Join us on April 22 for Navigating Upstream, a gathering and fundraiser focused on the future of Minnesota’s natural places. Your support helps power this work, bringing Minnesotans together, building community, and inspiring stewardship for Minnesota’s land, water, and air.
Written by Mary Gold, Upstream Care for Place Fellow Every Spring I am greeted by 300 blooming Yellow Lady Slipper Orchids! Orchid hunting in early June is always a surprise and a delight when I search for them on our land in central Minnesota. John Muir said, “Into the forest I must go, to lose… Read More →
Written by Amanda Arbogast, Upstream Care for Place Fellow John Arbogast is a 58-year-old father of two living in Virginia, MN. After high school, he spent two years in Germany with the Army before returning to the Iron Range. As John noted, “I’m a fourth-generation Iron Ranger and knew I’d eventually end up back here”.… Read More →
Emily Vikre was raised in Duluth, while on a trip back to Minnesota to visit family, her parents told her about their experience at a spirits tasting. A key takeaway they had learned was that you need good water for good spirits, which is exactly what Duluth is known for. The idea was born to… Read More →
Written by Allison Jurek, Upstream Care for Place Fellow I cannot recall a time when Minnesota’s dirt, water, and green spaces were sprawled in front of me, that I was not allowed to explore. From backyards to mud puddles and fishing boats to garden rows, all I knaew of these spaces was to relish in… Read More →
Written by Monica Rojas, Upstream Care for Place Fellow “Mississippi River!” echoes throughout the family car. It reverberates through our bones and rattles the treasures tucked in pockets throughout the car, rocks, acorns, and cottonwood sticks with stars in their centers. We have, once again, crossed over the mighty Mississippi. Living in the Twin Cities,… Read More →
Backyard Conversations allow people of different backgrounds to come together to find commonality in our love and care for Minnesota’s natural places. Together, we will: Meet Minnesotans from different backgrounds Share a delicious meal together Have a conversation about what Minnesota means to us, and how we care for it
Written by Naima Dhore, Upstream Care for Place Fellow Farming holds a personal significance for me. In Somalia, our connection to food was direct – fresh fish from the coast, abundant fruits and vegetables from our home garden, and fresh milk and eggs from neighbors. There were no processed foods; everything was local, organic, without… Read More →
Written by David Fallon, Upstream Care for Place Fellow The other day I went to see my mother at the cemetery. Lakewood was so beautiful and yet, despite the natural beauty of the place it seemed like something had been taken from it. There was no snow. Barely any ice on the water. At the… Read More →
Written by Maurice Durham Jr, Upstream Care for Place Fellow As I ventured into the heart of Minnesota, the landscape unfolded like a living green tapestry of wildlife and natural beauty. The gentle rustling of squirrels scampering amidst the trees served as a playful prelude to the rich variety of creatures that called this land… Read More →
Written by Mary Gold, Upstream Care for Place Fellow I have a bird feeder in my yard that is always full, yet never needs filling! Many species of birds grace my yard with their beauty and songs! This idyllic picture became a reality for me when I began to think like a bird so I… Read More →
Written by Maurice Durham Jr, Upstream Care for Place Fellow When I was 10, my family moved to the suburbs after my dad was sent to prison for 10+ years. To deal with the stress and pain I was going through, I went to the neighborhood outdoor basketball court. It was the nicest court I’ve… Read More →
We interviewed Alma’s General Manager, Lucas Rosenbrook, about their focus on partnering with local farmers. You’re probably familiar with Minneapolis’ iconic, Alma, restaurant in the Marcy Holmes neighborhood. Part of being a good steward is prioritizing local and Alma does just that by partnering with Minnesota farmers. Former Executive Chef and Current Director of Operations,… Read More →
