The Brainerd Area Environmental Learning Network will host its 13th annual Lake Friendly Development Awards 3-4:30 p.m. Thursday.
These awards, which are sponsored by area environmental organizations, recognize homeowners, business owners, contractors and local units of government that have chosen to develop or redevelop their lakeshore or riverfront properties in full compliance with shoreland zoning ordinances and ecologically sustainable and sensitive principles.
The event will be in Meeting Room 2 at the Crow Wing County Land Services Building, 322 Laurel St., Brainerd. Those who attend are asked to park in the county's visitor parking lot on the corner of Laurel and Fourth streets.
The Lake Friendly Development Awards are presented by the Brainerd Lakes Area Audubon Society, Crow Wing County Lakes and Rivers Alliance, Crow Wing Soil and Water Conservation District, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Division of Ecological and Water Resources, DNR Division of Fisheries, Minnesota Chapter of the American Fisheries Society, The Nature Conservancy and University of Minnesota Extension.
Along with the awards, a presentation on the common loon will be a part of Thursday's meeting, the last of the season for BAELN. Kevin Woizeschke, DNR nongame wildlife specialist, will share information on the technology that scientists use to track and observe the Minnesota's common loons.
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He will also share the latest research that provides new knowledge and insights into loon biology, behaviors, lives and habitat; the challenges these magnificent birds have; and the ways the DNR and its research partners are working together to help increase populations. Woizeschke will also provide information on the relationship between healthy lakes and healthy loon populations, and how each of us can help maintain these vital Minnesota assets that we all enjoy.
For more information about this event, contact Eleanor Burkett at burke044@umn.edu or 218-828-2326.
In its 13th year, BAELN offers professional development and information on environmental and sustainability issues for professionals and community members. It is a collaborative effort of Central Lakes College, Central Regional Sustainable Development Partnership, Crow Wing SWCD, Initiative Foundation, DNR, Minnesota Department of Transportation, Minnesota National Guard's Environmental Office, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, The Nature Conservancy and University of Minnesota Extension.
Those wishing to be on the BAELN email list or for general information on BAELN, contact Stephen Mikkelson at 218-316-3887, toll free at 1-800-657-3864 or stephen.mikkelson@state.mn.us .
