From heated sidewalks to GPS-based snow plow systems, local cities are taking big steps to reduce chloride pollution.
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Owl and fisher with a side of fox
Many wildlife species are becoming more abundant in our area, thanks to reforestation and conservation efforts.
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Will derby ducks sail on a cleaner creek in 2025?
The City recently restored a 300ft stretch of degraded stream along 3rd Ave. N near Perro Park, in partnership with Middle St Croix Watershed Management Organization (MSCWMO) and the Washington Conservation District. The goal of the project is to stabilize the streambank, reduce the amount of sediment and phosphorus flowing downstream to the St. Croix River, and improve habitat along Perro Creek.
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The Science of Leaves
Leaves are the primary source of organic matter in a woodland ecosystem and release essential nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen as they decompose. In urban and suburban environments, however, fall leaves can also be a major source of stormwater pollution.
Studies show street sweeping can reduce phosphorus concentrations in stormwater by up to 80%.
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The art of finding green leaves in a dull brown forest
It was a bare tree, brown leaf, bummer kind of day.
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Tending trees and lake on the edge of the Northwoods
In recognition of his many years of volunteer efforts tending trees and water on the edge of the Northwoods, Tom Furey was selected as the Washington County Conservation Cooperator of the year for 2024. He also received a Watershed Champion award from the CLFLWD at their 25th Anniversary celebration in September.
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Connecting at the Confluence
Sarah Lilja is the artist in residence at South Washington Watershed District and has spent the past year capturing images of people, places, and projects in the watershed. Her photography will be on display at Carpenter Nature Center (12805 St. Croix Trail S, Hastings) from November 5 – December 5 in an exhibit entitled Connecting at the Confluence: Photographs of natural places & community connections in the South Washington Watershed District. The exhibit opening on Nov. 7, 6-8pm is free and open to the public.
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Lazy gardening tips for chubby bird enthusiasts
Learn how to create a bird-friendly landscape at your home.
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As phosphorus inputs decline, watershed organizations focus their attention on shorelines
A recent report from the Natural Shorelines Partnership noted that Minnesota has lost 50% of its natural shorelines over the past 100 years, and continues to lose shoreline habitat at a rate of 1-2% per decade.
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East Metro residents adopt thousands of storm drains to help protect lakes and rivers
The Adopt a Drain program was developed as a fun and unique way to engage community residents in helping to prevent stormwater pollution. As a testament to the program’s popularity, Minnesotans have adopted an astounding 24,523 storm drains and report collecting 769,210 lbs of debris, which would have otherwise been washed into lakes, rivers and streams.
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East Metro Water 