News & Ideas

National study addresses costs, barriers, and opportunities in connecting farmers, ranchers with conservation programs

What does it really take to connect farmers with conservation programs? A first-of-its-kind national study examines the capacity, resources, and partnerships shaping enrollment today.

Solidarity in the world we’re building together

Reflecting on what working in partnership means while navigating times that are in tension with our values.

2025 Environmental Initiative Awards recap

In the past three decades, the Environmental Initiative Awards has allowed us to uplift over 200 environmental changemakers from communities, businesses, governments, and nonprofits. 2025 marks a crucial turning point in the program.

Opening pathways, investing in our future

Executive Director Mike Harley shares his thoughts on Environmental Initiative's two youth-serving projects, Roots for the Future and Collaborative Pathways.

Changing course: How community feedback transformed SGC’s engagement workbook

Learn how Sustainable Growth Coalition's workbook "Community Engagement Best Practices" was transformed into a stronger, clearer guide by community input.

Building effective communications for water resource professionals

The Source Water Protection Collaborative recently transferred engagement resources for water resource professionals to a new home on The Confluence of Watershed Leaders website.

Youth for Earth: Building pathways for BIPOC in environmental careers

Wondering what happens when young people and environmental nonprofit leaders design the agenda? The first ever Youth for Earth conference brought more than 100 youth together for a day of environmental career exploration and outdoor education.

$28 million available for local communities to improve Minnesota’s environment

A new Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund Community Grants Program worth over $28 million dollars invests in the protection, conservation, preservation and enhancement of the state’s air, water, land, fish and other natural resources.