Pope Soil & Water

Providing Quality Conservation Resources since 1949

Providing Quality Conservation Resources Since 1949

Eight Named As Finalists for State’s 2021 Outstanding Conservationist Award

ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD) has named the finalists for the state’s 2021 Outstanding Conservationist Award.

The winner will be announced at the 85th annual MASWCD Annual Meeting, at a luncheon on Dec. 14.  The award ceremony is the culminating event of the three-day conference, Dec. 12-14, at the Doubletree by Hilton Bloomington – Minneapolis South in Bloomington, Minn.  The award program recognizes farm families, individuals, conservation organizations, and other groups for their accomplishments in implementing conservation practices and improving Minnesota’s natural resources.

The program is sponsored by MASWCD, with support from The Farmer magazine.  Editors and news directors are encouraged to follow up with the Soil and Water Conservation District contacts listed for feature and interview opportunities.  The information was gathered from nomination forms submitted to MASWCD by individual conservation districts.  The finalists are noted below, with additional background information attached.  Higher resolution photos are available upon request.

MASWCD AreaFinalistNominating SWCDSWCD Contact
Northwest Area 1Ryan Hough and Michael Hough Rothsay MNWilkin SWCDDon Bajumpaa, Manager 218-643-2933 dbajumpaa@co.wilkin.mn.us
West Central Area 2Nathan and Angie Walter Westport MNPope SWCDHolly Kovarik, Manager 320-634-5327 holly.kovarik@mn.nacdnet.net
Northeast Area 3Burnell Peterson and Ann Carlander Wrenshall MNCarlton SWCDBrad Matlack, Manager 218-384-3891 bradmatlack@carltonswcd.org
Metro Area 4Mallery Jerseys, Inc. Shafer MNChisago SWCDCraig Mell, Administrator 651-674-2333 craig.mell@mn.nacdnet.net
Southwest Area 5Michael and Mary Hewitt Walnut Grove MNRedwood SWCDScott Wold, Administrator 507-637-2427 x3
scott_w@co.redwood.mn.us
South Central Area 6KD2 Farms Karson Duncanson Kameron Duncanson Mapleton MNBlue Earth SWCDJerad Bach, Manager 507-345-4744 jerad.bach@blueearthswcd.org
Southeast Area 7Tom and Shirley Gerard Jeff Gerard Judy Tollefsrud Spring Grove MNRoot River SWCDDave Walter, Manager 507-724-5261 goosey10@hotmail.com
North Central Area 8Hollister Family Farm Abe and Brea Hollister Brainerd MNCrow Wing SWCDMelissa Barrick, Manager 218-828-6197 melissa@cwswcd.org

-More-

Northwest Area 1 Ryan Hough and Michael Hough Rothsay MN nominated by Wilkin SWCD   Background on brothers Ryan Hough and Michael Hough:   Brothers Ryan Hough & Michael Hough of Rothsay, MN, farm 1400 acres of row crops and run a 600 head cattle operation in the northeast corner of Wilkin County. They have a diverse crop rotation of corn, soybeans, sunflowers, wheat, barley, and alfalfa.   They started integrating full season cover crops into the no-till operation to get the benefit of grazing the cover crop after the cash crop was harvested. This allows the Hough Brothers to extend the grazing period beyond the fall frost. They have also switched from conventional grazing to rotational grazing their pastures.   The Hough Brothers have utilized the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) programs, along with grazing Reinvest in Minnesota Reserve (RIM) easements, and are currently in the process of getting their Ag Water Quality Certification.  
 
West Central Area 2 Nathan and Angie Walter Westport MN nominated by Pope SWCD   Background on the Walters:   Nathan and Angie Walter of Westport, Minnesota, operate a 390-acre Organic Minnesota Department of Agriculture Ag Water Quality Certified family dairy farm raising corn, hay, rye, barley, oats, and cover crops for use on their farm.  They milk 100 Guernsey/Red Holstein/Norwegian Cross Cows, raise 50 heifers, 20 calves, broiler chickens, and laying hens.  They have implemented: an ag waste storage facility, nutrient management plan, shelterbelt, cover crops, grazing plan, reduced tillage, cover crops, no-till, and soil health practices.   The Walters are active members in their community, Sustainable Farming Association (SFA), Organic Valley, 4-H and serve in leadership roles in these organizations.  They are mentors for the SFA Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship program.  The Walter’s are a premier example of regenerative agriculture and the Pope SWCD is proud to nominate them.

-More-

Northeast Area 3 Burnell Peterson and Ann Carlander Wrenshall MN nominated by Carlton SWCD   Background on Burnell Peterson and Ann Carlander:   Burnell Peterson and Ann Carlander operate a Bed and Breakfast on their land near Wrenshall.  Burnell has worked with the SWCD for decades to improve forest health and pollinator habitat.   Recently, in cooperation with the SWCD, Burnell has thinned out his forest to give the remaining trees room to thrive.  He mills the logs into lumber himself.  Burnell and Ann worked with the district to establish a native grass and flower meadow for pollinator habitat.  They are already noticing more bee and butterfly activity.  Burnell and Ann enjoy caring for their land and sharing it with others.        
Metro Area 4 Mallery Jerseys, Inc. Shafer MN nominated by Chisago SWCD   Background on Mallery Jerseys, Inc:   The Mallery family are owners and operators of Mallery Jerseys, Inc.  They operate a 485-acre dairy farm milking on average 250 head, as well as producing corn for silage and grain along with hay to feed their dairy cattle. The Mallerys started farming in Shafer, MN, along the escarpment of the St. Croix River, in the 1950s.  Due to their unique position and close vicinity to a National Scenic Riverway, the Mallerys have always seen conservation as important to their operation.   They have implemented a wide range of practices, including cover crops, buffers, diversions, water and sediment control basins, no till, nutrient management, and integrated pest management.  In 2020, Mallery Jerseys, Inc. achieved certification in the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Conservation Program.

-More-

Southwest Area 5 Michael and Mary Hewitt Walnut Grove, MN nominated by Redwood SWCD   Background on the Hewitts:   Michael & Mary Hewitt of Walnut Grove operate a large grain operation on the banks of Plum Creek raising corn, soybeans, and wheat.  Mike grew up farming with his father raising crops and hogs and began farming full time in 1989.  Mike has always been interested in trying new methods and built his own strip-till unit before the equipment was available.    The Hewitt’s stumbled upon no-till when Mike and his father were helping a neighbor plant soybeans in a wet spring when tillage was not an option.  Because of that experience, the Hewitt’s have stuck with no-till in their operation as well as strip-till and cover crops.  The Hewitts have made strides implementing conservation and are leaders in farmer-to-farmer networking.    
South Central Area 6 KD2 Farms Karson Duncanson and Kameron Duncanson Mapleton, MN nominated by Blue Earth SWCD   Background on KD2 Farms:   KD2 Farms, of Mapleton are fourth generation farmers.  When Karson and Kameron Duncanson took over the family farm five years ago, they continued their father’s conservation efforts by planting over 1,000 acres of cover crops, switching to strip-till practices on their corn fields and moving their bean fields to 100 percent no-till. Before Minnesota’s Buffer Law was written into law, KD2 Farms had enrolled 20 acres of their land into the Conservation Reserve Program for filter strips and grassed waterways, making them compliant before most.   They know using some of these best management practices can be difficult to transition to, but once you make the move, you’ll be glad you did. They want to provide a good example to future generations on how to farm properly and how to be good stewards of the land.

-More-

Southeast Area 7 Tom and Shirley Gerard, Jeff Gerard, Judy Tollefsrud Spring Grove MN nominated by Root River SWCD   Background on the Gerard Family:   The Gerard Family of Spring Grove operate a diversified crop and livestock operation with corn, soybeans, cereal grains and hay along with cover crops.  In addition, they custom feed 300-400 heifers from calves to freshening for a local dairy.  The original farm has been in the family since the early sixties and consists of a mix of forestland, rotational pasture, Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), and crop land.   Over the years, the Gerards have implemented several grade stabilization structures, feedlot improvements, contour strips, CRP, and a couple miles of waterway in addition to constructing numerous other best management practices to address the resource concerns on their farm. The Gerards have been diligent advocates for conservation and have implemented many practices over the years because it’s “the way it should be done”
North Central Area 8 Hollister Family Farm – Abe and Brea Hollister Brainerd MN nominated by Crow Wing SWCD   Background on Hollister Family Farm:   The Hollister Family Farm is located south of Brainerd near the Nokassippi River (a 46.5-mile-long tributary to the Mississippi River). The Hollisters have transformed an 80-year-old highly intensive soybeans and corn farmland into perennial vegetation with 40 paddocks for cattle and sheep to rotate through. These newly formed lush perennial grasses allow Galloway, British White, and Lowline Red Angus cows and sheep to eat healthy forage while providing nutritious, sustainable grown meat to their customers.   They raise 60 cows on 120 acres to the direct consumer. The intense rotational management system has increased the farm soil organic matter and improved water percolation. The Hollisters partnered with the NRCS, SWCDs, and Happy Dancing Turtle to provide outreach help to individual farmers in the Pine River Watershed to implement soil health practices.

Nathan and Angie Walter Selected as 2021 Outstanding Conservationists

Nathan and Angie Walter of Westport, Minnesota were selected as the 2021 Pope County Outstanding Conservationists.  They have two children Laureen and Levi and they attend Osakis school.  They operate a 390-acre organic dairy farm raising corn, hay, rye, barley, oats, and cover crops for use on the farm.  They milk 100 Guernsey/Red Holstein/Norwegian cross cows, raise 50 heifers, 20 calves, broiler chickens, and laying hens. 

The Walters have implemented many conservation practices including: an ag waste facility, nutrient management plan, shelterbelt, cover crops, grazing plan, reduced tillage, no-till, and soil health practices.  The operation is also certified through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture Water Quality Certification Program.

The Walters are active members in their community, Sustainable Farming Association, Organic Valley, 4-H, and serve in leadership roles in these organizations.  They are mentors for the Sustainable Farming Association Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship program.  The Walter’s are a premier example of regenerative agriculture and the Pope SWCD was proud to select them as this year’s Outstanding Conservationists.

The Walters will be honored by Pope County and Pope SWCD later this year at a Commissioner’s meeting. They will also be recognized at the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation District’s Annual Convention on December 14, 2021 in Bloomington.  Congratulations Walter Family!

2022 Sales Program Order Form Now Available

It is now time to order trees and shrubs for planting in the spring of 2022. Order early for the best selection of trees and shrubs and to ensure availability. Landowners will be notified for pickup of trees in April. If you are interested in a full planting plan call and ask for Kelly at 320-634-5327. Fall and winter is a great time to plan for those spring projects.

2022 Tree Order FormDownload

FREE WATER TESTING CLINIC AT THE FAIR

Pope Soil and Water Conservation District (Pope SWCD) will be hosting a free water testing clinic Friday, August 6th from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Pope County Fair. Bring your water sample to the Pope SWCD booth in the Industrial Building at the fairgrounds for a free nitrate analysis. To receive best results, collect a minimum of one-half cup of room temperature water in a clean container within two hours of testing.

Nitrogen exists in the environment in both organic and inorganic forms. When in its inorganic form, ammonium (NH4) or nitrate (NO3), it is an essential element to plants. However, when considering water quality, nitrogen becomes a concern when in its nitrate form. Excessive nitrate concentrations in groundwater can be hazardous to human and environmental health. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set 10 mg/L as the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for nitrate-nitrogen in drinking water. The Minnesota Department of Health recommends that private wells receive nitrate testing at least once every two to three years. If nitrates have been previously detected or if an infant under six months will be consuming the water, testing should be conducted more frequently.

Nitrates most commonly enter groundwater through leaching or draining. Because nitrate does not attach to soil particles, it is easily moved by water. Therefore, as water filters through the soil, so do present nitrates. Some primary factors that have an effect on nitrogen leaching include: nitrogen rate, application timing, nitrogen sources, irrigation practices, age of site, and soil texture. The contamination can result from both anthropogenic (human caused) and natural sources. Although both can lead to hazardous conditions, it is often anthropogenic sources that force nitrate concentrations into dangerous levels. These sources include but are not limited to: fertilizer application, manure storage, and sewage disposal. There are available treatments used to rehabilitate contaminated water. However, prevention of nitrogen loss is the favored method in reducing nitrate concentrations in groundwater.

Pope SWCD Board Meeting November 16, 2021

The Pope SWCD Board of Supervisors will meet at their monthly meeting time on November 16, 2021 at 7 a.m. at the USDA Service Center at 1680 Franklin Street North, Glenwood, MN 56334. The pandemic declaration has now expired in Minnesota however USDA has a COVID-19 Screening upon entry. We ask that if you are a member of the public and are planning to attend the meeting to notify the District Manager by calling 320-634-5327 or by email at holly.kovarik@mn.nacdnet.net to complete the COVID screening. If you arrive at the meeting without priori notice you will be presented with COVID questionnaire prior to entry. There will not be a virtual option per the Minnesota Open Meeting Law requirements now that the Emergency Declaration has expired.

Plantskydd For Purchase

Plantskydd is a non-toxic, chemical free organic repellent used to deter deer, elk, moose, rabbits, voles, squirrels and chipmunks from browsing on vegetation.  It is not harmful to pollinators, animals or the environment.  It is safe for use in protecting vegetables, fruits, legumes and other food crops as well as trees, bushes and flowers.  Its active ingredient (porcine or bovine dried blood) is also an organic fertilizer.  Plantskydd works by releasing an order that browsing animals associate with predator activity.  These browsing animals will avoid the plants before they take a bite.

Plantskydd should be applied in above freezing temperatures before browse begins in spring and the liquid formulation can last up to 4 months during the growing season.  It should be reapplied to new growth every 2-4 weeks.  It is rain resistant if allowed to dry first for 24 hours.  Plantskydd should not be applied directly to the edible parts of fruits and vegetables.  It can be sprayed on fruit tree foliage but avoid treatment while buds are forming.  Plantskydd can last up to 6 months on winter dormant plants.

If interested in this product, the Pope SWCD has the liquid, soluble-powder concentrate and granular formulas available for purchase.

TREE PICK UP DATES SET

The trees and shrubs that were ordered from Pope Soil and Water Conservation District will be ready to pick up between 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Friday, April 30th and 8:00 a.m. till Noon on Saturday, May 1st. 

Pick up will be at the Karen Erickson Farm 19381 270th Ave, Starbuck, MN 56381. A map of the pickup location printed below.  We ask that you arrange to pick up your trees/shrubs at this time.

2021 Tree Pickup Information and mapDownload

WALK IN ACCESS PROGRAM ENROLLMENT OPEN

Landowner enrollment has now begun for the Walk-In Access (WIA) program. The 2021 sign-up goes from March 15 to May 14. Since 2011 its purpose has been to pay private landowners for allowing the public to hunt on their land. The land must be a minimum of 40 acres with high-quality natural vegetation cover. Similar vegetation cover can be found on land already enrolled in conservation programs such as Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) or Reinvest in Minnesota (RIM). The use of the land is only allowed for hunting from Sept. 1 through May 31.

Walk-In Access has expanded through Minnesota and now includes 50 counties and covers 30,000 acres for hunters. If you are interested in using WIA land, you must pay the $3 permit when purchasing your hunting license.

Benefits for enrolling include:

  1. 2021 sign-up has an increased payment rate of $18/acre.
  2. Contracts are only 1 to 3 years long.
  3. MN DNR Conservation Officers enforce hunting laws.
  4. Can be an additional pay to existing conservation programs such as CRP or RIM.
  5. DNR will set up and provide signs around property enrolled in the program.
  6. Access to additional habitat for hunters to enjoy. Also giving an opportunity for new hunters to go to.

Pope County has been able to be a part of this program for many years and we hope to continue this partnership. Our office provides Minnesota DNR Walk-In Access mapping books if anyone is looking for a location to hunt. If you have any questions about the WIA program please contact Pope SWCD and ask for Nicole Brede at 320-634-5327.

Pope SWCD Recognized with Environmental Excellence Award

We are excited to announce that Pope SWCD is the recipient of the 2021 Minnesota Erosion Control Association (MECA) Environmental Excellence Award for our work over the past several years in the Lake Minnewaska sub watershed project area.

Ross Reiffenberger, West Central Technical Service Area Engineer, nominated Pope SWCD for this award. From his nomination letter, “For years, the Pope SWCD has been working with landowners to educate and install erosion control practices on their land.” Since just 2014, $1,173,300 has been invested in the protection efforts for Lake Minnewaska from the Board of Soil and Water Resources (BWSR) state funded resources including the Clean Water Fund. It should be noted that some projects leveraged federal funding through the Natural Resources Conservation Service which would be in addition to the state funding shown. The SWCD in partnership have implemented 54 practices with 13 new ones in the planning phase.

The Pope SWCD is currently working with the City of Glenwood on a major ravine repair project.Thank you to Ross Reiffenberger and MECA for this recognition. It takes a village to be successful and we are fortunate here in Pope County we have a great community and partners. To learn more about MECA visit: https://mnerosion.org/

To learn more about the Clean Water Fund visit: https://www.legacy.mn.gov/clean-water-fund

Pictured below: Pope SWCD Staff Nicole Brede, Holly Kovarik, Jessica Hoheisel, Kelly Erickson. Pope SWCD Board Keith Nygaard, Tom Talle, Randy Pederson, D. Gary Reents, and Randy Mitteness

Virtual Manure Management Field Day a Success!

The Pope and Stearns SWCDs worked together to put together a Virtual Manure Management Field Day which was held on January 7th, 2021. The event had over 100 people registered.

During the virtual event, there were live interviews from Greg Vold, co-owner of Dorrich Dairy, Tim Woeste, co-owner of Upper Midwest Pumping, LLC, and Kevin Wolter, Business Development Manager, Bazooka Farmstar. There were research updates from University of Minnesota Extension staff members Melissa Wilson on manure management, Jodi DeJong-Hughes on tillage, and Anna Cates on soil health. There was also drone footage featuring the application of manure taking place on Dorrich Dairy.

A special thank you to Minnesota Department of Agriculture for sponsoring the event through the Minnesota Agriculture Water Quality Certification Program funding via the Clean Water Fund. Thank you Dorrich Dairy, Stearns SWCD, University of Minnesota Extension, Upper Midwest Pumping/Woeste Custom Harvesting, and Bazooka Farmstar.

Virtual Manure Management Field Day – Zoom Meeting (01.08.2021) – YouTube

Conservation Reserve Program Sign Up to start on January 4, 2021

CRP – General -Signup 56

It’s that time of year again with another sign-up for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) coming up soon. The CRP is intended to allow the option for farmers to remove environmentally sensitive land from agriculture production and in return receive a yearly rental payment. The producer must plant native species that will improve the health and quality of the land by giving it a 10-15 year rest from production.

On November 12, 2020 the USDA announced the next General CRP signup (Signup 56). This signup will start on January 4, 2021 and run through February 12, 2021. 

General CRP is competitive and uses the Environmental Benefits Index (EBI) to rank eligible offers for selection. Some producers are familiar with the bidding process for eligibility and the FSA staff will help you through this.

We also want to remind producers that we do have Continuous CRP open as well. Continuous CRP is not a perpetual easement and does not require a competitive bid, acres that qualify can be automatically enrolled. This program offers different types of conservation practices but has more limitations on what can be enrolled.

It is important to remember that CRP land must meet certain eligibility criteria including ownership and cropping history.  If you are interested in signing up for these programs, please contact your local FSA office. Pope County FSA office can be reached at 320-634-5143 ext 2.

https://www.fsa.usda.gov/news-room/news-releases/2020/usda-to-open-signup-for-the-conservation-reserve-program-and-crp-grasslands-in-early-2021

Pope SWCD Board Meeting Notice May 18, 2021

The Pope SWCD will hold is monthly meeting at 1680 Franklin Street North, Glenwood, Minnesota 56334 starting at 7 a.m. The meeting is being held at this location to allow proper social distancing measures. Masks are mandatory. Public participation at this meeting is available via Zoom. A Zoom link has been provided for those that will be joining the meeting remotely. The Pope SWCD is meeting in this manner due to the ongoing Pandemic.

Holly Kovarik is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Holly Kovarik is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. 

Topic: Pope SWCD Board Meeting

Time: May 18, 2021 07:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82524332118?pwd=aC9ZcDlZMXlhMFFvcUNkN3pZVE9odz09

Meeting ID: 825 2433 2118

Passcode: 881264

One tap mobile

+13017158592,,82524332118#,,,,*881264# US (Washington DC)

+13126266799,,82524332118#,,,,*881264# US (Chicago)

Dial by your location

        +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

        +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

        +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

        +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

        +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

        +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)

Meeting ID: 825 2433 2118

Passcode: 881264

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdYIlnTP3a

Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation District Annual Business Meeting Notice

The Pope SWCD Board of Supervisors will participate in a virtual Zoom meeting for the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation District Annual Business Meeting on December 8, 2020. The meeting is to conduct business of the state association. The meeting will take place from 9 a.m. to Noon. Board members will be joining the meeting from remote locations for this virtual meeting. A quorum of members are likely to attend this virtual meeting. For questions please contact our office at 320-634-5327.

USDA Glenwood Service Center Open For Business by Phone Appointment

USDA Glenwood Service Center Open for Business by Phone Appointment Only effective 12-1-2020. The USDA is temporarily restricting in-person visits to the Glenwood Service Center because of the elevated rates of coronavirus community spread, but USDA employees and Pope SWCD employees will continue to assist landowners with programs and services. Service Center staff members from Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service and Pope SWCD will continue to work with producers by phone, email, other digital means. All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with the FSA, NRCS, and Pope SWCD should call to schedule an appointment.

FSA (320) 634-5143 extension 2

NRCS (320) 634-5143 extension 3

Pope SWCD (320) 634-5327 or (320) 634-5143 extension 4

Pope SWCD will also be following social distancing guidelines while assisting landowners in the field and will be implementing a teleworking schedule for staff. Thank you for your understanding.

City of Glenwood Raingarden Blitz

Extra! Extra! Hot off the Press! Pope SWCD Searches for Raingarden Blitz Trailblazers!

City of Glenwood Raingarden Blitz FactsheetDownload

Pope Soil and Water Conservation District is in process of a raingarden initiative in the City of Glenwood. A raingarden is a biofiltration practice that reduces the flow rate of stormwater and reduces pollutant loads from impervious surfaces such as driveways, roofs and roads within an urban setting. Other projects could be bioswales or tree trenches depending on the layout of the yard and the desire of the landowner.

Pope SWCD was awarded a Clean Water Fund grant focusing on stormwater within Glenwood. Lake Minnewaska is the receiving benefitted waterbody from these city projects. Through this grant, Pope SWCD is able to offer 75% cost-share of the total project cost to landowners who enter into a project contract with our office. Project site will be reviewed to determine feasibility. If you are interested in a raingarden or stormwater practice on your property, please contact the Pope SWCD office at 320-634-5327 and ask for Jessica.

A completed raingarden practice.
Photo Credit: Stearns Soil and Water Conservation District

MANURE MANAGEMENT AND SOIL HEALTH VIRTUAL WEBINAR

The Pope and Stearns SWCDs and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture invite you to a Virtual Webinar on January 7, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. to be held via Zoom. We are asking you to pre-register for this event by clicking this link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYucu6rrTguGNdBZPbSJnPFOeiuL3jfy0s5

When you register, you will receive and email with the direct link to the Zoom call. Please register by January 5th, 2021. If you have trouble registering please give our office a call at 320-634-5327.

Virtual Manure Management Field Day to be held on January 7th, 2021

Join us for an informational webinar session about low disturbance manure injection, soil health, manure management, and tillage practices. Learn about how low soil disturbance manure injection into the soil is an effective management strategy for soil health and nutrient management. The virtual field day will place on Thursday, January 7th, 2021 form 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. via Zoom. 


Even though this field day couldn’t be held in-person, the organizers and presenters have developed an informative virtual event that will include live interviews, videos, presentations, research updates, and Q&A. This session is designed for a wide audience including but not limited to farmers, landowners, agency staff, custom applicators, farm equipment dealerships, and anyone who utilizes manure on their operation. CCA Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for this virtual field have been applied for; .5 CEUs for Nutrient Management and .5 CEUs for Soil and Water Management.

During the virtual event, there will be live interviews from Greg Vold, co-owner of Dorrich Dairy, Tim Woeste, co-owner of Upper Midwest Pumping, LLC, and Kevin Wolter, Business Development Manager, Bazooka Farmstar. There will be research updates from University of Minnesota Extension staff members Melissa Wilson on manure management, Jodi DeJong-Hughes on tillage, and Anna Cates on soil health. There will also be drone footage featuring the application of manure taking place on Dorrich Dairy.

Pre-registration is required. To register, visitStearns County SWCD’s website at www.stearnscountyswcd.net or Pope SWCD’s website at www.popeswcd.org. Once you are registered, you will receive a confirmation email with your own personalized Zoom link; please save that link and utilize it to access the virtual event. Participants are encouraged to register by January 5th, 2021.

This virtual event is sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) Ag Water Quality Certification Program, Clean Water Funds, Pope SWCD, and Stearns County SWCD.

Hosted by the Stearns County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) and Pope Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) in partnership with the University of Minnesota Extension, Dorrich Dairy, Upper Midwest Pumping LLC, and Bazooka Farmstar.

For more information contact Holly Kovarik, Pope SWCD at 320-634-5327 or Brittany Lenzmeier, Stearns County SWCD at 320.251.7800 ext.3

Sauk River Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan 60 Day Public Comment Period Open

The Sauk River One Watershed One Plan Partnership is pleased to submit this Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan for the 60-day public comment period. Comments can be submitted until December 18, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. Please submit to: Sarah Boser, Water Resources Manager for the SRWD and Plan Coordinator for the Sauk River 1W1P. 642 Lincoln Road, Sauk Centre, Minnesota 56378
(320) 352-2231 or email: sarah@srwdmn.org
A copy of the report can be found by clicking on the graphic above.

NOTICE TO SERVICE CENTER VISITORS

During this time of social distancing, for the health and safety of our customers and staff the door is locked for visitors at this time.

Please conduct any SWCD business you can by email or telephone (320) 634-5327 or 320-634-5143 option #3

Please call to make an appointment by phone or email.

Please understand that staff hours might vary during this time of social distancing.

If you have questions about tree orders you can call the office to talk to Kelly or on his cell at 320-760-3002. We ask that if you have a payment to make then please send it in the mail.

We are working so please try to reach us using these other methods. We want to be able to assist you in the best way that we can at this time.

holly.kovarik@mn.nacdnet.net

jessica.hoheisel@mn.nacdnet.net

kelly.erickson@mn.nacdnet.net

nicole.brede@mn.nacdnet.net

Kernza Research Begins at Rosholt

             Pope SWCD is working alongside the U of M and Stearns SWCD on studying the benefits of a new crop called Kernza. The study being done at our Rosholt research farm in Westport is to test the amount of nitrate leaching present in perennial crop productions. This spring we started with preparing the site and planted wheat after a corn/soybean rotation. This early fall we were then able to assist in the planting of the Kernza plots. Our office looks forward to what we can learn about Kernza and what this crop will be able to do for not only agriculture but for  water quality.

The three goals of the Kernza project are: 1) Test that Kernza and other native seeds are more effective at reducing nitrate leaching than alfalfa and prairie under irrigated and rain-fed conditions by measuring nitrate samples collected from lysimeters. This work is being done by U of M and Pope SWCD staff. 2) Establish Kernza fields within the City of Cold Spring’s DWSMA and near the City of St. cloud’s Water Treatment Plant. These sites will be monitored for leaching and field production by the Stearns SWCD staff. 3) Examine Kernza as a food ingredient (bread, cereal pasta, beer, etc.) and non-food (straw) with MN companies and map local processor capabilities, opportunities, and barriers. Characterize and provide technical information on handling, storage, formulation, and shelf life of Kernza product development concepts. Supply nutritional profiles for food/beverage containing Kernza and conduct sensory analysis. The Agricultural Utilization Research Institute (AURI) will take lead.

Kernza is a domesticated variety of intermediate wheatgrass. This grain is already attracting attention from restaurants, bakeries, and breweries as being a new perennial grain. What is unique about this sod-forming grass is the very deep roots, growing to a depth of 10 feet. With such deep roots the plant is able to capture and use nitrate in the soil that otherwise leach into our groundwater.  Excessive nitrate in groundwater can cause health problems and treatment for drinking water can be expensive. For more information please contact our office at 320-634-5143.

Kaley Poegel Named Teacher of the Year

  • Pope and Stevens SWCD staff suprised Kaley with the news. Pictured are some of her family and SWCD staff.

On behalf of Pope and Stevens SWCDs, we would like to congratulate Kaley Poegel a 4th grade teacher at Glacial Hills Elementary School.  Kaley was nominated by these SWCDs for the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation District’s Teacher of the Year.  Kaley was selected as this year’s recipient.  She will be honored in December at the MASWCD Conference on December 9th and by the County on December 17th.  Congratulations Kaley for all you do for our area youth and especially your work on teaching them about the environment.

Donald and Shari Opdahl Selected as Outstanding Conservationists

Donald and Shari Opdahl 2019 Outstanding Conservationists

       The Pope SWCD  would like to congratulate  this year’s  Outstanding Conservationist, Don and Shari Opdahl. Don is an employee of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (seed, biotech, and noxious weed unit) for the past 28 years. Shari is a retired music teacher of 34 years and most recently worked at Glacial Hills Elementary school.

The Opdahl’s operate an 820 acre corn and soybean farm south of Starbuck, Minnesota.  The entire farm is on a 4 year rotation for grid soil sampling. The Opdahl’s have implemented 9 water and sediment control basins starting in 2015.They also installed approximately 20 water quality inlets on the remaining open intakes on their farm. They converted 1 open intake to a rock inlet design.  Don and his family have been very supportive of the Pope SWCD and NRCS.  They have on at least 2 occasions allowed our office to use their sites for educational program tours.

Don and Shari are very deserving of this recognition as the 2019  Outstanding Conservationists of the Year. They addressed their erosion concerns by implementing structural practices but were receptive and did implement new management to their tillage program.  Their entire operation was reviewed under the Minnesota Ag Water Quality Certification program and did meet the criteria for certification once the tillage was adjusted, intakes were closed, and structures were installed.  Don is a fourth generation Pope County farmer who hopes to pass this farm off to the fifth generation, his son.  These investments Don and Shari have made will have a large impact on the future of the farm.  Congrats again to the Don and Shari Opdahl Family on their efforts to improve their land for future generations.

They will be recognized in December at the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts annual conference in Bloomington, Minnesota and by our County Board.  Congratulations to the Opdahl Family on this well deserved recognition.

Special Weed of the Week Edition-Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald Ash Borer is an invasive beetle from Asia that infects and kills all native species of ash trees in North America. The larvae create tunnels under the bark as they feed. As these tunnels accumulate the ash tree begins to show signs of infestation. Once a tree shows symptoms of infestation it usually dies within 1-3 years.

The Spread:

Emerald Ash Borer was first found in North America in Michigan in 2002. Since then it has spread to numerous other states and Canadian provinces including Minnesota. In 2009, it was found in St. Paul and spread through the metro area. By 2016, the beetle had found its way to Duluth and most recently in 2019 it was found in 10 trees in Sauk Centre, MN.

The Threat:

With an estimated 1 billion ash trees throughout the state, emerald ash borer poses a substantial environmental and economic threat. EAB infestations are difficult to identify in the early stages and spread by both natural and artificial means; therefore, quarantines are enacted when an infestation is discovered. A map of the current EAB status can be found at the following website https://mnag.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=63ebb977e2924d27b9ef0787ecedf6e9.

The Fight:

EAB’s active period is from May 1st to September 30th so it is best to avoid any removal or pruning of ash trees during this time. If you must prune or remove ash trees during this time due to health hazards have at least 1” of the outer bark and wood chipped onsite before transporting it to a removal site. It’s also important to not transport firewood to help control the spread of EAB. Landowners can also help control the spread of EAB by looking for systems of infestation.

Symptoms to look for include:

  • Canopy thinning – branches will progressively start dying each year after infestation
  • Increased woodpecker activity – these birds like to feed on the larvae, particularly downy and hairy woodpeckers
  • D-shaped exit holes – the adults leave distinct D-shaped exit holes about 1/8” wide when they emerge from the tree
  • Serpentine tunnels/bark splits – the larvae create meandering S-shaped tunnels as they feed on the vascular tissue of the tree which is only visible when the bark is peeled away. These tunnels can cause a split in the bark.

If you suspect one of your trees to have Emerald Ash Borer please call the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Arrest the Pest hotline at 888-545-6684. Also note the exact location of the tree and take a digital photo if possible. Landowners can also contact the local Pope County Ag Inspector- Barry Bouwman at 320-634-7791 or the Swift County Ag Inspector- Tom Orr at 320-843-4910.

Pope SWCD MONITORING PLAN FOR BUFFER COMPLIANCE TRACKING

§103F.48 RIPARIAN PROTECTION AND WATER QUALITY PRACTICES

1. COMPLIANCE TRACKING OF ALL PARCELS SUBJECT TO THE BUFFER LAW

All parcels in the county are to be reviewed within a 3‐year timeframe. The SWCD will review all parcels once every 3 years. This will coincide with the new aerial imagery received by the Farm Service Agency. Google Earth may also be utilized or the Counties Pictometry Imagery.

2. RANDOM SPOT CHECKS

Random spot checks will be done in addition to the tracking of all parcels within a 3‐year span. These checks may be conducted via aerial photo review or on‐site review depending on availability of updated aerial photos and the practice that is being checked/access to farms. A combination of both aerial and on‐site review may also be used.

a. The SWCD will conduct 25‐50 parcels on a random spot check each year outside of the scheduled area.

Note: ** There are 4,445 applicable parcels in Pope County.

b. Additionally, the SWCD should review parcels of emphasis more frequently.

Previously non‐compliant

No‐till/Conservation tillage or cover crop alternative practice plans

Variable width buffers (i.e. Land O’ Lakes buffer tool, Decision Support Tool)

Other Alternative Practice Plans

Cost‐share funded projects (years 1,5,9 of contract)

Parcels of further emphasis (potential violators)

3. PROCESS TO HANDLE COMPLAINTS

  • Pope SWCD will investigate public complaints related to buffer law compliance but documenting the compliant including, location, landowner, potential violation, etc. Pope SWCD will then further investigate the compliant by aerial review, landowner calls, and field site checks.
  • If a violation of buffer law non‐compliance is found Pope SWCD will inform the enforcing agency (Pope Land and Resource Management, North Fork Crow River Watershed District or Sauk River Watershed District) and the Board of Water and Soil Resources. A non‐compliance form will be filled out along with a map of the parcel and will be provided to the enforcing entity for follow up with the landowner.
  • Appeals will be handled by the regulatory entity with Pope SWCD staff providing technical information regarding the buffer law and the project site as requested.

For more information contact Pope SWCD at 320-634-5327.

Rosholt Research Farm Celebrates 50 Years in 2018

Rosholt Research Farm celebrates its 50 year anniversary of existence in May this year. Rosholt Research Farm located near Westport in Pope Country was purchased by Pope, Kandiyohi and Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) on May 27, 1968. The motivation to purchase property was to conduct soil and water research.
The 40 acre research farm, now solely owned by Pope SWCD, has the necessary uniform soil type, soil depth, topography and adequate water for irrigation research.
Research at the farm has involved many partners over the years including: USDA-Agricultural Research Service (ARS), University of MN Pope County Extension, US Forest Service, WesMin RC&D, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, University of Minnesota, Prairies Lakes Co-op, and Pope and Stearns County SWCDs.
Nitrogen and water quality research is presently being conducted at Rosholt. The goal is to evaluate the management of nitrogen fertilizers and cover crops in irrigated crop production systems and their impacts on groundwater resources. The objective is to quantify the impact of living mulch (kura clover), cover crop (cereal rye), or no cover crop on nitrate leaching and nitrogen management for irrigated row crops. The project is intended to provide local information to help improve fertilizer management in irrigated row crop production systems.
Data collection for the current research began in 2016 and is designed to be collected through 2020. However, Clean Water funding from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is only secure through 2018. Pope and Stearns County SWCD’s are currently collecting input on updating Rosholt Research Farm’s long term vision plan. This plan will assist in securing funding to continue the current research project and future research at Rosholt Research Farm.
For more information on the Rosholt Research Farm please visit Pope SWCD’s website at https://popeswcd.org/program/rosholt-research-farm/.

Rain Barrels Can Be Used For Water Conservation

By Dalton Herrboldt, Pope SWCD Intern

Want a way to utilize all that rain water that runs off of your roof and goes out your down spout? A rain barrel is your solution. It is a perfect way to capture soft water and help to reduce runoff. In the event of a rain shower rain washes chemicals, excess fertilizer, and sediment into storm sewers. You can help reduce this through the process of catching rain water in a rain barrel.

Rain water contains no chlorine, lime, or calcium making it perfect for any flowers around the house or potted plants. Being that is has no minerals in it, rain water is perfect for washing your car and will not leave the streaks that are left behind from hard water.

Rain Barrel Facts

  • Can save 1300 gallons of water throughout the growing season
  • Garden and lawn irrigation accounts for about 40% of residential water use during the summer
  • ½ inch of rain on 200 square feet of a roof is enough to fill a 60 gallon rain barrel
  • Reduces amount of water you pay for from the municipal for watering gardens and lawns

With a 32 square foot garden it is recommended to use 20 gallons of water per week. If you saved 1300 gallons of water with a rain barrel you would be able to water a 32 square foot garden for 65 weeks.

To maximize your rain water potential you can connect multiple rain water barrels together. Once the first one fills up to the overflow level it will start filling the second one, or you can hook them together from the bottom of the barrel and they will fill up at the same time. There are several different exterior designs for barrels now to match with your house or garage to your liking.

Now is the time to consider purchasing a rain barrel as the gardening season is fast approaching. The cost is $65.00 plus tax and we do have a limited supply available.  If you have an interest in collecting rain water and would like to purchase a rain barrel contact the Pope Soil and Water Conservation District at 320-634-5327.

 

 

Pope SWCD Recognized Chamber Business of the Month

chamberbusinessofthemonth2017

Front row: Kay Blaurert, Dean Peterson, Tom Talle, Holly Kovarik, Nicole Brede, Kelly EricksonBack row: Scott Formo, Randy Pederson, D. Gary Reents, Mike Billehus, Keith Nygaard, and Jessica Oldkowski

Photo credit: Pope County Tribune/Marta Johnson

 

Pope SWCD Recognized as 2016 SWCD of the Year

Pope SWCD 2016 MASWCD District of the Year Paul and Barb Koubsky 2016 Pope SWCD Conservationists of the Year

Pope SWCD board and staff attended the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation District Annual Conference December 4-6 in Bloomington, Minnesota.  Pope SWCD nominated Paul and Barb Koubsky as this year’s Outstanding Conservationist for Pope County.  They were recognized at the convention during a luncheon on Tuesday, December 6th.

Pope SWCD was also named as the 2016 District of the Year.  This award is given to only one SWCD in the state that has shown leadership and has gone above and beyond in its programs and activities.