Caretakers of Minnesota are those individuals, organizations, or communities taking action, big or small, to care for the natural places we all share. Their efforts help Minnesota thrive, and they deserve to be seen and celebrated.
Winners of the Unsung Caretaker award will receive $250 to apply to their volunteer work and be recognized at an Upstream event in October 2026. Upstream will select 5 individuals, communities or organizations in each of our two regions, to be recognized as our 2026 Caretakers of Minnesota. Nominate yourself, your neighbor, friend, co-worker, organization or community group and help inspire more Minnesotans to care for this place we share and love.
Nominations close on Monday, August 17th, 2026 at 5 pm Central.