Blazing Star Award
Communities across Minnesota are finding innovative ways to protect the environment and solve complex problems. From restoring our native prairies in the most southern parts of the state to safeguarding our northernmost forest, Minnesotans care about the conservation legacy we leave behind. Conservation Minnesota wants to celebrate the critical role communities play in preserving each corner of the state, which is why we’ve created the Blazing Star Award.
Blazing the Way in Conservation
The Blazing Star Award acknowledges local governments for exciting projects that advance conservation, climate, or the environment. Winners are selected by a panel of judges and receive the Blazing Star award plaque, a gift, and public recognition.
Conservation Minnesota is excited for the inaugural year of our Blazing Star Award.
FAQ
Who is eligible?
Any Minnesota city or county that completed a project between 2020 and 2022.
Who can enter?
Local government staff and leaders and anyone who believes their city or county should be recognized are encouraged to apply.
What types of projects are eligible?
The project should connect to conservation, the environment, or climate change.
Examples could include projects such as:
- Promoting pollinator-friendly gardens
- Expanding access to organics recycling
- Working to make it easier to install solar panels on large buildings
Can I enter more than one project?
Yes, you can fill out more than one application, and local governments can apply more than once as long as each submission is for a unique project.
Why the Blazing Star?
We named this award after a plant native to US prairies that has characteristics we celebrate: it’s hardy, adaptable, and environmentally-friendly. The purple bottlebrush blossoms of the Blazing Star provide beneficial nectar to bumblebees and butterflies for a long stretch in late summer, and birds eat the seeds in autumn.
Have questions or want to learn more?
Contact our Local Government Program Manager, John Anderson.