Written by Danelle Hubert, Upstream Fergus Falls Community Coordinator

My interest in nature really began when I was in 6th grade. I was homeschooled, and encouraged to pursue my own interests in study. I took a hands-on botany course that had me building a miniature greenhouse, dissecting plants, and even raising tadpoles in order to observe the effects sunlight has on varying organisms. I was fascinated by what I was learning and spent hours conducting research and experiments in my own backyard.

From there my interests waned for a time. In highschool I was aware of the challenges our land faces, but my personal life took priority. It wasn’t until college that I was able to really rekindle my love for the world we live in. As a dance major, you wouldn’t think there would be many opportunities to dive into earth science, but my senior year at BYU, I had the privilege of participating in a multi-disciplinary project that utilized dance and literature to highlight the water crisis Utah is facing.

As a dancer, choreographer, and writer, I learned about Utah’s endangered species, issues with the water table, and the threat of urbanization to Utah lake’s ecosystem. From there, I worked with other students and faculty to create several works of dance and writing, and put together a show that educated audiences and inspired them to action. I myself was inspired by the experience, and loved utilizing my primary interests to highlight one of my passions.

In moving back to Minnesota, I’ve found joy in learning more about my hometown’s ecosystems, and conservation efforts. I spend a lot of time outdoors with my sweet puppy Ellie, and love doing “earth walks” with my niece where we pick up trash along our path. Working for Upstream is only the next step in my stewardship story as I learn how I can be a more responsible citizen, and share my love for our land with those in my community.