Emerald Ash Borer Update

The impact of the Emerald Ash Borer continues to reshape our community’s urban forest, and progress is being made.

In this episode, Natural Resources Specialist Ben Humlie provides an update on the city’s ongoing Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) management efforts. With fewer than 1,000 boulevard ash trees remaining to be removed, the community is entering the final phase of a multi-year response to this invasive pest. Unfortunately, all ash trees will eventually succumb to EAB, making proactive planning essential to maintaining a healthy tree canopy.

Ben discusses how the Shade Tree Grant program will help restore our urban forest, with a total of 331 new trees being planted as a one-for-one replacement for trees removed.

The conversation also highlights broader ecological restoration work happening throughout the city, including:

• Removal of invasive buckthorn
• Stormwater pond cleanups and maintenance
• Seeding restored areas with native plants to improve habitat, water quality, and long-term sustainability

Tune in to learn how these efforts are helping rebuild a more diverse, resilient landscape for the future.

Ever wonder how your yard can help protect our rivers and lakes? In this episode of Farmington Feed, we’re digging into Landscaping for Clean Water. This is a program that helps residents reimagine their lawns while making a real difference for the environment.

We’re joined by Brita Moore-Kutz, Communications & Outreach Specialist with the Vermilion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (VRWJPO), and Lindsey Albright, Monitoring & Outreach Coordinator with Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD). They share how small changes in landscaping can have a big impact on water quality.

You’ll also hear:

• How Landscaping for Clean Water works and how much grant funding may be available
• Details on free intro classes (virtual options available this year)
• Tips from the Lawn Watering Wisdom campaign
• How to get involved through Adopt-A-Drain and storm drain stenciling

Registration is now open for Landscaping for Clean Water intro classes. While there are no in-person classes in Farmington this year, virtual options make it easy to participate from anywhere.

Tune in, get inspired, and learn how your lawn can be part of the solution!

Feed in 5
1. Coffee Café

2. The Open Door

3. Learn to Skate Winter Session

4. Legacy on Ice Show Registration Deadline

5. National Skating Month Open Skate