As the crisp autumn air settles over Minnesota and the vibrant colors of fall begin to paint the landscape, many of us eagerly embrace the seasonal rituals that come with this time of year. From raking leaves to preparing our gardens for winter, fall offers a unique opportunity to reflect on our connection to nature… Read More →
Written by Dr. Eric Ruhland, Upstream Unsung Caretaker 2024 Dr. Eric Ruhland has been a scientist, avid outdoorsman, and conservation steward for as long as he can remember. Dr. Eric grew up in a large family on a small dairy farm in Western Minnesota. The son of a conservation-minded dairy farmer, whose farming practices used… Read More →
Beverly was nominated as an Upstream Unsung Caretaker for the work she does to coordinate local purchasing efforts in Willmar, working to ensure that individuals purchasing food in her community can do so with local farmers using sustainable practices. Written by Beverly Dougherty, Upstream Unsung Caretaker 2024 I have been working in local food promotion… Read More →
Maji ya Chai Land Sanctuary is a black-led, nature-based healing retreat created to provide rest, reconnection, and rejuvenation of mind, body & soul for Black, Indigenous, and communities of color across generations. We are building an intentional space rooted in healing, restoration, and thriving in the region of Minnesota’s North Shore. Written by Rebeka Ndosi,… Read More →
Written by Kathy McNamara 2024 Upstream Unsung Caretaker Kathy McNamara from New Prague organizes and manages a large group of volunteers to care for the extensive gardens of her hometown parish church. She began working with her fourth-grade class on a drainage and retaining wall project in 2000 because the question was asked, “What are… Read More →
Sean Connaughty is a 2024 Upstream Unsung Caretaker Being on the ground, observing conditions and developing a complex and reciprocal relationship with a place and its inhabitants is central to Sean Connaughty’s practice. For the past decade his labor and art practice has been focused on Bde Psin Lake Hiawatha in a stewardship relationship. Lake… Read More →
Written by Alex Blondeau 2024 Upstream Unsung Caretaker I’ve become a student once again, adding another chapter to my varied educational journey. Over the years, I’ve been trained as a fine artist, a professional graphic designer, a motorcycle seat manufacturer, an academic theologian, a contractor, and a utility meter reader. Now, because why not, I’ve… Read More →
As the crisp air and vibrant colors of fall 2024 arrive in Minnesota, it’s the perfect time to introduce your kids to the concept of stewardship. Teaching children the importance of caring for our natural places not only nurtures their appreciation but also instills a lifelong responsibility to steward it. Minnesota’s diverse landscapes offer countless… Read More →
Minnesota’s state parks are more than just beautiful places to hike, camp, and explore—they are vital ecosystems that provide habitat for wildlife, clean air, and water, and opportunities for people to connect with nature. As Minnesotans, it is our responsibility to care for these natural treasures, ensuring they remain vibrant and accessible for future generations.… 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 →
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 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 →
