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Rooted Together
Rooted Together:
Growing Native Plants and Curious Minds
KRLT’s newest program, Rooted Together, is a hands-on, heart-driven project in partnership with Ellsworth, Prescott, River Falls, and St. Croix County Central High Schools special education classes., as well as the Have A Heart Foundation. Thanks to the generous support of the Feyereisen Foundation and seed donations from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, local students are able to gain experience germinating native prairie and pollinator plants. These plants are utilized in both KRLT preserves and community spaces to encourage the health and vitality of local ecosystems. This project isn’t just about planting seeds into soil; it’s about planting confidence and curiosity in young minds.
Through the program, students work together to germinate, care for, and sow seeds for a brighter tomorrow. KRLT Director Steve Leonard along with Natural Resource and Watershed Technicians Tia Foster and Lexi Dubiel are working together with local special education teachers to create an environment where students can take creative approaches to important lessons. Students at varying high schools, as well as Have A Heart, are learning about prairie root systems, pollinator tactics, and seed germination through inspiring and engaging hands-on demonstrations. Each week, Rooted Together class of 2026 is showing that when we nurture the natural world, we nurture our minds—creating a chance to grow stronger, together.
In 2023, Evan helped collect prairie seed at Kelly Creek Preserve as part of a vocational training program. Its been a meaningful, learning experience on how the program has grown. Everyone can benefit from nature. And everyone can provide a helping hand. As a community, we can continue to grow Rooted Together into an outdoor vocational experience for those with a disability – growing natives for KRLT preserves and pollinators for backyards.
"Confidence. Environmental Stewardship. Togetherness. That's what Rooted Together is all about."
- Lexi
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This program is supported by
We are driven by a mission to empower individuals with disabilities, promote their rights, and enhance their quality of life. Our core values include inclusivity, respect, compassion and a shared commitment to advocating for the rights and opportunities for all individuals.
Our purpose is to create a world where people with disabilities can fully participate in all aspects of life, without barriers or discrimination.