Year: 2025

Pyramid shaped Haystacks in rows in a snowy field.

Essay | 150 Pairs of Boots

An excerpt from the book “Buggy Land” about life in Amish country by author Mary Swander.

An old fashioned metal windmill stands above a field against a sky of pink and blue clouds at sunset

Poetry | Clouds Awakening

Nature inspires Berta Aug’s poetry. Two new poems from this local author.

Black and white photo of a group of downhill skiers holding their skis upright in front of them with dark uniforms and large white labels on the front with their team numbers.

Ski Jumping In America Had Its Roots In Southeast Minnesota

At the turn of the 20th century, ski jumping was a growing sport in Southeast Minnesota. Steve Harris and John Torgrimson follow the history to its roots in Lanesboro.

A woman and a small child kneel next to a gravestone. Beside them is a wagon holding cleaning supplies. Grass is green, sky is blue.

Frequent Cemetery Visitor Finds ‘Friends’, Preserves Memories

David Phillips shares the story of a southeastern Minnesota woman’s hobby that’s become a mission to restore headstones and preserve memories for local families.

woman at podium with other adults surrounding her, announcing a minnesota law suit

Regional Nitrate Issues Again Making Headlines

New lawsuit aims to ensure work continues to address nitrate contamination issues in southeast Minnesota.

Gathering Acorns to Renew River Forestland

Efforts to collect acorns are helping with reforestation projects along the Upper Mississippi River. The Mississippi River Basin Ag & Water Desk reports on volunteer work near the Reno Bottoms.

man at table with book and magazine covers

On His Own Terms: The Writing Life of Tom Driscoll

A southeast Minnesota writer and publisher chronicles his journey as a heart transplant recipient: John Weiss shares the ‘story behind the story’ captured in a soon-to-be-published book by author Tom Driscoll.

Community Leaders, “In the News…”

Tim Penny, Colleen Foehrenbacher, and Joe Grodahl are “In the news”—insights and updates on community people, businesses, organizations and happenings.

Inside Root River Current, January 2025

Behind the scenes news from Root River Current — announcing a major grant award and expanding the board for growth and success!

Two people dressed in jackets, hats, and rubber boots stand in shallow water and scoop debris from the bottom of the stream onto a yellow tarp.

Aquatic Guardianship: The Importance of Monitoring and Maintaining Our Waterways

Clean streams depend on regular monitoring; Laurie Byrne reports on how volunteers assist with water testing to help maintain a healthy Mill Creek in Chatfield.