River of Ideas

In this episode of River of Ideas, host Abby Moore speaks with artist, choreographer, and performer Victoria Bradford Styrbicki about her incredible project Network: A River Connected. Victoria shares the story of her 2019 journey traveling on foot from the headwaters of the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, stopping in over 100 communities to gather stories, landscapes, and voices.

Drawing inspiration from her family’s history and the disappearing craft of net-making, Victoria used traditional methods to weave fishing nets as a way to preserve this art form and process the stories she encountered. These nets, along with photos, videos, and narratives, now form the centerpiece of her exhibit at the MWMO Stormwater Park and Learning Center.

Through this conversation, Victoria explores the intersection of art, storytelling, and the environment, highlighting how the Mississippi River serves as a powerful connector of communities and a source of ecological and cultural significance. Tune in to learn about the transformative power of listening, movement, and creativity in shaping how we understand the world around us.

Links:

Network: A River Connected — https://www.mwmo.org/learn/visit-us/exhibits/network-a-river-connected/

Relay of Voices — https://www.relayofvoices.com/path

A House Unbuilt — https://ahouseunbuilt.com/

Credits:

Abby Moore — Host, MWMO Outreach Program Manager
Victoria Bradford Styribicki — Guest
Akadia Johnson — Executive Producer
Adam Flett — Camera Operator and Set Assistant
Mary Yang — Set Assistant

About River of Ideas:
River of Ideas is a podcast about greener cities and cleaner water through science and urban planning. We cover topics like green infrastructure, water quality, landscape design, ecology, environmental policy, and environmental justice.
 
River of Ideas is produced by the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, a Minneapolis-based joint-powers local government unit and one of approximately three dozen watershed organizations in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Learn more at mwmo.org.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by speakers on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of the MWMO. The information provided during these episodes is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. The MWMO does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information shared on the podcast. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the MWMO.

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: Victoria Bradford Styrbicki’s Journey
00:27 –  Discovering the Mississippi: Reflections on the Headwaters to the Gulf 
01:33 – Connections Across Geography: Minnesota and Louisiana
03:22 – On Foot and By Bike: Experiencing the Landscape
05:01 –  Movement as a Dance: Exploring Symbolism and Connection Through Art 
06:35 –  A Pilgrimage to Reconnect: Finding Home Along the Mississippi
10:49 –  Collaborating with Communities: Building Relationships Along the River
13:21 – Stories of Struggle and Resilience in River Towns
18:00 – A Sunday in West Memphis: Community, Church, and Connection
22:44 – Weaving Stories and Nets: History Through Art and Craft
25:39 – Upcoming Projects: Coastal Listening and Exhibitions 

Thanks for listening! Check us out at mwmo.org.

In this episode of River of Ideas, host Mary Yang, MWMO’s Community Outreach Specialist and former Mississippi River Green Team member, sits down with fellow Green Team alumnus Akia Vang to explore how the program shaped their journeys into environmental careers. This unique, mentored job program for Minneapolis youth, jointly run by the MWMO and the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, gave them hands-on experience with conservation efforts like habitat management, water quality monitoring, and invasive species removal. Akia, who recently completed his graduate degree at the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs, shares how his early experiences in the Green Team guided him through college, various internships, and into roles across the climate, energy, and environmental fields. Now, as a Sustainability Intern with the Metropolitan Council’s Metro Transit division and a member of both the Northside Green Zone Task Force and MWMO’s Citizen Advisory Committee, Akia remains deeply engaged in advancing environmental equity and sustainability.

Tune in to hear Mary and Akia discuss the impact of youth programs on fostering environmental leadership, how community mentorship supports diverse voices in environmental fields, and Akia's inspiring path as a next-generation leader in environmental science.

Links:
MWMO Mississippi River Green Team — https://www.mwmo.org/learn/green-workforce/green-team/

Green Workforce Development at MWMO — https://www.mwmo.org/learn/green-workforce/

Credits:
Mary Yang — Host, MWMO Community Outreach Specialist
Akia Vang — Guest, Green Team Alumnus
Akadia Johnson — Executive Producer
Adam Flett — Camera Operator and Set Assistant

About River of Ideas:
River of Ideas is a podcast about greener cities and cleaner water through science and urban planning. We cover topics like green infrastructure, water quality, landscape design, ecology, environmental policy, and environmental justice.
 
River of Ideas is produced by the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, a Minneapolis-based joint-powers local government unit and one of approximately three dozen watershed organizations in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Learn more at mwmo.org.

Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by speakers on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of the MWMO. The information provided during these episodes is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. The MWMO does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information shared on the podcast. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the MWMO.

Chapters:
00:16 – Introduction: Mississippi River Green Team’s Impact
00:59 – How the Green Team Shaped Akia and Mary’s Career Paths
03:42 – Youth Programs and Environmental Leadership
07:37 – The Importance of Mentorship in Diverse Environmental Careers
11:57 – Akia’s Journey from High School to College and Beyond
19:25 – Expanding Opportunities for Future Environmental Leaders
25:59 – Reflecting on the Green Team Experience: Insights from Mentors in Environmental Careers

Thanks for listening! Check us out at mwmo.org.

In this episode of the River of Ideas podcast, host Nick Busse chats with Connie Fortin, the Low-Salt Strategist at Bolton & Menk, Inc., and a recognized expert in smart salting practices. Together, they dive into the pressing issue of chloride pollution in our waterways, a problem driven by the overuse of road salts and de-icing chemicals. Connie shares her journey from a background in computer science to becoming a leader in sustainable salt practices. The conversation covers the impact of chloride on the environment, the challenges of reducing salt usage while maintaining safety, and innovative strategies like low-salt design that can help mitigate this invisible yet harmful pollutant. Tune in to learn about the small design changes that can make a big difference in winter safety and water quality, and get inspired by Connie's passion for protecting our water resources.

Images Discussed During the Podcast — https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBEWN5

Links:
Connie Fortin — https://www.bolton-menk.com/real-people/more-people/connie-fortin-2/
Low-Salt Design — https://www.bolton-menk.com/resources/designing-for-a-low-salt-future/

Credits:
Nick Busse — Host, Video Production
Akadia Johnson — Audio Production
Connie Fortin — Guest

About River of Ideas:
River of Ideas is a podcast about greener cities and cleaner water through science and urban planning. We cover topics like green infrastructure, water quality, landscape design, ecology, environmental policy, and environmental justice.

River of Ideas is produced by the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, a Minneapolis-based joint-powers local government unit and one of approximately three dozen watershed organizations in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Learn more at mwmo.org.

Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by speakers on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of the MWMO. The information provided during these episodes is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. The MWMO does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information shared on the podcast. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the MWMO.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction: What is Low-Salt Design?
01:00 - How Road Salt Pollutes Waterbodies
04:41 - Journey from Computer Science to Environmental Advocacy
08:04 - Developing the First Smart Salting Curriculum
13:41 - Designing Infrastructure to Minimize Salt Usage
19:21 - Principles of Low-Salt Design
30:29 - Examples of Infrastructure Design Problems
40:37 - How Do We Solve the Chloride Problem?
45:35 - Final Thoughts

Thanks for listening! Check us out at mwmo.org.

In this episode of River of Ideas, host Nick Busse interviews MWMO Executive Director Kevin Reich about the ambitious redevelopment of the Upper Harbor Terminal in North Minneapolis. Learn how the 53-acre former industrial site will feature an expansive district stormwater treatment and reuse system, an ephemeral stream, restored shoreline and habitat, and more.

The redevelopment of the Upper Harbor site presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to restore a large section of Mississippi River shoreline in the Twin Cites urban core, as well as provide regional stormwater treatment to a large portion of North Minneapolis. Since 2015, MWMO staff worked with the Upper Harbor project partners to ensure that the 14 distinct redevelopment projects at Upper Harbor will incorporate a connected system of habitat, public spaces, and surface stormwater features (HPS).

Links:
Upper Harbor Terminal Web Page — https://www.mwmo.org/projects/upper-harbor-terminal/

Credits:
Nick Busse — Host, Video Production
Akadia Johnson — Audio Production
Kevin Reich — Guest

About River of Ideas:
River of Ideas is a podcast about greener cities and cleaner water through science and urban planning. We cover topics like green infrastructure, water quality, landscape design, ecology, environmental policy, and environmental justice.

River of Ideas is produced by the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, a Minneapolis-based joint-powers local government unit and one of approximately three dozen watershed organizations in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area.

Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by speakers on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of the MWMO. The information provided during these episodes is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. The MWMO does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information shared on the podcast. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the MWMO. 

Thanks for listening! Check us out at mwmo.org.

Join Adam Flett from the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization as he sits down with Ray Ruiz Jr., founder and executive director of Baztec, Inc. In this episode of "River of Ideas," Ray shares his inspiring journey from growing up in Chicago to becoming a renowned fishing guide and educator in the Twin Cities. Discover how Ray's passion for fishing and community outreach has led to impactful programs, fostering a love for nature and conservation among diverse communities. Learn about the challenges and rewards of river fishing, the importance of clean water, and how Ray is breaking barriers to make outdoor recreation accessible for all. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with personal anecdotes, expert fishing tips, and a vision for a greener future.

Links:
Baztec — https://www.baztecmn.com/
Baztec Fishing Podcast — https://www.youtube.com/@baztecmn

Credits:
Ray Ruiz — Guest
Adam Flett — Host
Nick Busse — Video Production
Akadia Johnson — Audio Production

About River of Ideas:
River of Ideas is a podcast about greener cities and cleaner water through science and urban planning. We cover topics like green infrastructure, water quality, landscape design, ecology, environmental policy, and environmental justice.

River of Ideas is produced by the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, a Minneapolis-based joint-powers local government unit and one of approximately three dozen watershed organizations in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area.

Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by speakers on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of the MWMO. The information provided during these episodes is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. The MWMO does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information shared on the podcast. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the MWMO. 

Thanks for listening! Check us out at mwmo.org.

🌊 Dive into the Heart of the Twin Cities! 🌿

In our latest River of Ideas podcast, hosts Nick and Abby share their favorite places to explore and things to do along the Mississippi River in Minneapolis and St. Paul. From biking scenic trails, hiking rugged paths, and kayaking peaceful waters, to immersing yourself in the rich natural beauty of the one and only Mississippi River Gorge, this episode is packed with inspiration and insider tips.

Highlights:

🏞️ Hidden gems like Crosby Farm Park, the Winchell Trail, and Longfellow Beach.
🚴‍♂️ Biking routes with breathtaking views along West River Parkway and the Stone Arch Bridge.
🛶 Paddling adventures via the easy-to-use Paddle Share program.
🐶 The joy of off-leash fun at Minnehaha Dog Park.
🦉 Wildlife spotting, nature immersion, and all things flora and fauna.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, this episode will ignite your adventurous spirit and help you see the Mississippi River in a whole new light. Tune in for fun, laughter, and plenty of travel tips that will make your next river outing unforgettable!

Links:

• Plant Sales, Cleanups, and Workshops (MWMO Blog) — https://www.mwmo.org/news/mwmo-annual-spring-guide/
• Spring Maintenance for Native Plants (MWMO Blog) — https://www.mwmo.org/news/spring-maintenance-native-plants/ 
• Spring Ecology in the Mississippi River Gorge with Carolyn Carr — https://youtu.be/9Agrm6f6ndc
• iNaturalist — https://www.inaturalist.org/

Credits:

Nick Busse — Host, Video Production
Akadia Johnson — Audio Production
Abby Moore — Host

About River of Ideas:

River of Ideas is a podcast about greener cities and cleaner water through science and urban planning. We cover topics like green infrastructure, water quality, landscape design, ecology, environmental policy, and environmental justice.

River of Ideas is produced by the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, a Minneapolis-based joint-powers local government unit and one of approximately three dozen watershed organizations in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Learn more at mwmo.org.

Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by speakers on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of the MWMO. The information provided during these episodes is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. The MWMO does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information shared on the podcast. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the MWMO.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:38 - Plant Sales, Spring Yard Care & No-Mow May
06:53 - Biking the Twin Cities Riverfront
12:44 - Hiking and Exploring the River Gorge
21:10 - Finding Nature & Adventure in the City
30:28 - Paddling via Mississippi River Paddle Share
38:58 - Favorite Beaches and Places to Relax
45:39 - Minnehaha Dog Park
52:00 - Favorite Places and Final Thoughts

Thanks for listening! Check us out at mwmo.org.

In this episode of River of Ideas, we sit down with Jen Ehlert, Vice President of Metro Blooms Design + Build to talk about designing sustainable urban landscapes. We discuss the history of Metro Blooms and the Blue Thumb education and outreach program and delve into some practical advice for homeowners looking to enhance their properties with native plants and raingardens. Jen also shares her personal journey into landscape architecture and her passion for integrating ecological design into everyday landscapes.

Links:

Lawns to Legumes Grants (Apply by May 15!) — https://bluethumb.org/lawns-to-legumes/
Blue Thumb (workshops, planting templates, etc.) — https://bluethumb.org/
Metro Blooms — https://metroblooms.org/

Credits:

Nick Busse — Host, Video Production
Jennifer Ehlert — Guest
Akadia Johnson — Audio Production
Mary Yang — Camera Assistant

About River of Ideas:

River of Ideas is a podcast about greener cities and cleaner water through science and urban planning. We cover topics like green infrastructure, water quality, landscape design, ecology, environmental policy, and environmental justice.

River of Ideas is produced by the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, a Minneapolis-based joint-powers local government unit and one of approximately three dozen watershed organizations in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Learn more at mwmo.org.

Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by speakers on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of the MWMO. The information provided during these episodes is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. The MWMO does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information shared on the podcast. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the MWMO. 

Thanks for listening! Check us out at mwmo.org.

For our first episode of River of Ideas, we sit down with MWMO Artist-in-Residence Sarah Nassif to talk about her upbringing, her evolution from naturalist to artist, and how her Weaving Water workshops helped foster a sense of community in a troubled time.

Credits:

Abby Moore — Host
Sarah Nassif — Guest
Nick Busse — Production, Editing
Eva Hanson — Camera Assistant

About River of Ideas:

River of Ideas is a podcast about greener cities and cleaner water through science and urban planning. We cover topics like green infrastructure, water quality, landscape design, ecology, environmental policy, and environmental justice.

River of Ideas is produced by the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, a Minneapolis-based joint-powers local government unit and one of approximately three dozen watershed organizations in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Learn more at mwmo.org.

About Sarah Nassif:

Sarah Nassif is a self-taught social-practice artist living in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She received her B.S. in Botany from the University of Washington in 1997 and worked in environmental education, urban forestry, and data analysis before becoming an artist. In her community-engaged art projects, Sarah Nassif connects people, plants, and place through sensory exploration of natural and human-built environments, hands-on skills practice, and person-to-person sharing.

Sarah currently serves as Artist in Residence at MWMO. Since October 2021, her workshops and art projects have drawn community back into conversations about how each of us can support clean water, care for the river, and share our knowledge in our own communities creatively.

Website: sarahnassif.com

Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by speakers on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of the MWMO. The information provided during these episodes is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. The MWMO does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information shared on the podcast. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the MWMO. 

Thanks for listening! Check us out at mwmo.org.