From seepage springs filled with skunk cabbage and marsh marigold, to floodplain forests, marshes, and golden tamarack bogs, the St. Croix watershed is home to many different wetlands.  Approximately 43 percent of threatened and endangered plant and animal species in the United States live in or depend on wetlands, and these soggy spots provide critical habitat for frogs and salamanders, turtles, and migratory birds. Wetlands also help to mitigate flooding and protect lakes and rivers from pollution.

Learn about some of the unique wetland habitats you can visit in Afton and the greater St. Croix watershed and get advice on how to enhance wetlands on your property with native plants and other landscaping features that add beauty, provide habitat, and help to protect water quality.

This is a free event, hosted by the Afton History Museum, with light refreshments provided. 3165 St Croix Trail South, Afton

About the presenter: Angie Hong is the coordinator for Minnesota’s East Metro Water Resource Education Program, a local government partnership with 30 members in Washington, Ramsey, Chisago and Isanti Counties that is hosted by the WCD. For nature-based adventures, environmental education, and conservation inspiration, check out her recent book “Exploring the St. Croix River Valley: Adventures on and off the Water” or follow her on social media at @mnnature_awesomeness.