Grad student strengthens research skills studying sustainable corn production at the SWROC
Water Resources Science graduate student Zac Aanerud gained valuable research skills and insights studying sustainable corn production at the Southwest Research and Outreach Center the past three summers. Aanerud’s research is supported by the Minnesota Corn Growers Association and the Watershed Innovations (WINS) Grant Program of the University of Minnesota Water Resources Center in conjunction with the United States Geological Survey.
Solutions to Urban Stormwater Runoff
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.
Water Connects Us All
No matter where you live on Earth, water connects you to all living beings: those who came before, those who reside on the planet now, and those who are yet to come. The water that you drink for nourishment has been here for billions of years. It has kissed the ocean and the sky, traveled across faraway lands, and seen a diverse array of people before reaching you.
Soil Health Program Implementation Exceeds Pollution Reduction Goals
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.
Every drop counts in Minnesota’s thirstiest soils
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.