The Vermillion River Watershed Technical Advisory Group (TAG) provides advice and recommendations to the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (VRWJPO) on scientific, technical, and policy issues that affect water resources management in the Vermillion River Watershed.  TAG members represent local governments (cities, townships, and counties), state agencies, soil and water conservation districts, tribes, environmental consulting firms, environmental groups, watershed management organizations, the Vermillion River Watershed Planning Commission (WPC), and other interested parties. Membership is open and flexible; contact the VRWJPO to be included on the email invitation list.

Join the Twin Cities Trout Unlimited (TCTU) Vermillion Riverkeepers for its last volunteer work day of the year! Volunteers will cut and haul away invasive buckthorn from the banks of the Vermillion River’s South Branch on Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. The group meets at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Vermillion River Aquatic Management Area (AMA) at E. 200th St. at U.S. Hwy. 52 in Vermillion Township. The Vermillion Riverkeepers, now 55 members strong, plan to help re-establish native prairie, stabilize banks to reduce erosion, and restore wildlife habitat on the South Branch site. All community members are welcome to help shoulder the work, enjoy the great company, and have lunch. Please register by Thursday, December 1, by contacting Tony Nelson, if you plan to attend, to ensure TCTU has enough food and gear for every volunteer.

Join Friends of the Mississippi River and Hastings Environmental Protectors for a unique island cleanup.

Spring Lake Park stretches around the bend of the Mississippi River. After meeting in the Dakota County park, where FMR has been restoring habitat for over 10 years, volunteers will be shuttled to the nearby islands by boat to pick up trash.

As always, all are welcome and encouraged to work at their own comfort level. Due to wet island conditions, waterproof knee or muck boots are highly encouraged. Bags and gloves will be provided.

Following the cleanup, a light lunch will be provided for all volunteers courtesy of Hastings Environmental Protectors.

Ready to register?

To sign up and receive precise directions to the meeting spot, contact FMR Volunteer Coordinator Amy Kilgore via the contact form (please select Amy by name from the staff list under “Category”) or at akilgore@fmr.org, 651-222-2193 x31. Please include the name of the event, your name, address and phone number and the number in your party. If you’re under 18 and interested in volunteering without the company of your parent or guardian, please take a moment and have them fill out this brief minor permission form.

To ensure a high-quality experience, capacity is limited and pre-registration required. Registration closes Thursday, October 5, or upon reaching capacity.

You will receive a confirmation email with details and directions from akilgore@fmr.org within two business days. (If you don’t, please check your SPAM folder.) Amy is typically in the office M-Th.