RESCHEDULED - Fish Printing with Carp Workshop (Gyotaku)
Sep
20
5:00 PM17:00

RESCHEDULED - Fish Printing with Carp Workshop (Gyotaku)

Gyotaku is a form of nature printing used by fishermen since the mid-1800s to record their catches. On July 26th, LPLA will be hosting a Carp Workshop and Gyotaku event with guest artist, Kimberly Boustead. Using cleaned bighead and/or silver carp sourced from the river, you can create your very own carp prints to take home. You can copy the tail, the fins, or try to get the whole fish by inking and transferring onto provided paper.

This is an entry-level printing activity with no experience necessary. It is a memorable and creative way to interact with the actual fish and participants will leave with an original piece of art.

Refreshments will accompany an informative talk from a local expert on invasive carp, their impact on the ecosystem and what’s happening with them on the Mississippi River at Lock and Dam 5 and in Lake Pepin.

Don’t miss this unique experience at the Red Wing Marine Museum along the river.

Register here. Maximum attendees: 25

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Frontenac State Park Pollinator and Water Walk
Aug
10
11:30 AM11:30

Frontenac State Park Pollinator and Water Walk

Come explore Frontenac State Park with local pollinator conservation coordinator, Christina Locke (MN Department of Natural Resources). Participants will learn about vital insect pollinators, their host plants and how these species play a role in building and maintaining healthy watersheds.

This walk is beginner-friendly. Please wear tick-safe apparel and appropriate shoes and sun protection for walking in open tall grass prairie.

This event is free and open to the public. Register Here.

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Aquatic Invasive Species Snapshot Day - 2024
Aug
10
8:30 AM08:30

Aquatic Invasive Species Snapshot Day - 2024

Join the statewide search for aquatic invasive species!

Snapshot Day is a statewide, one-day event connecting volunteers, water lovers, and local groups in a search for aquatic invasive species (AIS). You can help protect Wisconsin’s rivers, lakes, and wetlands from these invasive plants and animals that may negatively impact habitat, wildlife, recreation and health. This event is coordinated in partnership with UW-Madison Division of Extension, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, local partners, and YOU!

What You’ll Do

You will meet at a local training site of your choosing, hosted by one of our local partners. After a short training on how to identify target aquatic invasive species and how to follow search protocols, volunteers will look for invasive species at critical monitoring sites, and potential invasive species will be verified and cataloged with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to guide species control and conservation management plans. This is a free event and no experience or special equipment is required.

This is event is recommended for ages 8 and up; minors must be accompanied by an adult.

This handbook provides an overview of what to expect when participating as a Snapshot Day Volunteer!

There is a recommended, but not required, virtual training on August 2 from noon-1pm. The training will be recorded to folks unable to join us live. Learn more about the virtual training here.

REGISTRATION:

Register Here

CONTACT:

Emily Heald

emily.heald@wisc.edu

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River Restoration Voyageur Canoe Tour (RESCHEDULED)
Jul
27
12:00 PM12:00

River Restoration Voyageur Canoe Tour (RESCHEDULED)

Join LPLA and Wilderness Inquiry for a Mississippi River canoe tour. This is a beginner friendly trip for those looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the iconic river from inside a 20-ft canoe. The journey starts in Red Wing at Colvill Park as you paddle yourself southward to the campground in Bay City, WI. Open to ages 9 and up, it’s a great opportunity for families with older children!

As you travel down the river, you will be treated to breathtaking views of towering bluffs, shimmering sandbars, and abundant wildlife – including bald eagles and maybe even a rare sighting of a river otter. The tour will feature a naturalist talk about the ecosystem and a new project to restore the river and its habitat. 

The trip will last 2.5 hours and vans will return you at the end to the park where we began. Despite the short time on the water, you will need to be prepared for a range of weather conditions. Dress in light layers and bring sun protection. 

This Mississippi canoe trip is perfect for those who want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and learn how to paddle in a safe and controlled environment. It offers a chance to connect with nature, learn about the rich history of the region, and create unforgettable memories with friends and family.

Click here to register.

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River Restoration Voyageur Canoe Tour
Jun
15
12:00 PM12:00

River Restoration Voyageur Canoe Tour

Join LPLA and Wilderness Inquiry for a Mississippi River canoe tour. This is a beginner friendly trip for those looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the iconic river from inside a 20-ft canoe. The journey starts in Red Wing at Colvill Park as you paddle yourself southward to the campground in Bay City, WI. Open to ages 9 and up, it’s a great opportunity for families with older children!

As you travel down the river, you will be treated to breathtaking views of towering bluffs, shimmering sandbars, and abundant wildlife – including bald eagles and maybe even a rare sighting of a river otter. The tour will feature a naturalist talk about the ecosystem and a new project to restore the river and its habitat. 

The trip will last 2.5 hours and vans will return you at the end to the park where we began. Despite the short time on the water, you will need to be prepared for a range of weather conditions. Dress in light layers and bring sun protection. 

This Mississippi canoe trip is perfect for those who want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and learn how to paddle in a safe and controlled environment. It offers a chance to connect with nature, learn about the rich history of the region, and create unforgettable memories with friends and family.

Click here to register.

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Jackie Treehorn & The Malibu Sheriffs @ Governor's Fishing Opener
May
9
6:30 PM18:30

Jackie Treehorn & The Malibu Sheriffs @ Governor's Fishing Opener

We are excited to be participating in the Governor's Fishing Opener this year in Lake City, Minnesota! Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance will be hosting the welcome reception on Thursday, May 9 at the VWF. 

Joining us will be a band that "fits right in" with their flat-bottom yacht rock from 6:30 - 8:30 PM that evening. Jackie Treehorn & the Mailbu Sherrifs are a Winona-based band that includes our very own LPLA board member, Scott Feraro. A huge thank you to Scott and the band for the riverine entertainment! 

This event is free and open to the public!

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Invasive Carp Community Action Meeting – Feb. 30 in Winona
Feb
1
5:00 PM17:00

Invasive Carp Community Action Meeting – Feb. 30 in Winona

Learn about the state of invasive carp in Minnesota and what we can do to protect our waters with a meeting in Winona hosted by the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance and Friends of the Mississippi River. The Minnesota DNR is expected to present its newly updated Invasive Carp Action Plan at this meeting. There will also be time for attendees to ask questions and share their feedback. Light snacks and beverages will be provided.


About the LPLA and FMR Community Action Meetings

The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance (LPLA) and Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) are co-hosting four community action meetings (including a virtual option) to engage people in efforts to protect our rivers, lakes and streams from invasive carp. These meetings will build on previous research and recent legislative efforts.

The four meetings will be held on different dates, but each will be from 5-7 p.m. The St. Paul meeting will be livestreamed for those who would like to attend virtually. The information provided will be the same at each event — space is limited, so we ask that you only register for one in-person event. You can, however, also register for the virtual livestream in case of an in-person cancellation or inclement weather.

This event is co-sponsored by Conservation Minnesota, Friends of Pool 2, National Parks Conservation Association, Minnesota Conservation Federation, and Wild Rivers Conservancy.

All Meeting Dates, Locations, and Links to Register:

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Invasive Carp Community Action Meeting – Jan. 30 Virtual
Jan
30
5:00 PM17:00

Invasive Carp Community Action Meeting – Jan. 30 Virtual

Learn about the state of invasive carp in Minnesota and what we can do to protect our waters with a virtual meeting hosted by the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance and Friends of the Mississippi River. The Minnesota DNR is expected to present its newly updated Invasive Carp Action Plan at this meeting. There will also be time for attendees to ask questions and share their feedback. Light snacks and beverages will be provided.


About the LPLA and FMR Community Action Meetings

The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance (LPLA) and Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) are co-hosting four community action meetings (including a virtual option) to engage people in efforts to protect our rivers, lakes and streams from invasive carp. These meetings will build on previous research and recent legislative efforts.

The four meetings will be held on different dates, but each will be from 5-7 p.m. The St. Paul meeting will be livestreamed for those who would like to attend virtually. The information provided will be the same at each event — space is limited, so we ask that you only register for one in-person event. You can, however, also register for the virtual livestream in case of an in-person cancellation or inclement weather.

This event is co-sponsored by Conservation Minnesota, Friends of Pool 2, National Parks Conservation Association, Minnesota Conservation Federation, and Wild Rivers Conservancy.

All Meeting Dates, Locations, and Links to Register:

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Invasive Carp Community Action Meeting – Jan. 30 in St. Paul
Jan
30
5:00 PM17:00

Invasive Carp Community Action Meeting – Jan. 30 in St. Paul

Learn about the state of invasive carp in Minnesota and what we can do to protect our waters with a meeting in St. Paul hosted by the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance and Friends of the Mississippi River. The Minnesota DNR is expected to present its newly updated Invasive Carp Action Plan at this meeting. There will also be time for attendees to ask questions and share their feedback. Light snacks and beverages will be provided.


About the LPLA and FMR Community Action Meetings

The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance (LPLA) and Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) are co-hosting four community action meetings (including a virtual option) to engage people in efforts to protect our rivers, lakes and streams from invasive carp. These meetings will build on previous research and recent legislative efforts.

The four meetings will be held on different dates, but each will be from 5-7 p.m. The St. Paul meeting will be livestreamed for those who would like to attend virtually. The information provided will be the same at each event — space is limited, so we ask that you only register for one in-person event. You can, however, also register for the virtual livestream in case of an in-person cancellation or inclement weather.

This event is co-sponsored by Conservation Minnesota, Friends of Pool 2, National Parks Conservation Association, Minnesota Conservation Federation, and Wild Rivers Conservancy.

All Meeting Dates, Locations, and Links to Register:

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Invasive Carp Community Action Meeting – Jan. 24 in Red Wing
Jan
24
5:00 PM17:00

Invasive Carp Community Action Meeting – Jan. 24 in Red Wing

  • Anderson Center at Tower View (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Learn about the state of invasive carp in Minnesota and what we can do to protect our waters with a meeting in Red Wing hosted by the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance and Friends of the Mississippi River. The Minnesota DNR is expected to present its newly updated Invasive Carp Action Plan at this meeting. There will also be time for attendees to ask questions and share their feedback. Light snacks and beverages will be provided.


About the LPLA and FMR Community Action Meetings

The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance (LPLA) and Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) are co-hosting four community action meetings (including a virtual option) to engage people in efforts to protect our rivers, lakes and streams from invasive carp. These meetings will build on previous research and recent legislative efforts.

The four meetings will be held on different dates, but each will be from 5-7 p.m. The St. Paul meeting will be livestreamed for those who would like to attend virtually. The information provided will be the same at each event — space is limited, so we ask that you only register for one in-person event. You can, however, also register for the virtual livestream in case of an in-person cancellation or inclement weather.

This event is co-sponsored by Conservation Minnesota, Friends of Pool 2, National Parks Conservation Association, Minnesota Conservation Federation, and Wild Rivers Conservancy.

All Meeting Dates, Locations, and Links to Register:

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"Right to Harm" Film Showing
Sep
12
6:00 PM18:00

"Right to Harm" Film Showing

We invite you to join us for a free film showing of the documentary Right to Harm on Tuesday, September 12, at the Sheldon Theatre in Red Wing. The film is an exposé on the public health impact of factory farming across the United States, told through the eyes of residents in five rural communities.

We are honored to be joined by these special guests:

  • Jean Wagenius

Jean retired from the Minnesota legislature after serving more than 30 years (from 1987 to 2021) as a fierce advocate for clean drinking water across the state. She was a voting member on the Clean Water Council (CWC), which advises the Legislature and Governor on the administration and implementation of the Clean Water Legacy Act. Her time on the CWC overlapped with that of LPLA's first Director, Mike McKay, who served as chair of the CWC representing business organizations. Her final term on the CWC overlapped with current LPLA Director, Rylee Hince, who served representing environmental organizations. The CWC's 2-year budget for 2024 and 2025 is $315,300,000.

Jean will be joining us to share her depth of knowledge on nitrogen pollution and what solutions exist within Minnesota's authority to provide remediation.

  • Samantha Bowen

Samantha is a sixth-generation farmer and mother of two who founded People Protecting Pierce, a grassroots effort to protect the communities in Pierce County from nitrogen pollution.

  • Danny Akenson

Danny is a western Wisconsin farmer and staff for GROWW's People Protecting Pierce campaign.

The film will be shown promptly at 6 pm; please arrive by 5:45 pm.

Admission to the film showing is free but registration is required.

Register here

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FULL: Riverboat Tours with the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance — August 19 at 12 pm
Aug
19
12:00 PM12:00

FULL: Riverboat Tours with the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance — August 19 at 12 pm

The August 19 tour at 12 p.m. is full.


Join LPLA on a riverboat for a two-hour nature excursion on the mighty Mississippi River! Our experienced and knowledgeable guides and captain will provide you with a unique and informative experience, highlighting the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

As we set sail from Bay Point Park in Red Wing, take in the stunning views of the river and keep an eye out for the many different types of wildlife that inhabit the area. Our guides will also provide a wealth of information about the river's history and ecology, explaining the important role of the Mississippi and the human impact on the local environment. This trip offers a relaxed way to learn about environmental challenges and the successful efforts in keeping our river and Lake Pepin clean and safe. 

Throughout the tour, you'll also have the opportunity to ask our guides questions, allowing you to learn more about the river and its surrounding area. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, our riverboat tour offers something for everyone.

In addition to the stunning natural beauty of the river, our riverboat is equipped with all the amenities you need to relax and enjoy your tour. Comfortable seating is provided, along with refreshments and snacks available for purchase.

Tours are suitable for all ages.

Tours are free, but registration is required due to boat capacity. Open to both LPLA members and non-members.

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FULL: Riverboat Tours with the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance — August 19 at 10 am
Aug
19
10:00 AM10:00

FULL: Riverboat Tours with the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance — August 19 at 10 am

The August 19 tour at 10 a.m. is full.


Join LPLA on a riverboat for a two-hour nature excursion on the mighty Mississippi River! Our experienced and knowledgeable guides and captain will provide you with a unique and informative experience, highlighting the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

As we set sail from Bay Point Park in Red Wing, take in the stunning views of the river and keep an eye out for the many different types of wildlife that inhabit the area. Our guides will also provide a wealth of information about the river's history and ecology, explaining the important role of the Mississippi and the human impact on the local environment. This trip offers a relaxed way to learn about environmental challenges and the successful efforts in keeping our river and Lake Pepin clean and safe. 

Throughout the tour, you'll also have the opportunity to ask our guides questions, allowing you to learn more about the river and its surrounding area. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, our riverboat tour offers something for everyone.

In addition to the stunning natural beauty of the river, our riverboat is equipped with all the amenities you need to relax and enjoy your tour. Comfortable seating is provided, along with refreshments and snacks available for purchase.

Tours are suitable for all ages.

Tours are free, but registration is required due to boat capacity. Open to both LPLA members and non-members.

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FULL: Riverboat Tours with the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance — August 18 at 5 pm
Aug
18
5:00 PM17:00

FULL: Riverboat Tours with the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance — August 18 at 5 pm

The August 18 tour is full.


Join LPLA on a riverboat for a two-hour nature excursion on the mighty Mississippi River! Our experienced and knowledgeable guides and captain will provide you with a unique and informative experience, highlighting the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

As we set sail from Bay Point Park in Red Wing, take in the stunning views of the river and keep an eye out for the many different types of wildlife that inhabit the area. Our guides will also provide a wealth of information about the river's history and ecology, explaining the important role of the Mississippi and the human impact on the local environment. This trip offers a relaxed way to learn about environmental challenges and the successful efforts in keeping our river and Lake Pepin clean and safe. 

Throughout the tour, you'll also have the opportunity to ask our guides questions, allowing you to learn more about the river and its surrounding area. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, our riverboat tour offers something for everyone.

In addition to the stunning natural beauty of the river, our riverboat is equipped with all the amenities you need to relax and enjoy your tour. Comfortable seating is provided, along with refreshments and snacks available for purchase.

Tours are suitable for all ages.

Tours are free, but registration is required due to boat capacity. Open to both LPLA members and non-members.

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LPLA’s Kernza Fest & Benefit Concert
Jul
29
4:00 PM16:00

LPLA’s Kernza Fest & Benefit Concert

This year, our annual benefit concert is getting even bigger with the addition of Kernza Fest Wisconsin! Start off your evening at Liberty Tree Farm in Stockholm, WI, by celebrating sustainable and regenerative agriculture. From 4-5 p.m., attendees will learn from our panel of local farmers and taste our river-friendly menu of beer and bites, including products from Perennial Pantry, beer from Bang Brewery, locally sourced appetizers made by Hop Dish & Vine, baked goods from Doughp Creations, new Kernza products from Sturdiwheat, and an EXCLUSIVE limited edition tasting of Kernza Perennial Grain Whiskey from Tattersall Distilling. (We have 3 of only 120 bottles of this whiskey produced and shipped nationwide in Tattersall's smallest ever batch.)

Then, stay for bluegrass-inspired music from the Pistol Whippin' Party Penguins from 6-9 p.m. Two food trucks will be onsite for meal purchases. There will be door prizes for all concertgoers, including a package from Patagonia.

Tickets to Kernza Fest ($50) include the Benefit Concert. Only available for ages 21+ (please bring ID). There is also a concert-only ticket option ($25) open to all ages. All proceeds from this fundraiser support the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance. 

Follow the links to register:


A BIG thanks to this year's event sponsors! We are especially excited to announce a matching grant up to $1,000 for any donations made at the event thanks to the Terry Woeltge Memorial Fund. If you cannot come to the event but still want to donate toward the match, you can do so here. Please list Terry Woeltge Memorial Fund in the Optional Dedication section.

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River Restoration Celebration: Parade & Puppet Show
Jun
24
12:00 PM12:00

River Restoration Celebration: Parade & Puppet Show

Put some Pep-in your step and join LPLA and resident artist Felicia Cooper on June 24 for a celebration of Lake Pepin and the Mississippi River! Follow along as we parade through Bay City, learn about native mussels in an exciting show, and then sit down and enjoy a picnic hosted by LPLA.

Beginning at 12 p.m., the parade and musical accompaniment will start at the Pierce County Historical Association in Bay City and continue to the campground pavilion. The parade will conclude with a puppet show at 1 p.m. exploring the magic of the region’s native mussels, the importance of biodiversity, and the wonder of the Mississippi River. The show, titled “Below the Underneath,” illustrates the wonder of discovery within natural history while shedding light on the often overlooked role of native mussels. Following the performance, LPLA will provide a free picnic lunch to all participants and attendees.

Both the parade and show will feature community creations made during LPLA’s three puppet building workshops, as well as works from Minneapolis’ In the Heart of the Beast Theatre.

Free; no registration required.

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Puppet Building Workshop — June 11 at Lake City Arts
Jun
11
10:00 AM10:00

Puppet Building Workshop — June 11 at Lake City Arts

Join the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance’s resident artist Felicia Cooper in preparing for the Restoration Celebration Puppet Parade! We are creating large-scale puppets of native species as part of a community-wide celebration to take place on June 24 in Bay City on the shores of the restoration project. Come dressed for mess as we play with cardboard, paper mâché, and imagination. Learn about our river’s ecology as you create inspiring symbols of our wild cousins we are welcoming to our shores!

FREE drop-in workshop; no registration is required.

 3 dates & locations. All programs run from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

  • May 20: Red Wing Library - Downstairs Foot Room

  • June 3: Red Wing Clay and Creative Center

  • June 11: Lake City Arts

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Canoe Trip with LPLA and Wilderness Inquiry
Jun
10
12:00 PM12:00

Canoe Trip with LPLA and Wilderness Inquiry

Join LPLA and Wilderness Inquiry for a Mississippi River canoe tour. This is a beginner friendly trip for those looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the iconic river from inside a 20-ft canoe. The journey starts in Red Wing at Colvill Park as you paddle yourself southward to the campground in Bay City, WI. Open to ages 9 and up, it’s a great opportunity for families with older children!

As you travel down the river, you will be treated to breathtaking views of towering bluffs, shimmering sandbars, and abundant wildlife – including bald eagles and maybe even a rare sighting of a river otter. The tour will feature a naturalist talk about the ecosystem and a new project to restore the river and its habitat. 

The trip will last 2.5 hours and vans will return you at the end to the park where we began. Despite the short time on the water, you will need to be prepared for a range of weather conditions. Dress in light layers and bring sun protection. 

This Mississippi canoe trip is perfect for those who want to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and learn how to paddle in a safe and controlled environment. It offers a chance to connect with nature, learn about the rich history of the region, and create unforgettable memories with friends and family.

Free but registration is required due to capacity limits.  

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Puppet Building Workshop — June 3 at Red Wing Clay & Creative Center
Jun
3
10:00 AM10:00

Puppet Building Workshop — June 3 at Red Wing Clay & Creative Center

Join the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance’s resident artist Felicia Cooper in preparing for the Restoration Celebration Puppet Parade! We are creating large-scale puppets of native species as part of a community-wide celebration to take place on June 24 in Bay City on the shores of the restoration project. Come dressed for mess as we play with cardboard, paper mâché, and imagination. Learn about our river’s ecology as you create inspiring symbols of our wild cousins we are welcoming to our shores!

FREE drop-in workshop; no registration is required.

 3 dates & locations. All programs run from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

  • May 20: Red Wing Library - Downstairs Foot Room

  • June 3: Red Wing Clay and Creative Center

  • June 11: Lake City Arts

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Upper Pool 4 Habitat Restoration Project Groundbreaking Ceremony
May
16
10:30 AM10:30

Upper Pool 4 Habitat Restoration Project Groundbreaking Ceremony

The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources are hosting a groundbreaking ceremony to kick-off construction of a habit restoration project at the head of Lake Pepin in Bay City, WI. The project, spearheaded by LPLA, includes dredging to expand recreational access to the lake and building peninsulas and shoreline protection to support fish and wildlife habitat. The ceremony will celebrate the years of cooperation between many agencies who helped to make this project possible. 

We will have two delicious two food trucks on-site for lunch purchases!

The event is free and open to the public, but we ask that you RSVP so we can get an estimated number of attendees. 

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Invasive Carp Webinar and Q&A
Mar
29
12:00 PM12:00

Invasive Carp Webinar and Q&A

Commercial fishermen caught the highest number of silver carp ever found so far upstream in the Mississippi River this past week. The catch shows that these invasive fish are on the cusp of becoming intractable in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

LPLA has joined Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) and several other nonprofits in tackling this issue at the MN Capitol by supporting a bill that would provide funding to the Minnesota DNR to install carp deterrent systems at Lock and Dam 5 in Winona, Minnesota. These deterrents would prevent invasive carp from moving further upstream, without impacting commercial traffic on the river.

Curious about what this project means and how we're working to address invasive carp? Join LPLA and FMR Land Use and Planning Director Colleen O'Connor Toberman for a webinar and Q&A on Wednesday, March 29, at noon.

CLICK ON THIS LINK TO JOIN

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Presentation: Biology & Conservation of the Timber Rattlesnake in the Upper Mississippi River Valley
Mar
24
5:00 PM17:00

Presentation: Biology & Conservation of the Timber Rattlesnake in the Upper Mississippi River Valley

Daniel Keyler, adjunct professor of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Minnesota, will be giving a presentation on the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) in the new Stockholm Pie Opera Hall event center this March. The Timber Rattlesnake is the largest pit viper in the northern United States and the prominent venomous snake species indigenous to the bluff land habitats of the Upper Mississippi River Valley (UMRV). Biology and natural history research studies of this species in the UMRV ecosystem have been crucial for the development of conservation strategies to ensure habitat protection and the species’ long-term survival in the region. Recent studies in southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin along the Mississippi River have resulted in implementing improved conservation measures.

Keyler has spent a lifetime studying herpetology and the toxicology of venoms while being involved in the development and completion of a national conservation action plan for the Timber Rattlesnake. Now retired from the Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology at Hennepin County Medical Center, Keyler has co-authored three books and continues to spend as much time out in the field as possible.

  • Location: Stockholm Pie & General Store in Stockholm, WI

  • Cost: Free to attend; no registration required

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Info Session: River Policy 101 — 2023 Farm Bill & the River
Mar
23
5:00 PM17:00

Info Session: River Policy 101 — 2023 Farm Bill & the River

How does the 2023 Farm Bill affect us here in the upper river? What’s going on and how do we as River Advocates work for the biggest issues in clean water agriculture? 

Join LPLA on Thursday, March 23, for a happy hour / info session at Jimmy’s Pub in the St. James Hotel in Red Wing. We’ll provide cold beer, warm company, and a beginner-friendly policy chat and Q&A. You’ll leave with a sense of what representatives you should write or call, what pieces of legislation you should be tracking, and a greater familiarity with how grassroots organizations like ours can amplify good ideas at every level.

The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance, represented by Program Director Alex Keilty, recently joined the Mississippi River Network (MRN) members representing all ten states that the River flows through in Washington, DC on March 7-9 for MRN’s annual fly-in. The three-day event included a rally, march, and meetings with nearly 30 Members of Congress and their staff to discuss Farm Bill 2023 and FY24 appropriations requests.

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Guided Sauna & Lake Dip Experience
Feb
11
7:00 AM07:00

Guided Sauna & Lake Dip Experience

Encounter Lake Pepin in a whole new way this winter! The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance is “stoked” to partner with Nomad Sauna – a handcrafted, wood-fired sauna rental company from the Twin Cities – for a sauna and lake dipping experience this February. Enjoy a 75-minute guided sauna session led by the Nomad Sauna team and dive into cold therapy with a dip into an 8’ by 8’ hole cut into the ice. Held at YMCA Camp Pepin in Stockholm, Wisconsin, this one-of-a-kind event is sure to be an unforgettable winter experience!

Time slots open at 7:00 am and continue throughout the day in half hour intervals; the last time slot is at 3:00 pm. There will be two saunas on site, which can each fit up to 8 people. A yurt warming house for changing and hot beverages are included in the experience package. There are also bathrooms on site at the camp (with showers if desired).

The tradition of sauna and ice bathing has been practiced in the Nordic regions for centuries as a therapeutic experience and is now starting to become popular in the rest of the winter world. This is your chance to try out this unique exercise!

If a dip into the icy waters of Lake Pepin isn’t for you – that’s okay! You can still enjoy a sauna experience in a beautiful location.

$50 per person + tax. All proceeds from this LPLA fundraiser go toward protecting the health of Lake Pepin.

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LPLA Annual Member Meeting & Trivia Night
Sep
22
6:00 PM18:00

LPLA Annual Member Meeting & Trivia Night

The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance is hosting its annual member meeting on Thursday, September 22, from 6-8 at the Lake City Sportsman’s Club. All current LPLA members are invited to attend to learn more about the exciting year ahead. At the meeting, we'll talk about what's in store for 2023, including information on the groundbreaking of our long awaited habitat restoration project near Bay City, WI. Special guest Brenda Kelly, Wildlife Biologist with the Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources, will share more details about the project. Plus, attendees will have a chance to test their Lake Pepin knowledge (and win prizes) with some dinner-time trivia. Dinner will be catered by the Smokin' Oak Rotisserie Grill, and the Sportsman's Club offers a full cash bar overlooking the lake.

The cost to attend is $20 per person, and RSVP is required by September 16. If you are not currently a member, you can sign up to become one and then register for the meeting.

Registration link.

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Jul
23
6:00 PM18:00

Lake Pepin Legacy Concert

The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance (LPLA) is hosting its third annual Legacy Concert at Liberty Tree Farm featuring The Pistol Whippin' Party Penguins! This outdoor concert in an idyllic setting is not only a fun event, but it helps support Lake Pepin and the Mississippi River.

A food truck will be onsite, but you’re welcome to bring your own picnic. Please do not bring alcoholic beverages – there will be a cash bar where you can purchase beer and wine.

There will be a Silent Auction in the barn during the event, with all proceeds benefiting the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance.

Grab your tickets now to attend this special concert that will include original bluegrass songs about the river we love! Rain or shine.

General Admission: $20 (Free for children 12 and under). Register now.

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Jun
18
10:00 AM10:00

Kernza Fest

You won’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind, family friendly festival focused on seeing, tasting, and learning about innovations in water-healthy agriculture!

Featuring:

For more information on Kernza Fest - and for registration links - visit the event page!

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Jun
4
9:00 AM09:00

LPLA at Tour de Pepin

LPLA will be stationed in Stockholm during Tour de Pepin for those ending their ride there - with music, education, and a water bar!

About Tour de Pepin:

The 15th annual bicycle tour of Lake Pepin, organized by the Lake City Chamber of Commerce, offers bicyclists ride options between 32 and 100 miles with exquisite views, rest stops, and charming towns along the way. Register here.

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Apr
28
6:00 PM18:00

Opening Night at the "We Are Water" Exhibition

Join the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance for a flowing evening to celebrate the “We Are Water” exhibit opening in Lake City, Minnesota. The night will kick off with introductory remarks from guest speakers in the ballroom above City Hall at 6 pm. Following this, get a "first look" at the exhibition at the Lake City Public Library. Finally, the opening night's festivities will conclude at Lake City Area Arts for an immersion into water-inspired art accompanied by the water-inspired sounds of a live string quartet. Light appetizers will be provided. Cash bar with beer & wine available for purchase at the reception.

Free to attend but registration is required. Register here.

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