With cooler temperatures, autumn provides an excellent opportunity to engage in activities that support stewardship of our natural places. Here’s how you can get involved in local efforts this fall and make a meaningful impact in your community:

1. Join Local Conservation Groups

Minnesota is home to a number of dedicated conservation organizations focused on caring for our state’s natural beauty and wildlife. Joining a local group or volunteering with an environmental organization is a great way to contribute to conservation efforts. These groups often organize community clean-ups, tree-planting events, and educational programs.

Stewardship Tip: Volunteering with local conservation groups not only helps care for our natural places but also connects you with like-minded individuals who share your passion for stewardship.

2. Participate in Fall Clean-Up Events

Autumn is an ideal time to participate in or organize fall clean-up events. Many communities host clean-up drives in parks, rivers, and natural areas to remove litter and debris that can harm wildlife and degrade natural habitats. Check with local conservation groups or community organizations to find out about upcoming clean-up events in your area.

Stewardship Tip: Participating in clean-up events helps keep Minnesota’s natural spaces beautiful and healthy, ensuring they remain enjoyable for everyone.

3. Support Native Plant Restoration Projects

Fall is a great time to get involved in native plant restoration projects. Native plants are crucial for maintaining local ecosystems, supporting wildlife, and enhancing soil health. Many conservation organizations and local parks offer opportunities to volunteer in planting and maintaining native gardens or restoring natural areas with indigenous flora.

Stewardship Tip: Supporting native plant restoration helps preserve local biodiversity and promotes sustainable land management practices.

4. Educate Yourself and Others

Increasing your knowledge about local conservation issues and sharing that information with others is a powerful way to support stewardship. Attend workshops, seminars, or webinars focused on conservation. Share what you learn with friends, family, and your community to spread awareness and inspire others to take action.

5. Adopt Sustainable Practices at Home

Your conservation efforts don’t have to stop at community involvement. Implementing sustainable practices at home is a meaningful way to contribute to stewardship. This fall, focus on reducing waste, conserving energy, and using eco-friendly products. Simple changes like composting, reducing single-use plastics, and maintaining a water-efficient garden can make a significant difference.

Make a Difference This Fall

As the days grow shorter and the leaves turn to gold, take this fall as an opportunity to make a positive impact on our natural places. By participating in local conservation efforts, supporting native plant restoration, and adopting sustainable practices, you contribute to the stewardship of Minnesota’s natural beauty and resources. Embrace the season with a commitment to environmental stewardship, and together, we can ensure a healthier and more vibrant Minnesota for future generations.

Find Your Next

We invite you to share the ways you care for Minnesota’s natural place to inspire others to go Upstream.