Stearns County Conservation District Receives Environmental Stewardship Award

(KNSI) – The Stearns County Conservation District has received the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Ecological and Water Resources Division Appreciation Award for its environmental stewardship.

The award was presented at the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts convention to recognize commitment to protecting the county’s natural resources. DNR officials said the district has spearheaded several initiatives to improved water quality and habitat. Through the Lawns to Legumes Program and Clean Water Fund grants, the organization has worked with farmers in the Sauk River watershed to reduce nutrient runoff and promote conservation practices, including cover crops and no-till farming. The district has also helped farmers enroll in the Conservation Reserve Program, creating wildlife habitat while improving water quality.

In partnership with Stearns County Environmental Services, they co-host an annual workshop that educates contractors, lake associations, real estate professionals and others on best practices for maintaining healthy shorelands.

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