Latest News & Updates

More than 40 local lawmakers, county staff, and conservation professionals from six counties and Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) toured conservation projects in the Cannon River Watershed this August, getting a firsthand look at efforts to reduce flooding, protect water quality, and improve natural resources. The tour was organized by the Cannon River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (CRWJPO) and focused this year on the lakes region in the upper Cannon River

The Rice Soil & Water Conservation District has selected Wild Ones Southeast Minnesota Prairie Partners as the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Conservationist Award. The award recognizes the chapter’s efforts to promote native plants, support pollinator habitat, and provide conservation education throughout Rice County.

A three-day trip to Illinois gave southeast Minnesota farmers an opportunity to learn, network, and bring home new ideas about soil health, strip-till, and innovative farming practices.

A new pocket of prairie habitat is taking root at Jefferson Elementary School in Faribault, creating a space where students, pollinators, and the community can grow together.

The transition from conventional tillage to strip till or no till can resemble the seven stages of grief as farmers work through the emotional and management changes that come with reducing tillage.

Soil health practices are increasing in Rice County, including the planting of cover crops on about 10,000 acres and no-till/strip-till on about 8000 acres.