Southwest Regional Development Commission

06/01/2026

🌾 Discover the quiet beauty and powerful history of Slaughter Slough in Murray County.

Take a peaceful prairie walk with native grasses, blooming wildflowers, wildlife habitats, and stories that connect the land to its past. From conservation efforts to the site’s rich history, Slaughter Slough offers a meaningful stop for nature lovers, history buffs, photographers, and anyone looking to slow down and explore Southwest Minnesota.

📍 Slaughter Slough Waterfowl Production Area
🥾 Scenic walking trails & interpretive signs
🌼 Prairie blooms, wildlife, and open grasslands
📖 A place where nature, history, and conservation meet

06/01/2026

Could your town be the next one to save big with clean energy?
You don't have to navigate the search alone. CERTs built a tool that highlights state grants, utility rebate, and federal cash-back incentives available to help you pay for your clean energy projects.

Here are a few upcoming deadlines to know about before you dive into the tool:
☀️The Solar on Public Buildings Grant that all the cities featured took advantage of is in it’s last round and the deadline is June 30! Check out a recording from the May 9 webinar explaining the program.
https://www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org/new-solar-public-buildings-grant-funding-round

⚡With rising fuel prices and poor air quality forecast for this summer the Electric School Bus Grant is a big opportunity for school districts. The deadline is June 18.
https://www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org/electric-school-bus-grants-funding-available

☀️Local governments are eligible for up to $20K to streamline residential solar permitting processes by adopting SolarAPP+. Applications are first-come, first-serve, and reviewed monthly until funds are fully expended or until June 2028.
https://www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org/funding-available-adoption-solarapp

🔎CERTs Pay for Your Projects tool features more funding opportunities for your community! https://www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org/pay-your-projects

06/01/2026

Did you know that End-O-Line Railroad Park & Museum offers electric bike rentals right from our gift shop?

Located at the trailhead of the beautiful Casey Jones State Trail Currie Loop, our park is the perfect launch point for your next biking adventure. And now, you’ll be able to cruise the loop with a little extra pedal power—thanks to electric assist!

Whether you’re looking to explore more miles, tackle those gentle hills with ease, or just enjoy the breeze without breaking a sweat, our e-bikes will make your visit even more enjoyable.

06/01/2026

05/27/2026

Minnesota farmers, producers, and agricultural landowners have an opportunity to access funding for climate-friendly agricultural practices through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Climate-Friendly Agricultural Practices (CFAP) program.

Eligible applicants can receive up to $10,000 for projects that support sustainable agriculture practices such as:
• Conservation cover
• Pasture and hay planting
• Conservation crop rotation
• Tree and shrub establishment

Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with approximately $1.2 million available this year.

Applicants do not need to be certified through the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP) to apply, though certified applicants are eligible for a higher payment rate.

Eligible applicants include farmers, producers, agricultural LLCs, and agricultural landowners operating in Minnesota.

Learn more and apply at https://www.mda.state.mn.us/climate-friendly-agricultural-practices-incentive-payments