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LANESBORO, MN – On Friday, May 23, 2025, Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center will host a community tree planting event as part of its ongoing efforts to restore and protect native habitat along the Root River in southeastern Minnesota. Volunteers are invited to join staff in planting native trees and shrubs at The Point, a 151-acre protected area along the Root River on Eagle Bluff’s campus.
The planting effort is a continuation of the Root River Restoration Project, a large-scale conservation initiative funded by Minnesota’s Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, through the Driftless Area Partnership coordinated by Trout Unlimited.
Earlier this year, approximately 350 mature white pine trees were selectively harvested from the site to supply toe wood for riverbank stabilization. These natural materials are being used to control erosion and reinforce the river’s edge. The May 23 planting will help reestablish native vegetation, restore wildlife habitat, and support long-term ecological resilience in the area.
“This is a chance for people to make an impact right here in their own community,” said Colleen Foehrenbacher, Executive Director of Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center. “Every tree planted helps rebuild a resilient, thriving ecosystem along the Root River.”
Event Details:
Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – until planting is complete
Location: Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
28097 Goodview Drive, Lanesboro, MN 55949
(Meet in the Schroeder Building parking lot; participants will caravan to the planting site.)
Volunteers should bring a shovel (pointed or square spade preferred), gloves, a hand trowel, refillable water bottle, and snacks. Light refreshments and planting guidance will be provided. Attendees are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing suitable for outdoor work. In the event of heavy rain or severe weather, the planting will be rescheduled.
The day will also include an opportunity to tour the restoration site and learn more about the ongoing Root River conservation efforts.
RSVPs are encouraged!
Members of the media interested in covering the event or arranging interviews may contact Laura Ahmed at lahmed@eaglebluffmn.or or 507-884-9577.
About Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Lanesboro, Minnesota. The center welcomes over 16,000 visitors annually and provides transformative outdoor learning experiences for youth, families, and adults, with a mission to empower people to care for the earth and each other. Programs include residential outdoor education field trips via Outdoor School, summer camps, nature preschool, public events, and more. Learn more at www.eaglebluffmn.org.
Media Contact
Laura M. Ahmed
Director of Marketing and Communications
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
Cell: (507) 884-9577
