On Saturday, September 20th, a group of 16 CURE members and supporters discovered that freshwater mussels are animals with a fascinating life cycle. Blog post by Kylene Olson, Director of the Chippewa River Watershed Project and a longtime CURE supporter and member.
High Waters Did Not Dampen Mussel Field Day Read More »
Introducing the next generation to conservation is Our Most Important Work. We never want to become a pest, the invasive species in your life, but we need your help – money to do this work. While we have been lucky to have ongoing support for our major programs, money to connect with young kids and high school and college students is harder to come by – and the 2014-2015 program year is just starting!
Our Most Important Work Read More »
On March 24, the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers proposed a rule to clarify “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act. According to the Clean Water Act, “waters of the US” are subject to regulation, which means that, among other things, point source polluters must obtain a permit prior to
“Waters of the US” Public Comment Period Extended Read More »
“People need electricity; we realize this,” Florence Minar said. “But it’s just a matter of fairness. And if you have to buy a farmer out, give them a fair payment so he can go set up somewhere else without fighting about it, or without telling him he doesn’t deserve it.” Post by Duane Ninneman, Executive Director and the Director of Climate & Energy.
Cedar Summit Farm Prevails in CapX2020 Transmission Battle Read More »
This is the third part in a multipart series called Groundwater 101. Groundwater 101 provides the foundation for a good working understanding of groundwater—the source of drinking water for 75% of Minnesotans. Post by Ariel Herrod, Watershed Sustainability Program Coordinator.
Groundwater 101: Why Should I Care? Read More »
On July 12, some 40-50 people gathered in a white tent between Sheep Berry Fen Preserve and managed grazing lands. They had come for the Simon Lake BioBlitz: a day of neighborly connection, nature nerdery, and some good old fashioned fresh air, and they were not disappointed. Post by Ariel Herrod.
Simon Lake BioBlitz: “We totally blitzed that prairie!” Read More »
This is the second part in a multipart series called Groundwater 101. Groundwater 101 provides the foundation for a good working understanding of groundwater—the source of drinking water for 75% of Minnesotans. Blog post by Ariel Herrod, Watershed Sustainability Program Coordinator.
Groundwater 101: Where Does Groundwater Come From? Where Does It Go? Read More »
Groundwater is a big deal. That much is clear. When 75% of Minnesotans turn on the tap, groundwater comes out. About 30% of the world’s freshwater is groundwater. And plentiful, clean water is a key component of Minnesotan identity, even as lake levels drop, wells run dry, and seasonal floods cost the state millions of dollars. Post by Ariel Herrod, Watershed Sustainability Program Coordinator.
Groundwater 101: What’s Geology Got to Do With It? Read More »
As I took a seat next to 20 others in a circle around a morning fire on a sunny Saturday last month, a cup of nettle tea was handed to me as introductions and the circle talk began. Audrey Arner of Moonstone Farm began discussing the history and importance of wild foods. Post by Sarina Otaibi, Director of Communications & Engagement.
Nettle Tea, Nettle Pasta, Fried Nettle… Grasp the Nettle Read More »
Rural Minnesota is experiencing rapid change. As local economies shift from agriculture to services and industry, small communities are struggling to revive and reinvent their economies. Residents are aging, and young people are leaving for cities. The resulting rural decline and decay often dominate media and public opinion. Essay written by Natalie Hoidal and Jordan Wente, University of MN Morris Students.
“Estar in el Prairie” 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!
