Dakota County SWCD is Offering Free Landscaping for Clean Water Classes This Spring and Summer
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA—Thinking Spring and planning ahead! The Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) will host its annual Landscaping for Clean Water classes this spring and summer, inviting residents and non-residents alike to learn about creating beautiful, environmentally friendly landscapes.
These free classes offer a unique opportunity to discover how landscaping with native plants can benefit yards and local waterways. Participants will explore examples of innovative garden designs that enhance the aesthetic appeal of their property and contribute to cleaner lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands.
For Dakota County residents, the program includes an exciting incentive: those who complete the Introduction to Clean Water class and the accompanying Design Course are eligible to apply for a $250 grant toward the installation of their garden project. The grant, paid upon project completion, includes on-site visits and technical assistance to ensure successful implementation. The funding can be applied to projects on single and multi-residential properties and smaller school and church gardens.
The classes will introduce attendees to a wide variety of native plants that can transform flowerbeds, brighten up walkways, and even attract butterflies. For property owners near shorelines, these plants can provide natural solutions to improving water quality and managing erosion.
The classes are open to everyone, regardless of Dakota County residency, thanks to sponsorships by the following local watershed management organizations:
Black Dog Watershed Management Organization
Eagan-Inver Grove Heights Watershed Management Organization
Lower Minnesota River Watershed District
Lower Mississippi River Watershed Management Organization
North Cannon River Watershed Management Organization
Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Board
Interested individuals will be able to register through the Dakota County SWCD website, email lcw@co.dakota.mn.us, or call 651-480-7777.
Take advantage of this opportunity to make a positive environmental impact while adding a unique beauty to your outdoor spaces this spring!
Cover photo provided by: Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District - Powerpoint
Written by: Will Wight
