Xcel Energy Foundation Advances Environmental Sustainability in Southern Minnesota
Cannon Falls, MN - Clean River Partners is thrilled to announce that it has received a $5,000 general operating grant from the Xcel Energy Foundation to advance environmental sustainability efforts in southern Minnesota.
Farmers come together in a field of Kernza for a day of learning. August 2024.
The Xcel Energy Foundation serves as the charitable wing of Xcel Energy, donating millions each year to address the unique needs of communities across its eight-state service area. The Foundation strategically focuses its contributions in three main areas: STEM career pathways, community vitality, and environmental sustainability.
In the expansive one-million-acre Cannon River watershed, where nearly half of the land is farmed and water quality faces significant challenges, Clean River Partners plays a vital role in connecting farmers with the necessary technical assistance and financial support to transition from traditional to conservation farming practices. “We are truly grateful for the general operating support from the Xcel Energy Foundation, as it allows us to continue our essential work,” says Jennifer Tonko, Executive Director of Clean River Partners. “This funding will enable us to forge new partnerships and strengthen relationships that support our vision of healthy soils, clean groundwater, and rivers, lakes, and streams that are safe for swimming and fishing.”
On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, Clean River Partners invites the public to attend a farmer-led event focused on building resilience within communities through various conservation management practices. The event will run from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at Churchill Reserve in Cannon Falls, MN. “This event provides a unique opportunity to hear directly from farmers about the challenges they face in making a living, accessing land and markets, and navigating unpredictable weather patterns,” says Tessa Parks, Conservation Program Manager at CRP. To learn more about the event, visit cleanriverpartners.org/events/growing-resilience. Those with questions about the event should reach out to Tessa at tessa@cleanriverpartners.org or (507) 200-8195.
About Clean River Partners
Clean River Partners is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that inspires action and brings together communities to co-create a healthy and resilient Cannon River watershed. We do this work by connecting, supporting, and providing opportunities for residents, farmers, and landowners to directly experience the land and water of the Cannon River Watershed and make conscious choices that support it.
About Xcel Energy Foundation
The Xcel Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that awards charitable grants to nonprofit organizations and sponsors the volunteer programs of Xcel Energy and its subsidiaries. The majority of Xcel Energy Foundation funding comes from Xcel Energy shareholder dollars. Learn more about the Foundation’s Focus Area Grants.
