Starting a home garden is a rewarding way to connect with nature, grow fresh produce, and contribute to healthier natural places. In Minnesota, where the seasons dictate planting cycles, adopting sustainable gardening practices ensures a thriving garden while minimizing your impact. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your gardening efforts, these tips will… Read More →
As the temperature drops and the ground freezes, many people assume composting is a seasonal activity that must be put on hold during the winter months, but that’s not the case! Winter composting can still thrive, and it’s an excellent way to continue your commitment to caring for our natural places, even when the snow… Read More →
In every corner of Minnesota, individuals are quietly committed to caring for our natural places. They embody the essence of stewardship, not for recognition but out of love for the land, water, and communities we call home. This year, Upstream is proud to honor the 2024 Unsung Caretakers, whose stories remind us of the importance… Read More →
Written by Allison Jurek, Upstream Care for Place Fellow Connect with place, know place, care for place. A simple three-stepped mantra that can serve to inspire. In my previous story, I offered the practice of forest bathing as a way of living this mantra. I’ll be the first to agree that the term ‘forest bathing’… Read More →
Mary Flood was nominated for the care in her yard where she gardens without chemicals. She celebrates her garden in photos which she then makes greeting cards from. Written by Mary Flood, Upstream Unsung Caretaker 2024 I go Upstream in small every day ways with the intention of reducing my impact (or having a positive… Read More →
M Health Fairview is using food as medicine through its partnership with local farms. Loving where we live means enjoying the vegetation our natural places offer. Nutrition is at the forefront of M Health Fairview’s mind as nutritious foods are the key to good health. However, for many families in Minnesota, it is difficult to… Read More →
M Health Fairview is caring for place by ensuring their patients receive healthy food. This is possible by incorporating locally sourced produce throughout the hospital for better nutrition and health outcomes. This program, called “Veggie RX,” launched in 2016. In 2021, they partnered with Sin Fronteras Farm & Food to provide fresh produce to their… Read More →
At The Buttered Tin, you’ll find more than award winning pastries and a delicious brunch spread: care of place is central to their values and everyday practices. Founded in 2013 by James Beard-recognized pastry chef Alicia Hinze. The Buttered Tin creates a welcoming space to enjoy elevated American breakfast & lunch classics and sweet treats.… Read More →
Minnesota’s food scene is rich with locally sourced ingredients, innovative chefs, and restaurants committed to caring for what goes on your plate. Choosing where to eat isn’t just about great flavors—it’s also an opportunity to support businesses that care for the land, minimize waste, and strengthen local communities. By dining at sustainable restaurants, you’re making… Read More →
Spring in Minnesota marks the return of vibrant farmers’ markets, fresh seasonal produce, and new opportunities to support the hardworking farmers who sustain our communities. Choosing local food isn’t just about enjoying delicious, farm-fresh flavors—it’s also an act of stewardship. By supporting Minnesota’s farmers, we help steward the land, reduce our footprint, and build stronger… Read More →
Minnesota’s winter landscapes are nothing short of magical, with serene snowy forests, sparkling frozen lakes, and breathtaking views that attract outdoor enthusiasts every year. Whether you’re winter hiking through dense woods or exploring the tranquil shores of frozen lakes, it’s essential to follow care for place practices to help steward Minnesota’s natural beauty. Adopting the… Read More →
Taking steps to enact sustainability practices into our everyday lives is not always easy, and can feel daunting. As we approach New Year’s, a time when many people reflect on areas they might improve upon in the new year in the form of resolutions. If you feel motivated to do something for the natural spaces… Read More →
