On Tuesday, June 18, Senator David Senjem (R-Rochester) joined other members of the Mississippi River Legislative Caucus at a farm near Red Wing to discuss on-farm conservation efforts and sustainable farming methods to reduce nutrient pollution.

“All Minnesotans share a clean water goal that promotes healthy living, thriving communities, and a growing economy. I was glad to participate in a discussion on how sustainable farming practices and conservation methods can help communities along the mighty Mississippi River flourish,” said Senator Senjem, acting chair of the Minnesota Mississippi River Parkway Commission. “We all have an interest in protecting our natural resources.”

The delegation visited Lake City Catholic Worker Farm near Red Wing, a locally-based farm that uses restorative agricultural practices and crop diversification to reduce runoff that can negatively impact water quality. The tour was organized by the Mississippi River Legislative Caucus, a network of legislators in states bordering the Mississippi River that encourages interstate discussions on river health and sustainable infrastructure development. The tour afforded local farmers, state legislators, and city officials the opportunity to discuss collaborative efforts and innovative techniques that reduce nutrient loading.

“After touring the Lake City Catholic Worker Farm, legislators were inspired and are dedicated to working together to reduce nutrient pollution along the Mississippi River corridor,” said Jeff Mauk, executive director for the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators. “We are inspired by their desires to coordinate together as they work towards a healthier Mississippi River.”

“By engaging with our agricultural communities and leveraging the best in conservation and sustainable farming practices, we can also keep the Mississippi River a national treasure,” said Senator Senjem.

Senator David Senjem represents Dodge and Olmsted counties in the Minnesota Senate. Senator Senjem serves as acting chair of the Minnesota Mississippi River Parkway Commission, chair of the Senate Capital Investment Committee, and is a former majority leader and minority leader.

The Mississippi River Legislative Caucus is a project of the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators (NCEL). Created by and for state legislators, NCEL is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that organizes over 1,000 environmentally-committed state legislators from both parties and all 50 states. NCEL provides venues and opportunities for lawmakers to share ideas and collaborate on environmental issues.