The SWWD implements an annual education program aimed at improving the general knowledge of watershed residents of SWWD projects programs and their benefits.
Increasing the general knowledge of the residents will also build support for watershed efforts as well as raise the awareness of watershed issues. The SWWD education program serves to fulfill two separate purposes. The first purpose is to provide educational information about the SWWD and watershed related topics. Satisfying the requirements of the SWWDs MS4 permit requirement for education on the six minimum control measures is the second purpose. SWWD annual education program is divided into three elements:
- Support for regional education efforts supported by many watershed organizations and other Local Government Units
- County-wide education efforts supported by watershed organizations, cities, and Washington County
- Educational efforts directed specifically at local issues associated with the SWWD
SWWD Prairie Learning Center – Coming Soon!
The Prairie Learning Center will soon be constructed within the recently completed Glacial Valley Park. The three season structure will serve as trailhead to several prairie walking, hiking, and biking trails. The structure will also provide a gathering space, a informal classroom, nature play space, and two unisex bathrooms. This project does not currently have a ground breaking date.
Check out the full Prairie Learning Center Summary Report
“This is a learning site. This protected natural landscape at the center of existing and future development will tell multiple histories and explain current ecologies and its primary role as a piece of green infrastructure. The stories that are told on the site should be communicated in a variety of ways in order that visitors of different ages, backgrounds, group size and ability level can experience the layered meanings inherent to the site. The structure should offer 3-season comfort and a unique architectural expression, clearly identifying it as a regional attraction rather than a neighborhood park.”
– Vison from concept planning, 2017
Artist in Residence
A recent addition to the SWWD program portfolio, the Artist in Residence (AiR) program first launched in 2023. The AiR program is a unique program that brings mutual benefit to both the District and the selected artist; and ultimately provides a different path for outreach and education. The program was inspired by a similar program out of the Capitol Region Watershed District, and adapted for the needs of South Washington.
Following a call for artists, the first artist was selected in 2023, photographer Sarah Lilja. For the duration of the 2024 AiR cycle, Sarah was tasked with capturing the watershed district and its various projects and events.
Interactive Map
Explore the South Washington watershed through the interactive map. Start by finding out if you are a resident, and exploring the resources in your area. Search for your favorite waterbodies or parks, and locate nearby monitoring sites. There is so much to learn when you explore the watershed.
Education Resources
South Washington Watershed District is a founding member of the East Metro Water Resource Education Program (EMW), a partnership formed to develop a comprehensive water resource education and outreach program for the east metro area of St. Paul, MN. Members of EMW include Brown’s Creek, South Washington, and Valley Branch Watershed Districts, Middle St. Croix Watershed Management Organization, the cities of Dellwood, Forest Lake, Stillwater, and Willernie, Washington County and the Washington Conservation District. The EMW region covers all of Washington County as well as a small portion of Ramsey County. The goal of EMW is to reduce non-point source water pollution from storm water runoff and illicit discharges by educating citizens, municipal staff and officials, developers and businesses.
The blog features EMWREP articles published in local newspapers, as well as links to partner websites and resources for residents.
The South Washington Watershed District is a proud supporter of Metro WaterShed Partners. The Metro WaterShed Partners is an innovative, dynamic coalition of over 70 public, private, and non-profit organizations in the Minneapolis/Saint Paul, Minnesota metropolitan area. Through collaborative education and outreach, we promote a public understanding that inspires people to act to protect water quality in their watershed. For more information on Metro WaterShed Partners visit: http://www.hamline.edu/cgee/watershed/