BAELN to host its first presentation of its season

BAXTER - The Brainerd Area Environmental Learning Network will host its first presentation of the 2009-2010 season from 3-5 p.m. Thursday at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, 7678 College Road, Suite 105, Baxter.

The topic will be "Growing the resources, the land, the economy and the community - for the good of us all."

BAELN, now in its seventh season, offers people in the environmental field and the community timely information on environmental and sustainability issues, along with the chance to network with others. This season's theme Greening the Economy provides insight into the jobs, skills and opportunities that the green jobs direction offers.

BAELN events are hosted most third Thursdays of the month from 3-5 p.m. and include an hourlong presentation with time for questions, networking and refreshments.

The events are open to the public and are free.

BAELN is a collaborative effort of the following organizations: 1000 Friends of Minnesota, Central Lakes College, Crow Wing County Soil and Water Conservation District, Initiative Foundation, Minnesota DNR, Minnesota Department of Transportation, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Minnesota Waters, The Nature Conservancy, University of Minnesota Extension as well as community members.

If you would like to be on the BAELN e-mail list or for general information on BAELN, contact Stephen Mikkelson at (218) 316-3887 or (800) 657-3864.