Take Action for Clean Water in Your Community

We connect people to the river and each other through community events, volunteer experiences, and education.

  • Volunteer Experiences

    Our volunteer program connects people and organizations with hands-on restoration and conservation work.

  • Stormwater Education

    We collaborate with the cities of Northfield, Faribault, and Owatonna to help communities understand stormwater.

  • Film Festival

    Our annual film festival showcases local, national, and international short films that explore environmental issues.

Program Spotlight: Volunteer Corps

Join the Volunteer Corps and make a meaningful impact on our environment! This hands-on program offers exciting opportunities like invasive species removal, seed sowing, and tree planting. Connect with passionate individuals, learn about conservation, and help improve water quality and biodiversity.

Each unique event lets you contribute to the community while growing your skills. Don’t just stand by—be the change you want to see!

Photo taken by Wil Crombie

Project Spotlight: Clean River Rangers

The Clean River Rangers Program, a collaboration between Clean River Partners and River Bend Nature Center, engages fourth and fifth-grade students in hands-on learning about stormwater health. By earning challenge badges for completing clean water tasks in their neighborhoods, students become ambassadors for stormwater pollution prevention.

Project Spotlight: Downstream Environmental Film Festival

The Downstream Environmental Film Festival celebrates the artistry of local, national, and international filmmakers who address critical environmental issues. We’re gearing up for our 9th Downstream Environmental Film Festival in February 2026 with the theme “Transformation”. Our initiative amplifies diverse voices and highlights the importance of caring for southern Minnesota's land, water, and habitats.

Queer Unity, Environmental Education, and Recreation for Youth (QUEERY)

QUEERY is a free monthly nature club designed for queer and questioning middle and high school youth. This program provides a supportive environment where participants can learn outdoor skills, build community, and explore the connection between queerness and the natural world.

A woman with gray hair and glasses smiles warmly, standing by a river beneath a rust-colored bridge. The scene feels calm and serene.

Questions?

Contact Lauren Borer (she/her), our
Community Engagement Manager

lauren@cleanriverpartners.org
(507) 200-1170

Our Partners in Community Engagement