At the forefront of the meeting was the comprehensive presentation by the Crow Wing Master Gardener Program, highlighting its substantial growth and impact within the county. Tony Hansen, Regional Director with the University of Minnesota Extension, emphasized the essential collaboration between the university and Crow Wing County, which has facilitated the program’s expansion. He noted the program had doubled its number of active master gardeners since 2019, reaching a total of 80 volunteers. This increase has been attributed to a rise in volunteerism and engagement from younger community members.

The Master Gardener Program’s initiatives have produced tangible results, such as the community giving project at the Northland Arboretum, which serves as a hub for various gardening activities. Master gardeners have created approximately 2,300 bedding plants and 975 patio gardens. These efforts have not only beautified the community but also supported food security by distributing over 16,000 pounds of fresh produce to local food shelves. Jennifer, a representative from the program, shared an inspiring anecdote about young mothers participating in a social services program who successfully grew produce for salsa-making, fostering a sense of accomplishment and community.

In addition to their work with adults, the program has engaged 61 youth in basic horticultural skills classes, while 91 adults have participated in gardening classes, with many expressing interest in joining the program. Brittney Gorgus, another representative, emphasized the volunteers’ commitment, as they work across 33 locations focusing on food access and community involvement. The board expressed appreciation for the program’s efforts and outcomes, recognizing its role in enhancing community well-being.

The meeting also included a presentation that underscored the importance of community gardening partnerships with organizations such as Teen Challenge and Breezy Point, where gardens have been installed to support residents. These partnerships are complemented by educational efforts in soil and water conservation, with presentations at library series and activities aimed at shoreline restoration. Youth engagement was further highlighted with 144 participants in a planting activity at Eagle View during a summer library reading program. The library presentation series at Brainer attracted 459 attendees in 2024, and a helpline has received 45 gardening-related inquiries.

Transitioning to the opioid crisis, the board reviewed the second round of Blade opioid grant funding. Carrie provided an overview of the grant applications, with eleven grants totaling $23,000 recommended for approval against an approved budget of $200,000. The discussion clarified the $20,000 cap per application and addressed concerns about the budget’s total exceeding its original limit. The Breezy Point application for emergency equipment was confirmed as a valid request, with the coalition maintaining its scoring process integrity. The board moved to place the item on the consent agenda for further approval.

Kathy Stevens presented a proposal to expand the livestock arena at the county fairgrounds, in line with her lease agreement. She outlined improvements at the fairgrounds, including new livestock pens, ventilation systems, and AEDs. Kathy plans for a 10 by 80-foot addition to alleviate space constraints for livestock housing, supported by community donations earmarked for specific needs. The board expressed support for the proposal, acknowledging the fair’s effective facility maintenance.