2012 Stearns County Shoreland Training
The Stearns County Environmental Services and the Stearns County SWCD will be sponsoring a workshop for Shoreland Contractors & Excavators, Developers, Shoreland Property Owners, Local Government Officials & other interested parties on Thursday February 2.
Learn about native plant requirements and resources. Learn how to determine jurisdictional boundaries (Ordinary High Water Levels) and what permits are needed. Hear about successful projects from landowners. There will also be information on wetlands and raingardens.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This session is required for those excavating, landscaping, grading or hauling fill within Shoreland Areas of Stearns County. See the link below for more details.
2012 Shoreland Workshop Info and Registration Form
Local Conservationists Honored at State Soil and Water Conservation District Convention
Dan and Jolene Schlangen were recently honored as Outstanding Conservationists of the year at the 75th Annual Meeting of the Minnesota
Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts, December 6, 2011 in Bloomington, Minnesota. In addition, they were recognized as one of eight Area Finalists in the Outstanding Conservationist Award Program.
The Schlangens, who own and operate a dairy farm near Eden Valley, were selected by the Stearns County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) for the award. Each year, Minnesota SWCDs recognize individuals and organizations for outstanding accomplishments in implementing conservation practices and improving Minnesota's natural resources. The award program is conducted with support from The Farmer magazine and MN Corn Growers Association.
Office Remodel
The Waite Park Service Center (FSA, NRCS, SWCD) offices are currently being remodeled. Althought things are currently little bit louder all the offices are still open and we are available to assist you as always. The project is expected to continue through December and January. Thank you for your understanding.
SWCD is now taking tree orders
The Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District tree program was developed to provide landowners with an affordable and convenient way to purchase trees and shrubs for conservation practices, such as windbreaks, shelterbelts, living snowfences and wildlife habitat.
The tree program is on a first come, first serve basis. Payment in full is due with your order. You will be notified of the scheduled tree pickup days in April 2012.
Trees are sold in bundles of 25 with a minimum order of 2 bundles (50 trees). To view which trees are available this year. click here for more info.
The MN DNR is also currently accepting tree orders (min purchase is 500 trees). more info.
High Water Shoreline Damage
Many area lakes experienced above normal water levels as a result of above average summer rainfall. This year erosion was much more significant due to the high water levels and wave action (from wind and boat traffic). There are a number of things that can be done to address these erosion concerns and to minimize future impacts. click here for more info.
Current Releases:
- Conservationist of the Year 2011
- High Water Levels
- USDA Assistance Available to Irrigators
- Take a Day OFF Event
- Stearns Co SWCD 2010 Annual Report Overview
- State Envirothon Results
- Middle Spunk Lake Project
Past Press Releases Click here...
Other News Click here...
FREE posters available!
Click here
The On-Farm Network® is here.
The Stearns County SWCD is partnering with the On-Farm Network® to assist farmers in implementing stalk nitrate evaluations to help them fine tune Nitrogen management in corn production. Click here for more information.
Learn about Pheasants Forever.
Check out the video at the bottom of the Pheasants Forever page. Click here...
Want to learn about the soil on your property?
Check out the Web Soil Survey Click here...
Department of Natural Resources is taking tree orders (minimum order 500 trees). Click here for more information.
Mississippi River Basin Initiative Program
The Stearns SWCD and partners have been awarded over $4 million for projects that will protect and restore the waters of the Sauk River. Working with many partners, the SWCD will provide assistance to producers to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus while supporting agricultural productively and wildlife habitat. Learn more...