18July2018</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pond1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Pond+1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/p1011648.jpg</image:loc><image:title>P1011648</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/kim-pond-cropped.jpg</image:loc><image:title>kim pond cropped</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/img_4336.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4336</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/img_4330.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4330</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/img_4328.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4328</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/img_4325.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4325</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/img_4316.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4316</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-09-30T16:10:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/09/26/new-funding-will-help-minnesota-farmers-improve-soil-health-and-incorporate-year-round-vegetation-in-their-fields/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/farm-and-barn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>farm 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Strelow</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-09-26T11:54:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/09/25/beneath-old-growth-oaks-the-cedergren-family-nurtures-healthy-soil-and-a-conservation-ethic/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/first-and-second-annual-reports_chisago-swcd_reduced_page_01.jpg</image:loc><image:title>First and Second Annual Reports_Chisago SWCD_reduced_Page_01</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/chain-lake-pastures.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Chain Lake Pastures</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-09-25T14:42:45+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/09/15/what-to-do-when-the-rain-gets-rainier/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/img_2174.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2174</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/screenshot-2025-09-15-083004.png</image:loc><image:title>Screenshot 2025-09-15 083004</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-09-15T13:50:05+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/events/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/event_hong_launch_square2-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>event_hong_launch_square2-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/nwwcelebrationjun13-1.png</image:loc><image:title>nwwcelebrationjun13-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/event_hong_launch_square2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>event_hong_launch_square2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/event_hong_launch_9x16.jpg</image:loc><image:title>event_hong_launch_9x16</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/nwwcelebrationjun13.png</image:loc><image:title>nwwcelebrationjun13</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-09-08T19:45:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>weekly</changefreq><priority>0.6</priority></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/09/05/flowers-bloom-in-the-shadow-of-a-great-white-bear/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/kiosk2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>kiosk2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/img_2227-installed.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2227-Installed</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/441546655_832819822217382_6518138296046988056_n-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>441546655_832819822217382_6518138296046988056_n (1)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/img_5673.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5673</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/a.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/wild-rice-after-collecting.jpg</image:loc><image:title>wild rice after collecting</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/highbush-cranberry_sept2007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>highbush cranberry_sept2007</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/img_2369.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2369</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/img_2370.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2370</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/white-bear-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>White Bear Lake</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-09-05T20:29:50+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/08/29/zebra-mussels-and-starry-stonewort-spread-to-more-minnesota-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/screenshot-2025-08-28-163117.png</image:loc><image:title>Screenshot 2025-08-28 163117</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/basinwide-1.png</image:loc><image:title>BASINWIDE (1)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/lake-service-provider-ais-flyer.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lake service provider - AIS flyer</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/img_3370.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3370</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/img_3375.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3375</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/volunteers-at-starry-trek-photo-from-umn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Volunteers at Starry Trek - photo from UMN</image:title><image:caption>Volunteers at Starry Trek - photo from 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access</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/img_5110.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5110</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/shorelinestewardshipresolution.png</image:loc><image:title>Shoreline+Stewardship+Resolution</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-08-08T14:05:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/08/15/aug-21-clinic-will-offer-free-nitrate-and-chloride-testing-for-homes-with-private-wells/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/img_1705.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1705</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/washington-fb-post.png</image:loc><image:title>Washington FB 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Falls</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/img_3663.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3663</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/img_3662.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3662</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/img_3650.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3650</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/img_3648.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3648</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-08-05T20:32:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/08/04/browns-creek-winds-its-way-toward-cleaner-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/image.png</image:loc><image:title>image</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/browns-creek-restoration-area-july-1-2025.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Browns 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Lake</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/img_3127.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3127</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/img_3118.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3118</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-07-25T15:21:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/07/18/st-croix-watershed-research-highlights-growing-impact-of-chloride-pollution/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/salty-lakes-zoey-plechaty-greg-seitz.jpg</image:loc><image:title>salty lakes zoey plechaty greg seitz</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/20250226_095328.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20250226_095328</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/scwrs-scientists-studying-salt-greg-seitz.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SCWRS scientists studying salt Greg Seitz</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-07-17T20:28:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/07/10/why-is-my-lake-green/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/bluegreen-algae.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bluegreen algae</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/img_1135.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1135</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-07-10T19:35:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/06/20/good-for-the-goose-and-gander/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/img_5615.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5615</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/wcd-geese.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WCD geese</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/mom-l-and-dad-r-stand-watch-over-their-babies.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Mom L and Dad R stand watch over their 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shoreline-3</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/20220802_110348.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20220802_110348</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/woodduckducklingsonbigmarine.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Wood+Duck+ducklings+on+Big+Marine</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/img_2369.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2369</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/canada-anenome-beneath-a-cottonwood-on-white-bear-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Canada anenome beneath a cottonwood on White Bear Lake</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-06-13T13:01:13+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/05/16/do-turf-lawns-protect-us-from-ticks-or-make-the-problem-worse/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_1259.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Screenshot</image:title><image:caption>Screenshot</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_1262.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Screenshot</image:title><image:caption>Screenshot</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_0471-bc-stone.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0471-BC-stone</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_0449-colbylake-photo-from-washington-conservation-district.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0449-colbylake - Photo from Washington Conservation District</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_6055.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6055</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-06-05T21:07:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/06/06/mississippi-river-looking-forward-looking-back/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/mississippi-dunes-in-cottage-grove.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Mississippi Dunes in Cottage Grove</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-06-04T18:59:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/05/24/keeping-invaders-out-of-minnesota-waters/</loc><lastmod>2025-05-20T21:22:10+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/05/09/no-mow-may-slow-mow-summer/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_5290.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5290</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_4676.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4676</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bad.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bad</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/nmm.beecity.sign_.2023-1024x793-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>NMM.BeeCity.Sign_.2023-1024x793</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_5091.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5091</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-05-08T15:42:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/05/05/state-funds-help-to-amplify-the-work-of-local-government-partners-in-the-st-croix-watershed/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/soil-your-undies.jpg</image:loc><image:title>soil your undies</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_3246.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3246</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_4672.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4672</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/f90e7333-fed9-409f-bd50-bb1d5f676bf1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>F90E7333-FED9-409F-BD50-BB1D5F676BF1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_9501.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9501</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/img_2380.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2380</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/img_0150.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0150</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-05-02T12:16:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/04/25/froggy-figaro/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/img_1426-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1426 (2)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/frog-at-mcdonalds.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Frog at McDonalds</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/003.jpg</image:loc><image:title>003</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/nelson-andy_20080909.jpg</image:loc><image:title>nelson andy_20080909</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kelley-farms.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Kelley Farms</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15566865848-fb7aac97d9-o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>15566865848-fb7aac97d9-o</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dsc00684.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC00684</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/wood-frog.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Wood frog</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-04-24T17:36:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/04/11/tips-for-dry-feet-and-healthy-wetlands/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/20240723_133031.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20240723_133031</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kettle-lake-in-the-northern-st.-croix-watershed.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Kettle Lake in the northern St. Croix watershed</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-04-11T19:17:19+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/04/04/minnesota-lakes-whats-in-a-name/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/screenshot-2025-04-04-074542.png</image:loc><image:title>Screenshot 2025-04-04 074542</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/f731dd9077976fd4413b749d462bedb9-cc_ft_960.jpg</image:loc><image:title>f731dd9077976fd4413b749d462bedb9-cc_ft_960</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/zsunrise-over-decoys.jpg</image:loc><image:title>zSunrise over decoys</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/screenshot-2025-04-03-174355.png</image:loc><image:title>Screenshot 2025-04-03 174355</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/ll-balloons-photo-from-browns-creek-watershed-district.jpg</image:loc><image:title>LL Balloons - photo from Brown's Creek Watershed District</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/long-lake-in-stillwater-photo-from-browns-creek-watershed-district.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Long Lake in Stillwater - photo from Brown's Creek Watershed District</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-04-04T12:58:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/03/25/a-call-for-tree-steward-volunteers/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/img_0391.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0391</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/tree-pruning.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Tree-pruning</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/buckthorn-group-2013.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Buckthorn Group 2013</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/photo-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo 2</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-03-19T20:09:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/03/18/an-apple-farmer-by-day-conservation-champion-for-a-lifetime/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/sustainable-farm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sustainable farm</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jim-with-board.jpg</image:loc><image:title>jim with board</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jim-award.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Jim award</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/judy-and-jim.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Judy and jim</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/judy-and-jim-at-the-orchard.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Judy and Jim at the orchard</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jim.jpg</image:loc><image:title>jim</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jim-and-judy-in-the-apple-sorting-room.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Jim and Judy in the apple sorting room</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jim-and-judy-at-the-farm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Jim and Judy at the farm</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-03-19T02:40:06+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2025/03/14/darks-skies-birds-fly/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/hong-kong-at-night.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Hong Kong at night</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/great-blue-heron.jpg</image:loc><image:title>great blue heron</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/baltimore-oriole-photo-by-russell-reynolds.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Baltimore oriole photo by Russell Reynolds</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/kinglet_lee-miller-e1741725549827.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Kinglet_Lee 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restoration in progress in Mahtomedi</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/462623917_511722111840628_6287955815576899060_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>462623917_511722111840628_6287955815576899060_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/local_leaders_-payment_program_20240930.pptx-1-1.png</image:loc><image:title>Local_Leaders_ Payment_Program_20240930.pptx (1)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/lake-jane-2024.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lake Jane 2024</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/bt-d5-lake-of-the-isles-shoreline-2-med.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BT D5 Lake of the Isles shoreline-2 med</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-10-14T17:59:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/10/11/east-metro-residents-adopt-thousands-of-storm-drains-to-help-protect-lakes-and-rivers/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20191012_cwmn_elliotparkcleanup_001_web.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20191012_cwmn_ElliotParkCleanUP_001_web</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/paul-erdman-adopts-a-storm-drain.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Paul Erdman adopts a storm drain</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/women-daughter-stormdrain.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Women-daughter-stormdrain</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/cwmn_ecofaithnetwork_20180319_0124_web_sm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Clean Water Minnesota Stories</image:title><image:caption>EcoFaith Network</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/adopt-a-drain.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Adopt-a-Drain</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/cwmn_hamlineunitedmethodist_20180618_0059_web.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Clean Water Minnesota Stories</image:title><image:caption>Hamline United Methodist Church &amp; Adopt-a-Drain</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2024-10-08T02:48:36+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/10/03/carrying-stories-around-the-bend-a-restoration-tale-from-rice-creek/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/butterfly-on-goldenrod.jpg</image:loc><image:title>butterfly on goldenrod</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/da713b2e-697b-421d-9da6-7630bf8fe580.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DA713B2E-697B-421D-9DA6-7630BF8FE580</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/img_4065.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4065</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/25afefb0-3947-4e73-9d78-d562265735b7.jpg</image:loc><image:title>25AFEFB0-3947-4E73-9D78-D562265735B7</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/d34aefbb-185b-4c3a-af26-e1a67e4d3e20.jpg</image:loc><image:title>D34AEFBB-185B-4C3A-AF26-E1A67E4D3E20</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ricecreekwatertrail_wayfindermap_2023_202311141122420925.jpg</image:loc><image:title>RiceCreekWaterTrail_WayfinderMap_2023_202311141122420925</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/rice-creek-e1727470428344.jpg</image:loc><image:title>rice creek</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-10-03T14:23:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/10/04/heritage-brook-trout-return-to-afton/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/34597621345_a5307792b8_k-e1727891202610.jpg</image:loc><image:title>34597621345_a5307792b8_k</image:title><image:caption>Photo by Jason Ross/USFWS</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/trout-brook-grand-opening.png</image:loc><image:title>Trout Brook Grand Opening</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/img_7461-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7461</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/img_7461.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7461</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/glacier-30k.gif</image:loc><image:title>glacier 30k</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/glacier-20k-1.gif</image:loc><image:title>glacier 20k</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/glacier-20k.gif</image:loc><image:title>glacier 20k</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/glacier-150k.gif</image:loc><image:title>glacier 150k</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/glacier-16k.gif</image:loc><image:title>glacier 16k</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/glacier-14k.gif</image:loc><image:title>glacier 14k</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-10-02T17:49:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/09/27/new-grant-funds-will-help-to-improve-habitat-connectivity-in-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/bf5bf556-36f6-4fd7-b8f9-f531ad73023f.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BF5BF556-36F6-4FD7-B8F9-F531AD73023F</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2018-06-04-04.29.22.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2018-06-04 04.29.22</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/fy24-help-project-locations.jpg</image:loc><image:title>FY24 HELP project locations</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-09-27T20:44:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/09/13/zebra-mussels-found-in-big-carnelian-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/basinwide.png</image:loc><image:title>BASINWIDE</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/diagram.jpg</image:loc><image:title>diagram</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/zebra-mussels.jpg</image:loc><image:title>zebra mussels</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-09-10T18:33:25+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/09/07/living-on-a-few-acres-dozing-with-a-few-bees/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/me-and-katie-e1725638902985.jpg</image:loc><image:title>me and katie</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/honeycomb-cottage.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Honeycomb Cottage</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/chilling.jpg</image:loc><image:title>chilling</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/beesatwork.jpg</image:loc><image:title>beesatwork</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/also-chilling.jpg</image:loc><image:title>also chilling</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-09-06T16:25:13+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/09/03/celebrating-25-years-of-lake-and-stream-restoration-work-in-the-comfort-lake-forest-lake-watershed/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/dsc02078-e1725031628640.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC02078</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/434402514_748037844137613_8711779568793818821_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>434402514_748037844137613_8711779568793818821_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/capture.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Capture</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/448230344_794143566193707_1977866132931700114_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>448230344_794143566193707_1977866132931700114_n</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-08-30T15:27:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/08/30/restoration-work-underway-along-browns-creek-in-stillwater/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/browns-creek-restoration-underway.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Brown's Creek restoration underway</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/brochure_back_final.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Brochure_back_final</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/dsc_9175.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC_9175</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-08-30T15:03:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/08/26/restoring-hay-lake-one-prairie-at-a-time/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/img_20180703_143920043.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_20180703_143920043</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/img_1518.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1518</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/img_20180703_143954920.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_20180703_143954920</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20171031_082045.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20171031_082045</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/northern_pintails_male__female.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Northern_Pintails_(Male_&amp;_Female)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/hay-5-16-09.jpg</image:loc><image:title>hay 5-16-09</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pestemon-blooming-in-the-rice-prairie-with-hay-lake-in-the-background.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Pestemon blooming in the Rice prairie, with Hay Lake in the background</image:title><image:caption>Pestemon blooming in the Rice prairie, with Hay Lake in the 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D1 S16-2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/after.jpg</image:loc><image:title>After</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20220802_110002.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20220802_110002</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pa15441189906.jpg</image:loc><image:title>PA15441189906</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/shoreline-rules.png</image:loc><image:title>shoreline rules</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/water-levels.jpg</image:loc><image:title>water levels</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/004.jpg</image:loc><image:title>004</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-08-14T04:59:55+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/07/18/and-it-was-all-yellow/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_3961.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Screenshot</image:title><image:caption>Screenshot</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/fe36e57d-e780-4e62-a2a6-464c62a7e8df.jpg</image:loc><image:title>FE36E57D-E780-4E62-A2A6-464C62A7E8DF</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_3559-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3559 (1)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/photo-output-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo-output 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CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/baltimore-oriole-photo-by-russell-reynolds.jpg</image:loc><image:title>baltimore-oriole-photo-by-russell-reynolds</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/lights-out.jpg</image:loc><image:title>lights-out</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-03-21T23:42:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/03/14/burn-baby-burn/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2023-prescribed-burn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2023 prescribed burn</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024-prescribed-fire-open-house-1.png</image:loc><image:title>2024-prescribed-fire-open-house-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/wet-meadow-at-william-obrien-state-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>wet-meadow-at-william-obrien-state-park</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-03-26T22:23:08+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/03/08/shorelines-and-fish-tales/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/image.png</image:loc><image:title>image</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/barbara-talks.jpg</image:loc><image:title>barbara-talks</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/shoreline-scores.jpg</image:loc><image:title>shoreline-scores</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/fish.jpg</image:loc><image:title>fish</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-03-08T17:22:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/02/29/leave-some-for-the-birds-and-bees-please/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/falconhts_034f-monarda.jpg</image:loc><image:title>falconhts_034f, monarda</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/spring-clean-up-temps-1.png</image:loc><image:title>spring-clean-up-temps-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/goldenrod-fly-larva.jpg</image:loc><image:title>goldenrod-fly-larva</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/goldenrod-gall.jpg</image:loc><image:title>goldenrod-gall</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/me-gagging.jpg</image:loc><image:title>me-gagging</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-02-27T16:47:57+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/02/26/with-spring-in-sight-local-communities-prepare-for-an-early-boating-season/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/clflwd-watercraft-inspectors.png</image:loc><image:title>clflwd-watercraft-inspectors</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/watercraft-inspectors.png</image:loc><image:title>watercraft-inspectors</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/curly-leaf20pondweed_fb.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Invasive Species</image:title><image:caption>Invasive Species</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2024-02-26T14:06:10+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/02/15/resource-highlight-blue-thumb-planting-for-clean-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/l2l-with-logos-tall.png</image:loc><image:title>l2l-with-logos-tall</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/r-2011-blue-thumb-logo2c.jpg</image:loc><image:title>(R) 2011 Blue Thumb logo2C</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/bonnie-juran-of-lake-elmo-installed-a-blue-thumb-raingarden-to-protect-klawitter-lake-photo-courtesy-of-bonnie-juran.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bonnie Juran of Lake Elmo installed a Blue Thumb raingarden to protect Klawitter Lake - photo courtesy of Bonnie Juran</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/20190522_cwmn_beelawn_098_web.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20190522_cwmn_beelawn_098_web</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/raingarden-on-klawitter-pond-at-bonnie-jurans-house.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Raingarden on Klawitter Pond at Bonnie Juran's house</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-02-14T16:37:43+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/02/08/minnesota-gains-wetlands-but-not-all-are-created-equally/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_4577.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4577</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/e1f01b8e-fb91-4d85-86a7-d5e33a0069bd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>e1f01b8e-fb91-4d85-86a7-d5e33a0069bd</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_0973.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0973</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/img_4103.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_4103</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-02-07T22:43:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/01/25/sowing-native-seeds-in-winter/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/img_9348.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9348</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/img_4014.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_4014</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/photo-from-clean-water-action.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Maker:S,Date:2017-11-12,Ver:6,Lens:Kan03,Act:Lar02,E-Y</image:title><image:caption>Maker:S,Date:2017-11-12,Ver:6,Lens:Kan03,Act:Lar02,E-Y</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2024-01-23T22:40:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/01/18/when-development-comes-to-town/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/in-croixdale-a-conservation-development-in-lake-elmo-houses-are-built-closer-together-leaving-large-stretches-of-prairie-and-woods-for-wildlife-and-homeowners-to-enjoy.jpg</image:loc><image:title>In Croixdale, a conservation development in Lake Elmo, houses are built closer together, leaving large stretches of prairie and woods for wildlife and homeowners to enjoy</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/capture.jpg</image:loc><image:title>capture</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-01-19T00:53:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/01/11/do-you-caribou/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/image.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>image</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/woodland-caribou.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>woodland caribou</image:title><image:caption>Lake Superior caribou at Ontario's Slate Islands.  Image from Duluth News Tribune.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/lost-40.jpg</image:loc><image:title>lost-40</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/a-woodland-caribou-in-1913.-credit-william-berryman-scott-in-a-history-of-land-mammals-in-the-western-hemisphere.-public-domain.jpg</image:loc><image:title>a-woodland-caribou-in-1913.-credit-william-berryman-scott-in-a-history-of-land-mammals-in-the-western-hemisphere.-public-domain</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2024-01-09T20:29:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2024/01/04/in-the-battle-against-buckthorn-patience-and-plants-are-winning-strategies/</loc><lastmod>2024-01-03T17:19:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/12/29/carnelian-marine-st-croix-watershed-district-recognized-as-2023-watershed-district-of-the-year/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/img_2283.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2283</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20220912_190000.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20220912_190000</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/img_0231.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0231</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/img_2756.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2756</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2b4eba00-dae8-4ce6-81af-d021646fda9c.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2B4EBA00-DAE8-4CE6-81AF-D021646FDA9C</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20231213_182122.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20231213_182122</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-12-22T19:31:43+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/12/21/the-watershed-administrator-who-wouldnt-wear-a-tie/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/43879035_2159656744047154_8658775689324920832_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>43879035_2159656744047154_8658775689324920832_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/grey-cloud.jpg</image:loc><image:title>grey-cloud</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/matt-award.jpg</image:loc><image:title>matt-award</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/bridge-sign-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bridge-sign-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/img_0007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0007</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/aster-in-fall-at-glacial-valley.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Aster in fall at Glacial Valley</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/80c7612a-458c-4f77-984c-a33108465950.jpg</image:loc><image:title>80c7612a-458c-4f77-984c-a33108465950</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/011.jpg</image:loc><image:title>011</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/img_1992.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1992</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-12-21T20:22:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/12/20/share-your-wildlife-stories-and-photos/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/img_2138.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2138</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/barred-owl2-2010-jkt.jpg</image:loc><image:title>barred-owl2-2010-jkt</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/back_yard_bear1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>back_yard_bear1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20211103_084546.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20211103_084546</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/squirrel.jpg</image:loc><image:title>squirrel</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-12-20T17:43:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/12/07/as-cities-work-to-reduce-their-salt-use-more-action-is-still-needed-to-protect-water-resources/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/chloride-impairment-map-2023.jpg</image:loc><image:title>chloride-impairment-map-2023</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-12-05T21:50:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/11/30/green-infrastructure-and-its-maintenance-a-mystery-for-many-homeowners-associations/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/bt-d2-s40-8.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bt-d2-s40-8</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/bt-d2-s04-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bt-d2-s04-2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_20140609_170751.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_20140609_170751</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_5441.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_5441</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_1489.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1489</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/an-algae-covered-stormwater-pond-with-a-shoreline-buffer-of-native-plants.jpg</image:loc><image:title>An algae covered stormwater pond with a shoreline buffer of native plants</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2025-07-08T06:54:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/11/27/minnesota-water-some-getting-better-some-getting-worse/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/legacy_logo-h_rgb.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Print</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/maplewoodmallmainentrance-37s_1200xx1600-900-0-82.jpg</image:loc><image:title>maplewoodmallmainentrance-37s_1200xx1600-900-0-82</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/028.jpg</image:loc><image:title>028</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/winter-bonfire-tom-furey.jpg</image:loc><image:title>winter bonfire - Tom Furey</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/kohlman-lake-photo-from-rwmwd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>kohlman-lake-photo-from-rwmwd</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-11-27T17:46:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/11/21/a-new-future-for-an-old-stream/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/mill-stream-workshop-board_illustrated_opt.jpg</image:loc><image:title>mill-stream-workshop-board_illustrated_opt</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_6085.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6085</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_6148.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6148</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_6147.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6147</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_6149.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6149</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_6150.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6150</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_2758.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2758</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_2763.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2763</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_2755.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2755</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/burris-park-winter-3.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Burris Park winter 3</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-11-23T01:26:01+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/11/09/two-wcd-staff-members-celebrate-20-years-of-watershed-work-in-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/erik-newport-4th.jpg</image:loc><image:title>erik-newport-4th</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/erik-bone-inlet.jpg</image:loc><image:title>erik-bone-inlet</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/20230912_150540.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20230912_150540</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-11-09T19:32:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/09/20/turtle-tunnel-provides-a-rare-glimpse-into-the-secret-lives-of-wildlife/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_0372.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0372</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/newly-installed-turtle-crossing-south-of-big-marine-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Newly installed turtle crossing south of Big Marine Park</image:title><image:caption>The turtle tunnel is made of concrete, inlaid into the road, with opening on the top to let light in. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/blandings-turtle.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Blanding's turtle</image:title><image:caption>This fall, the Washington Conservation District finally captured a photo of a Blanding's turtle in the tunnel. Blanding's are a threatened species in Minnesota.  </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/garter-snake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>garter snake</image:title><image:caption>Garter snake</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/weasel.jpg</image:loc><image:title>weasel</image:title><image:caption>Weasel in summer.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/rcnx0086.jpg</image:loc><image:title>RCNX0086</image:title><image:caption>A motion activated camera catches the backside of a snapping turtle as it passes through the turtle tunnel on Washington County Hwy 4. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/opossum.jpg</image:loc><image:title>opossum</image:title><image:caption>Opossum</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/snapping-turtle.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Snapping turtle</image:title><image:caption>A second photo, showing the snapping turtle from the front. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2023-11-09T18:30:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/11/02/sunrise-river-wetland-enhancement-promises-cleaner-water-downstream/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img_3192.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_3192</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/sunrise-river-hwy-61-wetland-enhancement.jpg</image:loc><image:title>sunrise-river-hwy-61-wetland-enhancement</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/molly-swims-at-wild-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Molly swims at Wild River</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/lookout-at-wild-river-visitor-center.jpg</image:loc><image:title>lookout at Wild River visitor Center</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/prepping-to-fish-at-wild-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>prepping-to-fish-at-wild-river</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-11-06T07:46:27+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/10/26/living-large-on-a-small-lake-exploring-natural-environment-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/east-boot-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>East Boot Lake</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/plaisted_0704c.jpg</image:loc><image:title>plaisted_0704c</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/img_0865.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0865</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/living-large-on-a-small-lake.png</image:loc><image:title>Living Large on a Small 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25</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-06-06T16:46:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/06/01/ford-plant-closes-hidden-falls-returns/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/40dcc-bordner2.png</image:loc><image:title>Bordner+2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_8978.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8978</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/img_8964.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8964</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/bob-fossum-talks-about-the-project-with-a-group-of-stormwater-educators.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bob-fossum-talks-about-the-project-with-a-group-of-stormwater-educators</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/highland-bridge-community-with-central-water-feature-and-trails.jpg</image:loc><image:title>highland-bridge-community-with-central-water-feature-and-trails</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/hidden-falls.jpg</image:loc><image:title>hidden-falls</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-06-01T19:20:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/05/18/native-gardens-for-sun-and-shade/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/purple-prairie-clover-one-of-the-flowers-featured-in-the-sunny-garden.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Purple prairie clover - one of the flowers featured in the sunny garden</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/spiderwort.jpg</image:loc><image:title>spiderwort</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/red-osier-dogwood.jpg</image:loc><image:title>red-osier-dogwood</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/img_1465.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1465</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-05-16T19:06:39+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/05/12/be-ais-smart-this-fishing-season/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/bait-disposal-container.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bait-disposal-container</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/attention-anglers.jpg</image:loc><image:title>attention-anglers</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_051.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_051</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_017.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_017</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_014.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_014</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_022.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_022</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/053b7b67-cf3d-4d14-a238-a0ed1695494b-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>053b7b67-cf3d-4d14-a238-a0ed1695494b-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/catching-panfish.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Catching panfish</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-05-11T19:45:10+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/05/09/anti-being-anti-no-mow-may/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pexels-photo-4582573.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>yellow dandelions growing on grassy lawn near rural house</image:title><image:caption>Photo by Erik Mclean on &lt;a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/yellow-dandelions-growing-on-grassy-lawn-near-rural-house-4582573/" rel="nofollow"&gt;Pexels.com&lt;/a&gt;</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/adi32230179mississippi-fr.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Summer in MN.</image:title><image:caption>Summer in MN.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/img_4828.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4828</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-05-23T15:37:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/05/15/feeling-loony-in-forest-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/img_1954.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1954</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/img_1976.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1976</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/img_1964.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1964</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/photo-oiled-kemps-ridley-turtle-recovery-041817-noaa-750x500-inset.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo-oiled-kemps-ridley-turtle-recovery-041817-noaa-750x500-inset</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-05-04T21:42:05+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/05/05/a-modern-day-lorax-or-two/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/c3e261a9-e923-4c54-9f33-31eabd689d9e.jpg</image:loc><image:title>c3e261a9-e923-4c54-9f33-31eabd689d9e</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/img_5769.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_5769</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/kids-plant-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>kids-plant-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/kids-plant.jpg</image:loc><image:title>kids-plant</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxl_20230424_151925188.mp_.jpg</image:loc><image:title>pxl_20230424_151925188.mp_</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxl_20230427_153109754.mp_.jpg</image:loc><image:title>pxl_20230427_153109754.mp_</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pxl_20230427_160003278.mp_.jpg</image:loc><image:title>pxl_20230427_160003278.mp_</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/planting-in-snow.jpg</image:loc><image:title>planting-in-snow</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/trees.jpg</image:loc><image:title>trees</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/planting.jpg</image:loc><image:title>planting</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-05-04T21:30:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/04/28/prairie-rising/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/341509428_772401514215218_3873015232832309328_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>341509428_772401514215218_3873015232832309328_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/volunteers-planting.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Volunteers Planting</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/thatcher-prairie-post-burn_20110507.jpg</image:loc><image:title>thatcher-prairie-post-burn_20110507</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-05-01T19:27:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/04/21/meet-the-rare-plants-and-animals-of-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/img_1614.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1614</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/image5.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>image5</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/salamander.jpg</image:loc><image:title>salamander</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/img_2091.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2091</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/img_3231.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3231</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/6a5f87ae-df54-41b3-827e-3afd194abfcd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>6a5f87ae-df54-41b3-827e-3afd194abfcd</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mudpuppy-in-the-frozen-st.-croix-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>mudpuppy in the frozen St. Croix River</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/bullsnake-st.-croix-bluffs-rp.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bullsnake St. Croix Bluffs RP</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-04-21T15:42:42+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/04/13/the-world-comes-back-to-life/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/img_1293.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1293</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/leave-some-for-the-birds-and-bees-in-spring.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Leave some for the birds and bees in spring</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/img_8236.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8236</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/img_8325.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8325</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/img_8404.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8404</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-04-12T21:05:27+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/04/06/a-healthy-shore-is-a-happy-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/shoreline-comparison.jpg</image:loc><image:title>shoreline-comparison</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/capture.jpg</image:loc><image:title>capture</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/img_8383.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8383</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-04-05T16:57:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/03/30/bee-lawns-and-slow-mow-summer/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/e2d8532c-e5a2-46b3-bd4a-c376473e89eb.jpg</image:loc><image:title>E2D8532C-E5A2-46B3-BD4A-C376473E89EB</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/bee-lawn-prairie-and-native-plants-at-wcd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bee lawn, prairie and native plants at WCD</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-03-30T13:27:25+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/03/16/continuing-a-legacy-of-soil-and-water-conservation/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/img_0323.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0323</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/sen.-matt-klein-laura-zanmiller-david-nuccio-john-rheinberger-brian-watson-tim-behrends-jay-riggs-diane-blake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sen. Matt Klein, Laura Zanmiller, David Nuccio, John Rheinberger, Brian Watson, Tim Behrends, Jay Riggs, Diane Blake</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/tnp-family-event.jpg</image:loc><image:title>tnp-family-event</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/dscn1729.jpg</image:loc><image:title>dscn1729</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/img_3186.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3186</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-03-15T18:31:34+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/03/09/trout-return-to-aftons-trout-brook/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/trout-brook-at-afton-state-park.png</image:loc><image:title>Trout Brook at Afton State Park</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-03-09T23:16:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/03/02/an-end-to-fish-favoritism/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/golden-redhorse-on-the-st.-croix-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>golden redhorse on the St. Croix River</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-03-02T18:04:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/02/23/busy-buzzing-bees-and-such/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/51c710b6-d7ac-4430-a9c8-b3890947c95b.jpg</image:loc><image:title>51c710b6-d7ac-4430-a9c8-b3890947c95b</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/black-swallowtail-butterfly-on-wild-bergamot-monarda-fistulosa-1.png</image:loc><image:title>black-swallowtail-butterfly-on-wild-bergamot-monarda-fistulosa-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_2019.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2019</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7068.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_7068</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/monarch-on-common-milkweed.jpg</image:loc><image:title>monarch-on-common-milkweed</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/fullsizerender.jpg</image:loc><image:title>fullsizerender</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/black-swallowtail-butterfly-on-wild-bergamot-monarda-fistulosa.png</image:loc><image:title>black-swallowtail-butterfly-on-wild-bergamot-monarda-fistulosa</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/dsc_2595.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC_2595</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-02-24T01:26:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/02/16/growth-and-change-at-william-obrien-state-park/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_1552.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1552</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_3475.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_3475</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_1695.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1695</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_4417.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_4417</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_8590.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8590</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-02-14T23:03:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/02/14/planning-ahead-for-a-rainy-day/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/clflwd-award.jpg</image:loc><image:title>clflwd-award</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/20230131_113906.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20230131_113906</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/bwca-summer-08-021.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bwca-summer-08-021</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_0272.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0272</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/c6fa7886-9a8e-4474-b278-2bee552a6362.jpg</image:loc><image:title>C6FA7886-9A8E-4474-B278-2BEE552A6362</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-02-14T14:29:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/02/09/mimicking-nature-with-green-infrastructure/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/episode-144-solarpunk-the-future.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Episode 144 Solarpunk the Future</image:title><image:caption>Episode 144 Solarpunk the Future</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/road-salt.jpg</image:loc><image:title>road-salt</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-03-27T10:06:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/02/02/womans-best-friend/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/bwca-07-camping-055.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA 07 camping 055</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10001483_10152005290646169_1068724254_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>10001483_10152005290646169_1068724254_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/img_2137.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2137</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/img_6950.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6950</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/molly.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Molly</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-02-02T17:13:00+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/01/26/bringing-public-art-into-stormwater-management/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/img_3564.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3564</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/sculpture-garden-with-wetland-restoration-and-native-habitat.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sculpture garden with wetland restoration and native habitat</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-01-24T17:00:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/01/19/beating-the-winter-doldrums-events-and-activities-to-keep-you-moving/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/pine-point-winter.jpg</image:loc><image:title>pine point winter</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/img_2264.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2264</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/img_6228.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6228</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/6f7fac28-1274-4fcf-9be7-f43190e38a9c.jpg</image:loc><image:title>6f7fac28-1274-4fcf-9be7-f43190e38a9c</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/img_21371.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2137(1)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>007</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/006.jpg</image:loc><image:title>006</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/bd156e0c-334e-491a-acea-045f9ae406c1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BD156E0C-334E-491A-ACEA-045F9AE406C1</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-01-22T20:40:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/01/12/planning-for-pollinators-on-a-dreary-winters-day/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/img_6422.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6422</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/prairie-book.jpg</image:loc><image:title>prairie-book</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/img_6121.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6121</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-03-01T23:58:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2023/01/06/to-dam-or-not-to-dam/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/mississippi-river-at-st.-anthony-falls.jpg</image:loc><image:title>mississippi-river-at-st.-anthony-falls</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-01-06T23:03:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/12/29/numbers-for-the-new-year/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/photo-output.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo-output</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/48c2e34b-cc80-4443-9e3a-76d296ae9282.jpg</image:loc><image:title>48C2E34B-CC80-4443-9E3A-76D296AE9282</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/bmp-database.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bmp-database</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/18_6.jpg</image:loc><image:title>18_6</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/20180710_092631.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20180710_092631</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-12-20T21:43:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/12/14/jim-pechacek-and-caroline-mecklin-selected-as-2022-outstanding-conservationists/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/maswcd-award-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>maswcd-award-2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/washington2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>washington2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/washington1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>washington1</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-12-14T22:00:27+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/12/09/a-very-hygge-holiday/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/img_8007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8007</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/2022-salt-workshop.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2022-salt-workshop</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/img_4756.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_4756</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/snowshoe-hiking-beside-a-winter-stream.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Snowshoe hiking beside a winter stream</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/img_5432.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_5432</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-12-09T20:21:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/02/18/land-cover-and-pollinators-theres-a-map-for-that/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/pollinator-map-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>pollinator-map-smaller</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/farmsprawl.jpg</image:loc><image:title>farmsprawl</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/urbanization-on-the-horizon.jpg</image:loc><image:title>urbanization-on-the-horizon</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/marschner-map-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>marschner-map-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/marschner-map.jpg</image:loc><image:title>marschner-map</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/capture.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Capture</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/mn-early-settlement-vegetation-map.gif</image:loc><image:title>MN early settlement vegetation map</image:title><image:caption>The Marschner Maps show what natural vegetation grew in Minnesota prior to settlement. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/city-country-land.jpg</image:loc><image:title>city-country land</image:title><image:caption>It's easy to find places in Washington County where farm fields have been developed over the past ten years. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2022-12-02T20:34:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/09/08/saturday-sept-10-stacked-with-opportunities-for-nature-enjoyment-and-stewardship/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3017.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3017</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_8868.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8868</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_8852.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8852</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/george-vania-is-ready-to-talk-about-birds-a-the-browns-creek-community-event.jpg</image:loc><image:title>George Vania is ready to talk about birds a the Browns Creek community event</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/e-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>E (2)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_6682.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6682</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_6678.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6678</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_2710.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2710</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_2709.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2709</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/fullsizerender.jpg</image:loc><image:title>FullSizeRender</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-12-01T03:28:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/09/01/going-native-fall-is-a-great-time-to-plant/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_8660.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8660</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/021.jpg</image:loc><image:title>021</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/286.jpg</image:loc><image:title>286</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/landscape.jpg</image:loc><image:title>landscape</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-12-01T03:28:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/08/25/local-lakes-at-risk-of-too-much-love/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2512.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2512</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2275.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2275</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2285.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2285</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/a-canoe-on-big-marine-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A canoe on Big Marine Lake</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_8439.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8439</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_3009.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_3009</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_1297.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1297</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-12-01T03:28:01+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/08/19/a-secret-world-beneath-the-surface-of-the-soil/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/7bf50428-9820-4a69-b335-d482ec5bc6fb.jpg</image:loc><image:title>7bf50428-9820-4a69-b335-d482ec5bc6fb</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2653.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2653</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2699.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2699</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2697.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2697</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2707.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2707</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-12-01T03:27:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/08/11/bring-on-the-bees/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/48fbcbae-820e-4f3b-8755-2474c2a178ec.jpg</image:loc><image:title>48FBCBAE-820E-4F3B-8755-2474C2A178EC</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/49bb2b51-6719-4d33-9084-7f17d620304d.jpg</image:loc><image:title>49bb2b51-6719-4d33-9084-7f17d620304d</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/bee-in-bee-lawn-at-wcd-office.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bee-in-bee-lawn-at-wcd-office</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/6e37ed92-f16c-4cb9-865b-28411bd74177.jpg</image:loc><image:title>6E37ED92-F16C-4CB9-865B-28411BD74177</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-12-01T03:27:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/12/01/sweeping-streets-and-clearing-drains-for-a-cleaner-st-croix-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/photo-4.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo 4</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-11-29T16:46:17+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/11/28/strange-facts-about-two-of-minnesotas-favorite-comeback-animals/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/turkeys-yard_2010.jpg</image:loc><image:title>turkeys-yard_2010</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/20211103_084546.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20211103_084546</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-11-28T22:42:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/11/12/new-technology-coming-from-australia-to-fight-pfas-forever-foam/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/battle-creek-with-foam.png</image:loc><image:title>Battle Creek with foam</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-11-19T08:17:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/02/23/stormwater-detective/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/minnesota-conservation-corps-volunteers-stencil-a-storm-drain-near-the-st-croix-river-with-the-message-do-not-dump-drains-to-the-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DCIM100MEDIA</image:title><image:caption>Minnesota Conservation Corps volunteers stencil a storm drain near the St. Croix River with the message "Do not dump, drains to the river."</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2022-11-07T14:35:52+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/11/04/new-study-finds-that-plastic-pollution-is-pervasive-in-national-parks-across-the-united-states/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/d46fa-annacummins.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>annacummins</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/sean_connaughtygc7a1854.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sean_ConnaughtyGC7A1854</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/img_5135.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_5135</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/img_5097.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_5097</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-11-04T17:53:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/10/27/kristina-smitten-and-jackson-meadow-recognized-as-2022-community-conservationist/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ce278-904fbe_ff3e81422c1b42a899f0ce5236bac1a1mv2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>904fbe_ff3e81422c1b42a899f0ce5236bac1a1~mv2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/9b6a2-904fbe_0ad5db7583e7439d9b23704dd1debad6.jpg</image:loc><image:title>904fbe_0ad5db7583e7439d9b23704dd1debad6</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20220720_140459.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20220720_140459</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/homes-nestled-in-the-savanna-at-jackson-meadow.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Homes nestled in the savanna at Jackson Meadow</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-10-27T18:57:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/10/24/mercury-levels-going-down-in-minnesota-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_6218.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6218</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/e1f01b8e-fb91-4d85-86a7-d5e33a0069bd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>e1f01b8e-fb91-4d85-86a7-d5e33a0069bd</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/tanners-lake-in-oakdale.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Tanners Lake in Oakdale</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-10-24T21:40:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/10/13/walking-in-the-woods-new-initiatives-to-grow-and-tend-the-forests-in-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/log-cabin-landing.jpg</image:loc><image:title>log-cabin-landing</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_1422.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1422</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/wally-wadd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/long-lake-conservation-area.jpg</image:loc><image:title>long-lake-conservation-area</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/barbara-heitkamp-tim-foss-and-tara-kelly-talk-about-forests.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Barbara Heitkamp, Tim Foss, and Tara Kelly talk about forests</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-10-10T17:53:58+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/10/05/the-changing-landscape-of-nature-based-education-in-minnesota/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/st.-croix-valley-sna-4.jpg</image:loc><image:title>st.-croix-valley-sna-4</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/6a604592-81ea-48df-ba48-7310067238c7.jpg</image:loc><image:title>6a604592-81ea-48df-ba48-7310067238c7</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/e15e4fc8-6474-42b2-9437-e199acd5d01e.jpg</image:loc><image:title>E15E4FC8-6474-42B2-9437-E199ACD5D01E</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4531.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4531</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_0227.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0227</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_0389.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0389</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/kindergarten-at-dodge-photo-courtesy-of-dodge-nature-center.jpg</image:loc><image:title>kindergarten-at-dodge-photo-courtesy-of-dodge-nature-center</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/photo-from-dodge-nature-center.-we-need-to-see-more-children-and-adults-of-all-races-out-in-nature.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Photo from Dodge Nature Center. We need to see more children and adults of all races out in nature</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4023.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4023</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-10-05T20:11:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/09/19/friends-of-lily-lake-invites-community-to-celebrate-lakes-de-listing-on-september-30/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_0115.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0115</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-10-03T21:49:38+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/09/30/undies-in-the-garden/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3684.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3684</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-09-29T18:22:03+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/09/29/la-la-la-leaves/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_9555.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9555</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_95321.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9532(1)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_9528.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9528</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_9525.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9525</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_4011.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4011</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-09-29T17:56:25+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/07/07/creating-water-and-wildlife-friendly-gardens-with-native-plants/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/img_4248.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_4248</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/highbush-cranberry_berries.jpg</image:loc><image:title>highbush-cranberry_berries</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/milweed-beetles-dance-the-tango-on-a-common-milkweed-flower-.jpg</image:loc><image:title>milweed beetles dance the tango on a common milkweed flower</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-08-19T21:56:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/06/22/lower-st-croix-watershed-partnership-ramps-up-support-for-local-farmers/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/copy-of-field-day-for-production-ag-farmers.png</image:loc><image:title>copy-of-field-day-for-production-ag-farmers</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/big-river-farms.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Big River Farms</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/pre-frost-harvest.jpg</image:loc><image:title>pre-frost-harvest</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/jennifer-hahn-in-chisago-county-farm-field.jpg</image:loc><image:title>jennifer-hahn-in-chisago-county-farm-field</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/img_0827.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0827</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/planting-corn-into-a-vertically-tilled-field.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Planting corn into a vertically tilled field</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-08-19T21:53:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/08/04/mysterious-creatures-of-the-st-croix-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2091.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2091</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2115.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2115</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2134.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2134</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2114.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2114</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/img_2133.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2133</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/golden-redhorse.jpg</image:loc><image:title>golden redhorse</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/237475933_1385382748499979_4814796045028980333_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>237475933_1385382748499979_4814796045028980333_n</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2023-09-02T17:35:45+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/07/28/whats-in-the-water-you-drink/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/cmscwd-well-water-testing-clinic-facebook-post.png</image:loc><image:title>CMSCWD well water testing clinic (Facebook Post)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/township-testing-results.jpg</image:loc><image:title>township testing results</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-07-30T13:43:39+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/07/22/exploring-land-based-living-habitat-restoration-hobby-farms-and-more/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/copy-of-untitled-design-facebook-cover.png</image:loc><image:title>Copy of Untitled Design (Facebook Cover)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/untitled-design.png</image:loc><image:title>untitled-design</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-07-22T18:21:38+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/07/20/volunteer-to-protect-minnesota-lakes-from-aquatic-invasive-species/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_018.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_018</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_034.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_034</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/community-event.jpg</image:loc><image:title>community-event</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2021-0622-cwmn_invasivespeciesevent_aisdetector_linklavey_web_044.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2021-0622-cwmn_InvasiveSpeciesEvent_AISdetector_LinkLavey_web_044</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-07-20T19:58:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/06/30/3-moms-3-boys-1000000-mosquitoes-a-boundary-waters-adventure/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/img_0967.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0967</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/img_1704.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1704</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/20220624_192123.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20220624_192123</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/290759757_10159874240614105_4781545172708877676_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>290759757_10159874240614105_4781545172708877676_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/img_0970.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0970</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/img_0958.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0958</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/img_0955.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0955</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/img_0948.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0948</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/img_0900.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0900</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-06-29T17:51:52+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/06/29/mississippi-river-take-a-drink-then-pass-it-on/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/img_5721.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5721</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2022-07-22T01:10:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2022/06/02/who-maintains-raingardens-after-they-are-planted/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/051222_raingarden-workshop_0003_edits.jpg</image:loc><image:title>051222_Raingarden 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Managers</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-12-24T01:15:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/12/16/sustainable-stillwater-recognized-as-washington-countys-2021-community-conservationist/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/6569e-5f2519_c55a69ed223e44129f636de661eb5e69mv2.webp</image:loc><image:title>5f2519_c55a69ed223e44129f636de661eb5e69~mv2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/img_6357.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6357</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/img_3016.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3016</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/ruth-alliband-talks-about-adopting-a-raingarden.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Ruth Alliband talks about adopting a raingarden</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/louise-watson-left-talks-with-sustainable-stillwater-volunteers.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Louise Watson, left, talks with Sustainable Stillwater volunteers</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-12-16T17:01:08+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/12/09/the-secret-life-of-the-st-croixs-freshwater-mussels/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/b559d-freshwatermusselsfromthemississippiriversitinaboxasfivepeoplestandaroundlookingatthem..jpg</image:loc><image:title>Freshwater+mussels+from+the+Mississippi+River+sit+in+a+box+as+five+people+stand+around+looking+at+them.?format=1500w</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/charlie-hong-aspiring-marine-biologist-shows-mussels-from-the-st.-croix-river-e1638977931771.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Charlie Hong, aspiring marine biologist, shows mussels from the St. Croix River</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-12-09T15:01:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/12/02/fossils-glaciers-and-the-water-we-drink/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/zsunrise-over-decoys.jpg</image:loc><image:title>zSunrise over decoys</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/img_0191.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0191</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/img_0274.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0274</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/fossils-in-limestone-from-lilydale-brickyards-e1638452691762.png</image:loc><image:title>Fossils in limestone from Lilydale brickyards</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-12-02T14:07:52+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/11/26/give-me-a-home-where-the-bees-and-butterflies-roam/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/black-swallowtail-butterfly-on-wild-bergamot-monarda-fistulosa.png</image:loc><image:title>Black swallowtail butterfly on wild bergamot - monarda fistulosa</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-11-23T14:43:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/11/11/pfas-contamination-works-its-way-to-the-st-croix-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/minnesota-pfos-impairments-image-from-mpca.png</image:loc><image:title>Minnesota-PFOS-impairments, image from MPCA</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/st.-croix-river-at-boom-site.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix River at Boom Site</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-11-10T21:27:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/11/04/wetland-in-your-yard/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/img_1747.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1747</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/20200830_132637.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20200830_132637</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-11-02T21:30:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/10/14/street-sweepers-to-the-rescue/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2021-adopt-a-drain.png</image:loc><image:title>2021 Adopt a Drain</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/forest-lake-street-sweeper.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Forest Lake street sweeper</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-10-30T01:56:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/10/28/rich-fen-poor-bog/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/boardwalk-at-tamarack-nature-preserve.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Boardwalk at Tamarack Nature Preserve</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-10-30T01:54:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/10/26/salt-a-growing-problem-for-minnesotas-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/battle-creek-lake-one-of-40-metro-water-bodies-impaired-by-chlorides.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Battle Creek Lake - one of 40 metro water bodies impaired by chlorides</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/26551157738_a9dd41a1af_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>26551157738_a9dd41a1af_o</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-10-30T01:54:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/10/21/channeling-a-life-long-passion-for-water-protection-toward-community-change-in-forest-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/curt-sparks-talks-about-citizen-lake-monitoring.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Curt Sparks talks about citizen lake monitoring</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-10-19T16:09:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/10/11/on-the-forest-and-the-trees/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/c43ecb87-c47a-4b96-9430-7c359a1463d3.jpg</image:loc><image:title>c43ecb87-c47a-4b96-9430-7c359a1463d3</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/img_9366-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_9366-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/img_9360.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_9360</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/img_9366.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_9366</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/mow-leaves.png</image:loc><image:title>Mow leaves</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/b8cd5bc4-6403-41e4-b60a-ccb577a73733.jpg</image:loc><image:title>b8cd5bc4-6403-41e4-b60a-ccb577a73733</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/img_9167.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_9167</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-10-18T13:13:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/09/30/new-project-aims-to-take-lily-lake-off-the-impaired-waters-list/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/winterskate_mike_lyner.jpg</image:loc><image:title>winterskate_Mike_Lyner</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/lily-lake-fishing-pier.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lily Lake fishing pier</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/beach_closed.jpg</image:loc><image:title>beach_closed</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/lily-lake-beach.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lily Lake Beach</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/lily-lake-infiltration-basin-design.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lily Lake infiltration basin design</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-09-28T20:04:00+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/09/23/wildlife-friendly-fall-gardens/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/leave-some-for-the-birds-and-bees.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Leave some for the birds and bees</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/img_8667.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8667</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/landscape.jpg</image:loc><image:title>landscape</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/img_8669-e1632250233641.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8669</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-09-21T19:14:38+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/09/16/a-river-unites/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/minnehaha-falls-5-31-10.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Minnehaha Falls 5-31-10</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/img_8576.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8576</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/5f705ce3-d495-472f-96cb-d37c3aafd4d2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>5f705ce3-d495-472f-96cb-d37c3aafd4d2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/img_8589.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8589</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/img_8593.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8593</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-09-15T14:10:19+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/09/09/protecting-mill-stream-and-the-st-croix-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/mill-stream-8-21-20-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Mill Stream 8-21-20 2</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-09-03T21:45:39+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/08/26/hard-fescue-and-smart-controllers-allow-for-green-grass-with-less-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_8084.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8084</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_8082.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8082</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_8141.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8141</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_8098.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8098</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_8085.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8085</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_8087.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8087</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-08-26T18:28:05+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/07/24/looking-for-low-maintenance-on-a-large-scale/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/norolsonprairie1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>NorOlsonPrairie1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/olson-prairie-workshop-2012.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Olson prairie workshop 2012</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/img_0549.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0549</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/prairie-in-stillwater-twp.-mn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Prairie in Stillwater Twp., MN</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/norolsonbanner2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>NorOlsonbanner2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/animal-burrow1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>animal burrow</image:title><image:caption>After the burn, animal burrows were easy to spot. Could this be a badger, perhaps?</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/animal-burrow.jpg</image:loc><image:title>animal burrow</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/olson-prairie-burn-spring-2012.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Olson prairie burn spring 2012</image:title><image:caption>A controlled fire helps to minimize weeds in a restored prairie. Habitat restoration is hard but rewarding work. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/20120709-nora-prairie.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20120709 Nora prairie</image:title><image:caption>The Olson prairie is in full bloom this summer. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2021-08-20T14:24:43+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/08/19/touring-wakan-tipi-at-bruce-vento-nature-sanctuary-same-view-new-perspective/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_7751.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_7751</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/bd93d2c8-4920-46e9-90a5-c2f2dbfabf73.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bd93d2c8-4920-46e9-90a5-c2f2dbfabf73</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_7764.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_7764</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_7754.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_7754</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_7769.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_7769</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_7747.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_7747</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/img_7766.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_7766</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-08-19T17:15:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/08/16/tree-care-and-woodland-management/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/birch-and-aspen-are-two-tree-species-declining-in-mn-due-to-climate-change.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Birch and aspen are two tree species declining in MN due to climate change</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-08-16T12:35:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/07/29/heat-wave-spurs-harmful-algal-blooms-in-some-minnesota-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_5529.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_5529</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_6669.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6669</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_4536.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4536</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/22208045633_b3a7b75fcb_h.jpg</image:loc><image:title>22208045633_b3a7b75fcb_h</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-07-27T19:21:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/07/22/bee-lawns-are-green-lawns/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_0216.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0216</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/1271c079-f8a4-4c52-9b76-488b1a4381c7.jpg</image:loc><image:title>1271c079-f8a4-4c52-9b76-488b1a4381c7</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-07-27T09:28:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/07/08/in-the-woods-and-on-the-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_0259.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0259</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_4075.png</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4075</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_6239.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6239</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_6237.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6237</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/64549113_388447601777351_5078483765899034624_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>64549113_388447601777351_5078483765899034624_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_6644.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6644</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-07-08T19:11:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/07/01/a-martha-stewart-guide-to-lake-water-quality/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_6264.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6264</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_6256.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6256</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_6261.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6261</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/img_6245.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6245</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-07-01T16:31:01+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/06/24/holey-pavement-2/</loc><lastmod>2021-06-24T20:21:05+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/06/17/feeling-parched-in-the-land-of-10000-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/img_2481.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2481</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-06-18T13:50:58+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/06/10/can-that-baby-dragon-fly/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ebony-jewelwing.jpg</image:loc><image:title>ebony jewelwing</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/dragonfly-nymph-like-many-insects-dragonflies-live-in-the-water-until-they-undergo-metamorphosis.jpg</image:loc><image:title>dragonfly nymph - like many insects dragonflies live in the water until they undergo metamorphosis</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/damselfly-and-exoskeleton.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Damselfly and exoskeleton</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/img_2052.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2052</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-06-21T13:35:09+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/06/03/create-pockets-of-habitat-with-native-plants/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/img_4866.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_4866</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/native-garden-in-washington-county.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Native garden in Washington County</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-06-03T16:04:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/05/27/cheap-trick-remix-the-lawn-version/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/bee-lawns-include-both-flowers-and-grass.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bee lawns include both flowers and grass</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/lawn-and-garden-in-lake-elmo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lawn and garden in Lake Elmo</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-05-25T20:06:36+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/05/20/when-watershed-educators-go-rogue/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/oil-in-water.jpg</image:loc><image:title>oil in water</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/dont-dump-litter-and-leaves.png</image:loc><image:title>Don't dump litter and leaves</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/painting-supplies.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Painting supplies</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/dont-dump-carpet-suds.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Don't dump carpet suds</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/dont-dump-concrete.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Don't dump concrete</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/engine-oil.png</image:loc><image:title>Engine oil</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/discharge.jpg</image:loc><image:title>discharge</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-05-18T14:26:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/05/13/marine-community-works-to-revitalize-village-center-and-protect-the-st-croix-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/mill-stream-8-21-20-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Mill Stream 8-21-20 2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/volunteers-plant-wetland-buffer-in-marine.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Volunteers plant wetland buffer in Marine</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/182255742_1375968439454283_7119269916366368499_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>182255742_1375968439454283_7119269916366368499_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/182210451_1375968176120976_6174967853120991134_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>182210451_1375968176120976_6174967853120991134_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/182155054_1375967872787673_3612056581099828342_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>182155054_1375967872787673_3612056581099828342_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/181936262_1375968046120989_7561962754378605329_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>181936262_1375968046120989_7561962754378605329_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/181658939_1375967042787756_3968986808665736858_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>181658939_1375967042787756_3968986808665736858_n</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-05-25T19:35:50+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/05/06/art-in-the-pines/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/img_4415-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_4415-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/sarah-lilja-photo-pine-needles-in-a-fall-stream.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sarah Lilja photo - pine needles in a fall stream</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/img_4411.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_4411</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/img_4415.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_4415</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/img_4407.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_4407</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-05-04T17:40:10+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/04/22/mahtomedi-teacher-inspires-earth-day-action-throughout-the-year/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/julie-comfort-with-her-neighbor-maria.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Julie Comfort with her neighbor Maria</image:title><image:caption>Julie Comfort with her neighbor Maria</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2021-04-28T15:16:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/04/29/transformation-underway-at-sunfish-lake-park/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/buckthorn-002f.jpg</image:loc><image:title>buckthorn-002f</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/160206157_779134269375347_5721635703526393880_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>160206157_779134269375347_5721635703526393880_n</image:title><image:caption>Volunteers George and Todd work to clear trails and remove buckthorn at Sunfish Lake Park in Lake Elmo. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/lake-at-sunfish-lake-park.png</image:loc><image:title>Lake at Sunfish Lake Park</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/img_5774.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5774</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/img_5769.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5769</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/img_1456.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1456</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/img_1455.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1455</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-04-28T14:47:55+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/04/15/let-the-gardening-begin/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/101.jpg</image:loc><image:title>101</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/site-visit-promo-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Site visit promo (1)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/img_2710-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2710</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/img_2710.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2710</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2018-06-04-04.29.08.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2018-06-04 04.29.08</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-04-14T17:17:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/04/08/a-flowers-fleeting-charm/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/023.jpg</image:loc><image:title>023</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2021-sweep-earth-day-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2021 SWEEP Earth Day 2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>007</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/img_1342.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1342</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/baf59901-ecc6-4df1-bd0f-7ed2457839da.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BAF59901-ECC6-4DF1-BD0F-7ED2457839DA</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/round-lobed-hepatica-in-april.jpg</image:loc><image:title>round-lobed hepatica in April</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-04-08T14:08:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/04/01/students-help-to-seed-an-outdoor-laboratory-at-crestview-elementary/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/015.jpg</image:loc><image:title>015</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/prairie-in-stillwater-twp.-mn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Prairie in Stillwater Twp., MN</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/crestview-design.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Crestview design</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-03-25T20:25:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/03/25/preserving-a-piece-of-paradise-in-the-st-croix-valley/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/img_0784.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0784</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/img_1080.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1080</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-03-25T14:07:55+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/03/18/two-miles-three-raingardens-and-100-feet-of-native-buffer-charting-perro-creeks-journey-to-cleaner-water-and-better-health/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/volunteer-emilie-bouvier-cleans-gunk-out-of-a-storm-drain-in-the-spring.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Clean Water Minnesota Stories</image:title><image:caption>EcoFaith Network</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/20180630_151612.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20180630_151612</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/girl-scouts-planting-a-native-buffer-along-perro-creek-in-bayport.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Girl Scouts planting a native buffer along Perro Creek in Bayport</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-03-16T18:32:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/03/11/cleaner-water-ahead-at-carver-lake-park-in-woodbury/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/img_1940.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1940</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/sunset-over-carver-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sunset over Carver Lake</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-03-11T03:46:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/03/04/breaking-eurasian-watermilfoils-stranglehold-on-minnesota-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/clflwd-watercraft-inspector.jpg</image:loc><image:title>CLFLWD watercraft inspector</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-03-04T14:36:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/02/25/intersex-fish-and-cocaine-shrimp/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/smallmouth-bass-photo-by-carl-vizzone.jpg</image:loc><image:title>smallmouth bass, photo by Carl Vizzone</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-04-02T18:38:43+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/02/18/south-washington-watershed-district-receives-climate-adaptation-award/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/high-water-2020_12kimbro.jpg</image:loc><image:title>high water 2020_12kimbro</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/43879035_2159656744047154_8658775689324920832_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>43879035_2159656744047154_8658775689324920832_n</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-02-17T22:10:45+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/12/31/2021-will-bring-2-6-million-in-new-funding-for-watershed-work-in-the-st-croix-region/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/img_1348.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1348</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-02-05T15:34:05+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/01/07/frozen-fish-and-salty-toes/</loc><lastmod>2021-02-04T18:01:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/02/09/new-fish-barrier-will-keep-carp-out-of-forest-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/clflwd-carp-harvest-in-bone-lake-2010.jpg</image:loc><image:title>CLFLWD carp harvest in Bone Lake 2010</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/rwmwd-carp.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Microsoft Word - Carp Intern - 3 9 09.doc</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/new-fl-outlet-fish-barrier.jpg</image:loc><image:title>New FL Outlet Fish Barrier</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-02-04T14:39:55+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/02/04/tracking-the-health-of-lakes-in-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/img_9514.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9514</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/swans-2017.jpg</image:loc><image:title>swans 2017</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/becca-oldenburg-giebel-collects-a-water-sample-on-lake-elmo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Becca Oldenburg Giebel collects a water sample on Lake Elmo</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-02-02T19:25:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/01/29/what-do-bugs-have-to-do-with-it/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/img_2292.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2292</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/20200803_113042_resized.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20200803_113042_resized</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-01-29T17:15:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/01/21/online-classes-for-gardeners-and-nature-enthusiasts/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/424845fd-5ab4-498f-9474-51a7c431039a.jpg</image:loc><image:title>424845fd-5ab4-498f-9474-51a7c431039a</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/2018-06-04-04.28.25.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2018-06-04 04.28.25</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-01-22T01:27:35+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2021/01/15/finding-joy-in-the-snow/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/img_1552.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1552</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/d940550f-6f0c-49f7-97e7-61be92e6d778.jpg</image:loc><image:title>d940550f-6f0c-49f7-97e7-61be92e6d778</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/img_2121.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2121</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/652bd01c-29b0-467f-a14e-3bb40b5cf861.jpg</image:loc><image:title>652bd01c-29b0-467f-a14e-3bb40b5cf861</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/img_1809.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1809</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2021-01-15T15:23:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/12/28/when-the-stars-shine-bright/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/img_1354.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1354</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/img_1413.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1413</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/img_1355.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1355</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-12-28T18:52:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/12/17/getting-older-shouldnt-mean-staying-indoors/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/image009.jpg</image:loc><image:title>image009</image:title><image:caption>Children looked for aquatic invertebrates in water collected from Long Lake, during an intergenerational event at the Lakes at Stillwater (2019). </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/randy-thoreson-snowshoeing.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Randy Thoreson snowshoeing</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-12-15T18:25:05+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/12/10/the-healing-power-of-nature/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/img_0475.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0475</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/img_0571.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0571</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/040.jpg</image:loc><image:title>040</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-12-27T08:24:05+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/12/03/in-the-in-between/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/img_0449.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0449</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/f8c00cdb-01ee-4fdb-824e-37edd7a3624e.jpg</image:loc><image:title>f8c00cdb-01ee-4fdb-824e-37edd7a3624e</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-12-03T19:33:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/11/27/to-bison-or-to-monet/</loc><lastmod>2020-11-23T22:43:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/11/20/new-trails-highlight-major-changes-at-lake-elmo-park-reserve/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/img_0475.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0475</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/a1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/img_0461.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0461</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/img_0453.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0453</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/lerp-winter.jpg</image:loc><image:title>LERP winter</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-11-20T16:23:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/11/12/boring-bureaucracy-keeps-the-water-clean/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/img_6218.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6218</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-11-12T22:19:13+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/11/10/amidst-tumult-of-2020-comfort-lake-forest-lake-watershed-district-work-continues/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/dji_0099.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DCIM100MEDIADJI_0099.JPG</image:title><image:caption>DCIM100MEDIADJI_0099.JPG</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/aerial-view-of-the-sunrise-river-near-comfort-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DCIM100MEDIADJI_0108.JPG</image:title><image:caption>DCIM100MEDIADJI_0108.JPG</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/img_6228.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6228</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-11-10T22:03:09+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/11/06/boy-scouts-and-water-stewards-help-to-create-outdoor-classrooms-in-woodbury/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/tony-randazzo-standing-left-with-troop-5.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Tony Randazzo (standing left) with Troop 5</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/spreading-mulch-at-middleton-school.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Spreading mulch at Middleton School</image:title><image:caption>Spreading mulch at Middleton School</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/g-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>G (2)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/f-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>F (2)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/e-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>E (2)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/d-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>D (2)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/c-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>C (2)</image:title><image:caption>Two years ago, the school district replaced unused turf areas on campus with native plants that don't require irrigation and provide habitat for birds and pollinators. This fall, boy scouts helped to complete the Campus Greening project. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/118271364_1189326328090457_1289054551281729830_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>118271364_1189326328090457_1289054551281729830_n</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/118129145_1189326358090454_8862938572822902251_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>118129145_1189326358090454_8862938572822902251_n</image:title><image:caption> </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/30441373_178242482821119_8291477172867039232_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>30441373_178242482821119_8291477172867039232_o</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-11-06T17:30:55+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/10/29/water-stewards-inspire-neighbors-to-take-action-and-adopt-storm-drains/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/mg_0587_cwmn_michellespangler_aadcleanup_20201010_011-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>_MG_0587_CWMN_MichelleSpangler_AaDCleanup_20201010_011 (1)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/mg_0572_cwmn_michellespangler_aadcleanup_20201010_010.jpg</image:loc><image:title>_MG_0572_CWMN_MichelleSpangler_AaDCleanup_20201010_010</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-10-29T15:48:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/10/27/browns-creek-watershed-district-receives-two-national-awards-in-2020/</loc><lastmod>2020-10-27T21:09:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/10/10/tamarack-nature-preserve-park-boardwalk-reopening-celebration/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/img_9594.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_9594</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/img_2100.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2100</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/img_2101.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2101</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/img_2093.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2093</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-10-10T13:11:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/10/15/new-rule-restricts-nitrogen-fertilizer-application-after-sept-1/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/img_9391.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_9391</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/part-1-of-the-groundwater-protection-rule-restricts-the-application-of-nitrogen-fertilizer-in-the-fall-and-on-frozen-soils-in-areas-with-vulnerable-groundwater-photo-from-mpca.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Part 1 of the Groundwater Protection Rule restricts the application of nitrogen fertilizer in the fall and on frozen soils in areas with vulnerable groundwater - photo from MPCA</image:title><image:caption>Part 1 of the Groundwater Protection Rule restricts the application of nitrogen fertilizer in the fall and on frozen soils in areas with vulnerable groundwater - photo from MPCA</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2020-10-09T21:22:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/09/28/fall-yard-care-reminders-and-tips/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/bee-on-aster.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bee on aster</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-09-28T17:44:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/09/24/explore-the-browns-creek-watershed-with-a-virtual-tour-and-scavenger-hunt/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8300.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8300</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8293.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8293</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8292.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8292</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8330.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8330</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8328.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8328</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8325.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8325</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8305.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8305</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8299.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8299</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8289.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8289</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8273.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8273</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-09-24T20:19:00+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/09/18/transformation-underway-at-lake-elmo-park-reserve/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_9514.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9514</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/p1030099.jpg</image:loc><image:title>P1030099</image:title><image:caption>Prairie and oak savanna are fire-dependent habitats. The deep roots of the grasses and forbs remain alive when fire burns the dried plant materials above ground and this helps to keep woody shrubs and trees from taking over. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/a-herd-of-goats-grazes-at-lake-elmo-park-reserve.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A herd of goats grazes at Lake Elmo Park Reserve</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-09-18T13:07:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/09/11/campus-greening-projects-planned-for-valley-crossing-and-crestview-elementary-schools/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/valley-crossing-design-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Valley Crossing design</image:title><image:caption>Valley Crossing Campus Greening plan</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/crestview-design-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Crestview design</image:title><image:caption>Crestview Elementary Campus Greening plan</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_6678.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6678</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-09-11T14:50:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/09/03/debate-over-enbridge-energys-line-3-oil-pipeline-floats-quietly-through-the-st-croix-river-valley/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8402.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8402</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/img_8401.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8401</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-09-03T15:26:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/08/27/browns-creek-watershed-district-to-work-with-oak-glen-golf-course-on-a-new-clean-water-project/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/img_8302.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_8302</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-08-27T13:37:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/08/21/green-days-on-a-summer-lake-and-thats-not-a-good-thing/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/055.jpg</image:loc><image:title>055</image:title><image:caption>In Woodbury, some city streets have been retrofitted to reduce stormwater runoff. Raingardens, like the one at this corner, catch runoff from the street and soak it into the ground. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/img_8143.png</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8143</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/kinni-beach-aug.-2013.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Kinni Beach Aug. 2013</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-08-22T00:47:34+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/08/14/a-crack-in-the-rock-a-beach-in-the-forest/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/img_7965-1.png</image:loc><image:title>img_7965-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/img_7965.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_7965</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/img_7891.png</image:loc><image:title>img_7891</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/img_7965.png</image:loc><image:title>img_7965</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/img_7820.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_7820</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-08-13T17:11:10+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/08/06/search-for-hidden-treasure-and-sometimes-you-find-goats/</loc><lastmod>2020-08-06T12:48:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/12/19/water-quality-certification-program-helps-to-nudge-minnesota-farmers-in-a-new-direction/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/moody-wetland.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Moody wetland</image:title><image:caption>In southern Chisago County, the Comfort Lake - Forest Lake Watershed District has worked with farmers near Moody Lake to restore wetlands and reduce runoff pollution. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2020-08-05T18:18:57+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/01/19/bringing-nature-home/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_3653.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3653</image:title><image:caption>Tom Rambosek leads the way through his prairie in Woodbury, MN with his dog following close behind. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_3641.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3641</image:title><image:caption>Rattlesnake master is one of the many unique flowers that grows in prairies.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/img_3645sm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3645sm</image:title><image:caption>During a visit in August, the Rambosek prairie was in full bloom. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2020-08-05T18:15:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/01/30/finding-ways-to-balance-farming-and-clean-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_0422-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0422</image:title><image:caption>Looking forward to a cleaner St. Croix watershed</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_0422.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0422</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/wcd-employee-andy-schilling-looks-for-conservation-opportunities-on-cropland.jpg</image:loc><image:title>wcd employee andy schilling looks for conservation opportunities on cropland</image:title><image:caption>Within the Lower St. Croix watershed, many farmers in Anoka, Chisago, Isanti, Pine and Washington Counties are already working with their local Soil and Water Conservation Districts to implement conservation practices. Partners hope to work with more landowners in the next ten years. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/st-croix-land-use.jpg</image:loc><image:title>st croix land use</image:title><image:caption>Within the Lower St. Croix watershed, farmland covers fie times as much land as cities and towns. In the map above, yellow and brown shows areas of hay fields and cropland, while pink and red shows areas that are developed. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/impaired-waters-map.jpg</image:loc><image:title>impaired waters map</image:title><image:caption>The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency tracks impaired waters that do not meet state standards for fishing, swimming, or recreation. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/axdahls-produce-grown-locally-near-stillwater.jpg</image:loc><image:title>axdahls produce, grown locally near stillwater</image:title><image:caption>Brian Axdahl and his father transformed an old sod farm near Stillwater into a eco-friendly operation that produces organic, GMO-free fruit and vegetables. Today, he and his wife Leslie sell produce out of their garden store in town and to members of their CSA program. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/026.jpg</image:loc><image:title>026</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-08-05T18:13:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/10/24/what-will-your-land-look-like-20-years-from-now/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/img_4876.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4876</image:title><image:caption>A conservation easement on 19 acres of the Rosenquists' property ensures that the woods will never be cut down or developed. But, the couple still retains private property rights to enjoys their land, pass it down to their children, or sell it as a contiguous parcel. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bob-rosenquist.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bob Rosenquist</image:title><image:caption>Bob Rosenquist and his wife Marilyn own 40 acres of farmland in eastern Hugo. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/historicfarmer.jpg</image:loc><image:title>HistoricFarmer</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-08-05T18:07:52+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/07/30/gophers-and-muskrats-oh-why/</loc><lastmod>2020-07-28T19:43:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/07/24/green-lawns-for-blue-water-and-good-health/</loc><lastmod>2020-07-24T15:31:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/07/11/what-goes-down-must-come-up/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_6948-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6948</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_6718-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6718</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_6937-2.png</image:loc><image:title>img_6937</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_6948-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6948-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_6948.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6948</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_6718.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6718</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_6937-1.png</image:loc><image:title>img_6937-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_6938.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_6938</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_6937.png</image:loc><image:title>img_6937</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-07-11T20:57:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/07/09/dead-fish-and-green-water/</loc><lastmod>2020-07-09T18:29:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/07/09/love-square-lake-big-marine-st-croix-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_0998.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0998</image:title><image:caption>Terrapin Lake in Washington County, MN</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/mays-lake-one-of-three-shallow-lakes-with-exceptional-water-quality-in-cmscwd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Mays Lake, one of three shallow lakes with exceptional water quality in CMSCWD</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/marine-neighbors-plant-a-stream-corridor-in-july.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Marine neighbors plant a stream corridor in July</image:title><image:caption>Last summer, neighbors in Marine on St. Croix planting native plants along a stream with cost-share funding from CMSCWD. The watershed district cost-share program helps landowners to reduce erosion and runoff pollution on their land. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_6503.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6503</image:title><image:caption>Does your perfect day include a trip to the beach at Big Marine Regional Park?</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/img_2158.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2158</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-07-09T16:31:38+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/07/03/paddle-bike-repeat-four-days-on-the-namekagon-and-st-croix-rivers/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/gary-and-charlie-hong-wade-in-the-river-near-the-namekagon-and-st.-croix-confluence.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Gary and Charlie Hong wade in the river near the Namekagon and St. Croix confluence</image:title><image:caption>During our first day on the Namekagon River, we watched brook trout scatter in threes and fours as our canoe parted the water. Their greenish-gold bodies contrasted against the river’s sandy bottom and we could clearly see the red on their fins as they darted away. Ebony jewelwings fluttered along the water’s edge. These brightly colored damselflies have brilliant turquoise bodies with dark black wings. Like dragonflies, they lay their eggs in the water and live as aquatic insects during their nymph stage of life. After metamorphosis, they emerge as brilliantly colored flying insects that feast on gnats, mosquitoes, and other smaller insects. Other treasures of the day included a deer munching river grass, blueflag iris and swamp milkweed in bloom, and a three-ridge mussel – one of 40 native freshwater mussel species that call the Namekagon and St. Croix home.  
It's hard to say which of us was most excited for the trip. I was eager to see the Namekagon for the first time; my eight year-old son was ready to play the protagonist in a real-life, outdoor adventure; my husband yearned to escape from work for a few days; and the dog was just relieved that she wasn’t left behind like her older sibling. 
We started our trip at the County Rd K landing (Namekagon River), near Trego, Wisconsin, and ended four days later at the Lower Tamarack landing (St. Croix River), 47-miles downriver. To avoid using a shuttle or bringing two cars, I brought my mountain bike along and rode back to our put-in at the end of each day to bring our truck and camping gear down to the next location. The strategy worked really well on the first day, and became progressively harder each day after that due to the sandy conditions on most of the smaller roads. Riding through the Namekagon Barrens Wildlife Area on Day 3, I was treated to a stunning view of pine-oak barrens, a globally rare habitat that features scattered pines and oaks amidst a prairie landscape. The rolling hills and wide-open views are unlike anything else in the surrounding northwoods forest, but the soft sand road was a callous snare that left me feeling as though I was riding my bike across a never-ending series of sand dunes.  
We were surprised to see how much the river changed from day to day. In some places, it was rocky and filled with rapids. In other locations, it was a long flat ribbon of crystal clear water over miles and miles of golden sand. Around us, the landscape changed as well, from pine forest to silver maple floodplain, interspersed with wetlands, cold-water tributaries, and islands large and small. Though we saw other people in canoes, kayaks, fishing boats, and inner tubes along the way, there were also many times that we traveled for several hours without seeing another soul. This was when we encountered the most wildlife – a deer swimming across the river from north to south, a bald eagle resting on a fallen log at the river’s edge, a beaver gliding silently beneath the canoe, and dozens of softshell turtles that slipped stealthily into the water as we passed. Each day stretched out long and lazy beneath the summer sun in an endless sequence of unimportant actions - paddle, swim, hunt for frogs, paddle, sand, repeat. We ended our trip feeling dirty, exhausted, and entirely content.  
For help in planning a day or overnight paddling trip on the St. Croix or Namekagon Rivers, go to the National Park Service website, where you can find river maps, recommended routes, safety and gear lists, links to check river levels, and other information: www.nps.gov/sacn. 
If you own your own canoe or kayak, it is technically possible to do a multi-day trip without spending money on anything but food and gas. North of Hwy 8, riverside campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and do not require a permit or reservation. Between Highway 8 and the Arcola High Bridge, a free annual camping permit is required. The Namekagon and St. Croix River campsites are similar to ones you find in the Boundary Waters – they have a latrine, a campfire ring, and sometimes a picnic table, but no water or indoor bathrooms. 
In your canoe or kayak, you’ll want to bring food, water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and bug spray, as well as life jackets for each person on board. Children under 13 are required to wear theirs throughout the trip. In addition, our family brought a fishing pole and sling shot, a couple of books, and a hammock and fold-up stadium seats to use during rest and play time.  
If you’d like to try using your bike in lieu of a shuttle, be sure to bring a bike lock and helmet and pack a small bag with a change of clothes and bottle of water that you can leave with your bike at the take-out each day. Alternately, you can find shuttle services; canoe and kayak rental; and guides for fishing, hunting or paddling trips at www.nps.gov/sacn/planyourvisit/goodsandservices.htm. There are also several places along both rivers where you can rent tubes to float down river and get picked up at the end of your trip. 
</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2020-07-08T17:15:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/06/25/rumor-has-it-theres-a-rumor-in-town/</loc><lastmod>2020-06-25T20:14:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/06/18/friends-of-sunfish-lake-park-lands-139000-grant-to-manage-buckthorn/</loc><lastmod>2020-06-16T17:41:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/06/12/meandering-in-the-woods/</loc><lastmod>2020-06-12T18:13:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/06/04/river-flowing-gathering-tears/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/047.jpg</image:loc><image:title>047</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-06-04T15:12:38+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/05/29/a-modern-day-tale-of-tortoise-and-hare/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/weasel.jpg</image:loc><image:title>weasel</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/snapping-turtle.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Snapping turtle</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/opossum.jpg</image:loc><image:title>opossum</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/img_0372.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0372</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/img_0143.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0143</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/garter-snake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>garter snake</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/bmlpr_wetland2a.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BMLPR_wetland2A</image:title><image:caption>Big Marine Park Reserve and the surrounding landscape offer the perfect mix of wetland and upland habitat for Blanding's turtles. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2020-05-26T17:18:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/05/22/find-wilderness-close-to-home/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/img_5737.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5737</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-05-22T18:17:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/05/14/help-prevent-the-spread-of-aquatic-invasive-species-while-fishing-and-boating-this-season/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/023.jpg</image:loc><image:title>023</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/bml-se-7-27-19.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BML SE 7-27-19</image:title><image:caption>When removing boats, docks, lifts, or other water-related equipment from lakes and rivers, carefully inspect everything to make sure there are no aquatic invasive species (AIS) such as zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, or New Zealand mudsnails attached.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/speedboat-balloons.jpg</image:loc><image:title>speedboat-balloons</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-05-13T14:16:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/05/08/green-lands-blue-waters-a-new-menu-for-minnesota-farmers/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/48347769001_d9bb3b839e_c.jpg</image:loc><image:title>48347769001_d9bb3b839e_c</image:title><image:caption>Cover crop in soybean field. Cover crops can be used to prevent soil erosion and improve soil health. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/test-water.png</image:loc><image:title>test water</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/map-nitratestosurfacewater-minnesota_rev.png</image:loc><image:title>map-nitratestosurfacewater-minnesota_rev</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/4_seasons_roots.jpg</image:loc><image:title>4_seasons_roots</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/kernza-cereal.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Kernza cereal</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/wheatgrass_harvest.jpg</image:loc><image:title>wheatgrass_harvest</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-05-08T18:36:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/04/30/one-womans-weed-is-another-womans-salad/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/wild-edible-plants.png</image:loc><image:title>Wild Edible Plants</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-04-30T20:42:17+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/04/23/inspiring-a-land-ethic/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/from-wcd-photo-archives-1975.jpg</image:loc><image:title>From WCD photo archives - 1975</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_2693.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2693</image:title><image:caption>The Leopold Center can be found along a hilly country road in central Wisconsin. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/8409643996_2f6c5dc472_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>8409643996_2f6c5dc472_o</image:title><image:caption>Aldo Leopold photo from USDA. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2020-04-21T18:20:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/04/16/adopt-a-storm-drain-in-honor-of-earth-days-50th-anniversary/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/women-daughter-stormdrain.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Women-daughter-stormdrain</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/rakingleavesgrass-street-edit.jpg</image:loc><image:title>RakingLeavesGrass-street-Edit</image:title><image:caption>You can help to protect lakes and rivers by adopting a storm drain near you and committing to clean up litter and yard waste that would otherwise wash into our waterways. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/gc7a0209.jpg</image:loc><image:title>GC7A0209</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/gc7a0192.cr2_.jpg</image:loc><image:title>GC7A0192.CR2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/mandy-labreche-adopted-the-10000th-storm-drain-in-mn-in-jan-2020.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Adopt-a-Drain 10,000th Adopter</image:title><image:caption>Adopt-a-Drain 10,000th Adopter</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2020-04-14T19:20:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/04/09/500-frogs-a-croaking/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/090.jpg</image:loc><image:title>090</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/wood-frog-eggs-lbnc-3-030211.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Wood-Frog-eggs-LBNC-3-030211</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/2018-06-19-06.46.55.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2018-06-19 06.46.55</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-04-09T12:37:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/04/02/dos-and-donts-of-spring-gardening/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/maylee-seedstarting-img_1710.jpg</image:loc><image:title>MayLee-seedstarting-IMG_1710</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/falconhts_034f-monarda.jpg</image:loc><image:title>falconhts_034f, monarda</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/bee-on-sneezeweed-a-mn-native.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Scott Hare, Bee Taxonomist</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-04-02T17:25:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/03/27/the-day-the-kingdom-rested/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/brazil-2011-1297.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Brazil 2011 1297</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/maple-sap-drips-into-a-bag-at-the-stillwater-middle-school.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Maple sap drips into a bag at the Stillwater Middle School</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/blue-and-white-sorry-we-re-closed-wooden-signage-1171386.jpg</image:loc><image:title>blue-and-white-sorry-we-re-closed-wooden-signage-1171386</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/brazil-2011-779.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Brazil 2011 779</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/072.jpg</image:loc><image:title>072</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-04-20T23:26:27+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/03/17/a-walk-in-the-woods-a-planted-seed-new-skills-to-learn/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/webinar-promo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>webinar promo</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/img_4936.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4936</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/img_1258.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1258</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/img_1262.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1262</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/img_1252.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1252</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/img_1241.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1241</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/scarlet-cup-mushroom-in-the-woods-near-osceola.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Scarlet cup mushroom in the woods near Osceola</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-03-17T22:39:42+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/03/06/wet-basement-sorry-no-app-for-that/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/downspout.jpg</image:loc><image:title>downspout</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/wetbasementcorner-1080x675-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>wetbasementcorner-1080x675</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/sand-bags-in-front-of-a-window-well.jpg</image:loc><image:title>sand bags in front of a window well</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/dry-creek-and-raingarden-used-to-redirect-water-around-a-home.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Dry creek and raingarden used to redirect water around a home</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-03-07T05:32:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/02/27/the-hills-will-soon-be-alive-with-the-sound-of-music/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/birds-black-capped-chickadee-maine-nature-1656164.jpg</image:loc><image:title>birds-black-capped-chickadee-maine-nature-1656164</image:title><image:caption>Chickadee photo by Laura Ganz from Pexels</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/planting-for-pollinators_eventbrite_0319.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Planting for Pollinators_Eventbrite_0319</image:title><image:caption>The first workshop of the spring will be held in Marine on St. Croix on March 19. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/l2l-with-logos-tall.png</image:loc><image:title>l2l-with-logos-tall</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/squirrel-in-crab-apple-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>squirrel in crab apple-2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/bird-singing-at-sunrise.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bird-singing-at-sunrise</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-02-27T16:34:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/02/21/minnesota-climatologists-predict-another-year-of-major-spring-flooding/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/capture.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Capture</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/20190322_140824-large.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20190322_140824 (Large)</image:title><image:caption>Experts are predicting major spring flooding in Washington County, not just along the rivers, but also in low lying areas and inland basins. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/20190327_151852.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20190327_151852</image:title><image:caption>In 2019, volunteers helped the City of Stillwater to build a temporary dike along the St. Croix River. In 2020, Washington County will again sell bulk sand and sand bags to communities for flood protection efforts. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/mn-figure-6.jpg</image:loc><image:title>mn-figure-6</image:title><image:caption>Projected change in spring precipitation for Minnesota by the middle of the 21st century. From Minnesota State Climate Summary. NOAA Technical Report NESDIS 149-MN.  Runkle, J., K. Kunkel, R. Frankson, D. Easterling, and S. Champion, 2017. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/a-stream-gauge-nearly-underwater-during-2019-spring-snowmelt.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A stream gauge nearly underwater during 2019 spring snowmelt</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-02-22T16:10:00+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/02/11/feedback-from-local-communities-helps-to-shape-lower-st-croix-10-year-watershed-plan/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/20170518_142248-medium.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20170518_142248 (Medium)</image:title><image:caption>Approximately 25% of the Lower St. Croix "One Watershed, One Plan" funds will be used for diagnostic monitoring, computer modeling, field investigations, and cost benefit analyses. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/arcola-high-bridge.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2020-02-10T22:38:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/02/10/2020-brings-1-9-million-in-new-clean-water-funds-to-the-lower-st-croix-area/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/dsc02597.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SONY DSC</image:title><image:caption>Washington Conservation District will work with farmers in southern Washington County to develop nutrient management plans, use cover crops, and transition from annual to perennial crops to reduce the need for nitrogen fertilizer. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/marine_on_st_croix_02.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>A project with the Carnelian Marine St. Croix Watershed District will treat stormwater runoff from downtown Marine on St. Croix. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/sunset_mike_lyner.jpg</image:loc><image:title>sunset_Mike_Lyner</image:title><image:caption>Kids board a paddle boat on Lily Lake in Stillwater. The Middle St. Croix WMO plans to use new grant funds to complete a multi-year project that will hopefully enable the lake to be removed from the Minnesota impaired waters list. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/aerial-view-of-the-sunrise-river-near-comfort-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DCIM100MEDIADJI_0108.JPG</image:title><image:caption>Aerial view of the Sunrise River in southern Chisago County near Comfort Lake. The Sunrise eventually flows to the St. Croix River north of Wild River State Park. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/judicial-ditch-6-and-wetland-complex-near-forest-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Judicial Ditch 6 and wetland complex near Forest Lake</image:title><image:caption>New Clean Water funds will allow for completion of a large-scale phosphorus-reduction project at Judicial Ditch 6 near Forest Lake.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/canoe-on-the-river-near-st.-croix-state-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Canoe on the river near St. Croix State Park</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-02-10T18:28:42+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/01/23/nurturing-the-wild/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/img_1180.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1180</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/dwn_mnwildflowersad2020_p2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DWN_MNWildflowersAd2020_P2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/img_1190.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1190</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/img_4299.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4299</image:title><image:caption>Illustration by Charlie Mackesy, author of The Boy, the mole, the fox and the Horse</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/on-an-island-in-the-st.-croix-river-.jpg</image:loc><image:title>On an island in the St. Croix River</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-01-23T03:48:58+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/01/18/ode-to-a-an-old-dead-log/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/img_0865.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0865</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/img_8328.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8328</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/089.jpg</image:loc><image:title>089</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/020.jpg</image:loc><image:title>020</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/a-barred-owl-winks-from-its-perch-inside-a-standing-dead-tree.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A barred owl winks from its perch inside a standing dead tree</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-01-19T00:14:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2020/01/17/waterbar-offers-a-unique-opportunity-to-share-and-hear-new-stories/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/flight-of-water.jpg</image:loc><image:title>flight of water</image:title><image:caption>At the Water Bar, people can try water from different locations in the state and enjoy conversations with new people. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/water-bar-story-circle.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Water Bar story circle</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2020-01-18T03:18:35+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/12/31/ten-years-of-hard-work-result-in-big-accomplishments-for-local-water-land-and-wildlife/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/img_6647.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6647</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/066.jpg</image:loc><image:title>066</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/dsc00886.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC00886</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/woods-protected-by-a-conservtion-easement-in-northern-washington-county.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Woods protected by a conservtion easement in northern Washington County</image:title><image:caption>These gorgeous woods are staying healthy, thanks to local conservation efforts. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-12-31T20:44:43+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/12/24/a-story-that-keeps-on-telling/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/mount-baker7.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Mount Baker7</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/309.jpg</image:loc><image:title>309</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/069.jpg</image:loc><image:title>069</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/pa031716.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/pa031644.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/orcas-island93.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Orcas Island93</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/065.jpg</image:loc><image:title>065</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/125.jpg</image:loc><image:title>125</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/orcas-island22.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Orcas Island22</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/img_0056.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0056</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-12-24T22:17:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/12/23/master-water-stewards-lend-a-helping-hand-to-local-lakes-and-streams/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/stephanie-wang-teaches-local-students.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Stephanie Wang teaches local students</image:title><image:caption>Stephanie Wang teaches local students during a field trip to the Tamarack Nature Preserve. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/img_3478.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3478</image:title><image:caption>This November, Water Stewards in the St. Croix Valley gathered to share ideas and gain inspiration from one another. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/raingarden-clean-up-woodbury.jpg</image:loc><image:title>raingarden clean up woodbury</image:title><image:caption>Master Water Steward Stephanie Wang recruited her friends to help weed a raingarden at a park in Woodbury this summer. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/trinity-raingarden-cleanup.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Trinity raingarden cleanup</image:title><image:caption>Stephanie Wang (lower right) and Anna Barker (second from left in pink) are among the many volunteers working to protect water, habitat, and wildlife in Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-12-24T01:22:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/12/12/scientific-and-natural-areas-protect-minnesotas-natural-heritage/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/016.jpg</image:loc><image:title>016</image:title><image:caption>Grey Cloud Dunes SNA</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/st.-croix-valley-sna-4.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix Valley SNA 4</image:title><image:caption>Many Scientific and Natural Areas do not have designated trails. This helps to distribute the impact of visitors and reduce changes to the landscape in these areas. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/crystal-springs-007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Crystal Springs 007</image:title><image:caption>A deep gorge and stream runs through Crystal Spring SNA</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/020.jpg</image:loc><image:title>020</image:title><image:caption>Hiking in the prairie at Grey Cloud Dunes SNA</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/010.jpg</image:loc><image:title>010</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/st.-croix-valley-sna-3.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix Valley SNA 3</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/st.-croix-valley-sna-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix Valley SNA 2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/st.-croix-valley-sna-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix Valley SNA 1</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-12-12T15:58:34+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/12/09/volunteers-work-to-restore-fairy-falls-with-help-from-the-stillwater-area-community-foundation/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/32617001_10156340783629105_799539283483426816_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>32617001_10156340783629105_799539283483426816_o</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/32738528_10156342526954105_3839841405623074816_n-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>32738528_10156342526954105_3839841405623074816_n (1)</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/walking-near-fairy-falls.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Walking near Fairy Falls</image:title><image:caption>Kyle TePoel (right) talks with Mary Richie (Stillwater Area Community Foundation) and Chris Wasz (Washington Conservation District). </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/img_1164.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1164</image:title><image:caption>Graffiti and litter are big problems at Fairy Falls. Nearby residents also worry about erosion on the steep hillsides and dangerous misuse of the property. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/dscn1943.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSCN1943</image:title><image:caption>Fairy Falls is a hidden treasure north of Stillwater. The waterfall is part of Silver Creek and is on National Park Service property. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/fairy-falls-volunteers.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Fairy Falls volunteers</image:title><image:caption>This fall, volunteers and National Park Service staff helped to pull buckthorn at Fairy Falls. Pictured: Kathryn Dopkins, Monica Zachay, Emilee Martell, Kyle TePoel, Mike Rhoades, Ryan Weigel, and Ryan Rohr. Not pictured: Nicky TePoel, Tom and Dianne Polasik, Tom Brass. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-12-09T17:00:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/12/03/st-croix-river-impairment-underscores-need-for-continued-work/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/img_3169.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/030.jpg</image:loc><image:title>030</image:title><image:caption>The Kettle River, which flows through Minnesota's St. Croix State Park, is one of seven large rivers that carry sediment and nutrients to the St. Croix River. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/kinni-beach-aug.-2013.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Kinni Beach Aug. 2013</image:title><image:caption>The St. Croix River collects runoff from a nearly 8000 square mile watershed. Excess phosphorus accumulates in the lower miles of the river, causing algae blooms during the summer. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/023.jpg</image:loc><image:title>023</image:title><image:caption>The St. Croix RIver is a designated Federal Wild and Scenic River and forms a portion of the boarder between Minnesota and Wisconsin. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/img_3157.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2024-01-03T19:31:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/11/26/salting-the-earth-2/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/salt-tips-just-front.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Salt tips just front</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/winter-2008-006.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Winter 2008 006</image:title><image:caption>Monitoring data show that 120 lakes and streams in Minnesota have too much chloride (salt). </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/1024px-salt_truck_milwaukee.jpg</image:loc><image:title>1024px-Salt_truck_Milwaukee</image:title><image:caption>Local, state and federal highway departments apply nearly 20 million tons of road salt every year. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/joe-knaeble-salt7.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Joe-Knaeble-Salt7</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-11-25T20:49:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/11/25/surprising-sources-of-mercury-in-minnesota-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/iron_ore_mining_plant_on_lake_superior_-_cliffs_northshore_silver_bay_minnesota_40160129753.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Iron_Ore_Mining_Plant_on_Lake_Superior_-_Cliffs_Northshore,_Silver_Bay,_Minnesota_(40160129753)</image:title><image:caption>Northshore Mining Company in Silver Bay has submitted a plan to the MPCA for how it will reduce its mercury emissions. Many other iron mines and processing plants in the state have not.  </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/theres-something-funny-about-this-fish.jpg</image:loc><image:title>There's something funny about this fish</image:title><image:caption>Sometimes smaller is better. Mercury bioaccumulates as it moves up the food chain, so larger fish end up with more mercury in their systems than smaller fish. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/limit-salt-use-durin-the-winter-to-protect-fish-in-our-local-lakes-e1574712612169.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Limit salt use durin the winter to protect fish in our local lakes</image:title><image:caption>The Minnesota Department of Health has issued fish consumption advisories for nearly 1650 lakes and rivers in Minnesota as a result of mercury contamination. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/044.jpg</image:loc><image:title>044</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-11-25T20:24:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/11/13/tips-for-enjoying-the-outdoors-with-kids/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/10932280456_3186896147_k.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7591.CR2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/file1.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>file1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/028.jpg</image:loc><image:title>028</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/img_2668.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2668</image:title><image:caption>Many people fear that children's increasing use of digital devices and decreasing time spent outdoors is contributing to anxiety, depression, and childhood obesity. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/img_6531.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6531</image:title><image:caption>When you spend time in nature with children and furry friends, be prepared to step off the trail and get your hands and feet a little bit dirty. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/children-frolic-in-the-prairie-at-pine-point-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>children frolic in the prairie at Pine Point Park</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-11-13T22:30:34+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/11/01/underground-and-out-of-mind/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/008-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>008</image:title><image:caption>One hundred years ago, people didn’t consider the Mississippi River to be an amenity. Today, Pool 2 of the Mississippi River (Ford Dam to Hastings Dam) supports 125 species of fish and municipal drinking water in Minneapolis and St. Paul is clean and safe to drink. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/groundwater-provides-100-of-drinking-water-in-washington-county.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Groundwater provides 100% of drinking water in Washington County</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-11-01T17:14:35+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/10/10/explore-new-options-for-local-farms-at-oct-22-workshop/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bales-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bales 1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/img_2479.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2479</image:title><image:caption>More farmers are considering growing hay or grazing cattle as alternatives to row crops now that prices for corn and soybeans have become so unpredictable. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/sailor-mercy.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sailor mercy</image:title><image:caption>Dani Dircks, a local entrepreneur and mother of four, started her own business after friends began asking her for elderberry syrup.  She sees a growing market for elderberries but hasn't found local growers to buy from. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/elderberry.jpg</image:loc><image:title>elderberry</image:title><image:caption>Elderberry and hazelnuts are two options for perennial crops that can be grown with small livestock or chickens on a relatively small plot of land. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-10-08T19:15:35+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/10/03/lending-a-helping-hand-to-aftons-trout-brook/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/meander.jpg</image:loc><image:title>meander</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/wcd-staff-collecting-water-quality-sample-from-trout-brook.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WCD staff collecting water quality sample from Trout Brook</image:title><image:caption>Washington Conservation District staff collecting water quality sample from Trout Brook.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/maps.jpg</image:loc><image:title>maps</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bridge-sign-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bridge-sign-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/trout-brook-hillshade-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Trout Brook hillshade</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/resto-sign-top.jpg</image:loc><image:title>resto sign top</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-10-03T16:22:06+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/10/02/big-change-for-a-little-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/11496660664_e4b9b4f19c_k.jpg</image:loc><image:title>11496660664_e4b9b4f19c_k</image:title><image:caption>A woman in Prague buys carp for a holiday dinner. Photo by Andrew Stawarz. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/garrett-miller-talks-about-lake-mapping-on-shields.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Garrett Miller talks about lake mapping on Shields</image:title><image:caption>During a CLFLWD tour in 2019, local officials learned about successful efforts to clean up Shields Lake. The small lake drains to Forest Lake and was a major source of phosphorus. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-09-30T14:55:43+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/09/30/a-drop-in-the-bucket/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/img_2487.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2487</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/dana-boyle-and-students-at-tnp.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Dana Boyle and students at TNP</image:title><image:caption>Dana Boyle, a volunteer Master Naturalist, leads students on a hike through Woodbury's Tamarack Nature Preserve. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/img_2496.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2496</image:title><image:caption>Deep groundwater aquifers beneath Washington County provide a source of clean, abundant drinking water for residents. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/img_2488.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2488</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/lauren-haydon-and-groundwater-model.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lauren Haydon and groundwater model</image:title><image:caption>Lauren Haydon talks about groundwater with 4th grade students at Royal Oaks Elementary in Woodbury. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-09-30T14:34:09+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/09/20/within-warner-nature-center-pristine-lakes-and-wildlife-corridors/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/120.jpg</image:loc><image:title>120</image:title><image:caption>A naturalist at Warner Nature Center shows a young boy bees from a hive in the apiary. The center has inspired a love of nature for thousands of children and adults. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/118.jpg</image:loc><image:title>118</image:title><image:caption>Terrapin Lake is considered to be one of the most pristine shallow lakes in this part of the state. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/20180501_100359.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20180501_100359</image:title><image:caption>Warner Nature Center has banded and collected data on 45,000 migratory birds over the past 52 years. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/20180501_100357.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20180501_100357</image:title><image:caption>Warner Nature Center has banded and collected data on 45,000 migratory birds over the past 52 years. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/img_2457.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2457</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/img_2053-2-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2053 (2) 2</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-09-20T21:25:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/09/12/browns-creek-watershed-district-sets-it-sights-on-2020/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/photocraig.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photoCraig</image:title><image:caption>Stop by Saturday and BCWD board member Craig Leiser may scoop you some ice cream. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/deer-pic-from-trail-camera-at-110th-st-property.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Deer pic from trail camera at 110th st property</image:title><image:caption>These deer are some of the many animals photographed by the trail camera at the Brown's Creek Conservation Area. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/20180423_085820.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20180423_085820</image:title><image:caption>Brown's Creek is a designated trout stream and a signature resource within the watershed district. The old stone arch bridge was part of the historic Military Road that once ran through Minnesota. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/stillwater-high-school-students-sample-invertebrates-in-browns-creek.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Stillwater high school students sample invertebrates in Browns Creek</image:title><image:caption>Stillwater high school students sample invertebrates in Browns Creek. Populations of fish and insects are flourishing in the creek thanks to restoration efforts. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-09-13T04:56:08+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/09/07/comfort-lake-forest-lake-watershed-district-celebrates-20-years-of-water-protection/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/moody-after-alum-2018.jpg</image:loc><image:title>moody-after-alum-2018</image:title><image:caption>Pictures taken before and after last year's alum treatment on Moody Lake show the dramatic reduction in algae. The watershed districts has worked for years to improve water quality in the lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/moody-bloom-2018-pre-alum.jpg</image:loc><image:title>moody-bloom-2018-pre-alum</image:title><image:caption>Pictures taken before and after last year's alum treatment on Moody Lake show the dramatic reduction in algae. The watershed districts has worked for years to improve water quality in the lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/img_7347.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7347</image:title><image:caption>Today, the watershed district works closely with its communities and developers to ensure that new building projects have adequate erosion control and include practices to prevent stormwater runoff pollution. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/img_2403.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2403</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/img_7153.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7153</image:title><image:caption>The Comfort Lake - Forest Lake Watershed District comprises </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-09-06T21:42:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/09/06/tread-lightly-or-the-plants-might-eat-you/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/img_0968.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0968</image:title><image:caption>Stroll along the boardwalk at Big Bog State Recreation Area through a forest of tiny trees, dwarfed by the acidic soils. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/img_0914.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0914</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/jason-husveth-leads-water-professionals-on-a-tour-at-blaine-wetlands-sanctuary.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Jason Husveth leads water professionals on a tour at Blaine Wetlands Sanctuary</image:title><image:caption>Jason Husveth (left) leads water professionals on a tour at Blaine Wetlands Sanctuary.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/sundews-at-big-bog.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sundews at Big Bog</image:title><image:caption>Look closely in the sphagnum moss and you can find sundews with water drops glistening on their hairs. These and pitcher plants are two carnivorous plants found in Minnesota bogs. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/pitcher-plants-at-big-bog.jpg</image:loc><image:title>pitcher plants at Big Bog</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-09-06T21:21:57+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/08/08/land-wanted-must-have-bugs/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/img_2688.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2688</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/img_2538-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2538-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/img_2538.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2538</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-08-30T02:52:50+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/08/29/marine-residents-rally-to-restore-neighborhood-stream/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/aster-_4.jpg</image:loc><image:title>aster _4</image:title><image:caption>The streambank planting included deep-rooted native plants like aster that reduce erosion and provide habitat. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/3.jpg</image:loc><image:title>3</image:title><image:caption>Five neighbors in Marine on St. Croix worked together to restore a degrade stream corridor this summer. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/img_4606-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4606 (1)</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-08-29T17:11:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/08/22/take-me-to-the-river-offers-fresh-opportunities-to-enjoy-art-and-nature/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/art.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/file-22.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>file-22</image:title><image:caption>‘I Worried’  - an art installation by Molly Valentine Dierks includes street with lines from poet Mary Oliver.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-08-21T14:08:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/08/15/in-the-battle-against-aquatic-invasive-species-ais-key-weapons-include-research-inspections-early-detection/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/p1010250.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Staff from Washington Conservation District and MN DNR work with contractors to install a containment boom at Bone Lake in Scandia, prior to applying an aquatic pesticide to kill zebra mussels. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/eurasianmilfoil-fb.jpg</image:loc><image:title>eurasianmilfoil-FB</image:title><image:caption>Eurasian watermilfoil, a non-native invasive species, has infested several lakes in Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties. It crowds out native aquatic plants and can make water recreation unpleasant. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/zebra-mussel-at-bone-lk.jpg</image:loc><image:title>zebra mussel at Bone Lk</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-08-14T18:06:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/08/05/tales-from-the-great-lakes-big-waves-clear-water-and-research-on-killer-bacteria/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/img_0007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0007</image:title><image:caption>On the eastern side of Lake Michigan, enormous sand dunes tower above Lake Michigan at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/bwca-summer-08-224.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA summer 08 224</image:title><image:caption>The deep waters of Lakes Superior and Michigan are known for being clear and cold. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/bwca-summer-08-219.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA summer 08 219</image:title><image:caption>Split Rock Lighthouse is an iconic destination along the North Shore of Lake Superior.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/swimming.jpg</image:loc><image:title>swimming</image:title><image:caption>Swimming in Lake Michigan at the Washington Island Ultra Triathlon. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/lake-michigan-with-clear-skies-and-calm-water.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Lake Michigan with clear skies and calm water</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-08-05T20:52:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/07/25/enjoying-the-st-croix-river-and-working-to-keep-it-clean/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_2407.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2407</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_2422.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2422</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-07-25T17:00:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/07/18/the-power-of-the-universal-experience/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/bwca-may-07-kawishiwi-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA May 07 - Kawishiwi Lake</image:title><image:caption>Here's my own favorite "woman canoeing" photo, taken before Instagram was created or I had joined Facebook. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/sunset.jpg</image:loc><image:title>sunset</image:title><image:caption>After the rainbow came a brilliant pink sunset. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/stillwater-rainbow.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Stillwater rainbow</image:title><image:caption>Monday evening's double rainbow could been seen across the St. Croix Valley.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-07-17T21:28:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/07/17/give-me-a-home-where-the-butterflies-roam/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/pollination.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>polliNation</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/slide34.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Slide34</image:title><image:caption>In this image, the purple color indicates remaining native plant communities in the Twin Cities area mapped by the Minnesota Biological Survey, 1987-2017. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/slide33.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Slide33</image:title><image:caption>This image shows the existing native plant communities in the Twin Cities metro area during the Public Land Survey 1847-1908.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/monarch-in-raingarden-e1563381789704.jpg</image:loc><image:title>monarch in raingarden</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-07-17T17:39:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/07/08/long-lake-water-critters-program-offers-intergenerational-learning-and-an-introduction-to-the-lakes-at-stillwater/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/raingarden-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>raingarden 2</image:title><image:caption>Brown's Creek Watershed District has worked with homeowners and large property owners near Long Lake to install dozens of raingardens to reduce stormwater pollution to the lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/1953-aerial.jpg</image:loc><image:title>1953 aerial</image:title><image:caption>An aerial photo from 1953, shows Long Lake in Stillwater surrounded by farmland with only a few patches of trees on the northwest and northeast sides. (Photo from Browns Creek Watershed District)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/033.jpg</image:loc><image:title>033</image:title><image:caption>During the water critters event, children and adults can get up-close with insects, tadpoles and aquatic invertebrates that live in Long Lake. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-07-08T14:02:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/06/17/orangutans-sun-bears-and-elephants-oh-my/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0737-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0737-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0737.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0737</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0667.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0667</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0694.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0694</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0717-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0717-1</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0684.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0684</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0717.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0717</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0691.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0691</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0576.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0576</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0643.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0643</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-06-17T19:11:27+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/06/14/singapore-wows-with-food-fun-and-floral-fantasia/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0532.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0532</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_0542.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0542</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/img_2043.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_2043</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-06-14T05:19:50+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/06/20/new-funding-coming-soon-for-bee-friendly-yards/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/bee-lawn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bee lawn</image:title><image:caption>Bee lawns feature a variety of low-growing flowering plants such as white clover, creeping thyme, and self heal, as well as low-mow fine fescue grasses. (Photo from Pollinator Friendly Alliance)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/rusty-patch-bumblebee.jpg</image:loc><image:title>rusty patch bumblebee</image:title><image:caption>The rusty patched bumblebee is a federally listed endangered species, native to grasslands and tallgrass prairies of the Upper Midwest and Northeast. This one was found in a residential garden in Oakdale near a wetland. (Photo by Elizabeth Welty, Honey Bee Club of Stillwater)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/20190522_cwmn_beelawn_151_web.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20190522_cwmn_BeeLawn_151_web</image:title><image:caption>Cheryl Seeman has created a pollinator and water friendly landscape at her home on Crooked Lake in Andover. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/20190522_cwmn_beelawn_142_web.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20190522_cwmn_BeeLawn_142_web</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-06-05T17:24:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/06/06/restoring-habitat-successfully-also-means-learning-to-live-with-wildlife-again/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/blandings.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>blandings</image:title><image:caption>A Blanding's turtle near the Gateway Trail in northern Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/dsc_8762.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC_8762</image:title><image:caption>Monarch butterflies on rough blazing star in a raingarden in Cottage Grove. These practices help to protect water resources and create valuable habitat for wildlife and pollinators. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/276.jpg</image:loc><image:title>276</image:title><image:caption>The beaches in tropical northern Queensland are gorgeous and undeveloped, but are also home to wildlife such as saltwater crocodiles. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/photo-2-7-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo 2 (7)</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-06-04T20:20:34+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/06/13/forest-lake-schools-chart-path-to-a-greener-future/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/03lila-chalk-artists.jpg</image:loc><image:title>03LILA Chalk Artists</image:title><image:caption>Fourth grade students at Lakes International Language Academy in Forest Lake have been learning about water and spreading the word about how to keep water clean. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/p1010058.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-06-04T19:49:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/05/31/if-those-trees-could-walk/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/red-osier-dogwood.jpg</image:loc><image:title>red osier dogwood</image:title><image:caption>Red osier dogwood is a good choice for planting projects. It is predicted to be relatively resilient to climate change and provides a good food source for birds. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/010.jpg</image:loc><image:title>010</image:title><image:caption>Paper birch and aspen are two species expected to decline in Minnesota as climate change intensifies. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/6fccf9-20150116-climate-change-maple-trees-march-north.png</image:loc><image:title>6fccf9-20150116-climate-change-maple-trees-march-north</image:title><image:caption>Maple trees march north  - sourced by Jaime Chismar for MPR News.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/birch-and-aspen-are-two-tree-species-declining-in-mn-due-to-climate-change.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Birch and aspen are two tree species declining in MN due to climate change</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-05-31T16:58:08+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/05/28/salt-levels-are-rising-in-minnesota-waters-and-its-not-just-winter-to-blame/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/joe-knaeble-salt2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Joe-Knaeble-Salt2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_7067.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7067</image:title><image:caption>Battle Creek Lake in Woodbury is one of 50 water bodies in Minnesota impaired by too much chloride. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-05-31T12:44:03+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/05/19/many-helping-hands-make-a-strong-community/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/trinity-litter-pick-up.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Trinity litter pick up</image:title><image:caption>Children from Trinity Lutheran collected litter at a stewardship event. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/adopt-a-raingarden.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Adopt a Raingarden</image:title><image:caption>Kathy Warren (third from right) led a team of volunteers cleaning raingardens on the South Hill of Sitllwater. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/cole-williams-and-bob-hagstrom-grant-cleanup.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Cole Williams and Bob Hagstrom - Grant cleanup</image:title><image:caption>Cole Williams and Bob Hagstrom picked up roadside litter during the Grant community cleanup. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/st.-paul-volunteers-celebrate-after-cleaning-a-storm-drain.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Clean Water Minnesota Stories</image:title><image:caption>Hamline United Methodist Church &amp; Adopt-a-Drain</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-05-22T13:40:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/05/17/local-school-groups-release-baby-trout-into-browns-creek/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/file2-2.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>file2-2</image:title><image:caption>Students from St. Judes gather near the Browns Creek Trail with Evan Griggs, an educator with Trout in the Classroom. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/file-3.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>file-3</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-05-22T13:40:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/05/18/comfort-lake-forest-lake-watershed-district-recognizes-local-watershed-champions/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_1762.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1762</image:title><image:caption>Chisago County farmer Craig Mattson worked with the CLFLWD on a large wetland restoration and has implemented rotational grazing on his land. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/jon-spence-with-jack-mackenzie.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>CLFLWD board president Jon Spence (left) presented Jack MacKenzie (right) with an award for his volunteer efforts. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/clflwd-board-president-jon-spence-left-with-teachers-and-principal-from-lila.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Jon Spence (right) with teachers and principal from LILA.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-05-17T13:13:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/05/01/ready-set-garden/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/11535885_10153405878994105_2325318151439454748_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>11535885_10153405878994105_2325318151439454748_n</image:title><image:caption>If you're ready to start gardening, there are a number of local plant sales happening in May and early June. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_6357.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6357</image:title><image:caption>During last year's Stillwater Raingarden Clean-up event, teams of volunteers cleared out litter and old vegetation to get gardens ready for the spring. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/2018-06-04-04.29.08.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2018-06-04 04.29.08</image:title><image:caption>Spring arrives stealthily, with a flash of green leaves and bright flowers. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/butterfly-on-purple-coneflower.png</image:loc><image:title>butterfly on purple coneflower</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-04-30T13:28:38+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/04/30/pimp-your-downspout/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/woodbury-home-with-two-rain-barrels-to-collect-rainwater.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Woodbury home with two rain barrels to collect rainwater</image:title><image:caption>Woodbury home with two rain barrels to collect rainwater.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_1176.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1176</image:title><image:caption>Jim Reckinger of Woodbury shows how he uses rain barrels to collect water from his rooftop. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/8134955393_cf95ed9611_z.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Kunsthofpassage Funnel Wall</image:title><image:caption>Kunsthofpassage Funnel Wall in Dresden, Germany. Photo by Attila Acs. 
</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/anacortes_-_downspout_on_port_building_02.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Anacortes_-_downspout_on_port_building_02</image:title><image:caption>From Wikimedia Commons</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-04-30T12:53:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/04/18/hopping-into-springagain/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_4699.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4699</image:title><image:caption>The Tamarack Nature Preserve in Woodbury features a floating boardwalk over the swamp. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/dsc00130.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC00130</image:title><image:caption>Spring peepers inhabit forested areas and lay their eggs in temporary wetlands that form in the spring. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/gray-treefrog.jpg</image:loc><image:title>gray treefrog</image:title><image:caption>Minnesota has four species of treefrogs. The Cope's gray treefrog and gray treefrog can only be distinguished by their calls. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/young-frog-near-a-neighborhood-pond.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Young frog near a neighborhood pond</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-04-13T17:17:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/04/11/master-water-stewards-offers-a-unique-mini-training-opportunity-in-2019/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_5758.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5758</image:title><image:caption>Through the Master Water Stewards program, citizen volunteers are able to work in partnership with scientists and experts at their local watershed districts and conservation districts. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/joan-nichols-right-helps-to-prep-a-tree-for-students-to-plant-at-middleton-elementary.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Joan Nichols, right, helps to prep a tree for students to plant at Middleton elementary</image:title><image:caption>Joan Nichols, right, helps to prep a tree for students to plant at Middleton Elementary School. Nichols was one of seven Washington County residents to get certified as a Master Water Steward last year. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_8472.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8472</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-04-13T16:55:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/04/10/let-your-hair-down-and-leave-the-garden-beds-unmade/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/file.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>file</image:title><image:caption>Forget the rush to tidy up your yard. Grab an umbrella and go walking in the rain. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_7068.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7068</image:title><image:caption>During the early spring, many pollinators and beneficial insects are still hibernating in leaf litter and dried plant stems. Wait a few more weeks to clear out your gardens or lay steams aside so that the larva and insects have time to emerge in May. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_0865.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0865</image:title><image:caption>Don't stress out about fallen trees and snags along your shoreline. These are the places where turtles perch and fish lay their eggs. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/file2.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>file2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_7079.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7079</image:title><image:caption>It turns out people don't melt in the rain. In fact, if you explore the outdoors on a rainy day, you might find frogs and other wildlife. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-04-13T16:54:38+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/03/28/put-time-on-the-water-to-good-use-this-summer-get-free-training-to-become-a-volunteer-ais-detector/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/local-residents-learn-how-to-id-common-aquatic-plants-at-a-hands-on-workshop.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Local residents learn how to ID common aquatic plants at a hands-on workshop</image:title><image:caption>Local residents learn how to identify common native and invasive aquatic plants at a hands-on workshop led by Washington Conservation District and Comfort Lake - Forest Lake Watershed District.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/36.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-03-28T18:33:58+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/03/21/spring-flooding-calls-for-lowered-lake-levels-volunteer-sandbagging/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/file-1.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>file-1</image:title><image:caption>The snow is finally melting, but it's leaving many yards underwater. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/sam_0062.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SAM_0062</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/file.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>file</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-03-21T16:22:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/02/27/jump-into-spring-with-a-planting-for-clean-water-or-wetlands-workshop/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/a-border-of-native-plants-blends-seemlessly-with-the-nearby-wetland-at-a-home-in-oakdale.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A border of native plants blends seemlessly with the nearby wetland at a home in Oakdale</image:title><image:caption>A border of native plants blends seemlessly with the nearby wetland at a home in Oakdale.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/018.jpg</image:loc><image:title>018</image:title><image:caption>Native plants can be both beautiful and functional. Along a shoreline or streambank, they help to prevent erosion, while in a raingarden, they loosen the soil and create pathways for water to infiltrate. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/20140407_192639.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20140407_192639</image:title><image:caption>Tara Kline, a landscape and natural resource specialist with the Washington Conservation District works with homeowners to design projects such as raingardens and shoreline plantings. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/025.jpg</image:loc><image:title>025</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-02-27T05:10:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/02/26/teachers-set-sail-with-free-workshops-on-the-mississippi-and-st-croix-rivers/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/photo-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo 2</image:title><image:caption>During Hamline University and St. Croix River Association workshops, teachers get to be kids for a while. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/1779040_861855350493973_2303287162362564821_n-e1551239834219.jpg</image:loc><image:title>1779040_861855350493973_2303287162362564821_n</image:title><image:caption>During teacher workshops on the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers, teachers get hands-on experience related to water education, such as learning how to identify aquatic macroinvertebrates. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sam_0071.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SAM_0071</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/teachers-learning-at-interstate-state-park-photo-from-st.-croix-river-association.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Teachers learning at Interstate State Park, photo from St. Croix River Association</image:title><image:caption>Teachers learn about geology at Interstate State Park. Photo by St. Croix River Association.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-02-27T04:04:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/02/14/calling-all-watershed-champions/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/there-are-40.5-million-acres-of-lawn-in-the-u.s.-smart-sprinkling-can-save-lots-of-water..jpg</image:loc><image:title>There are 40.5 million acres of lawn in the U.S. Smart sprinkling can save lots of water.</image:title><image:caption>Learn how to get a healthy lawn without hurting the environment at a Turf Talk, taught by Jack MacKenzie. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/learn-how-to-create-a-beautiful-water-friendly-yard.jpg</image:loc><image:caption>Learn how to create a beautiful, water-friendly yard at an upcoming spring workshop: April 4 in Wyoming, April 11 in Cottage Grove, April 25 in Hugo, May 16 in Lake Elmo, or May 23 in Oakdale.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_6412.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6412</image:title><image:caption>Do you know someone in the Comfort Lake - Forest Lake Watershed who goes out of their way to protect water? Nominate them for an award!</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/22798475812_a3a51cb054_h.jpg</image:loc><image:title>22798475812_a3a51cb054_h</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-02-15T03:49:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/02/11/2019-brings-new-funding-for-local-clean-water-work/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/101_0133.jpg</image:loc><image:title>101_0133</image:title><image:caption>Jellums, a small lake on the northeast side of Big Marine Lake, is one of the places where Carnelian-Marine-St. Croix Watershed District will be looking for water-quality improvement opportunities. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-02-15T03:10:17+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/02/01/revisiting-american-history-through-the-eyes-of-the-buffalo-soldiers/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/160724-f-cq929-003.jpg</image:loc><image:title>160724-f-cq929-003</image:title><image:caption>Remembering the Buffalo Soldier during Fort D.A. Russell Days, July 24, 2016.  (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Malcolm Mayfield)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/yosemite-national-park-2405333_1920.jpg</image:loc><image:title>yosemite-national-park-2405333_1920</image:title><image:caption>Yosemite National Park remains one of the most popular in the U.S., bringing in 4.3 million visitors in 2017. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/buffalosoldiers-photofromwikipedia2cuspublicdomain.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Buffalo Soldiers-Photo from Wikipedia US Public Domain</image:title><image:caption>In the wake of the Civil War, the U.S. Army created six all-black cavalry and infantry regiments, commonly known as the Buffalo Soldiers. Among their many jobs, these men guarded Yosemite National Park in 1899, 1903, and 1904 before the National Park Service came into existence. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-01-31T22:39:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/01/15/designing-with-nature-braiding-science-with-beauty/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/olson-prairie-workshop-2012.jpg</image:loc><image:title>olson prairie workshop 2012</image:title><image:caption>Wild One promotes environmentally sound landscaping practices to preserve biodiversity through the preservation, restoration and establishment of native plant communities. Members include professional botanists, as well as people who just love nature. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/robin_wall_kimmerer_credit_dale_kakkak_300dpi_rgb.jpg</image:loc><image:title>robin_wall_kimmerer_credit_dale_kakkak_300dpi_rgb</image:title><image:caption>Robin Wall Kimmerer, author of Braiding Sweetgrass, will speak at the Feb. 2, 2019 Wild Ones Design with Nature Conference in St. Paul. (Photo by Dale Kakkak)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/goldenrod-aster-and-sumac-in-fall.jpg</image:loc><image:title>goldenrod, aster and sumac in fall</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-10-30T01:44:57+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/01/14/greencorps-members-prescribe-a-low-salt-diet-for-minnesota-waters/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/15702260185_d14b790326_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WLSSD wastewater treatment plant aerial photo</image:title><image:caption>Wastewater treatment plants kill bacteria and remove phosphorus and pollutants before releasing water to lakes and rivers. Upgrading technology to remove chlorides can be very expensive. (Photo of Western Lake Superior Sanitary District treatment facility in Duluth, MN)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/ben-lehman-kate-johnson-and-jaron-cook-greencorps-members.jpg</image:loc><image:title>ben lehman, kate johnson, and jaron cook - greencorps members</image:title><image:caption>Ben lLhman, Kate Johnson, and Jaron Cook are Minnesota GreenCorps members helping to educate communities about chloride water pollution. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/22886014282_28635eb36f_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>22886014282_28635eb36f_o</image:title><image:caption>University of Minnesota estimates that 65% of all chloride discharged into lakes and rivers by wastewater treatment plants comes from water softeners.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-01-14T20:04:08+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/01/03/listening-for-the-trees/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_1759.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_1759</image:title><image:caption>An eastern kingbird sings from the top of a tamarack tree. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/oct25-018.jpg</image:loc><image:title>oct25 018</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/618.jpg</image:loc><image:title>618</image:title><image:caption>Tane Mahuta "Lord of the Forest" is the largest living kauri tree in New Zealand. Between 1840 and 1900, 90% of the kauri were logged. Today, only 4% of the original kauri forest remains in small patches. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/img_5382.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_5382</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2019-01-03T21:26:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2019/01/03/valley-creek-flows-clear-on-a-cold-midwinters-night/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20180504_090506.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20180504_090506</image:title><image:caption>Through a partnership with Washington Conservation District, students from Stillwater Area High School learn how to collect and identify macroinvertebrates in Valley Creek. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Stillwater-High-students-look-for-macroinvertebrates-in-Valley-Creek.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Stillwater High students look for macroinvertebrates in Valley Creek</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/VBWD_Program.jpg</image:loc><image:title>VBWD_Program</image:title><image:caption>The Minnesota Association of Watershed Districts presented Valley Branch Watershed District with its 2018 Program of the Year award on Nov. 30. Pictured: Tony Haider (VBWD board), Emily Javens (MAWD administrator), Jill Lucas (VBWD board president), Lincoln Fetcher (VBWD board), John Hanson (VBWD engineer), and Jeff Bower (VBWD inspector). </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/IMG_9177.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9177</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Valley-Creek-S.-Branch-12-7-17.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Valley Creek S. Branch 12-7-17</image:title><image:caption>Valley Creek in Afton is one of the local waterways that will benefit from Minnesota's Clean Water funds this year. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-01-03T21:25:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/12/19/hugo-finds-innovative-ways-to-reduce-reuse-replenish/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Stormwater-tour-at-Forest-Lake-High-Sept-2018.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Stormwater tour at Forest Lake High, Sept 2018</image:title><image:caption>During a workshop in September 2018, city council and local leaders learned about a new stormwater reuse project under development at the Forest Lake Area High School. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/BWCA-summer-08-224.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA summer 08 224</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/053.jpg</image:loc><image:title>053</image:title><image:caption>Hardwood Creek, Hugo. Stormwater reuse projects in the city are helping to reduce groundwater pumping and keep runoff pollution out of nearby streams and wetlands. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Oneka-Ridge-water-reuse.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Oneka Ridge water reuse</image:title><image:caption>Rice Creek Watershed District and City of Hugo helped Oneka Ridge Golf Course to design a stormwater reuse system to provide water for irrigation and reduce runoff to Bald Eagle Lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/wbl-low-water.jpg</image:loc><image:title>wbl low water</image:title><image:caption>After several years of drought caused low water levels in White Bear Lake, officials began looking for ways to reduce groundwater pumping in nearby communities. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Waters-Edge-Hugo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Waters Edge Hugo</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Clearwater-Cove-HOA-Hugo.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Clearwater Cove HOA Hugo</image:title><image:caption>The new Clearwater Cove development in Hugo will use stormwater for all  irrigation needs. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2019-01-03T14:47:42+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/12/11/browns-creek-fish-hoping-for-a-big-chill/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/karen-trout.jpg</image:loc><image:title>karen trout</image:title><image:caption>Karen Kill has served as administrator of the Brown's Creek Watershed District for more than 15 years. In this photo, she holds an adult trout found swimming happily in Brown's Creek near the Oak Glen Golf Course. (Photo credit MN DNR)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20181130_mawd_riparian-shading_final_page_30.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20181130_MAWD_Riparian Shading_Final_Page_30</image:title><image:caption>After analyzing the amount of shade along different stretches of Brown's Creek, Olivia Sparrow identified key locations where planting more trees or grasses would help to lower water temperatures. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20181130_mawd_riparian-shading_final_page_06.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20181130_MAWD_Riparian Shading_Final_Page_06</image:title><image:caption>During 2017, the water temperature in Brown's Creek was never above 23.9°C, the critical temperature above which brown trout start to die. There are still times during the summer when the water is warmer than 18.3°, however, and this can cause stress for trout and other fish in the creek. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/20181009_085808.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20181009_085808</image:title><image:caption>Stream improvement projects have helped fish and other aquatic life in Brown's Creek to make a come-back over the past 18 years. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/shading.jpg</image:loc><image:title>shading</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-12-21T20:36:59+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/12/04/its-all-about-the-bees/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/dsc02630.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SONY DSC</image:title><image:caption>After planting cover crops on her land, Arnold hosted a field seminar so that other local producers could learn more about the practice. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/2612landing.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2612landing</image:title><image:caption>Schneider talks to volunteers at a pollinator habitat planting project in Washington County's Pine Point Regional Park. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/laurie-schneider-photo-by-keith-chrysler.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Laurie Schneider - photo by Keith Chrysler</image:title><image:caption>Laurie Schneider, Stillwater Twp. resident and co-founder of the Pollinator Friendly Alliance, was chosen as the Washington Conservation District 2018 Community Conservationist. (Photo by Keith Chrysler</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/073.jpg</image:loc><image:title>073</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-12-04T21:46:17+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/05/05/planting-for-future-generations/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/26.jpg</image:loc><image:title>26</image:title><image:caption>The baby oaks were barely large enough to see. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/24.jpg</image:loc><image:title>24</image:title><image:caption>Charlie collects worms and feathers along the way. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/19.jpg</image:loc><image:title>19</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/6.jpg</image:loc><image:title>6</image:title><image:caption>200 volunteers planted 3000 trees</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-11-29T18:07:19+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/12/12/battling-floods-and-saving-trout-20-years-of-work-for-the-browns-creek-watershed-district/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/photocraig.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photoCraig</image:title><image:caption>Craig Leiser, Brown's Creek Watershed District's board president, dishes up ice cream at a celebration event in Brown's Creek Park. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/bcwd_-_thpp_2004_mawd_project_of_the_year-small_web-e1543514139652.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BCWD_-_THPP_2004_MAWD_Project_of_the_Year-small_Web</image:title><image:caption>The Trout Habitat Preservation Project helped to alleviate flooding and protect Brown's Creek. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/6-27-14.jpg</image:loc><image:title>6-27-14</image:title><image:caption>Trees and shrubs line the streambank along Brown's Creek in Stillwater, helping to stabilize the steep hills through the gorge. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/craig-leiser-at-browns-creek.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Craig Leiser at Browns Creek</image:title><image:caption>Craig Leiser stands in front of Browns Creek in Stillwater. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-11-29T17:57:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/12/21/salting-the-earth/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/joe-knaeble-salt1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Joe-Knaeble-Salt1</image:title><image:caption>One pound of salt (one heaping coffee mug) is enough to clear a 20-foot driveway or 10 sidewalk squares (250 sq. ft.). (Photo from Clean Water MN)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/too-much-salt-at-a-local-store1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Too much salt at a local store</image:title><image:caption>Winter salt helps to melt ice, but many people use too much. Salt from sidewalks, parking lots and roads has already contaminated 40 Minnesota waterways, and another 40 are in imminent danger, </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/naval_battles_ancient_and_modern_1883_14578299319.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Naval_battles,_ancient_and_modern_(1883)_(14578299319)</image:title><image:caption>After the capture of ancient Carthage, came the salting of the land. (Photo from Wikipedia)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/033.jpg</image:loc><image:title>033</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_4960.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Too much salt</image:title><image:caption>Despite training programs, many businesses still use too much salt on sidewalks and parking lots. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/too-much-salt-at-a-local-store.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Too much salt at a local store</image:title><image:caption>The above photo shows a business that has used too much salt. As a general rule, if you can see salt left over after the ice melts, you have used too much. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-11-29T14:11:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/11/21/thankful-for-toilets-that-flush/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/fcf-37-5-lbs-30-june-2009-mdnr.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Less than 100 years ago, Pool 2 of the Mississippi River was nearly lifeless. Today, DNR biologists find 30 different species of fish, including giant catfish. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/23515440625_789a9ab3c0_b.jpg</image:loc><image:title>23515440625_789a9ab3c0_b</image:title><image:caption>1933: Sewage in the Mississippi River. Photo from Minnesota Pollution Control Agency</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/25409854711_2fd78198a4_z.jpg</image:loc><image:title>25409854711_2fd78198a4_z</image:title><image:caption>Today, eight wastewater treatment plants serve the Twin Cities area and river water quality has improved dramatically. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/41595857204_e642cf062f_z.jpg</image:loc><image:title>41595857204_e642cf062f_z</image:title><image:caption>Copyright Chris Fithall, 2017</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/today-people-wade-in-the-river-where-raw-sewage-once-flowed.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Today people wade in the river where raw sewage once flowed</image:title><image:caption>Today, people wade and play in the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, thanks to toilets that flush and the Metropolitan Council wastewater treatment system. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-11-21T18:50:59+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/11/20/tip-toeing-through-the-tamaracks/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/tamarack-cones2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>tamarack cones2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_8488.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8488</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_8487.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8487</image:title><image:caption>Aster in fall</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_4708.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4708</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/gonzales-class-photo-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Gonzales Class Photo 2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/db-photo-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DB Photo 2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/boardwalk-biology-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>boardwalk biology 1</image:title><image:caption>During a recent field trip, 4th grade students from Royal Oaks Elementary visited Tamarack Nature Preserve in Woodbury. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/tamarack-tree.jpg</image:loc><image:title>tamarack tree</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/tamarack-fall.jpg</image:loc><image:title>tamarack fall</image:title><image:caption>Unlike other conifers, tamarack needles change color and drop in the fall. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/swallowtail.jpg</image:loc><image:title>swallowtail</image:title><image:caption>Swallowtail</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-11-20T17:27:39+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/11/06/a-clear-path-ahead-for-moody-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/moody-after-alum-2018.jpg</image:loc><image:title>moody-after alum 2018</image:title><image:caption>After applying alum, HAB Aquatic Solutions took a second photo on Moody Lake showing the same location as the previous day, now with clear water and no algae. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/moody-alum-treatment_fall-2018_img-02.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Alum binds with phosphorus to form an aluminum phosphate molecule that is insoluble in water. It is safe to use and does not affect fish or plants. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/scandia-cows.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Scandia cows</image:title><image:caption>Cattle graze in a field down the road from Moody Lake. Rotational grazing is one strategy farmers can use to reduce erosion and limit the amount of manure going into lakes and wetlands. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_20160729_101406853.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_20160729_101406853</image:title><image:caption>Prior to beginning work, watershed district staff collected soil and water samples from wetlands near Moody Lake to pinpoint locations where high-levels of phosphorus were entering the lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/moody-alum-treatment_fall-2018_img-01.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>On October 3 of 2018, Comfort Lake - Forest Lake Watershed District capped eight years of lake restoration work on Moody with an alum treatment. The watershed district received a 2019 Clean Water grant to continue work in the Bone Lake subwatershed downstream. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/moody-bloom-2018-pre-alum.jpg</image:loc><image:title>moody-bloom 2018 pre alum</image:title><image:caption>A photo taken by HAB Aquatic Solutions LLC shows an algae bloom on Moody Lake caused by too much phosphorus in the water. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_1648.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1648</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-11-06T22:32:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/11/06/mooneye-sturgeon-and-microplastics-in-trout/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/16793289537_9d96602290_z.jpg</image:loc><image:title>16793289537_9d96602290_z</image:title><image:caption>Researchers use microscopes to find microplastics in water and animal tissues. In her research, Simmerman would often count 150-200 particles of plastic in a single microscope slide. 

Photo from the Chesapeake Bay Program. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/mooneye.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Mooneye</image:title><image:caption>Mooneyes live in rivers and feed on insects, crustaceans, and minnows. They are closely related to goldeyes. 

Photo from University of Wisconsin Sea Grant Institute</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/mussel_life_cycle.jpg</image:loc><image:title>mussel_life_cycle</image:title><image:caption>Freshwater mussels have a complex life cycle. Adult males release sperm into the water. After being siphoned by adult females, these sperm fertilize the eggs. The female will then release microscopic larvae into the water. If they attach to the gills of a fish, these larvae will grow into mature mussels that drop off and live on the river bottom. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/lake_sturgeon.jpg</image:loc><image:title>lake_sturgeon</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-11-06T15:13:50+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/10/31/watershed-rules-guide-water-friendly-development/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/map.jpg</image:loc><image:title>map</image:title><image:caption>There are eight watershed management organizations in Washington County. Use the Clean Water MN map to find yours. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/004.jpg</image:loc><image:title>004</image:title><image:caption>Watershed rules exist to protect the health of our lakes and waterways. For example, watershed rules might require landowners to maintain the existing trees and native plants along their lake shore, and only build a narrow path to reach the water. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/wyldewooda.jpg</image:loc><image:title>wyldewooda</image:title><image:caption>Watershed rules require landowners and developers to protect wetlands and waterways during construction and install practices to keep runoff from flooding downstream neighbors or causing water pollution after construction is done. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/6118021205_9a6e8571a9_z.jpg</image:loc><image:title>6118021205_9a6e8571a9_z</image:title><image:caption>If you don't follow the recipe, your pickles might not taste good. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/38668950816_15a79f11f6_z.jpg</image:loc><image:title>38668950816_15a79f11f6_z</image:title><image:caption>Games are only fun if everyone follows the rules. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/from-above-the-line-between-natural-and-built-is-distinct-the-minds-eye-however-plants-prairie-and-woods-until-the-line-begins-to-blur.jpg</image:loc><image:title>From above, the line between natural and built is distinct. The mind's eye, however, plants prairie and woods until the line begins to blur.</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/bioretention-cell-in-parking-lot-to-reduce-runoff.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Washington County built large raingardens in the South Service Center parking lot to prevent runoff from flowing downstream to Cottage Grove Ravine Lake. These raingardens were one way in which the county met South Washington Watershed District's rules. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-10-31T16:39:38+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/10/10/like-water-flowing-east/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/standing-cedars-in-fall.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Standing Cedars in fall</image:title><image:caption>Spending time in nature promotes physical and mental health and helps children to develop an environmental ethic. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/bayport-e1539202237250.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bayport</image:title><image:caption>The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act protects the St. Croix and other special rivers for the benefit of current and future generations. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/warner-in-fall.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Warner in fall</image:title><image:caption>Warner Nature Center hosts the St. Croix Research Rendezvous each fall. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/st-croix-in-fall.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix in fall</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-10-10T20:15:35+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/10/02/so-long-sweet-summer-prepping-lawns-and-gardens-for-the-winter/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/volunteers-at-newport-buckthorn-pull.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Volunteers at Newport buckthorn pull</image:title><image:caption>Buckthorn leaves remain green long after other trees turn colors in the fall. Every year, volunteers in Newport's Bailey School Forest pull young buckthorn in late October. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/adi4857057mf-fall-ii.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Watershed, Raingardens, Native Gardens</image:title><image:caption>Rake leaves out of the street in the fall to keep them from clogging storm drains and sending excess nutrients into local waterways. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/gc7a9667_1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>GC7A9667_1</image:title><image:caption>Mid-fall is a good time to put down grass seed to fill in bare patches in your lawn. The seed will remain dormant and germinate in the spring. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/falconhts_034f-monarda.jpg</image:loc><image:title>falconhts_034f, monarda</image:title><image:caption>Leave dried stems of perennial plants standing during the winter to provide food for birds and nesting habitat for bees during the winter. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/peggythomas-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>PeggyThomas-1</image:title><image:caption>By now, the bottom of your compost pile or bin should have finished compost (looks like rich, brown dirt). Mix some into your garden beds during the fall or spread it over your lawn for a light dose of nutrients before the winter. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/pre-frost-harvest.jpg</image:loc><image:title>pre frost harvest</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-10-02T17:03:10+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/10/01/south-washington-watershed-district-celebrates-25-years-of-flood-prevention-and-habitat-restoration/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/24883347_147163919262309_5854081734610401966_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>24883347_147163919262309_5854081734610401966_o</image:title><image:caption>The new bridge built by Washington County and South Washington Watershed District allows water to flow freely through the Grey Cloud Slough for the first time in 50 years. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/woodbury-colby-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Colby Lake Raingardens, Woodbury, MN</image:title><image:caption>This collage shows some of the many raingardens planted near Colby Lake in Woodbury with support from the South Washington Watershed District. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_20140623_091016_129-3.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_20140623_091016_129 (3)</image:title><image:caption>After large rainstorms, South Washington's regional infiltration basin will fill with water like a small lake. The water soaks into the ground within a few days. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/29.jpg</image:loc><image:title>29</image:title><image:caption>Three years ago, Great River Greening organized 200 volunteers to plant 3000 young oak trees in the South Washington conservation corridor between Woodbury and Cottage Grove. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/powers-lake-woodbury-swwd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Powers Lake Woodbury SWWD</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-10-01T20:37:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/09/25/celebrate-water-and-nature-at-browns-creek-park-sept-29/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/bcwd-map.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BCWD map</image:title><image:caption>The map above shows the area of land encompassed by the Brown's Creek Watershed District in Washington County, MN. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/browns-creek-park-in-fall.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Browns Creek Park in fall</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-09-25T21:30:06+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/09/21/learning-to-care-for-your-well-and-septic-system-can-help-to-prevent-catastrophe/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/septics-in-washco.jpg</image:loc><image:title>septics in washco</image:title><image:caption>This map shows the locations of septic systems in Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/34829382735_ecdaea53d3_k.jpg</image:loc><image:title>34829382735_ecdaea53d3_k</image:title><image:caption>Septic systems should be pumped out every 2-3 years to stay in good working order and avoid overflows. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/18657_1280628330036_6720358_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>18657_1280628330036_6720358_n</image:title><image:caption>Living the good life with my giant trampoline. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/country-living.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Country living</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-09-20T19:53:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/09/17/living-the-buckthorn-and-bittersweet-life/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/oriental-bittersweet-vine-dellwood_2012.jpg</image:loc><image:title>oriental bittersweet vine - Dellwood_2012</image:title><image:caption>The Oriental bittersweet vine wraps around trees, girdling them as it grows. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/cemetery_buckthorn-branch_1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>cemetery_buckthorn branch_1</image:title><image:caption>Female buckthorn also grow blackish-purple berries. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/cemetery_buckthorn-bark_2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>cemetery_buckthorn bark_2</image:title><image:caption>The bark of buckthorn is smooth with little horizontal lines. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/buckthorn-002f.jpg</image:loc><image:title>buckthorn-002f</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/grecian-foxglove_20110707b.jpg</image:loc><image:title>grecian foxglove_20110707b</image:title><image:caption>So pretty, right? WRONG! 

These pink, tubular flowers are called Grecian foxglove. It's an invasive species that has just begun to appear in Minnesota, mostly in a few locations in Afton and Stillwater Township. Don't touch it with bare hands, as the plant contains a chemical compound that can cause heart problems for some people. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/die-buckthorn-scum-300x205.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Die-Buckthorn-Scum-300x205</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-09-17T16:57:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/09/17/using-models-to-guide-water-restoration-efforts/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/swat-model.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SWAT model</image:title><image:caption>A figure from Almendinger's paper, "Applying a SWAT model of the Sunrise River watershed, eastern Minnesota, to predict water-quality impacts from land-use changes" shows that fields growing corn and soybeans contribute far more phosphorus to the Sunrise River than those being used to grow hay or graze livestock. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/art-urban-runoff-rates.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Art-Urban-Runoff-Rates</image:title><image:caption>This figure shows how rain's journey differs in a natural vs developed landscape. As more impervious surfaces like roads and rooftops are added, less water is able to soak into the ground and there is more runoff pollution. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/jim-almendinger-speaks-to-local-leaders-on-the-st-croix-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Jim Almendinger speaks to local leaders on the St. Croix River</image:title><image:caption>Jim Almendinger speaks to local leaders on the St. Croix River in Taylor's Falls. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-09-17T16:36:59+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/08/30/when-the-sprinklers-are-running-but-the-grass-is-still-dry/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/stretch-of-lawn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>stretch-of-lawn</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/22507485167_f7a581f109_b-e1535655805648.jpg</image:loc><image:title>22507485167_f7a581f109_b</image:title><image:caption>Minnesota lawns only need 1-inch of water per week to stay green. If it rains enough, you might not need to water at all. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-08-30T19:20:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/08/22/the-day-the-lake-disappeared/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/swede_hollow_phalen_creek.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Swede_Hollow,_Phalen_Creek</image:title><image:caption>Phalen Creek in St. Paul flowing through Swede Hallow. Now, the creek only exists as a series of pipes below ground, running from Lake Phalen to the Mississippi River. The Swede Hallow settlement is gone as well. (Learn more about Phalen Creek at http://saintpaulhistorical.com/items/show/291)

Image from Minnesota Historical Society [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/1024px-lake_delton_drained_fema_aerial_image.jpg</image:loc><image:title>1024px-Lake_Delton_drained_FEMA_aerial_image</image:title><image:caption>By Barry Bahler/FEMA (This image is from the FEMA Photo Library.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/blackhawk_hotel_wisconsin_dells_wisconsin_the_finest_at_the_dells_83580.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Blackhawk_Hotel,_Wisconsin_Dells,_Wisconsin,_The_finest_at_the_Dells_(83580)</image:title><image:caption>By J. A. Fagan Publishing Co., Madison, Wis. [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/lake-delton.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lake Delton</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-08-22T16:29:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/08/15/stepping-off-the-beaten-path-and-into-mooers-park-charm/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/50-lb-fcf-16-june-2008-pool-2-mdnr.jpg</image:loc><image:title>50 lb FCF, 16 June 2008, Pool 2 MDNR</image:title><image:caption>Minnesota DNR staff caught this 50 pound flathead catfish in Pool 2 of the Mississippi River. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/egrets.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Egrets</image:title><image:caption>Egrets perch in a dead tree above Mooers Lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/016.jpg</image:loc><image:title>016</image:title><image:caption>Catch a glimpse of Mooers Lake, a backwater channel of the Mississippi River, from Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/view-from-mooers-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>View from Mooers Park</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-08-15T17:53:55+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/08/07/putting-down-roots-in-the-prairie/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/030.jpg</image:loc><image:title>030</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/009.jpg</image:loc><image:title>009</image:title><image:caption>Monarch butterflies require milkweed to feed their caterpillars. Other insects have similar relationships with prairie plants. In addition, 278 species of birds live in Minnesota grasslands. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/246.jpg</image:loc><image:title>246</image:title><image:caption>Lead plant's deep-roots help it to survive drought and fire on the prairie. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/prairie-at-lake-elmo-park-reserve.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Prairie at Lake Elmo Park Reserve</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-08-07T11:27:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/08/06/water-you-waiting-for/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/img_6952.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6952</image:title><image:caption>Raingardens capture runoff from rooftops, driveways and streets; filter the water; and soak it into the ground. Lend a helping hand to a raingarden in your neighborhood by picking a few weeds the next time you're out for a walk. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/adi33150270mississippi-fr.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Watershed, Raingardens, Native Gardens</image:title><image:caption>Grass clippings contain nitrogen and phosphorus. Sweep them up and compost, or push them back into your lawn so that they return nutrients to the soil instead of feeding algae in our lakes and rivers. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-08-06T13:22:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/07/30/goldilocks-forecasts-the-weather/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/swwd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SWWD</image:title><image:caption>Flooding in southern Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_7400.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7400</image:title><image:caption>Charred hillsides show the aftermath of wildfires in Colorado. Climatologists warn that higher spring and summer temperatures and earlier spring snow melt increase the risk of drought and wildfires in the western United States. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/snake-river-hydrograph.png</image:loc><image:title>Snake River hydrograph</image:title><image:caption>A graph shows water level in the Snake River shooting up from 3-feet to 15-feet in 24hrs after a large storm. South Washington Watershed District's new Climate Resiliency Plan seeks to reduce flooding risk by identifying vulnerable locations and stormwater infrastructure. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_7383.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7383</image:title><image:caption>Sign outside a museum in Woodland Park, CO where wild fires were burning July 20-21. Two days later, flash floods closed down the highway into town. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/after-flash-flooding-at-whitewater-state-park-in-2007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>After flash flooding at Whitewater State Park in 2007</image:title><image:caption>After flash flooding at Whitewater State Park in 2007.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-07-30T14:14:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/07/17/along-came-a-loon-and-swam-up-beside-her/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/photo-e1531830554951.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo</image:title><image:caption>Square Lake's clear, clean water make it a favorite destination for swimmers, scuba divers, and families. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_7272-e1531776666787.png</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7272</image:title><image:caption>Triathlon training provides me with ample opportunity to visit the rivers, lakes, woods, and rolling hills of Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/20171019_083202-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20171019_083202-2</image:title><image:caption>Water like glass on an early fall morning, Square Lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/loon-photo-by-erik-anderson-wcd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Loon - photo by Erik Anderson, WCD</image:title><image:caption>Photo by Erik Anderson. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2025-04-07T12:56:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/07/10/secrets-to-success-cleaner-water-and-healthy-landscapes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/lake-elmo-regional-park-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lake Elmo Regional Park 2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/057.jpg</image:loc><image:title>057</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/local-government-collaboration-on-water-work.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Local government collaboration on water work</image:title><image:caption>Washington County commissioners met with representatives from the Washington Conservation District and watershed management organizations during a water planning meeting on May 21. 

Back row: Commissioner Fran Miron, Commissioner Lisa Weik, Brown’s Creek Watershed District Board Chair Craig Leiser, Commissioner Jack Lavold (20-yr board member of South Washington Watershed District), Commissioner Gary Kreisel, Commissioner Stan Karwoski. 

Front row: Middle St. Croix WMO Administrator Mike Isensee, Washington Conservation District Board Vice-Chair John Rheinberger, Washington Conservation District District Manager Jay Riggs, East Metro Water Resource Education Program coordinator Angie Hong
</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/sunnybrook.jpg</image:loc><image:title>sunnybrook</image:title><image:caption>Washington Conservation District works with local watershed districts to monitor lake and stream water quality. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/educational-signage.jpg</image:loc><image:title>educational signage</image:title><image:caption>Watershed Districts are special-purpose local units of government that  cross city and county borders.  They levy property taxes to pay for flood prevention and water quality projects. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/browns-creek.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Brown's Creek</image:title><image:caption>Dozens of stream-improvement projects on public and private land in Stillwater have helped to improve water quality in Brown's Creek. Reports of young trout in the creek suggest the fish may be able to survive and reproduce again. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/p6191801.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-07-10T14:11:42+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/07/03/aquatic-life-in-forest-lake-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/p5050013.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>The fluorescent green blogs underwater in Forest Lake's 2nd Lake are masses of filamentous algae, a non-toxic green algal species. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_7155.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7155</image:title><image:caption>A newly emerged damselfly dries its wings beside its discarded exoskeleton. Damselflies and dragonflies are some of the many insects that lay their eggs in water and spend their larval stages in the water as well. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/fullsizerender.jpg</image:loc><image:title>FullSizeRender</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-07-03T13:37:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/07/02/celebrating-50-years-of-flood-prevention-and-water-quality-work-in-valley-branch-watershed-district/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/020-e1530548622699.jpg</image:loc><image:title>020</image:title><image:caption>In recent years, Valley Branch Watershed District has helped to fund several projects designed to reduce phosphorus levels in the St. Croix River. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/afton-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Afton park</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/photo-12-e1530548341315.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo 12</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/st-croix-trail-oct-2013-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix Trail - Oct. 2013 2</image:title><image:caption>Valley Creek is a high-quality cold water stream in Afton that supports naturally reproducing populations of brook trout. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>007</image:title><image:caption>Small-scale practices like this residential raingarden in Lake Elmo help to capture runoff from the road so that it can soak into the ground instead of flowing into the storm sewer system. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/vbwd-project-1007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>VBWD Project 1007</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/vbwd-flooding.jpg</image:loc><image:title>VBWD flooding</image:title><image:caption>Previously, homes in Oakdale and Lake Elmo used to flood during high-water years. Now, Valley Branch Watershed District is able to prevent flooding by lowering lake levels in advance of the spring snow melt.   </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/lake-elmo-regional-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lake Elmo Regional Park</image:title><image:caption>Lake Elmo Park Reserve is the setting for the 18th Annual Washington County Bluegrass Festival on Sept. 7. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-07-02T18:38:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/07/02/upcoming-water-workshops-highlight-new-resources-for-teachers-and-hands-on-lessons-for-kids/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/2013-09-25-10-10-33.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2013-09-25 10.10.33</image:title><image:caption>Groundwater? Eh, it's pretty important. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/water-scorpion.jpg</image:loc><image:title>water scorpion</image:title><image:caption>Participants in the St. Croix River Association training will explore aquatic life, including insects and other invertebrates that live in the river. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_5121.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5121</image:title><image:caption>Students learn how to identify and fix sources of runoff water pollution on an imaginary landscape in the NEMO Watershed Game, one of the resources featured in the July 24 Project Wet teacher training. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/photo-3.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo 3</image:title><image:caption>Teachers join hands around a cottonwood tree during a St. Croix River Association workshop. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/students-smile-while-learning-about-and-growing-native-plants-in-their-classroom.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Students smile while learning about and growing native plants in their classroom</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-07-02T15:20:14+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/06/18/lessons-from-a-garden/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/image2-e1529337951165.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>image2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/shoreline-096-e1529337576460.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Shoreline 096</image:title><image:caption>In gardening, as in life, the work is never done. Teach and involve our youth to sow the seeds and nurture the plants. Then, learn to stand back and let them proceed. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/fullsizerender.jpg</image:loc><image:title>FullSizeRender</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/2018-06-04-04-23-53.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2018-06-04 04.23.53</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/2018-06-04-04-25-14.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2018-06-04 04.25.14</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/learning-to-plant-a-garden.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Learning to plant a garden</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-06-18T16:09:58+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/06/11/be-the-change-you-wish-to-see-in-your-community-become-a-master-water-steward/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/img_5758.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5758</image:title><image:caption>Master Water Stewards learn new skills and get to interact with scientists and experts at local watershed and conservation districts. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/master-water-stewards-learn-about-a-stream-improvement-project-at-oak-glen-golf-course.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Master Water Stewards learn about a stream improvement project at Oak Glen golf course</image:title><image:caption>Master Water Stewards learn about a stream improvement project at Stillwater's Oak Glen golf course during a project tour. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/img_6708.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6708</image:title><image:caption>Tom Furey talked about water quality in Bone Lake during a neighborhood gathering last spring.  After beginning a planting project on his property, he convinced a neighbor to follow suit. He then went on to become certified as a Master Water Steward for Comfort Lake - Forest Lake Watershed District.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/20171004_hl_051.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20171004_hl_051</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-06-11T21:13:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/05/04/cleaner-streets-for-cleaner-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/clflwd-storm-drain-stenciling-2017-2-e1525449756583.jpg</image:loc><image:title>clflwd storm drain stenciling 2017 2</image:title><image:caption>Volunteers in Forest Lake will stencil drains to help protect area lakes. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/cwmn_ecofaithnetwork_20180319_0081_web_sm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Clean Water Minnesota Stories</image:title><image:caption>If your storm drain looks like this, it's time to clean it up! Dirt, leaves, grass clippings and litter flow through storm pipes to lakes, rivers and streams. Cleaner streets mean cleaner water. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/sean_connaughtygc7a1897.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sean_ConnaughtyGC7A1897</image:title><image:caption>Artist Sean Connaughty gathers bag of colorful litter from Minneapolis' Lake Hiawatha. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-06-11T20:39:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/05/07/saving-bayports-perro-creek-bike-and-boat-to-bayport-may-12-at-lakeside-park/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lakeside-park-in-bayport.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lakeside Park in Bayport</image:title><image:caption>Celebrating clean water in Bayport, Minnesota. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/179.jpg</image:loc><image:title>179</image:title><image:caption>Charlie and Molly Hong explore the trails at Valley View Park in Oak Park Heights. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-06-11T20:39:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/06/11/training-the-next-generation-to-be-keepers-of-the-trees/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/img_6695.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6695</image:title><image:caption>Meet the next generation of "Keepers of the Trees". </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/img_6671.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6671</image:title><image:caption>Students helped to plant 200 trees as part of the "Campus Greening" project at Lake and Middleton Schools in Woodbury. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/swwd-schools.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SWWD schools</image:title><image:caption>The Campus Greening project at Lake and Middleton Schools will replace 15-acres of unused turf with native plants and 200 trees. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/img_6655.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6655</image:title><image:caption>Kim Lawler and Joan Nichols prepare a white oak for planting at Middleton Elementary School in Woodbury. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/img_6664.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6664</image:title><image:caption>Students at Lake and Middleton Schools helped to plant 200 trees on their school campus last year. This year, Master Water Stewards Joan Nichols and Susan Goebel will help students to plant native flowers and grasses around two new outdoor classrooms. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-06-11T20:37:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/05/30/keeping-the-fish-happy-in-10000-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2016-early-morning.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2016 early morning</image:title><image:caption>Square Lake in northern Washington County is known for clear water that attracts swimmers and scuba divers. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/40025936291_3006a6f5d1_k.jpg</image:loc><image:title>40025936291_3006a6f5d1_k</image:title><image:caption>Photo by Lorie Shaull</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-05-30T14:13:17+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/05/18/the-do-good-guide-to-gardening/</loc><lastmod>2018-05-18T17:05:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/05/16/smartsprinkling/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/gc7a9836.jpg</image:loc><image:title>GC7A9836</image:title><image:caption>Thanks for not using our drinking water to irrigate the road!</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/07_incorrectsprinkler.jpg</image:loc><image:title>07_IncorrectSprinkler</image:title><image:caption>Most people run their sprinklers in the early morning while they're still sleeping. Try yours out over the weekend to see if there are broken heads or sprinklers shooting water into the road. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-05-16T14:03:58+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/05/10/grants-and-workshops-to-help-landowners-create-and-improve-woodland-habitat/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_4496.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4496</image:title><image:caption>Red pines at Pine Point Regional Park in Washington County create a peaceful trail for hiking. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/050.jpg</image:loc><image:title>050</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-05-07T20:20:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/05/09/minnesota-dnr-state-fisheries-chief-to-speak-at-chisago-washington-lakes-meeting-thursday-may-17-6-8pm-at-forest-lake-city-hall/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/031-e1525721121246.jpg</image:loc><image:title>031</image:title><image:caption>Hong family fishing on the upper Mississippi River.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/donpereira.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DNR Staff</image:title><image:caption>Don Pereira has 35 years of experience in fisheries research and management and is the Minnesota State Fisheries Chief.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-05-07T19:26:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/05/08/celebrating-50-years-of-wild-and-scenic-river-protections/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/allen-s-king-generating-station-coal-burning.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Allen S. King Generating Station - coal burning</image:title><image:caption>The Allen S. King Generating Station, located on the St. Croix River in Bayport/Oak Park Heights, donated 23,000 acres to state and federal government when the riverway was created and has made numerous environmental improvements over the years. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-05-07T19:17:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/03/29/stillwater-partners-launch-adopt-a-raingarden-program/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/raingarden.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Raingarden</image:title><image:caption>Raingardens catch runoff from roads and rooftops, giving the water time to soak into the ground instead of going into storm sewers. Over 1000 raingardens have been planted in Washington County to protect the St. Croix River and area lakes. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-05-04T14:38:10+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/04/09/planting-a-monarch-mile-or-two/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/woodbury_half_fliers_page_1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Woodbury_Half_Fliers_Page_1</image:title><image:caption>Join Great River Greening, South Washington Watershed District, and City of Woodbury for a pollinator planting event this May. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/taj-simchoni-kristen-meyer-and-arun-hejmadi-work-on-a-garden-in-the-monarch-mile.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Taj Simchoni, Kristen Meyer, and Arun Hejmadi work on a garden in the Monarch Mile</image:title><image:caption>Taj Simchoni, Kristen Meyer, and Arun Hejmadi work on a church garden in the Monarch Mile in Minneapolis. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/20170930_hl_006.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20170930_hl_006</image:title><image:caption>Arun Hejmadi became concerned about lake water quality after moving to Minnesota and volunteered to join the Master Water Stewards program. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-05-04T14:37:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/contact/</loc><lastmod>2018-05-03T15:42:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>weekly</changefreq><priority>0.6</priority></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/04/04/keeping-pharmaceuticals-out-of-our-water-drop-off-event-on-april-28-in-mahtomedi/</loc><lastmod>2018-04-04T21:24:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/04/04/milfoil-morning/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/milfoils.jpg</image:loc><image:title>milfoils</image:title><image:caption>Invasive Eurasian watermilfoil (left) has 12 to 21 pairs of leaflets and grows into dense thickets in shallow water. 

Native northern watermilfoil (right) has only 5 to 10 pairs of leaflets and grows in sparse patches. The native milfoil provides good habitat for fish. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-04-04T21:19:01+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/03/29/improving-soil-health-measuring-economic-benefits-and-learning-from-other-farmers/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/322331618_d93f169bcf_z.jpg</image:loc><image:title>322331618_d93f169bcf_z</image:title><image:caption>Snow on winter rye. Cover crops help to hold soil in place between fall harvest and spring planting. (Photo by Dwight Sipler)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/early-season-corn-field.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Early season corn field</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-03-29T12:18:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/03/13/wild-bees-rare-plants-and-native-gardens/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/009.jpg</image:loc><image:title>009</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_7868.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7868</image:title><image:caption>Prairie smoke is just one of many beautiful native plants you can include in your gardens at home.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/020.jpg</image:loc><image:title>020</image:title><image:caption>Wild petunia kissed with rain. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_7865.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7865</image:title><image:caption>Prairie phlox blooms in late May. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_1799.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1799</image:title><image:caption>Sit and rest in the garden when it returns. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-03-17T13:16:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/03/08/statewide-feedback-on-water-issues-echoes-local-concerns-in-east-metro-and-st-croix-valley/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/sunset-over-forest-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sunset over Forest Lake</image:title><image:caption>Forest Lake is the largest lake in Washington County and lies within the Comfort Lake - Forest Lake Watershed. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_2559.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2559</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/father-and-son-explore-long-lake-in-stillwater.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Father and son explore Long Lake in Stillwater</image:title><image:caption>Grandfather and grandson explore Long Lake in Stillwater</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-03-08T15:03:01+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/02/23/and-from-the-earth-springs-new-life/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/marsh-marigold-at-william-obrien-state-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Marsh marigold at William O'Brien State Park</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2018-02-28T17:29:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/02/18/when-space-is-tight-take-stormwater-treatment-underground/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/lily04.jpg</image:loc><image:title>lily04</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/underground-treatment-crwd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>underground treatment crwd</image:title><image:caption>Photos from the Capitol Region Watershed District show what the Arlington-Pascal stormwater treatment system looks like below and above ground.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/lily02.jpg</image:loc><image:title>lily02</image:title><image:caption>Residents and local government have worked hard over the past 15 years to restore water quality in Lily Lake with on-the-ground projects to reduce runoff pollution. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/lily-lake-beach.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lily Lake Beach</image:title><image:caption>A black and white photo from 1952 shows Stillwater's Lily Lake bustling with sunbathers. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-02-19T03:47:58+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/02/07/minnesotans-call-for-new-legislation-to-promote-smart-salting/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/sos.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SOS</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/limit-salt-use-durin-the-winter-to-protect-fish-in-our-local-lakes.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Limit salt use durin the winter to protect fish in our local lakes</image:title><image:caption>Water testing has shown that 40 lakes and streams in the Twin Cities are impaired by chlorides, with 40 more at high-risk. Salt kills fish and other aquatic life in these impaired waters. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/20171218_hl_011.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20171218_hl_011</image:title><image:caption>SOS members Sue Nissan and Randy Holst support new legislation to promote smart salting. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-02-17T22:30:03+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/02/02/hardy-minnesotans-not-going-to-let-water-pollution-win/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/26230298_10156022529654105_6694989094124198141_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>26230298_10156022529654105_6694989094124198141_n</image:title><image:caption>Snow and ice? Bring it on!</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-02-02T06:12:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/01/19/diasorin-saves-money-and-cuts-water-waste-with-help-from-mntap/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/fotolia_86403436_subscription_monthly_m-640x359.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Fotolia_86403436_Subscription_Monthly_M-640x359</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/20140910_112445.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20140910_112445</image:title><image:caption>Previously, DiaSorin replaced turf around their parking lot with gardens, built raingardens to treat runoff from the parking lot, and installed a system to use stormwater for irrigation.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/girl-drinking-water.jpg</image:loc><image:title>girl drinking water</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/augustinus-with-diasorin-vacuum-pump.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Augustinus with DiaSorin-Vacuum-pump</image:title><image:caption>During his MnTAP internship at DiaSorin, Yohanes Augustinus helped the business to cut water loss by </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-01-19T22:04:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/01/17/exploring-the-frozen-wilderness/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bwca-07-camping-057.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA 07 camping 057</image:title><image:caption>Who would guess you could get this hot in the winter?</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/footprints.jpg</image:loc><image:title>footprints</image:title><image:caption>Tracks in the snow hint at the wildlife nearby but out of sight. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/bwca-07-camping-055.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA 07 camping 055</image:title><image:caption>Winter camping in 2007 with Cocoa, who has since gone away to college. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2018-01-17T22:01:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2018/01/03/aquatic-invasives-the-battle-continues/</loc><lastmod>2018-01-03T16:37:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/12/19/elected-board-at-washington-conservation-district-provides-leadership-behind-the-scenes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/board-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>board smaller</image:title><image:caption>This year, the WCD board celebrated the organization's 75th Anniversary. (Left to right: Bob Rosenquist, Louise Smallidge, John Rheinberger, Diane Blake. Not pictured: Jim Levitt.0</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/countyfair_1950s.jpg</image:loc><image:title>countyfair_1950s</image:title><image:caption>The Washington Conservation District has been at the Washington County Fair since 1942. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/img_3186-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3186 - smaller</image:title><image:caption>The Washington Conservation District was established in 1942, in the wake of severe erosion and soil loss during the Dust Bowl and Depression.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-12-19T17:49:01+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/12/19/caring-for-local-wetlands-and-what-not-to-do-with-your-leaves/</loc><lastmod>2017-12-19T14:51:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/11/15/the-rise-of-nature-based-education/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/luann-deloach-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Luann Deloach smaller</image:title><image:caption>Luann DeLoach was recently certified as the first at-home Nature Explore classroom in Minnesota. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/boys-play-outside-at-grove-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Boys play outside at Grove smaller</image:title><image:caption>A group of boys organizes a game outside at Grove Elementary. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/river-grove-classroom-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>River Grove classroom smaller</image:title><image:caption>A forest awaits outside the kindergarten classroom at River Grove Elementary in May Twp. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_2553.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2553</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2017-11-15T13:34:32+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/10/30/adapting-to-a-changing-climate-or-the-importance-of-wearing-a-hat-in-the-rain/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/img_4750.png</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4750</image:title><image:caption>One of the many raingardens planted in Stillwater, MN to keep stormwater pollution out of the St. Croix River and local lakes. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/whitewater-state-park-2007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Whitewater State Park 2007</image:title><image:caption>In recent years, heavy rainstorms have caused catastrophic damage in several Minnesota communities. A storm in southern Minnesota in 2007, washed away roads in Whitewater State Park and nearby towns. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/bwca-summer-08-021.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA summer 08 021</image:title><image:caption>Jay Cooke State Park beckons hikers and runners with rolling hills and stunning scenery. During a rainstorm, however, the trails turn to slippery mudslides. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-10-30T13:30:08+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/10/27/forest-lake-considers-a-new-plan-for-cleaner-streets-and-cleaner-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/sweeping-leaves-out-of-the-street-helps-local-lakes.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Watershed, Raingardens, Native Gardens</image:title><image:caption>Watershed, Raingardens, Native Gardens</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-10-27T18:07:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/10/27/a-conservation-ethic-runs-in-the-family/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/schaffer-sediment-basin.jpg</image:loc><image:title>schaffer sediment basin</image:title><image:caption>To prevent field runoff from creating gullies in the river bluff, the Conservation District installed three sediment basins on the Schaffer property. A berm with two pipes holds the water back temporarily, so that it flows out more slowly. This also allows time for sediment in the water to settle out so the runoff to the river is cleaner. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/st-croix-oct-2012.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St Croix-Oct 2012</image:title><image:caption>The St. Croix River south of Afton is blanketed by rolling hills with woods on both shores. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/doug-schaffer.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Doug Schaffer</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2017-10-27T17:58:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/10/11/a-new-bridge-and-better-habitat-along-the-mississippi-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/new-bridge.jpg</image:loc><image:title>new bridge</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/img_0956.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0956</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/img_0016.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0016</image:title><image:caption>In September, crews worked to install footings for the new bridge. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/grey-cloud-map.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Grey Cloud map</image:title><image:caption>The above map shows the location of the bridge to Grey Cloud Twp. Poor water quality in Grey Cloud Slough and excess algae growth are apparent in the aerial imagery. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/grey-cloud-sna.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Grey Cloud SNA</image:title><image:caption>A view of Mooers Lake from the Grey Cloud Scientific Natural Area. Grey Cloud Island is separated from the rest of Washington County by the Grey Cloud Slough and Mooers Lake, which are part of the Mississippi River. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-10-11T12:59:17+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/09/28/protecting-pollinators-whats-the-latest-buzz/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/fullsizerender.jpg</image:loc><image:title>FullSizeRender</image:title><image:caption>A bumblebee with full pollen sacs on her legs.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_3645sm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3645sm</image:title><image:caption>Native plants create habitat for birds and pollinators in addition to slowing runoff and protecting waterways. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/tiger-swallowtail.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Tiger swallowtail</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2017-09-28T13:34:58+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/09/19/community-water-meetings-offer-citizens-the-opportunity-to-help-shape-minnesota-policy/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/stillwater-community-water-mtg-9-6-17-sm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Stillwater community water mtg, 9-6-17 sm</image:title><image:caption>A group of 30 people gathered in Stillwater on September 6 to talk about local water issues. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-09-19T21:20:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/08/14/tracing-lazy-circles-in-the-sand/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/crosby-hidden-falls-by-jenn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Crosby Hidden Falls by Jenn</image:title><image:caption>The Mississippi River in the Twin Cities metro area is much healthier than it used to be. It is home to 28 species of freshwater mussels. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/fullsizerender.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_3168.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Forty species of freshwater mussels live in the St. Croix River. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-08-14T14:13:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/08/10/reflecting-on-75-years-of-conservation-in-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_3171.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/tree-planting-1940s.jpg</image:loc><image:title>tree planting 1940s</image:title><image:caption>Planting trees for a windbreak in Langdon on the WC Nelson property in 1944. With three men, the machine could plant 43 trees per minute.
</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/005-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>005</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/005.jpg</image:loc><image:title>005</image:title><image:caption>During a 2014 tour, members  of the Washington County Water Consortium visited one of the locations along the St. Croix River where the Washington Conservation District worked with a local farmer to reduce runoff pollution and repair an eroding gully. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_3186.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3186</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2017-08-10T15:39:25+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/08/09/creating-a-legacy-of-landscape-restoration-in-washington-county-guided-prairie-tour-near-withrow-aug-16/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_2119.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2119</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/041.jpg</image:loc><image:title>041</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/prairie2005-016.jpg</image:loc><image:title>prairie2005 016</image:title><image:caption>Thatcher will host a guided prairie tour at her property on Aug. 16. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/p1030099.jpg</image:loc><image:title>P1030099</image:title><image:caption>Thatcher burns her prairie periodically to help spur new growth and control invasive weeds. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/wetland_training_050808_004.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Wetland_Training_050808_004</image:title><image:caption>During her time at the Washington Conservation District, Jyneen Thatcher (left) oversaw wetland projects and helped landowners to restore natural habitat on their properties. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-08-09T12:08:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/08/08/exploring-the-smaller-side-of-nature/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_2559.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2559</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/img_2674.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2674</image:title><image:caption>Children love hunting for insects, frogs, and other critters. The water's edge is full of life!</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/oak-glen-golf-course-14.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Oak Glen golf course 14</image:title><image:caption>Four years ago, the Brown's Creek Watershed District worked with Oak Glen Golf Course in Stillwater to plant a buffer along Brown's Creek to improve habitat for trout and other aquatic animals. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/water-scorpion.jpg</image:loc><image:title>water scorpion</image:title><image:caption>A giant water scorpion found swimming in north St. Paul's Silver Lake. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-08-08T20:31:00+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/07/18/all-that-glitters-and-is-gold-does-not-belong-in-our-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/goldfish-in-pond.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Goldfish in Pond</image:title><image:caption>This stormwater pond in Chisago County is full of goldfish that don't belong there. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/17632-close-up-of-a-goldfish-pv.jpg</image:loc><image:title>17632-close-up-of-a-goldfish-pv</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2017-07-21T10:19:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/07/05/clean-the-croix-july-8/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/friends-of-wild-river-state-park-st-croix-clean-up-event1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Friends of Wild River State Park, St. Croix clean-up event1</image:title><image:caption>Litter collected during the Friends of Wild River State Park, St. Croix clean-up event in 2013. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/boom-site-graffiti-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Boom site graffiti smaller</image:title><image:caption>The beauty of the St. Croix Boom Site, north of Stillwater, has been marred by litter and graffiti. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/055-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>055 smaller</image:title><image:caption>When it starts, the Mississippi River is shallow and clean. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/charlie-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Charlie smaller</image:title><image:caption>Stepping across the river at the Mississippi Headwaters in Itasca State Park is a Minnesota tradition. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-07-05T21:23:13+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/06/27/incentive-grants-for-raingardens-and-shoreline-plantings/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/trooien-raingarden.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Trooien raingarden</image:title><image:caption>The Trooien raingarden, installed in Stillwater in 2006, was one of the first residential raingardens in Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/graph.jpg</image:loc><image:title>graph</image:title><image:caption>The hydrograph on the left shows stormwater volume coming from the two streets in year 1. The volume spikes after a large rain event and is comparable between the two streets. In year 2 (right), after 18  raingardens were installed, the second street had 90% less stormwater volume. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-06-27T16:43:14+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/06/26/the-long-and-winding-road/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_2529.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2529</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/bradley.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bradley</image:title><image:caption>Inland from the coast, the ride passes through strawberry fields, dry hills, and tiny towns. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/me-and-cousin-jonathan.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Me and cousin Jonathan</image:title><image:caption>Taking a break near the ocean, with my cousin Jonathan, just past halfway to LA. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/fullsizerender.jpg</image:loc><image:title>FullSizeRender</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ocean-beach-pano.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Ocean Beach pano</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/red-dress-riding.jpg</image:loc><image:title>red dress riding</image:title><image:caption>Take the long and winding road from San Francisco to LA with the AIDS LifeCycle Ride. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-06-26T20:26:14+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/05/31/celebrate-summer-with-waterfest-explore-your-parks-day-and-lake-fest-june-3/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/water-fest-078.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Water Fest 078</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/2016-early-morning.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2016 early morning</image:title><image:caption>Try stand-up paddleboarding  on Square Lake, one of the cleanest, clearest lakes in Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/voyageurs-canoe-rides-at-waterfest.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Voyageurs Canoe Rides at WaterFest</image:title><image:caption>People line up to ride on Voyageurs canoes at WaterFest, a free family-friendly event at Lake Phalen. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-05-31T20:46:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/05/30/dnr-lake-groups-and-local-government-partners-work-to-keep-aquatic-invaders-at-bay/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/facebookadevensmaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>FacebookAdevensmaller</image:title><image:caption> </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/pull-the-plug-ad-twitter-sm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Pull the Plug Ad twitter sm</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_2893-e1496176411230.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2893</image:title><image:caption>Watercraft inspectors are stationed at public launches throughout Washington County and other parts of Minnesota to ensure that boaters don't accidentally transport aquatic hitchhikers. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/zebramussel-photo-from-echo-lake-aquarium.jpg</image:loc><image:title>ZebraMussel - photo from Echo Lake Aquarium</image:title><image:caption>Non-native, invasive zebra mussels attach to native mussels, as well as boats, lifts, docks, rocks, and pipes. (Photo from Echo Lake Aquarium)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/screen-shot-2017-ais-infested.jpg</image:loc><image:title>screen shot 2017 AIS infested</image:title><image:caption>Click the map above to see which Minnesota lakes and rivers are infested by aquatic invasives. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-05-30T20:49:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/05/09/talking-turf-and-water-in-forest-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/002.jpg</image:loc><image:title>002</image:title><image:caption>Lakeshore homeowners can protect their lakes by maintaining a buffer of native plants, trees and shrubs near the shoreline. Taking good care of the lawn in upland areas is important as well. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/forest-hills-golf-course.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Forest Hills golf course</image:title><image:caption>Jack MacKenzie, Executive Director for the Minnesota Golf Course Superintendent's Association, has been sharing low-impact lawn care tips with homeowners near Forest Lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/summer-means-time-for-lawn-care.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Summer in MN.</image:title><image:caption>Summer in MN.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-05-09T17:46:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/05/01/gray-skies-got-you-down-turn-up-the-volume/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/519203903_96e7bf18f5_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SONY DSC</image:title><image:caption>Redwinged blackbird in flight</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/1280px-american_bittern_seney_nwr_4.jpg</image:loc><image:title>1280px-American_Bittern_Seney_NWR_4</image:title><image:caption>Audubon Minnesota is looking for volunteers to track the numbers of American Bitterns in the state. (Photo from Wikimedia)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/gray-day.jpg</image:loc><image:title>gray day</image:title><image:caption>It's hard to stay cheerful when the first day of May looks like this. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-05-01T14:37:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/04/26/rethinking-the-traditional-lawn/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/bee-lawn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>bee lawn</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/low-mow-grass-photo-by-douglas-owens-pike.jpg</image:loc><image:title>low mow grass - photo by Douglas Owens-Pike</image:title><image:caption>Low mow grass only needs to be cut once or twice a year (Photo by Douglas Owens-Pike). </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/2017-lawns-and-gardens-presentations.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2017 lawns and gardens presentations</image:title><image:caption>A bee lawn includes a mix of low-growing fine fescue grasses, self heal, creeping thyme, and clover. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/california-095.jpg</image:loc><image:title>California 095</image:title><image:caption>Palm Springs' green stands out against the earthen colored mountains. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/california-059.jpg</image:loc><image:title>California 059</image:title><image:caption>It's hard to believe that people are growing lawns in a landscape that looks like this. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-05-01T19:11:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/04/13/research-on-costs-for-new-water-supplies-highlights-importance-of-conservation/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/drinking_fountain.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Drinking_fountain</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_1177.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1177</image:title><image:caption>Rain barrels are one way to reduce summer water use. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/img_1191.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1191</image:title><image:caption>Municipal water use during the summer spikes dramatically due to lawn watering. Most new homes have in-ground automated systems and people tend to run them more than is necessary. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/457768696_ff430cd8b7_z.jpg</image:loc><image:title>457768696_ff430cd8b7_z</image:title><image:caption>Nine cities in Washington County are exploring options for meeting future water needs, including drilling new wells, buying water from St. Paul, or building water treatment plants on the Mississippi or St. Croix Rivers. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/capture.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Capture</image:title><image:caption>Click on the image above to access an interactive map of priority areas for future well testing in Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/2030-projected-drawdown.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2030 projected drawdown</image:title><image:caption>In 2010, the Metropolitan Council predicted that there would be major draw-down of the Prairie du Chien / Jordan Aquifer in portions of Dakota and Washington Counties unless communities reduce water use. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-04-13T14:05:00+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/04/04/visions-of-gardens-danced-in-her-head/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/peggythomas-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>PeggyThomas - smaller</image:title><image:caption>Composting is a good way to turn waste into a resource. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/low-mow-grass.jpg</image:loc><image:title>low mow grass</image:title><image:caption>Low mow lawn is a lower maintenance option for sunny yards. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/garden-gnome-1404749587o2k.jpg</image:loc><image:title>garden-gnome-1404749587o2K</image:title><image:caption>Does your yard look bleak and barren?</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-04-04T21:24:42+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/03/20/new-approaches-to-help-farmers-make-a-living-and-protect-our-water-resources/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dsc00543.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC00543</image:title><image:caption>Turnip Rock Farm is a CSA in western Wisconsin. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/csa-veggies.jpg</image:loc><image:title>CSA veggies</image:title><image:caption>Veggies from Turnip Rock Farm in western Wisconsin. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/img_1211.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1211</image:title><image:caption>Chickens on Turnip Rock Farm, a CSA in western Wisconsin. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/15-16f.jpg</image:loc><image:title>15-16F</image:title><image:caption>CSA farms grow a wide variety of produce and many raise animals as well. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-03-20T10:15:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/03/15/state-of-the-mississippi-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mississippi-river-at-mouth-of-minnehaha-creek-5-31-10.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Mississippi River at mouth of minnehaha Creek 5-31-10</image:title><image:caption>Families wade in the Mississippi River near the mouth of Minnehaha Creek, one of the few places in the metro where the river is safe for swimming. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/22737445580_4d280e9b6a_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>22737445580_4d280e9b6a_o</image:title><image:caption>Blue-green algae blooms smell bad, look gross, and can sometimes be toxic. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/049.jpg</image:loc><image:title>049</image:title><image:caption>The Mississippi River is a flyway for migrating birds and also home to nesting pairs of bald eagles. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/sotr-2016-cover.png</image:loc><image:title>SOTR-2016-cover</image:title><image:caption>The 2016 State of the River Report was published by the National Park Service and Friends of the Mississippi River. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-03-15T13:22:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/03/08/change-is-underway-for-cottage-grove-ravine-park/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/10711060_861858893826952_723965139226355359_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>10711060_861858893826952_723965139226355359_n</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2017-03-08T10:46:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/02/23/how-do-you-know-if-a-stream-is-healthy/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/img_8336.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8336</image:title><image:caption>Our goal is to have streams clean enough for any kid to  play in. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/bc-fall-2015.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BC fall 2015</image:title><image:caption>Students from Stillwater Area High School assess aquatic invertebrates in Brown's Creek and Valley Creek each year. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/open-sampler.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Open sampler</image:title><image:caption>Automated samplers allow the Conservation District to collect water samples throughout storm events. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/road-less-traveled.jpg</image:loc><image:title>road less traveled</image:title><image:caption>This way to the road less traveled.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-02-23T15:33:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/02/16/a-whisper-of-spring-in-the-air/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/sun-shining-through-birch-trees.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sun shining through birch trees</image:title><image:caption>The view is winter but the sounds of spring whisper in the air.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-02-16T14:17:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/02/07/swimming-to-antarctica/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/095.jpg</image:loc><image:title>095</image:title><image:caption>Friends Erica Ellefson and Katie Pata show off fresh caught bass from a lake in the Boundary Waters. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/swim-start.jpg</image:loc><image:title>swim start</image:title><image:caption>Swim start at the Arizona Ironman, 2009. Today, we take for granted that most American rivers are clean enough to swim in. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-02-07T21:38:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/02/01/using-a-watershed-approach-to-restore-area-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/img_7347.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_7347</image:title><image:caption>Project partners gathered on site near Moody Lake for the project groundbreaking ceremony last Friday. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/img_20160729_101406853.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_20160729_101406853</image:title><image:caption>Normally, wetlands help to filter pollutants before they flow to lakes and rivers but the wetlands north of Moody Lake are super-saturated with nutrients. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/jessica-and-mike.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Jessica and Mike</image:title><image:caption>Mike Sorensen and Jessica Lindmeyer, Comfort Lake - Forest Lake Watershed District, collect soil samples from wetlands north of Moody Lake. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-02-01T13:49:14+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/01/24/the-changing-face-of-outdoor-recreation-and-environmental-protection/</loc><lastmod>2017-01-24T15:05:39+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/01/09/2017-brings-more-than-2-million-in-clean-water-funds-to-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/legacy_logo_rgb.png</image:loc><image:title>legacy_logo_rgb</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/img_0062.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2017-01-09T18:03:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2017/01/03/finding-light-in-the-darkness/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/image5.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>image[5]</image:title><image:caption>Belwin is well known for its rolling prairie and oak savanna. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/018.jpg</image:loc><image:title>018</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2017-01-03T22:48:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/12/29/smart-salting-save-money-do-good/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/023.jpg</image:loc><image:title>023</image:title><image:caption>The snow is great when you are playing in it but not as nice when you're driving in it.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-12-29T19:06:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/12/19/farmer-in-may-township-wages-war-on-buckthorn-and-wins/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/anderson-walks-through-an-open-area-he-cleared-of-buckthorn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Anderson walks through an open area he cleared of buckthorn</image:title><image:caption>Now that he has vanquished the buckthorn on his 75-acre farm, Anderson is moving on to neighboring properties. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/003.jpg</image:loc><image:title>003</image:title><image:caption>Dale mixes herbicide with diesel fuel and applies it to the buckthorn with a backpack sprayer. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/buckthorn-seedling-e1482185881713.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Buckthorn seedling</image:title><image:caption>During three upcoming workshops, Washington Conservation District staff will offer advice on how to manage buckthorn and oriental bittersweet, two invasive species found in woodlands. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/011-e1482185728184.jpg</image:loc><image:title>011</image:title><image:caption>Buckthorn retains green leaves late into the year, long after other trees and shrubs have gone dormant for the winter. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/004.jpg</image:loc><image:title>004</image:title><image:caption>Swing by the Anderson's farm to pick up a dozen eggs and learn about how to control invasive buckthorn. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-12-22T13:38:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/12/05/washington-county-embarks-on-new-business-partnership-to-save-money-and-reduce-water-use/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/industry-569145_960_720.jpg</image:loc><image:title>industry-569145_960_720</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/2016-mntap-interns.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2016-mntap-interns</image:title><image:caption>Interns from the 2016 MnTAP program. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-12-05T15:00:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/12/01/condos-and-townhomes-are-going-green/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/img_0672.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0672</image:title><image:caption>On a sunny evening in October, residents at Evergreen Country Homes gathered to celebrate and tour their new planting project. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/img_3255.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_3255</image:title><image:caption>The new planting has a stone border and includes check dams (filled fiber rolls) to slow down the water heading to Tamarack Nature Preserve. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/img_0664.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0664</image:title><image:caption>Two years ago, Evergreen Country Homes, a condo association just north of the Tamarack Nature Preserve, worked with Washington Conservation District and Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District to create raingardens and swales that keep stormwater out of the tamarack fen. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-12-01T19:51:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/11/29/browns-creek-feels-the-chill/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/img_0594.jpg</image:loc><image:title>img_0594</image:title><image:caption>Around 200 people turned out to participate in nature activities and learn about Brown's Creek. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/rock-crib-under-construction.jpg</image:loc><image:title>rock-crib-under-construction</image:title><image:caption>Rock crib during construction</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/brook-trout-are-dependent-on-cold-groundwater-fed-streams-photo-by-mpca.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Nearly 40 lakes and streams in the Twin Cities metro area are contaminated by chloride (salt), which can kill trout and other fish. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-11-29T18:50:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/11/28/students-plant-10-acres-of-prairie-at-st-croix-prep/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/20161028_094720-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20161028_094720</image:title><image:caption>Planting a prairie can be fun and good exercise! </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/20161028_094800.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20161028_094800</image:title><image:caption>Students at St. Croix Prep in Bayport planted seeds for a new prairie. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/20161028_093712.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20161028_093712</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/20161028_094720.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20161028_094720</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-11-29T03:23:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/11/01/skip-raking-this-fall/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/rake-leaves-out-of-the-street-in-the-fall-to-keep-lakes-clean-in-the-summer.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Rake leaves out of the street in the fall to keep lakes clean in the summer</image:title><image:caption>Rake leaves out of the street in the fall to keep lakes and streams clean in the summer.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/mow-leaves-instead-of-raking.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Watershed, Raingardens, Native Gardens</image:title><image:caption>For larger lawns, mow leaves instead of raking to recycle nutrients back into your lawn. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/fall-leaves.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Watershed, Raingardens, Native Gardens</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-11-01T18:46:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/10/19/unicorn-ranches-national-parks-and-waterslides/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/20160916_110140-e1476885316287.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20160916_110140</image:title><image:caption>When they put the pieces together, the kids could see how their individual decisions would fit together and what impacts there might be for local lakes, rivers and streams. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/20160916_103843.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20160916_103843</image:title><image:caption>The kids were given a chance to "develop" a parcel of land in Washington County.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/20160916_103804.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20160916_103804</image:title><image:caption>Students from Lake Elmo Elementary and Salem Lutheran School learned about streams and rivers at a Trout in the Classroom program in September. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/20160916_151342.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20160916_151342</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-10-19T14:02:35+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/10/17/st-croix-stories/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/img_0613-e1476738206634.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0613</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/img_0605.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0605</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/img_0609.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0609</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/local-leaders-learn-about-protecting-the-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Local leaders learn about protecting the river</image:title><image:caption>Local leaders learn about protecting the river</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-10-17T21:05:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/10/17/sending-love-from-down-under/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/618.jpg</image:loc><image:title>618</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/pa031644.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/373.jpg</image:loc><image:title>373</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/276.jpg</image:loc><image:title>276</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/p9190452.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/p9190505.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-10-17T20:49:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/10/12/two-llamas-and-a-prairie/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/becky-and-philip-vierling.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Becky and Philip Vierling</image:title><image:caption>Becky and Philip Vierling were chosen as Washington Conservation District's Outstanding Conservationists for 2015. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/washington-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Washington 2</image:title><image:caption>A newly planted prairie provides habitat and reduce runoff pollution to nearby Trout Brook. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/img_3620.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3620</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-10-12T21:25:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/09/15/celebrating-the-wild-along-browns-creek-trail/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/wayside-on-the-browns-creek-trail.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Wayside on the Browns Creek Trail</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-09-15T18:01:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/09/15/recipe-for-saucy-homegrown-algae/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/blue-green-algae-on-lake-crystal-in-blue-earth-county.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-09-15T17:34:17+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/08/29/inside-a-tiny-fairy-kingdom/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/049.jpg</image:loc><image:title>049</image:title><image:caption>Your prince charming awaits his kiss. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/22962390796_0a9a9166db_z.jpg</image:loc><image:title>22962390796_0a9a9166db_z</image:title><image:caption>Planting cover crops helps to protect soil health and prevent erosion during the winter. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/img_8329.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8329</image:title><image:caption>There are an estimated 9000 species of fungus in Minnesota. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/360.jpg</image:loc><image:title>360</image:title><image:caption>Lichen is made up of fungus and algae living together. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/033.jpg</image:loc><image:title>033</image:title><image:caption>Shelf fungus grow on dead wood and dying trees. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/img_8337.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_8337</image:title><image:caption>Any fairies under those gills?</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/052.jpg</image:loc><image:title>052</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-08-29T20:11:32+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/08/23/join-the-pollination/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/13920224_640012502826581_3154067240826929581_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>13920224_640012502826581_3154067240826929581_o</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/20140528_104358.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20140528_104358</image:title><image:caption>Private landowners in Washington County play a big role in protecting habitat and water resources. Cost-share and grant programs help to fund projects that range in size from small backyard raingardens to large 10-acre prairies. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/029.jpg</image:loc><image:title>029</image:title><image:caption>Plant natives in places where it's hard to grow grass. Blue flag iris (above) grows in wetland edges and soggy spots near the bottom of your downspout. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/008.jpg</image:loc><image:title>008</image:title><image:caption>Get started on a pollinator-friendly native planting of your own at www.BlueThumb.org. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/bumblebee-on-anise-hyssop.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bumblebee on anise hyssop</image:title><image:caption>Bumblebee on anise hyssop</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-08-23T19:24:17+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/08/11/out-of-rock-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/055.jpg</image:loc><image:title>055</image:title><image:caption>Jewelweed grows along the banks of the stream. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/051.jpg</image:loc><image:title>051</image:title><image:caption>Anglers fly-fish from the banks of Beaver Creek in southeast Minnesota, which supports a healthy population of naturally reproducing brown trout without stocking due to cold and clean water. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/116.jpg</image:loc><image:title>116</image:title><image:caption>Playing by the side of a spring at Beaver Creek Valley State Park. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/103.jpg</image:loc><image:title>103</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-08-11T20:19:14+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/08/04/now-servingwater/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/125.jpg</image:loc><image:title>125</image:title><image:caption>Spring fed streams stay cold because of the steady input from groundwater. Some animals like trout can only live in cold water. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/flight-of-water.jpg</image:loc><image:title>flight of water</image:title><image:caption>Enjoy a cool flight of locally sourced waters. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-08-05T03:51:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/07/27/the-economics-of-clean-lakes-and-rivers/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/img_0259.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0259</image:title><image:caption>Millennials and young families value parks, trails and access to nearby outdoor activities. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/stillwater-at-night.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Stillwater at night</image:title><image:caption>As the sun sets over the St. Croix River, lights glow in downtown Stillwater. The river brings tourism to local communities and offers unique recreation opportunities. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/imag0670-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMAG0670 (1)</image:title><image:caption>Interstate State Park on the St. Croix River is one of the most popular in Minnesota. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/bwca-07-camping-057.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA 07 camping 057</image:title><image:caption>Running, fishing, biking, camping and hiking are the most popular outdoor activities for youth and adults. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/42-paddle-salute-to-the-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-07-28T03:45:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/07/21/making-better-use-of-rainwater-at-chs-field/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/water-cistern-at-chs-e1469111478578.jpg</image:loc><image:title>water cistern at CHS</image:title><image:caption>The water cistern is stored in a room below the field. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/img_5867-e1469111398757.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5867</image:title><image:caption>Trees outside the stadium are planted in special boxes filled with engineered soil which allows the roots space to grow and also helps to reduce stormwater runoff. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/img_5864.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5864</image:title><image:caption>Water resource professionals from around the Twin Cities toured CHS Field in June. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/img_5868.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5868</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-07-21T14:33:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/07/18/splish-splash-creepy-crawlies/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/forest-lake-inverts.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Forest Lake inverts</image:title><image:caption>Bring an ice cube tray to easily sort and separate the aquatic invertebrates you find. (These ones are damselfly nymphs.)</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/tadpole-022.jpg</image:loc><image:title>tadpole 022</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/13645140_1243666592312845_3324877044055413130_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>13645140_1243666592312845_3324877044055413130_n</image:title><image:caption>Exploring Keller Creek in Maplewood, along a stretch recently restored by Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/031.jpg</image:loc><image:title>031</image:title><image:caption> A gaggle of boys got their feet wet while searching for aquatic invertebrates in Woodbury's Powers Lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/a-young-participant-shows-off-the-water-scorpion-he-found-in-powers-lake-woodbury.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A young participant shows off the water scorpion he found in Powers Lake, Woodbury</image:title><image:caption>A young participant shows off the water scorpion he found in Powers Lake, Woodbury</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-07-18T21:40:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/07/14/maintaining-your-new-native-planting/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/20120709-nora-prairie.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20120709 Nora prairie</image:title><image:caption>Winter is an ideal time to sow seeds for prairie plantings. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/photo-15-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo 15</image:title><image:caption>A beautiful raingarden in Lake Elmo helps to protect nearby Klawitter Pond from runoff pollution. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/thistle-canada-01-07-01-02.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Thistle, Canada, 01-07-01, 02</image:title><image:caption>Noxious weeds like thistle will try to invade your new planting. Be prepared!</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/03_remove-weeds.jpg</image:loc><image:title>03_Remove Weeds</image:title><image:caption>Partners in Stillwater are recruiting volunteers to help weed and maintain 100+ raingardens in the city. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-07-14T14:09:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/07/05/poetry-of-nature/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/img_0149.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Some of the St. Croix's best secrets are hidden in the many islands and braided backwater channels. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/13138745_10154156439019105_7139634807190642900_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>13138745_10154156439019105_7139634807190642900_n</image:title><image:caption>A project to improve water quality in Bayport's Perro Creek will also reduce algae blooms in the St. Croix River. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/img_4364.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_4364</image:title><image:caption>The St. Croix River near Wiliam O'Brien State Park is peaceful and calm. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/026.jpg</image:loc><image:title>026</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/imag0670-6.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMAG0670 (6)</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-07-05T14:41:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/06/29/protecting-the-water-we-drink/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/img_0725-medium.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0725 (Medium)</image:title><image:caption>A smaller footprint with less rooftop and pavement allows more opportunities for water to soak into the ground. Practices like porous pavement, grassy pave and raingardens also increase infiltration. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/18638706272_8c6e899d1d_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>18638706272_8c6e899d1d_o</image:title><image:caption>Crews installed solar panels at a former landfill in Washington County that has been closed for years. Hazardous waste disposed in this landfill during the 1970s leaked and contaminated area groundwater supplies. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/bay.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bay</image:title><image:caption>Low water levels in some east metro lakes left boat docks high and dry a few years ago. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/044.jpg</image:loc><image:title>044</image:title><image:caption>Groundwater provides clean drinking water, in addition to feeding coldwater streams and lakes. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-06-29T14:30:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/06/20/way-down-upon-the-suwannee-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/suwannee_river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Suwannee_River</image:title><image:caption>Suwannee River - photo source Wikimedia Commons</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-06-20T23:36:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/06/16/please-park-on-the-grass/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/img_5842.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5842</image:title><image:caption>Tara Kline described the Conservation Center project during a recent Water Consortium tour. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/20150414_155351.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20150414_155351</image:title><image:caption>Part of the new parking area is made up of paver stones with gaps between them for water to soak through. The rest is grassy pave. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/img_5863.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5863</image:title><image:caption>Matt Downing explains monitoring equipment installed in a pipe that connects the parking lot to a new raingarden in front of the wetland complex behind WCD's office. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/imag4044.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMAG4044</image:title><image:caption>After tearing out the lawn grass, WCD staff seeded the area with prairie grasses and covered it with an erosion control blanket. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/wcd-parking-lot.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WCD parking lot</image:title><image:caption>WCD parking lot</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-06-16T16:55:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/06/13/groundwater-and-climate-change-south-washington-watershed-district-prepares-for-new-challenges/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/799c3090-5079-4868-9611-a41a258d0955.jpg</image:loc><image:title>799c3090-5079-4868-9611-a41a258d0955</image:title><image:caption>South Washington Watershed District has worked with hundreds of private landowners to build raingardens and other landscaping practices that protect water resources. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/img_3781.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3781</image:title><image:caption>Development is booming in southern Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/cottage-grove-ravine-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Cottage Grove Ravine Park</image:title><image:caption>Cottage Grove Ravine Park has a small lake in the middle of the park, as well as wooded trails and a playground. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-06-13T19:51:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/06/08/giants-of-the-prairie/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/013.jpg</image:loc><image:title>013</image:title><image:caption>A volunteer shows off bison fur and bones to children waiting to watch the release. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/106.jpg</image:loc><image:title>106</image:title><image:caption>Yellow coneflower in a Stillwater Twp. prairie. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/hiking.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>hiking</image:title><image:caption>A group of local residents hike through Belwin's prairie during a workshop on rural land management. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/111.jpg</image:loc><image:title>111</image:title><image:caption>A dried milkweed pod opens to release tiny fairy-like seeds</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/badlands-bison-with-credit.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Badlands Bison with credit</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/custer-st-park-bison.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Custer St. Park Bison</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/belwin-buffalo_2010.jpg</image:loc><image:title>belwin buffalo_2010</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/solitary-bison-on-the-belwin-prairie.jpg</image:loc><image:title>solitary bison on the Belwin prairie</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-06-08T13:02:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/06/01/whats-hopping-in-your-yard/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/046.jpg</image:loc><image:title>046</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/rcwd-shoreline-medium.jpg</image:loc><image:title>RCWD Shoreline medium</image:title><image:caption>Leave the land around lakes and wetlands unmowed to protect frogs and turtles and provide nesting habitat for birds. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/dsc00684.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC00684</image:title><image:caption>The leopard frog is one of the most common in Minnesota. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/022.jpg</image:loc><image:title>022</image:title><image:caption>There are many types of wetlands in Minnesota. Some, like this floodplain forest at William O'Brien State Park, are only wet during the spring and after heavy rains. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/003.jpg</image:loc><image:title>003</image:title><image:caption>A tree frog crouches in the sun.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-06-01T16:14:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/05/23/of-sheep-scythes-and-lawns/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/img_0132.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0132</image:title><image:caption>Low-mow lawns like the one picture above only need to be mowed once per year and need no fertilizer or watering, after they are established. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/06_deeper-roots.jpg</image:loc><image:title>06_Deeper Roots</image:title><image:caption>Encourage your lawn grass to grow deeper roots by setting the mower blade higher (3-3.5in) and transitioning from a frequent, shallow watering pattern to infrequent, deep watering. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/sheep-on-white-house-lawn-1914-19-by-harris-ewing-public-domain-via-wikimedia-commons.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sheep on White House lawn (1914-19) By Harris Ewing [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons</image:title><image:caption>Sheep on White House lawn (1914-19) By Harris Ewing [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-05-23T14:54:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/05/12/when-you-flush-where-does-the-water-go/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/photo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo</image:title><image:caption>Kelle's Creek in Afton</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/12939161_10154082870084105_300305017_n.jpg</image:loc><image:title>12939161_10154082870084105_300305017_n</image:title><image:caption>Surface and groundwater interact. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-05-12T17:16:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/05/09/another-reason-to-turn-out-the-lights/</loc><lastmod>2016-05-09T17:31:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/05/02/education-prevention-control-are-key-components-of-washington-county-aquatic-invasives-work-for-2016/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/img_5328.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5328</image:title><image:caption>New entrance and exit signs were installed at Washington County public launches last fall. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/eurasianmilfoil-06.jpg</image:loc><image:title>eurasianmilfoil-06</image:title><image:caption>Eurasian watermilfoil is quickly becoming a problem for many Twin Cities area lakes. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/contractors-preparing-to-treat-ewm-on-big-marine-in-2015.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Contractors preparing to treat EWM on Big Marine in 2015</image:title><image:caption>Contractors preparing to treat EWM on Big Marine in 2015.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-05-02T18:28:14+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/04/26/ode-to-odonata/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dragonfly-nymph-like-many-insects-dragonflies-live-in-the-water-until-they-undergo-metamorphosis.jpg</image:loc><image:title>dragonfly nymph - like many insects dragonflies live in the water until they undergo metamorphosis</image:title><image:caption>Dragonfly nymph - like many insects dragonflies live in the water until they undergo metamorphosis</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/img_2052.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2052</image:title><image:caption>Dragonflies rest with their wings outstretched and have fatter bodies than damselflies. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/adult-dragonfly.jpg</image:loc><image:title>adult dragonfly</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-04-26T17:51:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/04/20/a-chat-about-scat-2/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/6bf08032073339-5605b17b4874f.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Pick up dog poop</image:title><image:caption>Photo by Julio Montas:
https://www.behance.net/gallery/4098297/Clean-up-after-your-dog 
Used with Creative Commons license: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/legalcode</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/hires_pet_image_pc.jpg</image:loc><image:title>hires_pet_image_pc</image:title><image:caption>Be prepare for the call of doody - carry bags when you walk your dog. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-04-20T12:54:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/04/12/volunteers-needed-for-2016-earth-day-clean-up-events/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/garbage-washed-up-on-shore-in-jamaica-could-originate-thousands-of-miles-away.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Garbage washed up on shore in Jamaica could originate thousands of miles away</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-04-12T13:17:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/04/05/conservation-in-the-time-of-wrath/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dust-bowl-truck.gif</image:loc><image:title>Dust bowl truck</image:title><image:caption>A truck drives down a road with a cloud of dust in its wake. During the early 1900's, settlers converted prairie to cropland. After several years of drought, many of these fields withered, creating a massive Dust Bowl during the Depression Era. 

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia - Public Domain, US Gov't Photos.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-04-05T15:22:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/03/21/spring-dreaming/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/021.jpg</image:loc><image:title>021</image:title><image:caption>Learn how to plan your landscape to include places for recreation,  as well as natural habitat and colorful blooms. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/332.jpg</image:loc><image:title>332</image:title><image:caption>Green patches are appearing!</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/013.jpg</image:loc><image:title>013</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-03-21T20:39:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/03/17/calling-all-horse-owners/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/horses.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Horses</image:title><image:caption>We've got it all in Washington County - woods, water and horses!</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/100_0060.jpg</image:loc><image:title>100_0060</image:title><image:caption>A simple solution to mud outside the entryway of a barn. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-03-17T13:51:32+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/03/09/all-about-insects/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/kinglet_lee-miller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Kinglet_Lee Miller</image:title><image:caption>A kinglet, one of many MN songbirds that migrate south during the winter. Photo by Lee Miller.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/dsc_2595.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC_2595</image:title><image:caption>Great black wasp on swamp milkweed</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_2065.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2065</image:title><image:caption>Bumblebee on a horticultural variety of monarda</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_2052.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2052</image:title><image:caption>Dragonfly on horsetail</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-03-09T22:29:57+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/03/07/community-supported-agriculture/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/csa-veggies.jpg</image:loc><image:title>CSA veggies</image:title><image:caption>Late summer bounty of vegetables from our farm share  from Turnip Rock Farms in western Wisconsin. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/14044845348_c02e852d8a_z.jpg</image:loc><image:title>14044845348_c02e852d8a_z</image:title><image:caption>Currently, corn and soybeans cover 75% of Minnesota farmland.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-03-07T21:02:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/03/02/worlds-apart-and-yet-somehow-not-so-different/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/036.jpg</image:loc><image:title>036</image:title><image:caption>Wetlands surrounding Avery Island - the home of Tobasco - are home to birds, alligators, and other wildlife. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/065.jpg</image:loc><image:title>065</image:title><image:caption>A woman in Eunice, Louisiana poses with a Mardis Gras mask. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-03-02T15:23:32+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/02/22/st-croix-river-or-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/boomsite6.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BoomSite6</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2016-02-22T20:50:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/02/17/carnelian-marine-st-croix-breaks-ground-on-major-clean-water-project-with-big-benefits-for-sand-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/cmscwd.png</image:loc><image:title>cmscwd</image:title><image:caption>CMSCWD manages water resources in northeastern Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/filter-installation-in-progress-2-1-16-3.jpg</image:loc><image:title>filter installation in progress 2-1-16 3</image:title><image:caption>The project is being installed on a parcel of land along the northeast edge of Sand Lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/filter-installation-in-progress-2-1-16.jpg</image:loc><image:title>filter installation in progress 2-1-16</image:title><image:caption>Filter installation in progress 2-1-16</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-02-17T14:47:36+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/02/17/comfort-lake-forest-lake-moves-forward-with-major-clean-water-project-at-bixby-park/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/146.jpg</image:loc><image:title>146</image:title><image:caption>At a groundbreaking ceremony in early February, CLFLWD board and staff posed with Forest Lake Mayor Stev Stegner and County Commissioner Fran Miron. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/18.jpg</image:loc><image:title>18</image:title><image:caption>Stormwater runoff from the developed areas along Broadway Ave. in Forest Lake travel through a treatment pond and infiltration basin before entering the ditch system in Bixby Park. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/023.jpg</image:loc><image:title>023</image:title><image:caption>Forest Lake is one of the east metro communities predicted to see population growth in coming years. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-02-17T14:32:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/02/02/history-of-an-acronym-ms4/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/outfall.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>outfall</image:title><image:caption>In the pouring rain, a storm sewer pipe 10-ft in diameter discharges dirty water into the Mississippi River in Minneapolis. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/river-on-fire.jpg</image:loc><image:title>River-on-fire</image:title><image:caption>The Cuyahoga River in Cleveland burns in 1969 - image from patrickmurfin.blogspot.com. Disasters like this highlighted the need for environmental regulations to protect water, land, and air.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-02-02T18:59:39+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/01/26/under-the-snow-gardens-wait-to-grow/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/winter-garden.jpg</image:loc><image:title>winter garden</image:title><image:caption>The graceful arches of native plants bending under snow provide beauty and wildlife habitat in residential landscapes during the winter. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-01-26T18:15:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2016/01/25/water-news-for-the-new-year/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/22833302440_cc13bd8247_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>22833302440_cc13bd8247_o</image:title><image:caption>A buffer along a ditch in an agricultural area. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2016-01-25T19:49:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/12/29/from-the-tip-top-of-mount-crumpit/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/img_5089.png</image:loc><image:title>IMG_5089</image:title><image:caption>A view from the top - Valley View Park in Oak Park Heights</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/152.jpg</image:loc><image:title>152</image:title><image:caption>Green moss on a midwinter's day. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/basalt-cliff-at-taylors-falls.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Basalt cliff at Taylors Falls</image:title><image:caption>Basalt cliff at Taylors Falls</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-12-29T20:37:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/12/15/could-steel-wool-lead-to-cleaner-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/18.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Iron enhanced sand filter north of Broadway Ave. in Forest Lake</image:title><image:caption>Iron enhanced sand filter north of Broadway Ave. in Forest Lake</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/042.jpg</image:loc><image:title>042</image:title><image:caption>Iron-enhanced sand was used in raingardens at the Maplewood Mall to increase the amount of phosphorus they capture. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/iron-sand-filter-at-new-stormwater-project-near-forest-lake-city-hall-joint-project-of-city-and-rice-creek-watershed-district.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Iron-sand filter at new stormwater project near Forest Lake City Hall, joint project of city and Rice Creek Watershed District</image:title><image:caption>Iron-sand filter at new stormwater project near Forest Lake City Hall, joint project of city and Rice Creek Watershed District</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-12-15T19:21:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/12/07/drinking-dinosaur-pee/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/st-croix-river-one-of-many-groundwater-dependent-resources-in-our-area.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix River - one of many groundwater dependent resources in our area</image:title><image:caption>St. Croix River - one of many groundwater dependent resources in our area</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-12-07T20:04:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/11/30/how-are-the-wetlands-minnesota/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/090.jpg</image:loc><image:title>090</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/warner-nature-center-bog.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Warner Nature Center bog</image:title><image:caption>Warner Nature Center bog in fall. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/img_0865.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0865</image:title><image:caption>Wetlands support reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/reed-canary-grass_2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>reed canary grass_2</image:title><image:caption>A close-up view of reed canary grass, one of the worst wetland invaders. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/winter-run-with-dog.jpg</image:loc><image:title>winter run with dog</image:title><image:caption>Crossing the McKusick Lake boardwalk at twilight</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-11-30T16:52:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/11/23/the-news-you-didnt-hear/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/mg_8862-620x400_c.jpg</image:loc><image:title>MG_8862-620x400_c</image:title><image:caption>Art Bench at Carpenter Nature Center in Denmark Twp., part of a cooperative effort between artists and community members. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/newly-planted-raingarden-at-kiwanis-camp.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Newly planted raingarden at Kiwanis Camp</image:title><image:caption>Newly planted raingarden at Kiwanis Camp</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/20150604_141307.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20150604_141307</image:title><image:caption>To avoid spreading aquatic invasives to new lakes, drain your boat every time and clean off attached weeds and mud. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-11-23T14:18:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/11/17/stabilizing-the-st-croix-river-bluff-in-lakeland/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/p1010080.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Green algae filled water at Lakeland Beach in 2007. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/20130918_160638.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20130918_160638</image:title><image:caption>A view of the St. Croix River from the bottom of the bluff in Lakeland. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-11-17T14:21:57+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/10/27/working-in-partnership-with-homeowners-associations/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/wet-meadow-in-bloom-at-hamlet-on-sunfish-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Wet meadow in bloom at Hamlet on Sunfish Lake</image:title><image:caption>Wet meadow in bloom at Hamlet on Sunfish Lake</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-11-05T16:06:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/10/21/calling-all-ninja-warriors/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/img_9363.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_9363</image:title><image:caption>Buckthorn wrench in action.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/buckthorn-invading-woodland-03.jpg</image:loc><image:title>buckthorn invading woodland, 03</image:title><image:caption>Buckthorn has smooth, dark green leaves, greyish bark with little horizontal lines, and long thorns. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ninja-29569_1280.png</image:loc><image:title>ninja-29569_1280</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2015-10-22T13:48:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/10/12/the-mysterious-connection-between-leaves-and-algae/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/rake-for-lakes-sake-small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>rake for lakes sake - small</image:title><image:caption>Rake for lakes' sake!</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/photo-inlet-debris-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Photo-Inlet-Debris-1</image:title><image:caption>Leaves contain phosphorus, which ends up in local lakes and rivers due to storm drains.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/fall-leaves.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Watershed, Raingardens, Native Gardens</image:title><image:caption>Bring on the Minnesota fall color!</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-10-12T15:11:52+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/10/06/minnesota-fishing-still-just-as-sweet/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/671.jpg</image:loc><image:title>671</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/095-e1462814983700.jpg</image:loc><image:title>095</image:title><image:caption>Even in wilderness areas, some lakes are impaired by mercury from the atmosphere. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/092.jpg</image:loc><image:title>092</image:title><image:caption>Erica Ellefson holds up one of the many bass we caught on Disappointment Lake.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-10-06T18:55:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/09/28/tale-of-the-trees/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/forests-along-the-st-croix-river-provide-critical-habitat-and-ensure-clean-water.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Forests along the St. Croix River provide critical habitat and ensure clean water</image:title><image:caption>Forests protect the health of the St. Croix River. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-09-28T18:23:34+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/09/08/vectors-of-infestation/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/capture.png</image:loc><image:title>Capture</image:title><image:caption>The above graphic shows the connections between Washington County lakes and rivers and those in other parts of the state, based on watercraft inspections conducted during June and July of 2015. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/009.jpg</image:loc><image:title>009</image:title><image:caption>How long will our wilderness lakes remain pristine?</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-09-08T20:39:13+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/08/27/summers-last-gasp-removing-boat-docks-and-draining-swimming-pools/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/flowering-rush-cut-from-forest-lake-dispose-on-site-or-get-a-permit-to-transport-off-site.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Flowering rush cut from Forest Lake - dispose on-site or get a permit to transport off-site</image:title><image:caption>You've got a big pile of invasive aquatic plants you've removed from your dock - now what do you do?</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-08-27T12:29:19+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/08/25/saving-up-from-a-rainy-day/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/072.jpg</image:loc><image:title>072</image:title><image:caption>Cottage Grove city staff explain how water from the roof is cleaned before being used for irrigation. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/068.jpg</image:loc><image:title>068</image:title><image:caption>Washington County Water Consortium  visited the Cottage Grove City Hall in 2015 to learn about its water reuse system. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-08-25T14:41:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/08/18/land-of-10000-buffers/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/028.jpg</image:loc><image:title>028</image:title><image:caption>Corn planted too close to the edge of the Rush River, causing erosion. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/018.jpg</image:loc><image:title>018</image:title><image:caption>Downed logs, snags and emergent plants are all natural and good features of a healthy shoreline. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/lakeshore-buffer-along-lake-phalen.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lakeshore buffer along Lake Phalen</image:title><image:caption>Lakeshore buffer along Lake Phalen in St. Paul.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/069.jpg</image:loc><image:title>069</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2015-08-18T19:51:36+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/08/11/canoeing-on-big-marine-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/123.jpg</image:loc><image:title>123</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/114.jpg</image:loc><image:title>114</image:title><image:caption>Big Marine is another lake in Washington County known for consistently high water quality. The south bay of the lake is quite shallow, so there are many rooted aquatic plants like water lilies. Shallow lakes provide excellent habitat for wildlife, but aren't good for boating and swimming. On Big Marine, boaters head for deeper water in other parts of the lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/104.jpg</image:loc><image:title>104</image:title><image:caption>Water lilies are native to Minnesota and provide excellent food and habitat for fish and waterfowl. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-08-11T14:24:59+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/08/04/downsizing-to-a-small-backyard/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/a-border-of-native-plants-blends-seemlessly-with-the-nearby-wetland.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A border of native plants blends seemlessly with the nearby wetland</image:title><image:caption>A border of native plants blends seemlessly with the nearby wetland</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-08-04T16:35:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/07/27/creating-healthy-habitat-for-fish/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/bwca-summer-08-176.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA summer 08 176</image:title><image:caption>Living the good life in Minnesota.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/bwca-07-camping-052.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BWCA 07 camping 052</image:title><image:caption>Winter camping and fishing for lake trout in the BWCA. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-07-27T16:26:50+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/07/21/heavy-rains-wreak-havoc-on-local-streams-and-stormwater-systems/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/grassed-waterway-goldstrand_2010.jpg</image:loc><image:title>grassed waterway-goldstrand_2010</image:title><image:caption>Many of the St. Croix River restoration efforts focus on promoting agricultural practices like this grassed waterway in Stillwater Twp. that help to keep soil from washing away during heavy rains and spring snow melt. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/july6inspectionphotos-raingarden.jpg</image:loc><image:title>July6InspectionPhotos - raingarden</image:title><image:caption>A raingarden in Lake Elmo that was full of water but functioning properly. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-07-21T13:27:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/07/13/recent-unhealthy-air-a-reminder-that-air-and-water-dont-follow-political-boundaries/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/air-photo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>air photo</image:title><image:caption>Minnesota air was smoky last week due to forest fires in northern Canada. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-07-13T15:09:13+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/07/06/all-the-pretty-gardens/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/roger-miller-12.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Roger Miller 12</image:title><image:caption>Roger Miller shows Charlie Hong how to rub aromatic aster to release its odor. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/roger-miller-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Roger Miller 1</image:title><image:caption>Consider replacing lawn with native gardens or shrubs in places that are hard to mow or rarely used such as side yards, or along driveways and fence lines. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/photo-3.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo 3</image:title><image:caption>A shade garden in the backyard alongside a sunnier patio space. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-07-06T19:32:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/06/30/save-the-fish-then-eat-them/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/20150604_141307.jpg</image:loc><image:title>20150604_141307</image:title><image:caption>A boater on Big Carnelian Lake removes his drain plug after coming out of the lake. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/photo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo</image:title><image:caption>An example of the web ads being delivered to mobile devices in Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/img_1253.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_1253</image:title><image:caption>On June 10-11, PLM Lake and Land Management Corp. applied herbicide to control invasive Eurasian watermilfoil in Big Marine Lake.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-06-30T12:47:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/06/25/measuring-progress-toward-cleaner-lakes-and-streams-in-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/bmp-map.jpg</image:loc><image:title>BMP map</image:title><image:caption>The new Washington County project map shows where urban and rural clean water projects are located. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-06-25T21:21:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/06/16/south-washington-watershed-district-adapts-to-changing-times-and-new-challenges/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/city-country-land.jpg</image:loc><image:title>city-country land</image:title><image:caption>On the edge of development in southern Washington County. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-06-17T03:59:25+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/05/11/drought-floods-and-hail-oh-my/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/gotta-clean-that-storm-drain-after-the-storm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Gotta clean that storm drain after the storm</image:title><image:caption>Clean your neighborhood storm drains after storms to help keep the street from flooding and keep nutrients out of local lakes and rivers. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-05-11T14:12:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/04/29/the-release-of-hector-the-toad/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/image.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>image</image:title><image:caption>Hector awaits his release.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-04-29T05:40:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/04/22/get-involved-and-make-a-difference-for-earth-day-and-arbor-day/</loc><lastmod>2015-04-22T13:17:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/04/13/your-lawn-care-personality-decoded/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/baby-in-grass.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Baby in grass</image:title><image:caption>A "perfect" lawn? Or perfect for your family?</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dogingrass.jpg</image:loc><image:title>dogingrass</image:title><image:caption>Healthy lawns are safe for wildlife and pets.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-04-13T20:18:57+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/04/01/st-croix-river-changing-climate-changing-times/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/40.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>St. Croix River, just north of the confluence with the Mississippi River in Prescott, WI</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/st-croix-at-stillwater.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix at Stillwater</image:title><image:caption>St. Croix River in Stillwater</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/st-croix-at-st-croix-state-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix at St. Croix State Park</image:title><image:caption>St. Croix River at St. Croix State Park</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/st-croix-at-log-house-landing.jpg</image:loc><image:title>St. Croix at Log House Landing</image:title><image:caption>Our lakes and rivers are beautiful and we intend to keep them that way!</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-04-01T13:34:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/03/24/local-farmers-adapt-to-improve-soil-health-and-the-st-croix-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/scandia-farmers-breakfast.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Scandia farmers' breakfast</image:title><image:caption>Scandia farmers' breakfast</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-03-24T13:03:36+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/03/18/local-residents-stampede-fairgrounds-during-rain-barrel-and-tree-sale/</loc><lastmod>2015-03-18T13:31:52+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/03/12/spring-melt-and-battling-mud/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/development.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Development</image:title><image:caption>Mud and dirty runoff can smother fish eggs and ruin water quality in lakes and streams. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/wetedgeconst2-small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>wetedgeconst2 (Small)</image:title><image:caption>Erosion control requirements are more stringent near wetlands and other water bodies. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc00584.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC00584</image:title><image:caption>Don't let mud reach the storm sewer! They connect to lakes, rivers and streams. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-03-12T16:46:10+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/03/04/chasing-the-spring/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/photo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo</image:title><image:caption>Coming back from a frozen run.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-03-04T14:13:03+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/02/19/thriving-in-the-face-of-the-winter-maker/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/007-800x600.jpg</image:loc><image:title>007 (800x600)</image:title><image:caption>Charlie tries out ice fishing on Lake Phalen.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/merganser-and-winter-maker-puppets-in-front-of-lake-phalen.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Merganser and Winter-maker puppets in front of Lake Phalen</image:title><image:caption>Merganser and Winter-maker puppets in front of Lake Phalen</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-02-19T20:11:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/02/10/underground-water/</loc><lastmod>2015-02-11T04:29:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/02/09/the-nature-of-change/</loc><lastmod>2015-02-09T13:23:09+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/02/02/minnesota-fairytale/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/a-frozen-browns-creek-in-the-enchanted-kingdom.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A frozen Brown's Creek in the enchanted kingdom</image:title><image:caption>A frozen Brown's Creek in the enchanted kingdom.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-02-02T16:05:43+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/01/12/reusing-runoff-at-the-oneka-ridge-golf-course/</loc><lastmod>2015-01-12T14:30:35+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2015/01/07/as-the-water-drop-rolls-3/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/the-central-draw-storage-facility-in-june-2014-often-the-area-is-completely-dry.jpg</image:loc><image:title>The Central Draw Storage Facility in June 2014. Often the area is completely dry</image:title><image:caption>Central Draw Storage Facility in flood conditions</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>007</image:title><image:caption>One of many sneaky raingardens, disguised as ornamental landscaping. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2014-ais-workshop.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2014 AIS workshop</image:title><image:caption>Northern county residents preparing to battle aquatic invaders. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2015-01-07T15:22:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/12/22/hows-the-water-minnesota-part-2-rivers-and-streams/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/name-that-stream-valley-creek-in-afton.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Name that stream - Valley Creek in Afton</image:title><image:caption>Valley Creek in Afton is still healthy enough to support naturally reproducing populations of trout. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-12-22T14:50:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/12/18/hows-the-water-minnesota-part-1-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/057.jpg</image:loc><image:title>057</image:title><image:caption>Lakes in northern Minnesota are doing well, but most in the southern and western portions of the state are not meeting water quality standards. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-12-18T22:33:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/12/11/wearing-high-heels-in-the-winter-and-other-things-you-shouldnt-do/</loc><lastmod>2014-12-11T15:08:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/12/01/creating-an-outlet-to-the-mississippi-river-in-southern-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/011.jpg</image:loc><image:title>011</image:title><image:caption>Matt Moore, SWWD District Administrator, shows the Washington County Water Consortium where new pipes are being laid for the overflow project. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/the-central-draw-storage-facility-in-june-2014-often-the-area-is-completely-dry.jpg</image:loc><image:title>The Central Draw Storage Facility in June 2014. Often the area is completely dry</image:title><image:caption>The Central Draw Storage Facility in June 2014. Often the area is completely dry.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-12-01T13:52:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/11/25/finding-peace-by-the-waters-edge/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/macy-and-charlie-at-loon-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Macy and Charlie at Loon Lake</image:title><image:caption>Macy and Charlie at Loon Lake</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-11-26T13:45:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/11/18/exploring-the-new-browns-creek-trail/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/a-view-of-the-old-stone-arch-bridge-from-the-new-browns-creek-trail.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A view of the old stone arch bridge from the new Brown's Creek Trail</image:title><image:caption>A view of the old stone arch bridge from the new Brown's Creek Trail</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-11-18T15:10:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/11/10/in-search-of-hardwood-creek/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/055.jpg</image:loc><image:title>055</image:title><image:caption>Another view of Hardwood Creek from another dusty country road. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/032.jpg</image:loc><image:title>032</image:title><image:caption>There are high quality woods in the Paul Hugo Farms WMA, blessedly buckthorn free. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/051.jpg</image:loc><image:title>051</image:title><image:caption>We finally found Hardwood Creek off a dusty country road in Hugo. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-11-10T17:01:19+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/11/06/imagine-how-it-could-be/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/lily-lake-assoc-picnic-2014-talking-about-cleaner-water.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lily Lake Assoc picnic 2014 - talking about cleaner water</image:title><image:caption>A group of neighbors gathered at the Lily Lake Association (Stillwater) picnic this fall to talk about cleaner water. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-11-06T16:22:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/10/22/the-fallest-fall-ever/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2</image:title><image:caption>All aboard the pumpkin train!</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/305.jpg</image:loc><image:title>305</image:title><image:caption>The view from the lookout tower at McDougall's Apple Junction</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-10-22T12:54:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/10/20/the-most-beautiful-race/</loc><lastmod>2014-10-21T01:43:59+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/09/18/getting-to-know-your-neighborhood-uncommon-fish/</loc><lastmod>2014-09-18T18:53:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/09/11/explore-ravine-lake-and-the-wetlands-of-cottage-grove-ravine-regional-park-sept-18/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/cottage-grove-ravine-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Cottage Grove Ravine Park</image:title><image:caption>Cottage Grove Ravine Park</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-09-11T15:15:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/09/05/a-refresher-course-on-how-pipes-work/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/img_3942.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_3942</image:title><image:caption>Where will the ball go?</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-09-05T14:56:39+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/09/02/out-dated-septic-systems-contaminate-area-streams/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kelles-creek-looking-upstream-from-st-croix-trail.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Kelle's Creek, looking upstream from St. Croix Trail</image:title><image:caption>Kelle's Creek, looking upstream from St. Croix Trail</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-09-02T12:33:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/08/18/grimy-green-and-gross/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/green-water-1-pound-of-phosphorus-can-create-500-pounds-of-algae.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Blue-green algae, fed by excess phosphorus, occasionally turns Lake St. Croix green. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/duckweed1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>duckweed1</image:title><image:caption>Duckweed may cover a lake's surface but it is different than algae and provides important food for waterfowl. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/algae-in-backwaters-of-st-croix-near-carpenter-nature-center.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title><image:caption>Algae in the backwaters of the St. Croix River near Carpenter Nature Center</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-11-26T10:28:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/08/14/where-the-mississippi-river-wanders/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Native prairie plants in bloom at Schaar's Bluff in Spring Lake Park</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/010.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sunset over the Mississippi from Schaar's Bluff</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/photo-4.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sheer rock cliffs line the Mississippi in Spring Lake Park Reserve</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/photo-3.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A view from high on the bluff above Lock and Dam #2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/photo-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo 2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/photo-1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo 1</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2014-08-14T20:37:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/08/06/monarchs-in-the-trees/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/009.jpg</image:loc><image:title>009</image:title><image:caption>Two monarch butterflies perch on a milkweed plant in the Juran's yard. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/img_0288.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0288</image:title><image:caption>An arbor leads the way to the "grandchildren's garden" at Sandy and Denny Grabowski's home. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/004.jpg</image:loc><image:title>004</image:title><image:caption>Bonnie Juran places a newly emerged monarch on a milkweed leaf</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-08-06T12:46:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/07/21/introducing-the-new-clean-water-geocaching-trail/</loc><lastmod>2014-07-21T20:37:05+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/07/07/find-inspiration-at-the-familymeans-st-croix-valley-garden-tour-july-12-13/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/007.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A dry creek leads to one of many raingardens at the Johnson home.</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2014-07-07T13:52:01+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/07/02/a-plea-for-sane-lawn-watering/</loc><lastmod>2014-07-02T20:53:06+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/06/23/safe-passage-for-turtles-near-big-marine-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/newly-installed-turtle-crossing-south-of-big-marine-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Newly installed turtle crossing south of Big Marine Park</image:title><image:caption>A newly installed turtle crossing south of Big Marine Park will help to protect threatened Blanding's turtles.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/snappercr57.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SnapperCR57</image:title><image:caption>A snapping turtle crosses the road in Washington County.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-07-03T21:20:13+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/06/19/stopping-the-nitrogen-super-highway/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/052.jpg</image:loc><image:title>052</image:title><image:caption>Dave Wall talks about nutrient sources and reduction strategies. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/034.jpg</image:loc><image:title>034</image:title><image:caption>Boarding the Magnolia Blossom at Watergate Marina</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-06-19T14:21:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/06/12/beware-the-grecian-foxglove/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/grecian-foxglove_20110707-cu.jpg</image:loc><image:title>grecian foxglove_20110707-cu</image:title><image:caption>Close up of flowers on Grecian foxglove. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/grecian-foxglove-growing-in-a-field.jpg</image:loc><image:title>grecian foxglove growing in a field</image:title><image:caption>Grecian foxglove growing in a field.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-06-12T18:54:27+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/06/03/native-plants-keep-bees-buzzing/</loc><lastmod>2014-06-03T21:33:27+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/05/15/in-search-of-spring/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/011.jpg</image:loc><image:title>011</image:title><image:caption>Hepatica</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/023.jpg</image:loc><image:title>023</image:title><image:caption>Marsh marigold</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-05-15T21:12:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/05/12/caring-for-your-horse-and-your-land/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/horses-in-a-pasture.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Horses in a pasture</image:title><image:caption>Horses in a pasture in Grant, Minnesota </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-05-12T20:44:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/04/30/happening-in-the-st-croix-river-valley/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/summer-tuesdays-on-the-st-croix-in-stillwater-one-of-many-local-community-festivals.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Summer Tuesdays on the St. Croix in Stillwater - one of many local community festivals</image:title><image:caption>The St. Croix River and lakes throughout the watershed support recreation, tourism, and sense of community. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-04-30T15:57:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/04/23/pharmaceuticals-in-minnesota-lakes/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/mpca-found-chemicals-in-even-remote-lakes-in-the-bwca.jpg</image:loc><image:title>MPCA found chemicals in even remote lakes in the BWCA</image:title><image:caption>The MN Pollution Control Agency has found pharmaceuticals even in remote lakes in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-04-23T12:59:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/04/15/local-cities-adapt-to-changing-water-availability/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/low-lakes-levels-on-wbl-view-from-wbl-yacht-club.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Low lakes levels on WBL, view from WBL Yacht Club</image:title><image:caption>A view from the White Bear Lake Yacht Club show the impacts of declining water levels on White Bear and other area lakes. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-04-16T03:26:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/04/04/scooping-the-poop-with-style/</loc><lastmod>2014-04-04T16:16:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/04/02/walking-on-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/photo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>photo</image:title><image:caption>The view from the top of the south hill stairs is almost worth the climb. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-04-02T18:54:39+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/03/18/ready-for-the-melt/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/sled-trail-the-snow-is-deeper-than-it-looks.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sled trail - the snow is deeper than it looks</image:title><image:caption>My view from the dog sled. The snow's deeper than it looks!</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-03-18T16:30:00+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/02/24/enough-with-the-snow-lets-get-gardening/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/img_0327.png</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0327</image:title><image:caption>Native gardens and raingardens help to protect water resources and also provide a food source for pollinating insects and birds. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-02-24T19:05:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/02/13/healing-from-groundwater-contamination-in-washington-county/</loc><lastmod>2014-02-13T22:06:36+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/02/11/things-change/</loc><lastmod>2014-02-11T22:09:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/02/05/coming-in-2014-1-million-in-new-funding-for-water-improvement-projects-in-washington-county/</loc><lastmod>2014-02-05T17:10:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/01/13/ten-things-you-might-not-know-about-water-resources-in-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/plaisted_0704c.jpg</image:loc><image:title>plaisted_0704c</image:title><image:caption>Lake Plaisted, one of many lakes in Washington County </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-01-13T17:59:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2014/01/06/a-minnesotans-guide-to-walking-in-the-winter/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/winter-in-mn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Winter in MN</image:title><image:caption>Winter in Minnesota can be grueling or fun.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2014-01-06T13:33:27+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/12/30/as-the-water-drop-rolls-2/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/a-woodbury-family-enjoys-ice-cream-during-a-summer-celebration-of-new-raingardens-built-near-colby-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A Woodbury family enjoys ice cream during a summer celebration of new raingardens built near Colby Lake</image:title><image:caption>A Woodbury family enjoys ice cream during a summer celebration of new raingardens built near Colby Lake</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-12-30T13:56:19+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/12/17/a-winter-fish-tale/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/img_6099.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_6099</image:title><image:caption>Ice fishing on Big Marine Lake</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/a-chilly-but-not-frozen-stream.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A chilly, but not frozen stream</image:title><image:caption>A chilly, but not frozen stream, perfect for trout. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-12-18T05:41:25+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/12/09/regaining-a-sense-of-wonder/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/charlie-wades-in-the-st-croix-river-at-wob.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Charlie wades in the St. Croix River at WOB</image:title><image:caption>Charlie wades in the St. Croix River at William O'Brien State Park. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-12-12T21:02:35+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/12/02/zebra-on-the-run/</loc><lastmod>2013-12-02T16:38:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/11/25/holey-pavement/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/rainy-porous-pavement-at-lily-lake-wcd-photo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Rainy porous pavement at Lily Lake WCD photo</image:title><image:caption>A woman watches rain soak into the porous pavers at Lily Lake boat launch in Stillwater, MN.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-11-25T14:27:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/11/19/calling-tim-the-tool-man/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/001.jpg</image:loc><image:title>001</image:title><image:caption>Erosion control selfie!</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/012.jpg</image:loc><image:title>012</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/019.jpg</image:loc><image:title>019</image:title><image:caption>The straw shooter in action, blanketing a construction site in Cottage Grove, MN. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-11-19T22:11:10+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/11/14/a-conservation-leader-in-the-st-croix-river-valley/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/charlie-johnson-and-his-dog.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Charlie Johnson and his dog</image:title><image:caption>Charlie Johnson and his dog</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/wcd-supervisors-at-whistling-well-farm-l-to-r-john-rheinberger-louise-smallidge-george-weyer-jim-levitt.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WCD supervisors at Whistling Well farm - L to R, John Rheinberger, Louise Smallidge, George Weyer, Jim Levitt</image:title><image:caption>WCD supervisors at Whistling Well farm (L to R): John Rheinberger, Louise Smallidge, George Weyer, Jim Levitt</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/emmy-of-whistling-well-farm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Emmy of Whistling Well Farm</image:title><image:caption>Emmy of Whistling Well Farm, a children's story by Charlie Johnson</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-11-14T22:10:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/10/29/where-have-all-the-bees-gone/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/bumblebee-on-monarda-also-called-bee-balm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bumblebee on monarda, also called bee balm</image:title><image:caption>Bumblebee on monarda, also called bee balm.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-11-05T13:40:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/10/21/working-with-farmers-to-protect-water-resources/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2012-06-21_11-47-22_821.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2012-06-21_11-47-22_821</image:title><image:caption>WCD employee Andy Schilling out on a site visit at an farm field in Washington County, looking for opportunities to reduce runoff pollution. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2012-06-21_12-00-37_866.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2012-06-21_12-00-37_866</image:title><image:caption>Corn and soybean fields dominate agricultural land in much of central and southern Minnesota. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-10-21T19:32:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/10/14/mississippi-river-sojourn/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/073.jpg</image:loc><image:title>073</image:title><image:caption>Signs at the park warned that elevated levels of nitrates in the groundwater made it unsafe for pregnant women and infants to drink. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/074.jpg</image:loc><image:title>074</image:title><image:caption>The views of the Mississippi River backwaters from Perrot State Park are beautiful. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/039.jpg</image:loc><image:title>039</image:title><image:caption>Charlie and his Grandpa Bill watch a train pass by while gazing out over the Mississippi River in Prescott. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-10-14T18:19:08+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/10/10/for-the-love-of-fall/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/fall-raking.jpg</image:loc><image:title>fall raking</image:title><image:caption>Even the kids love raking!</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/fall-colors-at-carpenter-nature-center.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Fall colors at Carpenter Nature Center</image:title><image:caption>Fall colors at Carpenter Nature Center, near the St. Croix River. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-10-10T15:34:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/10/02/one-year-later-an-impressive-transformation-for-the-oak-glen-golf-course/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/oak-glen-golf-course-11.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Oak Glen golf course 11</image:title><image:caption>The newly planted native buffer along Brown's Creek within the Oak Glen Golf Course looked lovely in September. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-10-02T14:21:43+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/09/16/saving-goose-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/goose-lake-ravine-rock-and-erosion-control-fabric.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Goose Lake ravine - rock and erosion control fabric</image:title><image:caption>Within the ravine, rock and erosion control fabric help to prevent further erosion from washing soil into the lake. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-09-16T17:16:05+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/09/10/salt-water-on-the-menu/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/wcd-manager-jay-riggs-with-fish-on-st-croix.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WCD manager Jay Riggs with fish on St. Croix</image:title><image:caption>Jay Riggs, District Manager for the Washington Conservation District, catches fish on the St. Croix River. Many fish species are sensitive to chloride in the water and die as concentrations rise. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-09-10T13:00:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/08/29/digging-for-treasure/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_2765.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2765</image:title><image:caption>This one came from a St. Paul drug store</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_2764.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2764</image:title><image:caption>In the end, they found five antique bottles.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/img_2763.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2763</image:title><image:caption>When I came back to check on them, the hole was already at least five feet deep. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-08-29T15:21:03+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/08/23/rush-river-rambles/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/028.jpg</image:loc><image:title>028</image:title><image:caption>Erosion like this happens along streambanks when crops are planted too close to the edge of the water. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/026.jpg</image:loc><image:title>026</image:title><image:caption>Friends Katie Pata and Erica Ellefson enjoyed the scenery on the Rush River. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/020.jpg</image:loc><image:title>020</image:title><image:caption>We finally hit the water at 4pm that day. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-08-23T19:17:32+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/08/09/ice-cream-and-raingardens/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/253.jpg</image:loc><image:title>253</image:title><image:caption>Today there are ~200 raingardens in Stillwater, adding beauty, habitat for birds and pollinating insects and keeping our water clean. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dsc_5573.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC_5573</image:title><image:caption>The City of Stillwater built a large raingarden at Washington Square Park in 2007. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/210081_10150984156867091_1831605053_o.jpg</image:loc><image:title>210081_10150984156867091_1831605053_o</image:title><image:caption>Stop by for a small scoop (that is actually small) of Nelson's Ice Cream. (Photo: Nelson's Ice Cream)</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-08-09T12:39:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/08/01/up-north-at-the-cabin/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/crooked-lake-moonrise.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Crooked Lake Moonrise</image:title><image:caption>Moonrise over Crooked Lake</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/crooked-lake-shoreline-planting.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Crooked Lake shoreline planting</image:title><image:caption>A native shoreline planting installed with help from the Crow Wing Soil and Water Conservation District. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/pontoon-ride.jpg</image:loc><image:title>OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2013-08-01T13:20:09+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/07/23/protecting-the-st-croix-river-2/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/sunset-in-hudson.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>Sunset in Hudson</image:title><image:caption>As we pulled up to the dock, a beautiful sunset reminded us why we work to protect the St. Croix. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/green-water-at-hudson.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Green water at Hudson</image:title><image:caption>High levels of phosphorus in Lake St. Croix contribute to algae growth during the summer. This photo was taken at the Hudson, WI Marina during a summer boat tour. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-07-23T15:23:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/07/17/what-to-ask-for-from-your-lawn-care-provider/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/car-dent.jpg</image:loc><image:title>car dent</image:title><image:caption>Green on green violence is never pretty to witness. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/linnea-radtke-on-the-lawn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Linnea Radtke on the lawn</image:title><image:caption>Linnea Radtke on the lawn.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-07-17T13:59:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/07/08/get-a-behind-the-scenes-look-at-stillwater-area-yards-and-gardens-july-13-and-14/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/boettcher-garden.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Boettcher garden</image:title><image:caption>Margaret and Robert Boettcher's gardens include native plants, raingardens and rain barrels. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/ready-to-run.jpg</image:loc><image:title>ready to run</image:title><image:caption>Charlie and Macy are ready to run but only I will be tired at the end of the workout. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-07-08T20:01:19+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/06/24/more-big-rainstorms-its-not-your-imagination/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/a-stormwater-outfall-in-the-mississippi-river-during-pouring-rain.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>A stormwater outfall in the Mississippi River during pouring rain</image:title><image:caption>A stormwater outfall in the Mississippi River during pouring rain.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-06-24T16:35:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/06/19/making-the-most-of-big-backyards/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/baby-in-grass.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Baby in grass</image:title><image:caption>Following lawn care recommendations from Minnesota Extension and other experts results in healthy grass that's good for people and wildlife. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/monarch-waystation-at-the-greens-home.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Monarch waystation at the Green's home</image:title><image:caption>Monarch waystation at the Green's home</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-06-19T12:42:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/06/07/give-me-a-home-where-the-buffalo-roam/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/dsc_2633.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC_2633</image:title><image:caption>The bison spend their winters at NorthStar Bison in Rice Lake, WI and their summers in Afton. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/dsc_6112.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC_6112</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2013-06-07T12:38:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/05/29/valley-branch-lake-and-stream-improvement-project-kicks-off-june-4-6/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/map-of-vbwd-study-lakes-and-stream.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Map of VBWD study lakes and stream</image:title><image:caption>The map above shows the Valley Branch Watershed District, as well as lakes and stream to be studied. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-05-29T15:39:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/05/21/dandelion-wars/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/a-cheerful-yellow-dandelion.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A cheerful yellow dandelion</image:title><image:caption>How could a flower make us so mad?</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-05-22T14:00:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/05/13/giving-a-drink-to-the-river-herself/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/a-young-girl-squats-to-gather-water-from-the-mississippi-river-in-minneapolis.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A young girl squats to gather water from the Mississippi River in Minneapolis</image:title><image:caption>A young girl squats to gather water from the Mississippi River in Minneapolis.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-05-16T16:28:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/05/09/both-the-forest-and-the-trees/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wcd-tree-sale1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WCD tree sale</image:title><image:caption>Every year, the Washington Conservation District sells 15,000-20,000 trees to local landowners for conservation plantings. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/wcd-tree-sale.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WCD tree sale</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2013-05-09T18:24:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/04/29/journey-on-two-wheels/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/pine-point-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Pine Point Park</image:title><image:caption>A rest stop at Pine Point Park, entrance to the Gateway Trail. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/scandia.jpg</image:loc><image:title>scandia</image:title><image:caption>Bikers rest on a rock near the Scandia Community Center. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-04-29T16:06:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/04/19/gardening-in-the-snow/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/my-yard-on-june-9-2012.jpg</image:loc><image:title>My yard on June 9, 2012</image:title><image:caption>My yard on June 9, 2012 - a scene from brighter days. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/my-yard-on-april-19-2013.jpg</image:loc><image:title>My yard on April 19, 2013</image:title><image:caption>My yard on April 19, 2013. Ready for gardening!</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-04-19T21:26:34+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/04/16/well-water-nitrate-testing-clinics-may-6-and-8/</loc><lastmod>2013-08-08T15:32:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/04/10/a-chat-about-scat/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/macy-the-scat-machine.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Macy - the scat machine</image:title><image:caption>Macy - the scat machine</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-04-10T13:16:32+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/04/01/how-to-cross-a-river-with-a-baby/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/0573967513003.jpg</image:loc><image:title>0573967513003</image:title><image:caption>Charlie the explorer</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/0574536658003.jpg</image:loc><image:title>0574536658003</image:title><image:caption>Uvita, Costa Rica</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-04-01T20:30:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/03/11/crazy-carp-tournament-coming-to-chisago-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/clflwd-carp-harvest-in-bone-lake-2010-e1514996858760.jpg</image:loc><image:title>CLFLWD carp harvest in Bone Lake 2010</image:title><image:caption>Carp harvest in Bone Lake 2010.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-03-11T18:57:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/03/11/sailing-away-on-a-garbage-boat/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/garbage-boat1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>garbage boat1</image:title><image:caption>The Adopt-a-River garbage boat, on display outside the Minnesota DNR office on Warner Ave. in St. Paul. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-03-11T18:55:19+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/03/11/community-thread-mixes-raingardens-and-volunteerism/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/community-thread-raingarden-and-swale.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Community Thread raingarden and swale</image:title><image:caption>Community Thread raingarden and swale, one year after planting. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/volunteers-building-the-raingarden-at-community-thread.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Volunteers building the raingarden at Community Thread</image:title><image:caption>Volunteers building the raingarden at Community Thread.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-03-11T18:52:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/03/11/keeping-pharmaceuticals-out-of-our-water-2/</loc><lastmod>2013-03-11T18:48:44+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/02/26/aliens-invade-the-st-croix-valley/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/eurasian-watermilfoil-pulled-from-long-lake-in-stillwater.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Eurasian Watermilfoil pulled from Long Lake in Stillwater</image:title><image:caption>Eurasian Watermilfoil pulled from Long Lake in Stillwater.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-02-26T21:25:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/02/13/california-dreaming-on-a-winter-day/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/start-dreaming-about-raingardens-like-this-one-in-lake-elmo1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Start dreaming about raingardens like this one in Lake Elmo</image:title><image:caption>Attend an upcoming landscaping class to learn about composting, alternative lawns (low-mow &amp; bee friendly), and water-friendly raingardens and native plantings. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/start-dreaming-about-raingardens-like-this-one-in-lake-elmo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Start dreaming about raingardens like this one in Lake Elmo</image:title><image:caption>Start dreaming about raingardens like this one in Lake Elmo.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-02-13T19:16:42+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/02/07/old-homes-and-farms-contain-secrets-some-good-some-bad/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/604-5th-st-s-002.jpg</image:loc><image:title>604 5th St. S 002</image:title><image:caption>This old house was built before Stillwater had a municipal well.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-02-07T21:00:00+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/01/29/things-they-dont-tell-you-when-you-buy-a-horse/</loc><lastmod>2013-01-29T20:05:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/01/25/reading-the-landscape/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/brown-eyed-susan-a-favorite-native.jpg</image:loc><image:title>brown-eyed susan, a favorite native</image:title><image:caption>Brown-eyed susan, a favorite native perennial for gardens. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-01-25T19:21:00+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/01/16/eating-fish-by-candlelight/</loc><lastmod>2013-01-16T22:32:03+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/01/07/dont-be-a-drip/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/lucy-waiting-for-a-drink.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lucy, waiting for a drink</image:title><image:caption>Lucy, waiting for a drink</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-01-07T21:39:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/01/04/on-the-dangers-of-parenting-while-saving-the-world/</loc><lastmod>2013-01-04T16:45:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/01/04/take-a-chill-pill/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/charlie-enjoying-the-snow-on-dec-9-2012.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Charlie enjoying the snow on Dec. 9, 2012</image:title><image:caption>Charlie enjoying the snow on Dec. 9, 2012</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-01-04T16:31:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2013/01/04/lo-how-a-rose/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/wild-rose.jpg</image:loc><image:title>wild rose</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2013-01-04T15:07:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/12/19/saving-trout/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/valley-creek.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Valley Creek</image:title><image:caption>Valley Creek</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-12-19T20:15:35+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/12/05/a-view-from-hidden-harbor/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/a-house-boat-at-night-near-hidden-harbor-marina.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A house boat at night near Hidden Harbor Marina</image:title><image:caption>A house boat at night near Hidden Harbor Marina</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2013-06-24T20:58:37+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/11/30/thankful-for-so-many-things/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/olson-prairie-workshop-2012.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Olson prairie workshop 2012</image:title><image:caption>Local community members explore Nora Olson's prairie at a workshop in Stillwater Township this summer. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-11-30T21:18:09+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/11/20/spotting-raingardens-around-stillwater/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/lily-lake-in-fall.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lily Lake in fall</image:title><image:caption> A home near Lily Lake in Stillwater features a newly planted raingarden this fall. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-11-20T14:49:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/11/09/the-march-of-the-asian-carp/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/nps-park-ranger-lyndon-torstenson-photographing-asian-carp-on-the-mississippi-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>NPS Park Ranger Lyndon Torstenson photographing asian carp on the Mississippi River</image:title><image:caption>NPS Park Ranger Lyndon Torstenson photographing asian carp on the Mississippi River</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-11-09T19:50:27+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/10/29/woobury-neighborhood-half-way-to-clean/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/plant-delivery-and-workshop-10-3-12-001.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Plant Delivery and Workshop 10-3-12 001</image:title><image:caption>Plants for the new raingardens were laid out in the driveway. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/tara-kline-left-and-andy-schilling-right-speak-with-a-group-of-colby-lake-homeowners.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Tara Kline, left, and Andy Schilling, right, speak with a group of Colby Lake homeowners</image:title><image:caption>Tara Kline, left, and Andy Schilling, right, speak with a group of Colby Lake homeowners.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-10-29T18:10:41+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/10/18/is-there-such-a-thing-as-too-clean-the-problem-with-antibacterial-soaps/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/baby-charlie-demonstrates-his-taste-test-approach-to-the-world.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Baby Charlie demonstrates his taste-test approach to the world</image:title><image:caption>Baby Charlie demonstrates his taste-test approach to the world.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-10-19T03:27:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/10/16/our-stretch-of-the-mississippi-river-good-bad-and-ugly/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/mississippi-river-at-mouth-of-minnehaha-creek-5-31-10.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Mississippi River at mouth of Minnehaha Creek 5-31-10</image:title><image:caption>People and dogs play in the Mississippi River at the mouth of Minnehaha Creek. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-10-16T21:33:16+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/10/09/apple-orchards-right-and-wrong/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/043.jpg</image:loc><image:title>043</image:title><image:caption>Conservation District staff smile down from a lookout at the head of the ravine trail. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/039.jpg</image:loc><image:title>039</image:title><image:caption>Master Gardeners helped the nature center to build a water garden next to the interpretive center. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/035.jpg</image:loc><image:title>035</image:title><image:caption>Carpenter Nature Center practices integrated pest management, which is labor intensive but reduces the use of chemicals. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-10-09T20:07:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/10/05/indubitably-impervious-and-impenetrable/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/grassy-pave-in-mahtomedi-driveway-wcd-photo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>grassy pave in Mahtomedi driveway - WCD photo</image:title><image:caption>A homeowner in Mahtomedi shows off a driveway that lets rainwater soak through into the ground. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-10-05T14:58:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/10/05/leaf-me-alone/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/big-yard-mulch-leaves.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Watershed, Raingardens, Native Gardens</image:title><image:caption>If you have a big yard, mulch your leaves into the grass with a lawn mower to save time. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/rake-leaves-out-of-the-street-in-the-fall-to-keep-lakes-clean-in-the-summer.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Rake leaves out of the street in the fall to keep lakes clean in the summer</image:title><image:caption>Rake leaves out of the street in the fall to keep lakes clean in the summer.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/charlie-rakes-leaves.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Charlie rakes leaves</image:title><image:caption>Good job Charlie! Remember parents, it's never to early to put your kids to work. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-10-05T14:52:07+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/10/05/are-clean-water-efforts-worth-the-work/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/this-2009-wcd-photo-of-the-plaisted-lake-complex-shows-the-interconnectedness-of-watershed-habitat-and-human-systems.jpg</image:loc><image:title>This 2009 WCD photo of the Plaisted Lake complex shows the interconnectedness of watershed, habitat and human systems</image:title><image:caption>This 2009 WCD photo of the Plaisted Lake complex shows the interconnectedness of watershed, habitat and human systems</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-10-05T14:35:38+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/09/20/updates-and-progress-in-restoring-the-st-croix-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/sunrise-at-the-2012-st-croix-triathlon-lakefront-park-in-hudson.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sunrise at the 2012 St. Croix Triathlon, Lakefront Park in Hudson</image:title><image:caption>Sunrise at the 2012 St. Croix Triathlon, Lakefront Park in Hudson</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-09-20T15:38:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/09/17/continuing-the-learning-outside-the-classroom/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/a-mom-explores-pond-water-with-her-son-at-cottage-grove-ravine-park.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A mom explores pond water with her son at Cottage Grove Ravine</image:title><image:caption>A mom explores pond water with her son at Cottage Grove Ravine Park</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-09-17T12:58:56+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/09/13/clear-lake-happy-campers/</loc><lastmod>2015-03-24T12:54:01+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/09/05/it-takes-a-neighborhood-to-save-a-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/croixwood-neighborhood-tour-boettcher-house.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Croixwood neighborhood tour - Boettcher house</image:title><image:caption>Croixwood neighborhood tour - Boettcher house</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-09-05T15:50:45+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/08/29/draining-your-pool-without-killing-your-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/chlorine-is-good-for-pools-not-lakes-pictured-charlie-hong-and-his-mom.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Chlorine is good for pools, not lakes. Pictured - Charlie Hong and his mom</image:title><image:caption>Chlorine is good for pools, not lakes. Pictured - Charlie Hong and his mom</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-09-05T15:47:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/08/21/gardening-to-meet-the-neighbors/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/blue-thumb-raingarden-tour-028.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Blue Thumb raingarden tour 028</image:title><image:caption>Dawn Pape even decorated her raingarden's curb cut.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/024.jpg</image:loc><image:title>024</image:title><image:caption>The square of turf between the driveway and sidewalks was the first to go. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/029.jpg</image:loc><image:title>029</image:title><image:caption>Flowers now bloom where grass and weeds used to grow.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-08-21T16:49:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/08/09/grassed-waterways/</loc><lastmod>2012-08-09T16:16:39+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/08/02/going-old-school-at-lake-phalen/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/southwest-side-of-lake-phalen.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Southwest side of Lake Phalen</image:title><image:caption>Southwest side of Lake Phalen.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-08-02T21:27:29+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/07/10/gardens-inspire-envy-on-the-20th-annual-familymeans-st-croix-garden-tour/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/mary-green-home.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Mary Green home</image:title><image:caption>A pollinator garden at the foot of the Greens' driveway is lush and full of life. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-07-10T19:01:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/06/20/saving-the-mighty-mississippi/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_0951-e1514997143458.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0951</image:title><image:caption>Asian carp caught on a different stretch of the Mississippi were on display for the boat's passengers. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_0966.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0966</image:title><image:caption>Though it appears natural, this stretch of the river supports very little wildlife</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_0941.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0941</image:title><image:caption>Local decision makers gathered to hear about issues facing the Mississippi River</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/img_0942.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0942</image:title><image:caption>Sara Taylor, Assistant Administrator and Planner for the City of Bayport, gazes out the window at murky waters in Pool 2.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-06-20T20:34:22+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/06/05/why-did-the-turtle-cross-the-road/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/apalone2-butlerco-ia_-small_.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Apalone2.ButlerCo.IA.small</image:title><image:caption>Softshell turtles stick to the rivers but are threatened by human use of the beaches they use for nesting. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/blandings.jpg</image:loc><image:title>blandings</image:title><image:caption>Blanding's turtles will travel up to a mile to their nests. The species is considered threatened. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/snappercr57.jpg</image:loc><image:title>SnapperCR57</image:title><image:caption>Snapping turtles are unmistakable. Use a towel or gloves to help them across. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/dscn3037.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSCN3037</image:title><image:caption>Painted turtles on the road look like large, smooth rocks from a distance. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-06-20T00:11:55+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/05/29/waterfest-a-great-kick-off-to-summer/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/waterfest-2008-canoes-tricia-debleekere-photo.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WaterFest 2008 canoes - Tricia DeBleekere photo</image:title><image:caption>RWMWD works to keep Lake Phalen and other water bodies in the district clean and healthy. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/waterfest_5_17_08-011a.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WaterFest_5_17_08 011a</image:title><image:caption>WaterFest hopes people will care more about frogs and other aquatic life. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-05-29T14:41:03+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/05/23/native-plant-sales-coming-soon/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/backyard-raingarden-2012-year-21.jpg</image:loc><image:title>backyard raingarden 2012 year 2</image:title><image:caption>Only one year later, the garden has already filled in nicely. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/backyard-raingarden-2012-year-2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>backyard raingarden 2012 year 2</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/backyard-raingarden-2011-newly-planted.jpg</image:loc><image:title>backyard raingarden 2011 newly planted</image:title><image:caption>My backyard raingarden in 2011 just after planting.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-05-23T20:09:11+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/05/15/will-the-kids-be-outside-this-summer/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/even-at-a-young-age-children-can-explore-nature-photo-of-charlie-hong1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Even at a young age, children can explore nature. Photo of Charlie Hong</image:title><image:caption>Even at a young age, children can explore nature. Charlie Hong examines a fallen tree at Muir Woods. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/even-at-a-young-age-children-can-explore-nature-photo-of-charlie-hong.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Even at a young age, children can explore nature. Photo of Charlie Hong</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2012-05-15T13:50:34+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/04/30/par-for-the-course/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/browns-creek-reconstruction-in-oak-glen-before-planting.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Browns Creek reconstruction in Oak Glen before planting</image:title><image:caption>Browns Creek reconstruction in Oak Glen before planting. Photo from BCWD.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-06-06T18:10:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/04/20/buried-treasure-optional/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/girl-scouts.jpg</image:loc><image:title>girl scouts</image:title><image:caption>Girl scouts got dirty as well.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/boy-scouts.jpg</image:loc><image:title>boy scouts</image:title><image:caption>Boy scouts lent their muscle to the efforts.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/wcd-staff-tara-kline-and-amy-carolan-e1525717864242.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WCD staff Tara Kline and Amy Carolan</image:title><image:caption>During a clean-up event along Perro Creek in Bayport, volunteers found litter, yard waste, and assorted treasures that had been dumped into the dry stream-bed over the winter. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-04-20T20:47:03+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/04/13/keeping-pharmaceuticals-out-of-our-water/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/medicine-and-water-e1522876460579.jpg</image:loc><image:title>medicine and water</image:title><image:caption>Research shows that medications are ending up in our rivers and drinking water. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-04-13T21:19:00+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/04/06/cue-the-birds/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/loon-family.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Loon Family</image:title><image:caption>A family of loons glides across a lake. In general, better habitat means more birds. </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2023-11-10T05:44:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/03/30/lawn-chair-lawn-care/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/lawn-chair-spring-day.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lawn chair, spring day</image:title><image:caption>Baby Charlie shows how easy it is to enjoy lawn chair lawn care.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-04-02T14:41:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/03/27/the-towns-that-sucked-a-whole-lake-dry/</loc><lastmod>2012-03-28T18:48:40+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/03/16/the-adventures-of-charlie-the-bear/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/charlie-gets-ready-for-a-hike.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Charlie gets ready for a hike</image:title><image:caption>Charlie gets ready for a hike</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-03-16T19:39:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/03/09/striving-toward-a-washington-county-land-ethic/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/washington-county_.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Washington County_</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2012-03-09T17:30:25+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/03/01/mild-winter-frozen-septic/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/frozen-mound-article.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Frozen mound (little hill behind the tree) where the sewage is coming out of the side and running all the way across the driveway.  All the frozen ice visible in the picture is wastewater coming from the mound.</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2012-03-01T16:54:28+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/02/24/reviewing-the-past-planning-the-future/</loc><lastmod>2012-02-24T16:10:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/02/16/st-croix-secrets/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/woodbury-raingarden_small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Woodbury Raingarden</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2012-02-16T23:10:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/02/10/i-brake-for-dirt-piles/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/rock-tripe-lichen-and-polypody-fern-on-a-rock-face-in-michigan-upper-peninsula.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Rock tripe lichen and polypody fern, on a rock face in Michigan Upper Peninsula</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2012-02-10T13:58:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/02/02/fin-offers-nearby-family-fun-in-washington-county/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/pier_fishing_bluegill_2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Peir Fishing, Bluegill</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2012-02-02T16:03:14+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/01/27/tending-the-delicate-balance/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/honeybee-on-purple-coneflower1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Honeybee on purple coneflower</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/honeybee-on-purple-coneflower.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Honeybee on purple coneflower</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2012-01-27T14:23:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/01/20/wetlands-wonderlands/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/leopard-frog.jpg</image:loc><image:title>leopard frog</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2012-01-20T14:29:31+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/01/12/horse-keeping-inside-and-out-jan-24-workshop-for-horse-owners/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/horses-in-pasture-photo-from-wcd.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Horses in pasture - photo from WCD</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2012-01-12T14:21:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2012/01/05/old-dogs-and-new-tricks/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/prairie-grasses-are-used-in-functional-landscaping_small3.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Prairie grasses are used in functional landscaping_small</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/spiderwort-is-a-native-prairie-wildflower-grown-in-gardens-for-beauty-and-function_small1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Spiderwort is a native prairie wildflower grown in gardens for beauty and function_small</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/prairie-grasses-are-used-in-functional-landscaping_small2.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Prairie grasses are used in functional landscaping_small</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/prairie-grasses-are-used-in-functional-landscaping_small1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Prairie grasses are used in functional landscaping_small</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/prairie-grasses-are-used-in-functional-landscaping_small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Prairie grasses are used in functional landscaping_small</image:title><image:caption>Prairie-grasses-are-used-in-functional-landscaping</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2012-01-05T17:07:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/12/30/as-the-water-drop-rolls-part-2/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/caught-in-the-act-bcwd-administrator-karen-kill-helps-to-carry-15000-plants-to-long-lake.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Caught in the act, BCWD Administrator Karen Kill helps to carry 15,000 plants to Long Lake</image:title><image:caption>Caught in the act, BCWD Administrator Karen Kill helps to carry 15,000 plants to Long Lake</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-12-30T14:28:19+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/12/22/browns-creek-the-trail-and-the-waterhshed-district/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/browns-creek-along-tracks_small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Brown's Creek</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2011-12-22T17:17:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/12/16/confessions-of-an-inline-skater/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/sealcoat031_maulasphalt-com_1.jpg</image:loc><image:title>coal-tar based sealant</image:title></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/sealcoat031_maulasphalt-com_.jpg</image:loc><image:title>coal-tar based sealcoat</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2011-12-16T21:10:18+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/12/09/abounding-deer-and-combines-in-the-fields/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/combine-in-a-corn-field-fall-2011_small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Combine in a corn field, Fall 2011</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2011-12-09T16:48:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/12/02/grandpa-why-are-there-dragonflies/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/img_0982.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Dragonfly</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2011-12-02T19:35:53+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/11/18/i-wont-be-home-for-christmas/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0060.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0060</image:title><image:caption>When the roads look like this, salt does not help. </image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/img_0058.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_0058</image:title><image:caption>Heading home for the holidays?</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-11-18T13:57:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/11/14/farmwise-pilot-project-a-winning-idea/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/area-tour-1957-washington-conservation-district-small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Area tour 1957 - Washington Conservation District small</image:title><image:caption>Area tour 1957 - Washington Conservation District. The WCD has been working with farmers since 1942 and often uses tours to showcase exemplary projects in the area</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-11-14T17:11:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/11/08/maplewood-mall-the-next-urban-forest/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/newly-installed-tree-trenches-in-the-northwest-parking-lot-at-maplewood-mall-small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Newly installed tree trenches in the northwest parking lot at Maplewood Mall - small</image:title><image:caption>Newly installed tree trenches in the northwest grove of the parking lot at Maplewood Mall</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-11-10T19:22:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/10/31/local-afton-couple-lends-a-helping-hand-to-valley-creek/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/trudy-berggren-strikes-a-pose-in-front-of-their-pond-edge-planting.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Trudy Berggren strikes a pose in front of their pond edge planting</image:title><image:caption>Trudy Berggren strikes a pose in front of their pond edge planting in Afton</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-10-31T21:26:26+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/10/25/local-churches-find-multiple-benefits-in-stewardship-projects/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/img_2751-small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>IMG_2751 small</image:title><image:caption>Gina Pirozolli poses in front of the new raingarden at St. Judes on the Lake</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/dsc_8762.jpg</image:loc><image:title>DSC_8762</image:title><image:caption>Shop for a variety of native plants at the Landscape Revival - June 1 in Shoreview and June 8 in Oakdale. Blazing star is one option that attracts monarch butterflies during the summer.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/fpc_panorama1-version-2.jpeg</image:loc><image:title>FPC_Panorama1 - Version 2</image:title><image:caption>The parking lot at First Presbyterian features porous pavement and raingardens.</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/bagpiper-at-first-presbyterian.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Bagpiper at First Presbyterian</image:title><image:caption>Bagpiper at First Presbyterian parking lot dedication ceremony</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-10-25T19:11:15+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/10/19/when-change-doesnt-happen-overnight-2/</loc><lastmod>2011-10-19T16:54:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/10/11/if-at-first-you-dont-succeed-kill-kill-again/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/angie-killing-babies-fall-is-a-great-time-of-year-to-kill-backthorn.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Angie killing babies - Fall is a great time of year to kill backthorn</image:title><image:caption>Here I am, killing babies at the annual Newport Community Buckthorn Pull. Fall is one of the best times of year to pull buckthorn because it retains its green leaves longer than other shrubs.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-10-11T16:46:43+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/09/30/board-tour-shows-that-conservation-works-in-any-setting/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/wcd-board-members-john-rheinberger-louise-smallidge-jim-levitt-sarah-hietpas-and-gary-baumann-pose-in-front-of-a-lake-st-croix-beach-raingarden.jpg</image:loc><image:title>WCD board members John Rheinberger, Louise Smallidge, Jim Levitt, Sarah Hietpas and Gary Baumann pose in front of a Lake St. Croix Beach raingarden</image:title><image:caption>WCD board members John Rheinberger, Louise Smallidge, Jim Levitt, Sarah Hietpas and Gary Baumann pose in front of a Lake St. Croix Beach raingarden.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-09-30T20:49:43+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/09/23/this-express-lane-is-closed/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/a-slow-moving-road-in-southern-costa-rica.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A slow moving road in southern Costa Rica</image:title><image:caption>A slow moving road in southern Costa Rica</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-09-24T01:54:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/09/16/work-for-water-neighborhood-challenge/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/carrie-mack-and-trevor-russell-of-the-metro-watershed-partners-show-that-leaf-raking-can-be-fun.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Carrie Mack and Trevor Russell of the Metro WaterShed Partners  show that leaf raking can be fun</image:title><image:caption>Carrie Mack and Trevor Russell of the Metro WaterShed Partners  show that leaf raking is more fun when you do it with a friend</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-09-16T19:55:02+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/09/13/if-that-tree-could-talk/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/a-canopy-of-trees-over-a-driveway-helps-to-reduce-stormwater-runoff-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A canopy of trees over a driveway helps to reduce stormwater runoff - smaller</image:title><image:caption>A canopy of trees over a driveway helps to reduce stormwater runoff</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-09-13T13:37:09+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/09/13/debunking-myths-about-raingardens/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/a-lake-elmo-raingarden-masquerading-as-beautiful-landscaping.jpg</image:loc><image:title>A Lake Elmo raingarden masquerading as beautiful landscaping</image:title><image:caption>A Lake Elmo raingarden masquerading as beautiful landscaping</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-09-13T13:24:52+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/08/30/william-and-kates-wedding-in-lanesboro/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/royal-wedding-procession-on-the-root-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Royal Wedding procession on the Root River</image:title><image:caption>Royal Wedding procession on the Root River</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-08-30T16:05:32+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/08/19/do-these-petals-make-me-look-fat/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/blue-thumb-small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Blue Thumb small</image:title><image:caption>The flowers from last year's state fair popped up at this year's Washington County Fair</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-08-19T21:45:30+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/08/16/playing-in-the-mud/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/meca-erosion-control-seminar-2011-060.jpg</image:loc><image:title>MECA Erosion Control Seminar 2011 060</image:title><image:caption>A sign alerts visitors to erosion control measures in place at the McDonalds reconstruction in Woodbury</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/meca-erosion-control-seminar-2011.jpg</image:loc><image:title>MECA Erosion Control Seminar 2011</image:title><image:caption>Participants on site at Ravine Parkway in Cottage Grove during the recent MECA erosion control seminar</image:caption></image:image><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/warrior-dash-2011-small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Warrior Dash 2011 small</image:title><image:caption>Friends pose after completing the 2011 Warrior Dash in Afton, MN. (Left to right - Autumn and Nathan Hubbell, Gary Hong, Katie and Carmen Pata, Krista and Chris Jensen)</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-08-16T15:33:51+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/08/12/there-goes-the-tent/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/packed-into-the-car-brandie-and-emma-enjoyed-camping-despite-the-rain-small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Packed into the car, Brandie and Emma enjoyed camping despite the rain - small</image:title><image:caption>Packed into the car, Brandie and Emma enjoyed camping despite the rain</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-08-12T13:11:14+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/07/22/my-patented-summer-weight-loss-plan/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/mcc-volunteers-stenciled-storm-drains-in-stillwater-on-july-18-small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>MCC volunteers stenciled storm drains in Stillwater on July 18 small</image:title><image:caption>MCC volunteers stenciled storm drains in Stillwater on July 18</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-07-22T14:06:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/07/18/waiter-theres-a-plant-in-my-lake/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/lilies-provide-food-for-waterfowl-and-and-mammals-and-also-help-to-keep-the-water-clear.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Lilies provide food for waterfowl and  and mammals and also help to keep the water clear</image:title></image:image><lastmod>2011-07-18T21:26:38+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/07/07/blue-thumb-gardens-take-the-stage/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/volunteers-and-master-gardeners-are-stationed-at-each-of-the-gardens-on-the-tour-small.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Volunteers and Master Gardeners are stationed at each of the gardens on the tour small</image:title><image:caption>Volunteers and Master Gardeners are stationed at each of the gardens on the tour to answer questions.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-07-07T21:29:14+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/07/01/let-the-fish-flipping-begin/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/jay-riggs-shows-off-a-fish-caught-in-the-st-croix-river-near-taylors-falls.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Jay Riggs shows off a fish caught in the St. Croix River near Taylors Falls</image:title><image:caption>Jay Riggs shows off a fish caught in the St. Croix River near Taylors Falls</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-07-01T15:20:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/06/27/running-in-the-rain/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/jay-cooke-state-park-better-enjoyed-when-its-not-raining-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Jay Cooke State Park, better enjoyed when it's not raining</image:title><image:caption>Jay Cooke State Park, better enjoyed when it's not raining </image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-06-27T16:06:25+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/06/21/the-kids-just-get-it/</loc><lastmod>2011-06-21T14:21:13+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/06/13/local-cities-take-a-cost-effective-approach-to-reducing-water-pollution/</loc><lastmod>2011-06-13T17:31:12+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/06/07/artful-raingardens-in-the-st-croix-valley/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/artful-raingardens-combine-art-and-function.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Artful raingardens combine art and function</image:title><image:caption>Artful raingardens combine art and function</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-06-07T20:02:23+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/05/27/a-fond-farewell-to-the-minnesota-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/mn-state-rec_swamp.jpg</image:loc><image:title>mn-state-rec_swamp</image:title><image:caption>The Minnesota River near Jordan looks more like a Louisiana Bayou</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-05-27T17:16:04+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/05/20/native-plant-mania/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/elizabeth-nelson-stands-in-front-of-a-new-planting-at-her-home-that-incorporates-native-plants-and-a-raingarden-sm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Elizabeth Nelson stands in front of a new planting at her home that incorporates native plants and a raingarden sm</image:title><image:caption>Elizabeth Nelson stands in front of a new planting at her home that incorporates native plants and a raingarden. Brown's Creek Watershed District in Stilwater.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-05-20T21:19:17+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/05/16/take-a-deep-breath-and-say-thanks-for-the-trees/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/2011-tree-hand-out-staff-wcd-and-volunteers.jpg</image:loc><image:title>2011 tree hand-out staff - WCD and volunteers</image:title><image:caption>Pictured in the photo (from left to right): Back row - Master Gardener Nancy Hansen, WCD Board Supervisor John Rheinberger, Master Gardener Mark Paulsen, WCD Wetland Specialist Todd Udvig, WCD Natural Resource Specialist Rusty Schmidt, WCD District Manager Jay Riggs; Front row - WCD Natural Resource Specialist Jyneen Thatcher, WCD Board Supervisor Louise Smallidge.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-05-16T16:41:36+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/05/10/local-watershed-organizations-partner-with-homeowners-on-clean-water-projects/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/carol-perry-parendo-shoreline-restoration-sm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Carol &amp; Perry Parendo Shoreline Restoration sm</image:title><image:caption>Carol &amp; Perry Parendo stand in front of their restored shoreline</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-05-10T14:05:47+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/04/29/check-for-signs-of-the-gypsy-moth-this-spring/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/gypsy-moth-caterpillar.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Gypsy moth caterpillar</image:title><image:caption>Gypsy moth caterpillar</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-04-29T16:57:33+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/04/27/a-hill-of-beans/</loc><lastmod>2011-04-27T13:39:46+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/04/20/lessons-from-the-locals/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/minnesota-conservation-corps-workers-help-to-plant-one-of-many-raingardens-in-stillwater-sm.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Minnesota Conservation Corps workers help to plant one of many raingardens in Stillwater sm</image:title><image:caption>Minnesota Conservation Corps workers help to plant one of many raingardens in Stillwater.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-04-20T20:06:48+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/04/15/getting-rid-of-junk/</loc><lastmod>2011-04-15T14:12:50+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/04/04/do-it-for-the-kids-shrink-your-yard/</loc><lastmod>2011-04-05T00:30:03+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/03/29/protecting-the-st-croix-river/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/aboard-the-grand-duchess-dave-bucheck-and-jack-lavold-two-local-watershed-board-members-talk-about-protecting-the-river.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Aboard the Grand Duchess, Dave Bucheck and Jack Lavold, two local watershed board members talk about protecting the river</image:title><image:caption>Aboard the Grand Duchess, Dave Bucheck and Jack Lavold, two local watershed board members talk about protecting the river</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-03-29T19:29:54+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/03/11/springs-have-sprung/</loc><lastmod>2011-03-14T13:45:49+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/03/03/birds-gone-wild/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/bird-chick.jpg</image:loc><image:title>Sharon Stiteler is wild about birds</image:title><image:caption>Sharon Stiteler is wild about birds.</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-03-03T19:29:21+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/02/25/how-can-i-get-you-in-some-new-landscaping-this-spring/</loc><lastmod>2011-02-25T23:32:09+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/02/19/grab-your-ark-and-get-ready/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/3-13-07-snowmelt-at-trout-brook-in-afton.jpg</image:loc><image:title>3-13-07 snowmelt at Trout Brook in Afton</image:title><image:caption>Flooding on Trout Brook in Afton, March 2007</image:caption></image:image><lastmod>2011-02-19T20:52:20+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/02/08/a-new-twist-on-fish-fry/</loc><lastmod>2011-02-08T17:07:24+00:00</lastmod><changefreq>monthly</changefreq></url><url><loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/2011/01/31/running-to-brazil/</loc><image:image><image:loc>https://eastmetrowater.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/one-of-the-lesser-falls-on-the-argentinean-side-viewed-from-brazil-on-jan-24-2011-smaller.jpg</image:loc><image:title>One of the lesser falls on the Argentinean side, viewed from Brazil on Jan. 24, 2011 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