Founded in 2024, MNWiC is a project of Renewing the Countryside in partnership with the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Our mission is to engage women in conservation conversations, connecting them with the tools and resources needed to develop their own goals. As Regional Coordinators, we build networks and connect women land stewards to each other and to conservation professionals.
We facilitate Learning Circles, Field Days, and relationships with local experts who can develop free custom Conservation Plans with participants. Our team works with USDA NRCS staff to assist women in applying for federal farm program assistance and funding to adopt climate smart practices on their land.
As the South East Regional Coordinator, I work with folks in Goodhue, Rice, and Dakota county. The map below shows the counties our four Regional Coordinators are working in:
While this map only encompasses a handful of counties, all women are welcome to come learn to implement practices in their own spaces, regardless of if you are in one of the highlighted counties.
The South East Region kicked things off with a Learning Circle hosted by Cheryl Jirik of Landscape Restoration to focus on the intersection of conservation and agriculture. Drawing on Cheryl’s extensive knowledge and experience, insight from attendees and NRCS and Xerces Society conservation professionals, participants explored partnership opportunities, funding resources, technical support, and first-hand experience of women implementing conservation practices on their land. Additionally, we can’t forget to mention the delicious charcuterie boards composed of local meats, cheeses, jams, and cider which were a huge hit.
MNWiC’s 2025 calendar is beginning to fill up with gatherings that include a mix of virtual and in-person events. Beginning February 26th, MNWiC will be kicking off a series of Welcoming Wednesday Webinars focused on topics such as conservation plans, pollinator habitat, and forest conservation. The webinars will feature a mix of conservation professionals and landowners to provide insight into what these programs look like in practice. We will be back at Cheryl’s home in Webster on March 22nd*** for a potluck and film discussion. Bring a dish to pass and get ready to settle in for good conversation, an inspiring film, and a lively post-film discussion. Keep an eye on the MNWiC website for updates and a link to RSVP in the next few weeks.
If you’d like to learn more about our work, please visit the MNWiC website. You can also feel free to send me an email at maddy@rtcinfo.org with any questions you have. If you take one thing away from this article, I want you to know that whether you are a beginner or an expert, an owner or a renter, a farmer or a gardener, urban or rural - you are welcome here.
****Potluck and film discussion moved to April 12. Keep an eye on the MNWiC website for updates and a link to RSVP