MAPS-Blue Earth Soil and Water Prairie Partnership

The MAPS Sustainability Committee has been exploring an exciting opportunity to expand the existing native prairie at Prairie Winds Middle School into an 11-acre prairie restoration project in partnership with the Blue Earth Soil and Water Conservation District. The proposed project would transform an area of school district property currently dominated by invasive grasses and woody vegetation into a high-quality native prairie ecosystem. Located within the Le Sueur River Watershed, the project would provide important environmental benefits, including improved water quality, groundwater recharge, pollinator habitat and carbon sequestration. The project is eligible for funding through the state's Clean Water Fund, which would cover 90% of the costs, with the school district responsible for the remaining 10%.

At Monday's Board meeting, Prairie Winds Principal Jason Grovom, eighth-grade physical science teacher Brett Riss and Blue Earth Soil and Water Conservation District Conservation Specialist Jake Fritz will share an overview of the proposed project, including its educational benefits, implementation plan and long-term vision.

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