Our sixth annual freshwater mussel field day was with MN DNR malacologist, Bernard Sietman. You would be hard-pressed to find anyone as passionate and knowledgeable about mussels as this transplanted Missourian. Since 2002, he has worked across Minnesota surveying mussels. One of the more exciting aspects of his job is the potential discovery of a […]
Freshwater Mussel Field Day 2020 Read More »
Now that the warmer weather is here, Minnesotans want to get out and connect with nature. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, many are wondering if it is safe and what should they expect now that restrictions are being lifted for recreating and camping outdoors. Several agencies and collaborating partners have come together to provide support and
Connecting with the outdoors safely in Minnesota Read More »
Ready to learn more about prairie species in your neighborhood? Are you a prairie enthusiast ready to share your knowledge and passion with others? Looking for a fun family day that also supports public lands? Join us for a BioBlitz in and around Big Stone Lake state park near Ortonville, MN! This year, in partnership
2019 Tallgrass Prairie BioBlitz Read More »
Did you know that tallgrass prairie is one of the most endangered ecosystems in the world with less than one percent of virgin, untilled prairie left? Or that we have some of the best remaining swathes of prairie right here in Pope County, MN? On the rolling hills at Glacial Lakes State Park, nearly
2017 BioBlitz brought 150 to the Tallgrass Prairie Read More »
The CURE Events & Adventures Program is all about connecting people with the outdoors and this spring we partnered with the Minnesota Master Naturalist program and hosted our first Prairie & Potholes Biome training.
What do you get when curiosity of nature meets passion for the outdoors? Read More »
Kelsey Olson (she/her) joined CURE in 2025 as its Director of Environmental Stewardship. As a skilled environmental naturalist, Kelsey’s work focuses broadly on environmental education and advocacy with a keen focus on rural land use and how that use impacts our environment and climate. Working Lands, how land is used to support agriculture and forestry, is a key focus of her work. She brings 15 years’ experience in public communication, environmental education, and rural community engagement – strong communication strategies are core in her work. This includes two terms of service with AmeriCorps in the VISTA program in Oregon and Maryland and a nearly 10-year career as a naturalist followed. She recently worked on communications and marketing for rural economic development.
Kelsey lives in New London, MN, with her young children, husband, dog, and two cats. They enjoy spending time together outside and finding small treasures in nature. Visits to Minneapolis often include visits to one of their favorite historical museums, the Minnesota Swedish Institute. Kelsey enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, whether this is canning local produce, making kombucha, or other treats!
