Our Stories

Everyone has a role to play in caring for the watershed, and we invite you to read our stories, get inspired by our champions, and help us connect with others who are passionate about this vital cause.

Margie O'Loughlin Margie O'Loughlin

It takes a village to do land conservation

Have you ever wondered what is meant by public land? How does private land become public land, and why does it matter? Clean River Partners is actively engaged in acquiring private land and transforming it into public land.

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Felicia Hokenstad Felicia Hokenstad

Foraging: An Unlikely Stormwater Pollution Solution

Foraging may initially seem unconventional, especially when focusing on invasive plants. However, these plants cause profound environmental damage to our native ecosystems, and removing them can directly counteract stormwater issues.

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Ava McQuain Ava McQuain

Rooted in Resilience

Kernza® and Winter Camelina are two continuous living crop (CLC) systems transforming sustainable farming in Minnesota. These crops improve soil health, water quality, and biodiversity, offering practical solutions for resilient agriculture.

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Felicia Hokenstad Felicia Hokenstad

35 Years of Clean River Partners

This year marks Clean River Partners' 35th anniversary. Our mission has been clear since the beginning: to protect and enhance the waters of the Cannon River Watershed.

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Felicia Hokenstad Felicia Hokenstad

Press Release: Climate Change and the Northfield Riverfront

Clean River Partners, in partnership with Carleton College, the City of Northfield, Northfield Rotary Climate Action Team, and the Northfield chapter of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby, is hosting an event about Mitigation, Adaptations, and Resiliency: The Northfield Riverfront and Climate.

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Felicia Hokenstad Felicia Hokenstad

Protecting Our Habitats: A Call to Action for Our Community

Join us in protecting the habitats of southeast Minnesota! Clean River Partners, in partnership with Trust for Public Land, Great River Greening, the Minnesota DNR, and others, is restoring vital ecosystems through local wildlife management areas. Volunteer for restoration events, connect with nature, and help combat habitat loss in our community.

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Felicia Hokenstad Felicia Hokenstad

Birding in the Cannon River Watershed

In this blog post, we'll explore the beauty of birding in the Cannon River Watershed, highlighting essential gear, prime locations, and tips for a rewarding birdwatching experience. Whether you live in the heart of a bustling town or on a serene rural farm, the diverse avian life waiting to be discovered is sure to inspire and delight.

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Felicia Hokenstad Felicia Hokenstad

Celebrating Water, Community, and Creativity in Northfield

Last summer, Northfield's Nuestra Agua, Nuestras Vidas festival celebrated water, community, and creativity. With hands-on activities, local art, and food, it aimed to connect residents and raise awareness about water issues, fostering inclusivity.

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Felicia Hokenstad Felicia Hokenstad

Fifteen Years of Leaving It Better in Medford

Carla and Byron Brady have led the Cannon River Watershed-Wide Cleanup in Medford for 15 years, uniting the community to enhance local rivers and parks. Their legacy of fun, teamwork, and environmental care will inspire future generations.

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Felicia Hokenstad Felicia Hokenstad

Restoring Nature and Building Community

The Sakatah WMA: In-Yan Bo-Sda-Ta Wa-Kpa Unit in Minnesota is a 160-acre sanctuary dedicated to preserving wildlife and honoring the Meyers family's legacy. Ongoing restoration efforts enhance its ecosystems, supporting diverse habitats and community engagement.

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Felicia Hokenstad Felicia Hokenstad

Making Waves through Community-Based Work-Study

Ava McQuain, a Carleton College student, found her passion for environmental conservation through a work-study at Clean River Partners. She’s creating a social media campaign on local wildlife, merging her love for art and science to inspire community action.

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