Elise, Addy, and Karen love where they live. Karen has instilled stewardship in her children, watch the full clip to learn more: https://youtu.be/WPO-u7s1Hyg This video is part of Upstream’s “Loving Where We Live” series, highlighting everyday people making a difference. What’s Your Upstream Story? We share stories of stewardship written by and about Minnesotans like… Read More →
Meet Courtney, who wants to leave more habitats for future generations that can provide for our natural spaces. Learn the importance of biodiversity and planting local pollinators, watch the full clip: https://youtu.be/6Bs0J3oyPio This video is part of Upstream’s “Loving Where We Live” series, highlighting everyday people making a difference. What’s Your Upstream Story? We share… Read More →
Meet Jennifer and Keith, who love Lake Superior. Their hope for future generations of Minnesotans is to have the beautiful natural places available to enjoy. Watch the full clip: https://youtu.be/6Bs0J3oyPio This video is part of Upstream’s “Loving Where We Live” series, highlighting everyday people making a difference. What’s Your Upstream Story? We share stories of… Read More →
Meet Charly who loves Lake Sagatagan. In this story of environmental stewardship, Charly reflects on why she loves Minnesota’s natural places and what inspires her to be a good steward. Watch the full clip: https://youtu.be/6Bs0J3oyPio This video is part of Upstream’s “Loving Where We Live” series, highlighting everyday people making a difference. What’s Your Upstream… Read More →
Every corner of Minnesota from winding shorelines to tucked‑away patches of prairie thrives because of unsung caretakers. They are neighbors, volunteers, stewards, and community groups who dedicate time, energy, and heart to preserving the natural beauty we share. At Upstream, we’re shining a light on them with our Unsung Caretakers Awards — and we need… Read More →
Urban & Rural Stewardship Tips to Keep Our Waters Clean Minnesota’s lakes and rivers are at the heart of our identity. Whether you’re paddling down the Mississippi, fishing at your favorite up-north cabin, or walking the path around Bde Maka Ska, these waters connect us all. But they need our care. Runoff pollution, invasive species,… Read More →
Written by Alex Blondeau, Upstream Care for Place Fellow 2025 There was a time in my life—a time that now feels like it was quite some time ago—when I was a professional student of theology. I was used to a certain social tension that always seemed present in those circles, especially when meeting new people.… 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 Upstream’s East St. Paul Community Engagement and Partnership Coordinator you will play a vital role in… Read More →
In the hustle and noise of daily life, nature has a quiet but powerful way of bringing us back to ourselves. Whether it’s a stroll through a neighborhood park, a hike along the North Shore, or simply tending a garden, green spaces offer more than just beauty—they offer healing. In Minnesota, where seasons shift dramatically… Read More →
Upstream is popping up in Fergus Falls all summer long—and we’d love to see you there! Where to Find Us in Fergus Falls SummerFest: June 14th & 15th Shop Move and Grove: July 10th West Otter Tail County Fair: July 16th-19th At Upstream, we believe a better future for Minnesota starts with each of us,… Read More →
Written by Alex Blondeau, Upstream Care for Place Fellow On the north side of Fergus Falls, not far from where I grew up, there was once a junkyard. When I was probably still in junior high, the city purchased the land and hauled away all the broken cars. I remember it being an interesting place… Read More →
