July 2025

‘Bringing Small Grains Back to Minnesota’ Workshop Aug. 2 in Madison 

 Farmers, agricultural professionals and community members are invited to a “Bringing Small Grains Back to Minnesota” workshop on Saturday, Aug. 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in Madison. This free Land Stewardship Project (LSP) event is an opportunity to learn from regional growers and innovators about the benefits of reintroducing small grains into farming operations and ways to rebuild the markets and infrastructure needed to support them. Lunch will be provided, and pre-registration is requested by Thursday, July 31. To register and to secure a spot, visit https://bit.ly/smallgrainwest. For more information, contact LSP’s Alex Kiminski at 925-207-3721 or akiminski@landstewardshipproject.org.

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Let’s Go Fishing Club receives donation

The Tri-County Let’s Go Fishing Club received a generous donation from the Lac Qui Parle Lake Association recently. Let’s Go Fishing clubs operate solely with the support of volunteers and donated dollars. This donation will play a vital role in helping continue the mission of providing meaningful outdoor experiences for seniors, veterans, and youth in the communities of Chippewa, Yellow Medicine and Lac Qui Parle counties. This contribution not only helps maintain and operate the fishing excursions, but it also reflects a shared commitment to enriching lives and fostering a deep appreciation for the beautiful natural resources in our area. Thank you to the LQP Lake Association for their partnership and generosity—it truly makes a difference. Pictured l-r: Brad Dyshaw, Joe Schultz, Marv Dehne, Jim Bowen, Gary Groothuis (LQP Lake Association Representative), Brad Goar.

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Help United Way of Southwest Minnesota “Stuff the Bus” with school supplies

The United Way of Southwest Minnesota (UWSWMN) is once again collecting new school supplies to help local children start the school year ready to learn. Our annual Stuff the Bus initiative supports K-12 students by providing essential school supplies, easing the burden on families, and helping students feel confident and prepared.

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Dealing with storm-damaged trees

Recent storms throughout the state have caused major tree damage, and cleanup following a storm can be overwhelming. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has some tips on dealing with storm-damaged trees. Many communities also have resources and guidelines, especially after major storm events. Consider reaching out to your city, county or township to learn more.

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News from WRAP: Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

July 2025 marks the 16th annual National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, also known as BIPOC Mental Health Month. This observance was established in 2008 when congress officially recognized July in honor of author and health advocate Bebe Moore Cambell. Cambell (1950-2006) co-founded a NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) chapter to support Black families affected by mental illness. Through storytelling and advocacy, she worked to break the silence and stigma surrounding mental health in communities of color. Her efforts led to the national designation of this month to raise awareness about the unique mental health needs of racial, ethnic, and other marginalized groups.

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