Neighborhood parks provide a place to play, relax, and gather. They offer spaces for kids to play catch, for you to walk your dog, or simply enjoy the outdoors with friends. But did you know these very same parks are also helping to fight climate change?

Last year, board member Jeff Burnett ran the Twin Cities Marathon and together with his generous supporters he raised over $7,000 for Great River Greening. This year, Jeff is back and ready to lace up his running shoes to run over 50 miles in six races—and we need YOUR help. But first, let’s learn a bit more about Jeff, and how his passions for the environment and running intersect.

The migratory monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is one of the most iconic insects and one for which we all likely have fond memories. Unfortunately, this beautiful pollinator has now been added to the “Red List”, or considered endangered, by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Although the monarch butterfly is not yet listed as endangered on a federal or state level, this should still be considered a wake-up call. Monarchs have experienced decline, and there is work to be done to protect Minnesota’s state butterfly.

Kernza® is the first perennial grain crop in the world—meaning farmers don’t need to replant it every year, allowing the crop to grow deep, complex root systems. These root systems protect delicate soil from erosion, absorb excessive and harmful nutrients, and retain water. Once established, Kernza® and other continuous living cover crops greatly improve our land and water. Environmental impacts include…

We’ve probably all had that moment when we see a plant, insect, or critter while out and about and we wonder “Hm… what is that?” If you’ve got a smartphone with you, you can use the free app iNaturalist to identify what you saw. iNaturalist puts nature at your fingertips by using its network of over 5 million members to crowdsource species identifications.

Join us in welcoming three new members to the Great River Greening Board of Directors: Keith Browning, Justin McCurnin, and Sarah Testa.

Year over year, researchers report fewer species and numbers of pollinating insects across our state. Learn more about the issues affecting pollinator decline and ways you can help.

Great River Greening is pleased to announce the selection of Kateri Routh as our new Executive Director. As Minnesota’s leader in community-based restoration, our work as a land and water conservation organization is more important than ever. Kateri’s leadership and vision will expand Great River Greening’s impact in Minnesota, as she brings strong expertise and passion to the role.

The smell of fresh-baked bread. The sweet aroma of cookies fresh from the oven. Waking up to scones for breakfast. Are you hungry yet? Let’s celebrate World Baking Day with some Kernza® recipes!

You may have noticed that your neighbors’ lawns are getting a little... what’s the word? ... LONG. Or perhaps you’ve started to see “No Mow May” signs pop up around the neighborhood. So, what’s going on with people not mowing their lawns?