Minnegram

The Lower St. Croix Watershed Partnership (LSCWP) is a One Watershed, One Plan partnership that has identified priority surface and groundwaters within its basin to reduce pollutant loading. One of the identified activities to reduce pollutants is to implement non-structural agricultural BMPs, including soil health practices.  The partnership determined biannual and ten-year goals for pollution reductions. “After two years of program implementation, staff can assess the impacts the partnership is producing,” said Extension educator Jennifer Hahn.

Irrigating for quality crops while conserving water requires technology and the knowledge that powers it.

The speed with which water drains through sandy soils makes watering crops in a sand plain both an agronomic necessity and a conservation challenge.

Stormwater runoff from our communities’ streets, driveways, parking lots, and rooftops can degrade the quality of our lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands and sometimes, shallow groundwater resources. Urban, suburban, and agricultural stormwater runoff carries pollutants such as nutrients, pathogens, and sediment. When the amount (volume) and speed (rate) of runoff increases, such as during and after storms, outcomes can include localized and downstream flooding.

by Matt Belanger
Chloride contamination is becoming a rising concern in Minnesota’s ground and surface waters. In recent years, more and more surface waterbodies and groundwater aquifers are being impacted by chloride, as concentrations slowly increase. 

by Zac Aanerud
Corn, a staple crop in Minnesota, plays a crucial role in the state's economy and the lives of its residents. However, achieving profitability while maintaining environmental responsibility can be a challenge, especially when it comes to nitrogen (N) usage.