As summer approaches and we all begin looking for ways to get outside, CURE, of course, offers many opportunities through our Events and Adventures Program. But we would be remiss in not mentioning our State Parks, a branch of the DNR that has been specializing in outdoor experiences since the founding of Itasca State Park in […]
Minnesota’s State Parks – An Excellent Opportunity to Explore the Outdoors Read More »
On the Friday of River History Weekend, CURE unveiled its Leadership Network at an event designed to explore the rural Millennial experience. About 50 people attended “Don’t Worry; We’ve Got This” – A Gathering of Rising Leaders, and after a panel of presentations, 36 participated in a World Cafe discussion about their experiences with leadership. Post by Ariel Herrod.
CURE’s Leadership Network Unveiled Read More »
For 2013, Kylene Olson of Watson, MN and the Executive Director of the Chippewa River Watershed Project was recognized for 16 years of exemplary watershed work and was awarded the RiverKeeper Award at CURE’s 22nd Annual Meeting.
Kylene Olson recipient of CURE’s 2013 RiverKeeper Award for outstanding watershed work Read More »
CURE is planning a World Café as an integral part of our event “Don’t Worry; We’ve Got This” – A Gathering of Rising Leaders on Friday, May 2. We want to discuss the theme of leadership, especially in a rural context, and learn what beginning leaders need to become full-fledged community powerhouses. Post by Ariel Herrod, Watershed Sustainability Program Coordinator.
What’s Great About a World Café? Read More »
“Can I ask you a question? It’s probably really dumb, though. But, what exactly is a watershed?” That, my friend, professional acquaintance, or perfect stranger, is not a dumb question. Not in the least. Post by Ariel Herrod, CURE’s Watershed Sustainability Program Coordinator.
What is a Watershed, Anyway? Read More »
On a Monday evening, 10 Millennials and a Baby Boomer gathered in a church basement. It sounds like a bad joke, but the refurbished church basement was home to CURE staff Sarina Otaibi, and the Millennials and Baby Boomer had come together for a pretty serious focus group on transitional leadership and social change. Post by Sarina Otaibi & Ariel Herrod.
CURE Engages the Next Generation of Rural Leaders Read More »
Growing up on a farm in Western Minnesota, Dan Handeen, now a Research Fellow at the University of Minnesota’s Center of Sustainable Building Research, spent plenty of time running around in the woods like a wild child. Post by Ariel Herrod, CURE Watershed Sustainability Program Coordinator.
Dan Handeen on Thinking Systemically and Net Zero Energy Homes Read More »
In 2013, the number of solar jobs increased by 73% in Minnesota according to a report released by the Solar Foundation this month. That is good news for renewable energy advocates who worked hard in 2013 to pass new solar laws for Minnesota to ensure the health of our environment, people, and economy. Post by Sarina Otaibi, CURE Director of Communications & Engagement.
3 MN River Valley Counties May Host Solar Farms Read More »
Are you gearing up for spring and the thoughts of being outside in warmer weather are running through your mind? Well, you are not alone as the sun warms the ground and our souls – the some 14 species of frog and toads will soon be here to hear…
The Minnesota Frog & Toad Calling Survey Read More »
Hot soup, warm buns from Carl’s Bakery and simple informational handouts welcomed 30 people to the K.K. Berge building on a Thursday evening in January. After everyone grabbed a plate of food, CURE introduced Adam Flett from… Blog post by Sarina Otaibi, CURE Director of Communications & Engagement.
6 Simple Takeaways to Get You Started with Your Garden this Year 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!
