What to do when the rain gets rainier

Minnesota’s average annual rainfall has increased 3.4 inches since 1891 and “mega rainstorms” are becoming more common. Learn what local watershed districts are doing to help reduce the risk of flooding in east metro communities.

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New grant funds help local communities prepare for extreme weather

Local watershed districts, including the Carnelian-Marine-St. Croix, Comfort Lake – Forest Lake, and Ramsey-Washington Metro, are tapping into new funds from the state to reduce flood risk.

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A rising tide lifts all boats…and roads and houses

In the east metro area, “No-Wake” restrictions are in effect for the St. Croix River and watershed districts are also urging boaters to go slow on local lakes to avoid damaging shorelines with large wakes and waves.

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Planning ahead for a rainy day

Comfort Lake – Forest Lake Watershed District launches wetland enhancement project, wins Climate Adaptation award.

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Mimicking Nature with Green Infrastructure

One way to make better use of nature’s readymade bioengineering is through green infrastructure practices such as raingardens, green roofs, and permeable pavement that help to catch water and hold it on the landscape for future use.

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Minnesotans asked to share ideas for climate resiliency

The state has set up a website to provide information and collect ideas from the public related to: 1) Investing in clean transportation; 2) Protecting our natural and working lands; 3) Creating stronger, resilient communities; 4) Moving to clean energy and efficient buildings; and 5) Promoting health, equity, and a strong economy: http://www.climate.state.mn.us/ideas-lead-bold-action.

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Valley Branch Watershed District named 2021 Minnesota Watershed of the Year

To protect homes in land-locked basins, the district built an emergency conveyance system to pump water out, taking care not to overwhelm any other water bodies or drainage systems during the process.

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South Washington Watershed District Receives Climate Adaptation Award

South Washington Watershed District (SWWD) is working to build resiliency and protect local communities against climate-related threats, including flooding, aquifer draw-down, and invasive species. In recognition of its accomplishments, ongoing work, and leadership on climate adaptation and resiliency, SWWD has been awarded the Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership’s 2021 Organization Award.

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Wet basement? Sorry, no app for that.

The sun is out, the snow is melting, and someday soon you may go downstairs and discover that your basement is wet. What should you do? First, it is important to determine why your basement is wet. When we first bought our 1870s home in Stillwater, water poured into the basement every time it rained.…

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Minnesota climatologists predict another year of major spring flooding

The National Weather Service and Minnesota Climatology Department are both predicting another wet spring with major flooding in 2020. There is a high chance of flooding on the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers, as well as in lakes, ponds, farm fields, and low lying areas. Says Craig Schmidt, a hydrologist with the National Weather Service,…

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