Downstream Environmental Film Festival
Downstream Environmental Film Festival showcases local, national, and international short films that explore environmental issues.
Save the date: Northfield on Feb 9 and Feb 10, Cannon Falls on Feb 17, Faribault on Feb 19, and Owatonna on Feb 24.
Our film festival strives to amplify the voices of diverse filmmakers passionate about the environment. Through this, we aim to raise awareness about water quality concerns using the arts and connect people to environmental issues that may seem distant. Additionally, we hope to foster community building and bring neighbors together through our efforts.
2026 Film Festival Information
Clean River Partners is hosting our 9th Downstream Environmental Film Festival in February 2026. Our film festival celebrates the artistry of local, national, and international filmmakers who address critical environmental issues.
Opening date: Sept 19, 2025
Deadline for submissions: Oct 24, 2025
Notification of selection: Nov 21, 2025
Festival screenings: Feb 2026
We are seeking short film submissions of any genre that meet the following requirements:
Films must have a topic that falls into one of the following categories: environment, water, environmental justice
Films must address this year's festival theme of transformation
Films must be 5-20 minutes in length
Films must be subtitled in English
Looking Back.
During the 2025 film festival, we brought together over 200 attendees with 9 films and 10 special guests to raise awareness about environmental concerns beyond their hometowns. With screenings in 4 locations, we built connections with communities within our watershed and beyond while inspiring others to take action toward a healthier environment.
Looking Ahead.
We want to expand the reach of our film festival to different locations across the watershed while continuing to showcase the work of talented filmmakers with diverse backgrounds.
We’re looking forward to screening one commissioned non-English-language short films about the Cannon River Watershed at the next festival!
Photo provided by Joel Caldwell.
Learn about our 2025 Film Selections
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Raíces del Agua (Roots of Water), directed by Wil Crombie (Local, Minnesota)
This film was created with grant support from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
My Land, directed by Victor Njagi (International, Tanzania)
Pastures and Panels, directed by Tucker Gragg (National, Pennsylvania)
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Herders at the Edge, directed by Delgerzaya Delgerjargal (International, Mongolia)
Roots, directed by Danny Schmidt (International, Dominican Republic)
Belonging, directed by Danami-Maurice Champion (Local, Minnesota)
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Ogiek: Guardians of the Forest, directed by Jackie Lebo (International, Kenya)
The Green Buffalo, directed by Joel Caldwell (Local, Cansa'yapi - Lower Sioux Indian Community)
The Opening Address, directed by Jess Lowe Chaverri and Alvera Sargent (National, New York)
Questions?
Contact Heron Mahr (they/them), our
Community Engagement Manager
heron@cleanriverpartners.org
(507) 200-0502
We’re thankful to our funders, event sponsors, and partners!
