The Farmington Feed

Emerald Ash Borer Update

The impact of the Emerald Ash Borer continues to reshape our community’s urban forest, and progress is being made.

In this episode, Natural Resources Specialist Ben Humlie provides an update on the city’s ongoing Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) management efforts. With fewer than 1,000 boulevard ash trees remaining to be removed, the community is entering the final phase of a multi-year response to this invasive pest. Unfortunately, all ash trees will eventually succumb to EAB, making proactive planning essential to maintaining a healthy tree canopy.

Ben discusses how the Shade Tree Grant program will help restore our urban forest, with a total of 331 new trees being planted as a one-for-one replacement for trees removed.

The conversation also highlights broader ecological restoration work happening throughout the city, including:

• Removal of invasive buckthorn
• Stormwater pond cleanups and maintenance
• Seeding restored areas with native plants to improve habitat, water quality, and long-term sustainability

Tune in to learn how these efforts are helping rebuild a more diverse, resilient landscape for the future.

Ever wonder how your yard can help protect our rivers and lakes? In this episode of Farmington Feed, we’re digging into Landscaping for Clean Water. This is a program that helps residents reimagine their lawns while making a real difference for the environment.

We’re joined by Brita Moore-Kutz, Communications & Outreach Specialist with the Vermilion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (VRWJPO), and Lindsey Albright, Monitoring & Outreach Coordinator with Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD). They share how small changes in landscaping can have a big impact on water quality.

You’ll also hear:

• How Landscaping for Clean Water works and how much grant funding may be available
• Details on free intro classes (virtual options available this year)
• Tips from the Lawn Watering Wisdom campaign
• How to get involved through Adopt-A-Drain and storm drain stenciling

Registration is now open for Landscaping for Clean Water intro classes. While there are no in-person classes in Farmington this year, virtual options make it easy to participate from anywhere.

Tune in, get inspired, and learn how your lawn can be part of the solution!

Feed in 5
1.      Coffee Café 

2.     The Open Door

3.     Learn to Skate Winter Session 

4.     Legacy on Ice Show Registration Deadline

5.     National Skating Month Open Skate

Meet Farmington’s own Community Service Officers (CSOs), Claire Kennedy and Christina Calderon! In this episode, they share what inspired them to become CSOs and how the role is helping them work toward becoming sworn officers. Claire and Christina dive into the heart of community outreach, the rewarding moments that keep them going, and one surprising part of their job that most people never think about…hint: it involves furry friends!

Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the people helping keep Farmington safe, supported, and connected.

This month, Caryn sits down with Farmington homeowner Chad, known for his incredible light displays, and Emilee Shearer, our Recreation Supervisor, to talk all things light tours! 

Chad has wowed the community through both the Halloween Havoc Tour and the Holiday Lights Tour, with synchronized music, dazzling effects, and a radio station that brings the whole show to life. Hear how much time and creativity go into making these displays shine and get inspired to join the fun yourself.

There’s still time to sign up for the Holiday Lights Tour! Deadline is Monday, Nov. 17.
Bonus: Can you guess how many lights Chad has in his display?

Farmington Police Captains Bob Sauter & Andrew Van Dorn join us on The Feed to talk all things police including why they chose this career, what their new roles mean, and a few fun stories along the way.
Did you know Captain Sauter was featured in a video last year? Tune in to find out which one!
Listen now on The Farmington Feed!

Join us for a special Fire Prevention Open House episode with Firefighter Steve Karsten and Fire Marshal Heath Walker! They’ll share important tips on kitchen safety, creating a fire escape plan, and making sure your smoke alarms are working properly. You’ll also learn about the rules for recreational fires and details on the permit you need for an open burn.

This episode is packed with practical advice to help keep your family and home safe year-round.

Join Caryn as she sits down with Officer Pete and Superintendent Jason Berg to talk about back-to-school safety. From reminders for parents to stay patient during drop-off and pick-up, to encouraging new drivers to stay alert, this episode covers important tips to help keep our students safe. Remember to always adhere to school bus stop arms and flashing red lights and above all, don’t drive distracted! 

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 
1.      National Night Out (NNO)
2.     Adventure Camp II
3.     More Little & Middle Camps
4.     Mini Clay Camp at Muddy Waters Studio
5.     Rambling River Center Ribbbon Cutting Ceremony

With the recent re-opening of the Rambling River Center, Caryn sits down with two very active members and Rambling River Center Advisory Board (RRCAB) members Mary Garlets and Blanche Reichert to discuss the renovations. Mary and Blanche are excited about the new entry way, patio and so much more. Listen to find out what class Mary teaches and what Blanche's favorite program is! Hint: it has to do with wood.