Meet the 12 Minnesotans nominated for the work they do to care for our natural places Bill Lane from Tofte was nominated for the many hours he volunteers every week to maintain the trails around him. Molly Stoddard from Fergus Falls is a true friend of the prairie grasses in West Central Minnesota. She is… Read More →
As the leaves change color and temperatures drop, Minnesota’s landscapes transform into a vibrant display of autumn beauty. Along with the seasonal changes come shifts in the behavior and visibility of the state’s diverse wildlife. Fall is an excellent time to observe these creatures as they prepare for the colder months ahead. However, it’s also… Read More →
Written by Kate Tovsen, Upstream Care for Place Fellow While my parents weren’t necessarily outdoorsy, they still imbued in me a feeling of stewardship and care for place. One of the things we regularly did as a family was taking what my mom would unironically call “trash hikes” along a small canal near our house.… Read More →
As winter melts into spring, Minnesota’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands come back to life. Water is one of our state’s most precious resources, providing drinking water, recreation, and habitat for wildlife. But with spring’s thaw comes runoff, pollution, and other challenges that threaten water quality. Being a good steward of Minnesota’s water starts with small,… Read More →
Minnesota’s landscapes are alive with the hum of bees, the flutter of butterflies, and the silent work of countless other pollinators. These small but mighty creatures are essential to our natural places, ensuring the reproduction of flowering plants, supporting healthy ecosystems, and helping to produce much of the food we eat. Yet, pollinators are facing… Read More →
Written by Monica Rojas and Allison Jurek, Upstream Care for Place Fellows As Upstream Care for Place Fellows, we have been able to stop and reflect about our loves of Minnesota’s natural spaces. In this final reflection, we have compiled a collection of activities you can do with little fuss or cost. We hope they… Read More →
The holiday season in Minnesota is filled with gatherings, dazzling lights, and journeys to visit loved ones across our beautiful state. Yet, as Minnesotans take to the roads for these festive occasions, it’s also a time when vehicle emissions can rise, contributing to challenges that affect the natural places we love. This year, why not… Read More →
Upstream is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that channels Minnesotan’s love of our natural places into increased connection, trust and stewardship. Our organization creates connections and shares stories that inspire more positive action to care for our natural places. As the West Central Community Engagement and Partnership Coordinator you will play a vital role in advancing… Read More →
Minnesotans have always been stewards of the land, and supporting sustainable farming practices during the harvest season is an extension of this tradition. By choosing to buy local, sustainably grown produce, consumers play a critical role in caring for Minnesota’s agricultural future. How You Can Support Sustainable Farming This Fall: Shop at Farmers’ Markets Farmers’… Read More →
Written by Dr. Eric Ruhland, Upstream Unsung Caretaker 2024 Dr. Eric Ruhland has been a scientist, avid outdoorsman, and conservation steward for as long as he can remember. Dr. Eric grew up in a large family on a small dairy farm in Western Minnesota. The son of a conservation-minded dairy farmer, whose farming practices used… Read More →
As the crisp autumn air settles over Minnesota, the vibrant tapestry of our fall foliage offers a perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating practice known as forest bathing. This immersive experience invites you to connect deeply with nature and celebrate Minnesota’s stunning woodlands. Embracing Forest Bathing Forest bathing is immersing oneself in our shared natural spaces.… Read More →
As the crisp autumn air settles over Minnesota, the vibrant tapestry of fall foliage offers a perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating practice known as forest bathing. This immersive experience, invites you to connect deeply with nature and celebrate Minnesota’s stunning woodlands. Embracing Forest Bathing Forest bathing is immersing oneself into our natural shared natural spaces.… Read More →
