Harrison Bay Association asks Minnetrista to continue rain‑barrel distribution and water‑quality outreach

Representatives of the Harrison Bay Association presented a water‑quality outreach program and rain‑barrel distribution to the Minnetrista City Council at its June 17 meeting and asked whether the city would consider partnering on future outreach.

Sherry Wallace and Julie Weisenhart described the association’s "soak it up" campaign, a website with educational fact sheets and a distribution event held May 4 that included demonstration rain barrels and installation guidance. Presenters said the association ordered roughly 80 rain barrels and reserved 74 for local distribution; they also described discounts and partner contributions but noted the figures were corrected during the presentation.

University of Minnesota Extension horticulture educator Julie Weisenhart (introduced as a resource and presenter) emphasized plant selection, rain gardens, lakefront buffers and landscape choices that retain water and reduce runoff. She described how retaining water on‑site can reduce nutrient transport to lakes and streams and noted the region has seen both drought and recent flood watches, underscoring the need for adaptable practices.

Mayor Lisa Whalen and councilmembers expressed support and asked staff to coordinate with the association and local partners for future events (the mayor said the council was "on board" with continuing a partnership). The presentation closed with an invitation to work at local community events and with watershed groups on further education and distribution efforts.

The presentation provided resources for residents and suggested next steps for city staff and the association to coordinate future outreach events.