News
What's happening at East Otter Tail SWCD
Local SWCDs Lead The Way in Expanding Irrigation Conservation Across Minnesota
October 30, 2025 by Press Release
Local Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) are once again stepping up to help Minnesota farmers protect water resources and improve irrigation efficiency. Working closely with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) and the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), 26 SWCDs across the state will lead on-the-ground implementation of a new five-year conservation initiative supported by $11.16 million in federal funding.
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Alan Westad is named the East Otter Tail SWCD Outstanding Conservationist
October 16, 2025 by Kristi Rorah
Alan Westad of rural Parkers Prairie has been selected by the East Otter Tail Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) to receive the 2025 Outstanding Conservationist Award for East Otter Tail County.
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Minnesota Soil Health RCPP: A New Opportunity for Farmers
September 09, 2025 by Darren Newville
Minnesota farmers now have an exciting opportunity to improve their land while strengthening their bottom line through the Minnesota Soil Health Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). This program provides financial and technical assistance to producers who want to implement soil health practices that build resilience, reduce erosion, and improve water quality. Whether you’re interested in cover crops, reduced tillage, or nutrient management, the RCPP is designed to support practices that benefit both your farm and the environment.
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Watersheds, Runoff, and the Impact of Rain Deficits on the River-fed Lakes in Otter Tail County
August 28, 2025 by Darren Newville
When we think about healthy lakes and rivers, most of us picture clear water, good fishing, and recreation opportunities. What we don’t always see is the invisible system that supports them—the watershed. Understanding watersheds and runoff helps explain why a lack of rain during the growing season (April through October) has such a direct effect on lake levels in river-fed systems, like many of the lakes in the Otter Tail River Watershed.
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East Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District Named SWCD of the Year
December 30, 2024 by Alyson Levig
Official press release:
The East Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) was named SWCD of the Year at the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation District’s (MASWCD) annual two-day convention held in Bloomington, Minnesota, in early December.
