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Watonwan County ranks near top in teen pregnancies; health staff outline school, prevention efforts
Summary
County health staff said Watonwan County is ranked second in Minnesota for teenage pregnancies and described planned school engagement, use of cannabis funds for prevention, opioid stakeholder meetings, and remaining infrastructure grant funds of about $55,000.
Community Health Services Manager Barb Salmela‑Lind told the board that Watonwan County is currently ranked second in the state for teenage pregnancies and outlined steps the department is taking to address the issue.
Salemela‑Lind said the county will support school-based initiatives, including participation in the 'Fostering Health Conversations with Youth' program at St. James Public School. Crystal Laxen, the newly introduced Registered Nurse for Sexual and Reproductive Health Services, will coordinate with that effort.
On prevention spending, staff are exploring use of cannabis tax funds for outreach such as billboards and distributing medication disposal bags at community events (county fair, Multi‑Cultural Fiesta, Suicide Awareness Walk, Park Days). Karli Leal will meet with opioid stakeholder groups in April to set priorities. Salmela‑Lind also reported the county’s Infrastructure Grant has approximately $55,000 remaining and runs through Nov. 30, 2027, with a 21‑day notice requirement if rescinded.
