Calcareous fens are extremely unique and rare wetlands that are home to a variety of plants. With only hundreds in known existence around the world, the Lower Minnesota River Watershed District is lucky to be home to six fens, including Seminary Fen. You can help protect this priceless resource by working with a team to remove buckthorn, an invasive species that threatens the growth and health of native plants on Sunday, April 14th (8am-12pm). Hosted by the Minnesota Native Plant Society, volunteers will cut and treat the buckthorn and stack the cuttings. Tools and instructions will be available on-site. Learn more about how to participate and register.

The Lower Minnesota River Watershed District Board of Managers' personnel committee will conduct a workshop Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at the Savage Public Library, 13090 Alabama Ave. Savage, MN 55378, beginning at 12:30 pm.  The purpose of the meeting is to develop a rubric to be used when interviewing professional service providers for legal counsel and education & outreach services.

The Lower Minnesota River East One Watershed One Plan Policy Committee, on behalf of the members, is pleased to present the Lower Minnesota River East Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan for 60-day review. This plan was developed using existing local water management plans and priorities, Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies (WRAPS), existing and new studies and data and other related plans from state agencies to help target protection and restoration work in the watershed.

Are you looking to bring additional water resource science into your classroom? Look no further than the Lower Minnesota River Watershed District (LMRWD)! LMRWD is currently accepting applications for its Educator Mini-Grant program. If you are an educator or know one looking to grow their students' water resource knowledge, we encourage you to apply. This program provides a maximum $500 reimbursable grant for educators within LMRWD partner cities. Activities must have a water resources or wildlife habitat component. The deadline for applications is February 23, 2024. Spread the word! Find more information on how to apply at: https://lowermnriverwd.org/makeadifference/educator-mini-grants

In December 2023, the Lower Minnesota River Watershed District (LMRWD) said goodbye to a familiar face on the Board of Managers . Manager Jesse Hartmann of Scott County ended his service after nearly eight years of contributions, having successfully held many roles, including Vice President (2016-2018), President (2018-2023), and Manager (2023). At the December Board meeting, fellow managers and watershed district staff shared their appreciation for Hartmann’s many contributions during a critical time for the LMRWD. Throughout his tenure, the watershed district executed a variety of capital improvement projects, created key infrastructure, and developed strategic plans. Hartmann’s peers noted their appreciation for not only his volunteer time but also his professional expertise, vision, integrity, and respectful nature of his collaboration.