Chair: Suryash Rawat

The Stewardship Committee guides the care and management of the Minnesota Valley Chapter’s land and facilities, ensuring our practices reflect our conservation values. The committee oversees maintenance, upgrades, and sustainability initiatives for the Chapter House and property. Recent improvements include the installation of a solar-powered heat pump furnace, energy-efficient washer and dryer, and a fully electric stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher. On the land, the committee ensures all projects align with the Chapter’s conservation plan. Dedicated to reducing our environmental footprint, the Stewardship Committee continually seeks innovative ways to model responsible and sustainable stewardship of our shared home.

Chair: Barb Hanson

The Membership Committee is dedicated to recruiting, welcoming, and supporting members of the Minnesota Valley Chapter. The committee oversees membership growth, engagement, and retention by fostering a strong sense of community and connection. It coordinates new member orientation and onboarding, ensuring each member understands our mission and feels valued from the start. The committee also leads volunteer recognition and appreciation efforts, including the annual Volunteer Appreciation Event, celebrating the contributions that make our chapter thrive. Through intentional outreach and member support, the Membership Committee strengthens the foundation of our organization and nurtures a vibrant, active, and inclusive community.

Currator: Joseph Barisonzi
Co-chair: Barb Hanson

The Kouba Gallery Committee oversees the operation, curation, and promotion of the Chapter’s art gallery. The committee manages the exhibition schedule, works directly with artists to coordinate shows, and ensures that each exhibition reflects the Chapter’s mission of connecting people, art, and nature. It leads the planning and hosting of the monthly Open House events, creating opportunities for the community to engage with artists and conservation themes. The committee also coordinates marketing and outreach to promote exhibitions and events. Through its work, the Kouba Gallery Committee celebrates creativity while fostering environmental awareness and community connection through the arts.

For more information visit their website at: KoubaGallery.org

Chair: Michelle Meek

The Newsletter and Communications Committee manages the Chapter’s internal and external communications to keep members and the community informed and engaged. The committee produces the monthly newsletter, maintains the Chapter website, and coordinates announcements about upcoming events, activities, and conservation efforts. It also supports communication for special programs and ensures consistent messaging across digital and print platforms. On-site, the committee manages the property kiosks and other informational displays to highlight chapter news and initiatives. Through clear, creative, and timely communication, the Newsletter and Communications Committee helps strengthen connections, celebrate achievements, and advance the Chapter’s mission and visibility.

co-Presidents: Lydia Geelan & Hannah Barisonzi

The Green Crew is the Minnesota Valley Chapter’s nationally recognized, youth-led environmental leadership and conservation service program. Guided by a dedicated youth leadership team, the Green Crew empowers young people to design and lead hands-on projects that protect and restore the natural world. Through environmental leadership training, service-learning projects, and collaboration with community partners, participants develop the skills, confidence, and knowledge to make a lasting impact. The award-winning program reflects the Chapter’s commitment to mentoring the next generation of conservation leaders and advancing real-world environmental action rooted in education, stewardship, and sustainability.

Learn more at: GreenCrew.club