Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls recognized for conservation efforts

Receiving the Morrison County Community Conservationist Award for their environmental practices means a great deal to the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls. The honor also puts them in the running for the Minnesota Community Conservationist Award, sponsored by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD). 

“It certainly feels like a real honor,” said Sister Mary Hroscikoski. “I’ve had the privilege of working closely with many of the SWCD staff and getting to know them well over the last few years.”

The nomination submitted by the Morrison County Soil and Water Conservation District highlights nine areas where the sisters have excelled. SWCD Executive Director Shannon Wettstein said the Franciscan Sisters have undertaken significant land-stewardship projects on their Morrison and Benton county properties. Efforts include restoring native prairie, removing buckthorn and managing forests to stabilize soils, reduce erosion and enhance biodiversity.

Click here to read the original article from the Morrison County Record.