According to statistics from the United Nations, each of us consumes between two and four liters of water every day - that's from glasses, in products or even within our food. Our very existence depends on the life-giving benefits of our water supplies. In support of World Water Day on March 22 this week, we wanted to highlight the importance of local efforts that sustain our waterways and keep our rivers and lakes clean and beneficial for everyone to enjoy.

Last Fall, InCommons partnered with the Freshwater Society to host the first  "Work for Water Neighborhood Challenge." The contest encouraged small neighborhood-based efforts to reduce the phosphorus pollution in waters throughout Minnesota and awarded prizes for the most innovative, creative ideas to protect Minnesota's lakes and rivers. From raking and mulching leaves to full-neighborhood leaf collection,  three youth groups were congratulated and awarded $500 prizes for their efforts. Who knew something as basic as raking could make such a big difference for our water supplies?

In partnership with the Mississippi National River Recreation Area (MNRRA), the Freshwater Society developed the Minnesota FarmWise program to leverage the knowledge and experience of the two well-established environmental organizations. The program offers experienced and retired farmers an opportunity to leverage their expertise and create inter-generational approaches to urgent environmental issues like the state of the Mississippi River.

Searching for your own way to get connected with other InCommons community members on water issues? Visit our Search & Connect list for nearly 200 ways to get involved. Or, download a free Pocket Guide to Reducing Your Water Footprint today and tell us how you're supporting clean water. Send your story toblog@incommons.org.

The InCommons network is working together to create water solutions on March 29: