Carver County Water Management Organization

05/27/2026

We are thrilled to announce we will be hosting a MN GreenCorps member starting in September and the application for Minnesota GreenCorps members is now open! We are looking for a member who is interested in learning about native plants, chloride pollution, and stormwater practice monitoring. The position will work on education and outreach projects as well as monitoring projects. There are up to 58 positions statewide and the service term is September 2026 through August 2027. Learn more by visiting the link Minnesota GreenCorps bio!

05/07/2026

Looking for summer employment and enjoy working outdoors?

Carver County is seeking watercraft inspectors for the summer to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Inspectors work at public boat launches doing inspections, educating visitors on aquatic invasive species prevention, and ensuring local and state regulation compliance. FT/PT and flexible hours!

https://www.carvercountymn.gov/departments/employee-relations/job-opportunities

05/01/2026

Carver County provides smart irrigation controllers to residents at reduced costs through the Rachio redemption program. Smart controllers use local weather forecasts to get the right amount of water to lawns and gardens and save you money.

Get an additional $20-25 off during the upcoming bonus week, May 18 -25.

Grass only needs 1 inch of water a week and that came come from rain or a hose. Making sure systems aren't overwatering or watering during wet periods preserves our groundwater - where we get our drinking water from - and prevents excess runoff.

Visit https://www.carvercountymn.gov/departments/public-services/planning-water-management/water-management/get-involved/smart-water-program

04/08/2026

There is still time to get your rain barrel ordered before they are ready for pick up at the Carver County Environmental Center.

Carver County residents can receive $20 off a rain barrel while supplies last.

Order with Recycling Association of Minnesota at www.recycleminnesota.org. Select Carver County as your pickup location use code "carver20" to receive your discount. Discount valid for Carver County residents only. One discount available per household, while supplies last.

Rain barrels can be picked up at the Environmental Center 116 Peavey Circle, Chaska, MN 55318 during regular business hours starting April 15, 2026.

04/06/2026

High acetochlor levels have been detected in Silver Creek, with most spikes happening after heavy rainfall early in the season (early May- early June). Elevated acetochlor can damage aquatic plants, reduce habitat quality, and negatively impact sensitive fish and invertebrates. Continued spikes could lead to future restrictions on acetochlor use in the watershed.

If you farm or rent out land in the 25,000-acre Silver Creek watershed, your early season decisions can help protect the creek and keep acetochlor available for future use.

Minnesota Department of Agriculture recommends
• Use non acetochlor herbicides early in the season
• Incorporate pre plant applications
• Avoid applying before heavy rain
• Use the lowest effective label rate and premixes
• Maintain vegetative buffers along waterways.

Small changes now can protect local water quality and prevent future restrictions.
For more info, questions or assistance, contact the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, [email protected], or 651-201-6029.

More info on best practices athttps://www.mda.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/inline-files/acetochlorbmps.pdf

03/16/2026

Join us for a two-part workshop on native plant design.

Whether you're just starting or already transforming your whole yard, this workshop provides tools and resources needed to build a flourishing native garden

Details and registration at www.carvercountymn.gov/water

03/06/2026

Carver County residents can receive $20 off a rain barrel while supplies last.

Order with Recycling Association of Minnesota at www.recycleminnesota.org. Select Carver County as your pickup location use code "carver20" to receive your discount. Discount valid for Carver County residents only. One discount available per household, while supplies last.

Rain barrels can be picked up at the Environmental Center 116 Peavey Circle, Chaska, MN 55318 during regular business hours starting April 15, 2026.

03/03/2026

Thinking spring? The Carver Soil & Water Conservation District's plant sale is live. Purchase trees, seed mixes, and native plants!

🌞The sun is shining, and spring will be here soon!
🌳 Be sure to get your tree orders in, supplies are limited!
💻 www.carverswcd.org/store
📍 11360 Highway 212 STE 6, Cologne, MN
📞 (952) 466-5230

* All of our trees/shrubs are BARE ROOT stock, arrival size of 7-18"
* All are sold in bundles of 25 - we do not split bundles.
* Our tree program is operated on a first come, first serve basis.
➡️ Do not delay, get your order in today!

02/23/2026

Join our team this summer! We are hiring for 4 seasonal positions.

1 water education assistant to plan outreach events, teach day camps, and create educational materials. Closes March 10.

3 water resources assistants to help with data collection and projects for lakes, streams, and aquatic invasive species. Closes March 11.

Apply online at https://www.carvercountymn.gov/

02/19/2026

Fourth grade teachers can register their classes for a chance to attend the Metro Children’s Water Festival.

The festival is Wednesday, Sept. 30 at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. It is open to metro area fourth grade classes and homeschool groups. The festival teaches children about water-related topics that help them appreciate the natural environment and our water resources. The festival will feature 50 interactive learning stations, a water arcade, and presentations by the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Register by March 16 www.metrocwf.org