The Farmington Feed

Emerald Ash Borer UpdateThe impact of the Emerald Ash Borer continues to reshape our community’s urban forest, and progress is being made.In this episode, Natural Resources Specialist Ben Humlie provides an update on the city’s ongoing Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) management efforts. With fewer than 1,000 boulevard ash trees remaining to be removed, the community is entering the final phase of a multi-year response to this invasive pest. Unfortunately, all ash trees will eventually succumb to EAB, making proactive planning essential to maintaining a healthy tree canopy.Ben discusses how the Shade Tree Grant program will help restore our urban forest, with a total of 331 new trees being planted as a one-for-one replacement for trees removed.The conversation also highlights broader ecological restoration work happening throughout the city, including:Removal of invasive buckthornStormwater pond cleanups and maintenanceSeeding restored areas with native plants to improve habitat, water quality, and long-term sustainabilityTune in to learn how these efforts are helping rebuild a more diverse, resilient landscape for the future.

Ever wonder how your yard can help protect our rivers and lakes? In this episode of Farmington Feed, we’re digging into Landscaping for Clean Water. This is a program that helps residents reimagine their lawns while making a real difference for the environment.We’re joined by Brita Moore-Kutz, Communications & Outreach Specialist with the Vermilion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization (VRWJPO), and Lindsey Albright, Monitoring & Outreach Coordinator with Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD). They share how small changes in landscaping can have a big impact on water quality.You’ll also hear:How Landscaping for Clean Water works and how much grant funding may be availableDetails on free intro classes (virtual options available this year)Tips from the Lawn Watering Wisdom campaignHow to get involved through Adopt-A-Drain and storm drain stencilingRegistration is now open for Landscaping for Clean Water intro classes. While there are no in-person classes in Farmington this year, virtual options make it easy to participate from anywhere.Tune in, get inspired, and learn how your lawn can be part of the solution!

Feed in 51.      Coffee Café 2.     The Open Door3.     Learn to Skate Winter Session 4.     Legacy on Ice Show Registration Deadline5.     National Skating Month Open Skate

Meet Farmington’s own Community Service Officers (CSOs), Claire Kennedy and Christina Calderon! In this episode, they share what inspired them to become CSOs and how the role is helping them work toward becoming sworn officers. Claire and Christina dive into the heart of community outreach, the rewarding moments that keep them going, and one surprising part of their job that most people never think about…hint: it involves furry friends!Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the people helping keep Farmington safe, supported, and connected.

This month, Caryn sits down with Farmington homeowner Chad, known for his incredible light displays, and Emilee Shearer, our Recreation Supervisor, to talk all things light tours! Chad has wowed the community through both the Halloween Havoc Tour and the Holiday Lights Tour, with synchronized music, dazzling effects, and a radio station that brings the whole show to life. Hear how much time and creativity go into making these displays shine and get inspired to join the fun yourself.There’s still time to sign up for the Holiday Lights Tour! Deadline is Monday, Nov. 17.Bonus: Can you guess how many lights Chad has in his display?

Farmington Police Captains Bob Sauter & Andrew Van Dorn join us on The Feed to talk all things police including why they chose this career, what their new roles mean, and a few fun stories along the way.Did you know Captain Sauter was featured in a video last year? Tune in to find out which one!Listen now on The Farmington Feed!

Join us for a special Fire Prevention Open House episode with Firefighter Steve Karsten and Fire Marshal Heath Walker! They’ll share important tips on kitchen safety, creating a fire escape plan, and making sure your smoke alarms are working properly. You’ll also learn about the rules for recreational fires and details on the permit you need for an open burn.This episode is packed with practical advice to help keep your family and home safe year-round.

Join Caryn as she sits down with Officer Pete and Superintendent Jason Berg to talk about back-to-school safety. From reminders for parents to stay patient during drop-off and pick-up, to encouraging new drivers to stay alert, this episode covers important tips to help keep our students safe. Remember to always adhere to school bus stop arms and flashing red lights and above all, don’t drive distracted! 

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1.      National Night Out (NNO)2.     Adventure Camp II3.     More Little & Middle Camps4.     Mini Clay Camp at Muddy Waters Studio5.     Rambling River Center Ribbbon Cutting Ceremony

With the recent re-opening of the Rambling River Center, Caryn sits down with two very active members and Rambling River Center Advisory Board (RRCAB) members Mary Garlets and Blanche Reichert to discuss the renovations. Mary and Blanche are excited about the new entry way, patio and so much more. Listen to find out what class Mary teaches and what Blanche's favorite program is! Hint: it has to do with wood.

SPECIAL EDITION Farmington Feed in 5: Top the Tater Days City Sponsored EventsThirsty Thursday - Thursday, June 26 from 6-9 pmTater Trot - Saturday, June 28 at 8 amPuppet Wagon - Saturday, June 28 at 9 amModel Railroad Club - Saturday, June 28 from 10 am to 4 pmBike Auction - Saturday, June 28 at 11:45 am **EDIT TIME CHANGE SINCE RECORDING**Kiss the Pig - Saturday, June 28 at 4 pm

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. Kiss the Pig CansFarmington Farmers Market reminderCity Hall Closed – JuneteenthMusic in the Park – Poor Cousin John TrioCamps, Camps and More Camps

Farmington Feed Podcast – Episode 63: New Employee Speed RoundIn this episode, we're diving into all things Public Works with two of our team members, Torri and Eric! Both are part of the Public Works department, but their department's jobs go far beyond street sweeping and snow plowing. Curious what else their team does? Tune in to find out! And we couldn’t let this week go by without mentioning—it’s National Public Works Week! Take a moment to thank a Public Works employee for all they do to keep our community running smoothly.

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1.      Spring Food Truck Event2.     Police Week & Open House3.     VFW Steak Fry Benefit RRC4.     City Hall Closed – Memorial Day5.     Music in the Park – Wednesday, May 28 – 5 Day Forecast

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1.      RRC’s Arts & Craft Fair2.     Pond & Park Clean-up3.     International Firefighters Day4.     Spring Mattress/Box Spring Drop-off & Document Shred Event5.     State of the City - Rescheduled

Earth Day Special: Talking Sustainability with Violet, McKenna, and Ben!Welcome to our exciting Earth Day episode! Caryn is sitting down with three passionate environmental advocates—Violet, McKenna, and Ben—to dive into the many ways we can all make a difference for our planet. From solid waste and recycling to water and natural resources, we're covering it all! Violet kicks things off with how to make sustainable swaps in everyday life. McKenna discusses how pollution impacts our water resources and what communities can do to protect them. Ben wraps things up with discussing the status of EAB and all things trees!

Join host Caryn Hojnicki as she sits down with teachers and students from Farmington High School’s FFA program to explore the world of agriculture, leadership, and hands-on learning. From raising livestock to managing community projects, hear firsthand how FFA is shaping the next generation of leaders in farming, agribusiness, and beyond.Don’t miss these inspiring conversations—subscribe now and stay connected to things in Farmington! 🚜🌾 #FarmingtonFeed #FFA #Agriculture #FutureLeaders

You guessed it... we’re talking all things summer! Even though we just dug out from a recent 10+ inch snowfall, Caryn sits down with Emilee Shearer, Recreation Supervisor to chat about exciting summer programs coming your way. From Footfire Soccer to Music in the Park, there’s something for everyone—and a couple of brand-new programs you won’t want to miss! We’re also diving into the Youth Scholarship, a fantastic yet under-utilized opportunity funded by the Louis Schmitz Foundation and Farmington Rotary. Want to know how to apply? Tune in for all the details!Summer fun starts now—don’t miss this episode! 

Our new Fire Marshal Heath Walker and Deputy Fire Chief Matt Brown sit down with Caryn to talk about the need for firefighters and Farmington's Firefighter Recruitment, why they love their careers, why it's not a job (according to Heath), and how to keep them from having to come to your house because of a fire.

Caryn sits down with JJ (James Johnson, Jr.) from Dakota County Public Health for a serious topic...opioids and prevention. JJ wants to get the word out about a Naloxone Training that will be held at the Farmington Library this month. He says administering Naloxone is something that everyone should know how to do and should have readily available. Find out what Naloxone can to do to help an opioid overdose and where you can get your free kit.

Caryn welcomes Jared Scharpen, Director of Career Development at Inver Hills Community College, and Stephanie Aman, Economic Development Coordinator, to discuss the upcoming Business Summit and the recently released business survey. Jared encourages business owners and employees to complete the survey, as it helps him align student skills with employer and business needs. He values being a sounding board for businesses and fostering those connections. Stephanie is excited to invite Farmington businesses to the Summit, which aims to build connections and create opportunities for everyone involved.

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1. Firefighter Recruitment2. Snowshoeing 3. S'Mores & More4. Junior Golf Camp5. City Hall Closed - MLK Day

Violet Penman, Solid Waste & Recycling joins Caryn again, but this time it is to talk about Greening Your Holidays! How do you "green" your holidays? Listen in as Violet talks about secondhand gift giving, the Minnesota Toy Library, alternatives to wrapping paper, and meal planning/food waste. She tells us about the greatest type of gift to give for those hard to shop for...so listen to the end to find out!

Join host Caryn Hojnicki while she gets to know some of the new Farmington Faces in the Police Department with a new employee speed round! First up is Officer Max Theirl who works nights and loves the excitement that shift brings even when he doesn't see the sunlight! Round Two is with Officer Dalton Vickery and Officer August Kewitsch. Dalton came to us with an Army National Guard background and an interesting responsibility for the department. Officer Kewitsch said that he always wanted to be a cop. Listen to find out what Officer Vickery's responsibility is and where your kid can see Officer Kewitsch at next!

Caryn sits down with Nicole Tyrrell, Neighborhood Programs Manager at The Open Door and Lynn Gorski, City Administrator for the City of Farmington to discuss the partnership that provides free, fresh and healthy food to the Farmington community. Learn how they secure food to bring to the pop-up pantry and how to donate your paper bags!

Caryn welcomes Police Department Administrative Sergeant Nate Siem to the feed! He is here to talk about a new program (and grant the department was awarded). This program is for those that want to transition into a career in law enforcement. Listen to find out how to qualify and what the program entails.

Jon BOOmicomb "Mr. Halloween" joins Erie Emilee Shearer and Creepy Caryn Hojnicki for this spooktacular episode of the Farmington Feed to discuss the Halloween Havoc Tour. Stay tuned to find out Mr. Halloween's address and bring your food donation!

It is Election time, and we have got all you need to know if you are a voter in Farmington, MN. Shirley Buecksler City Clerk explains to Caryn the difference between Absentee Voting and Direct Balloting, the need for Election Judges and why Minnesota & Dakota County are the best when it comes to the election process! Don't forget the change in Precinct 1 from Rambling River Center to Homestead Community Church.

Caryn sits down with Josh Solinger, Liquor Operations Manager and Deputy Police Chief Jim Constantineau to discuss the upcoming liquors donation drive for October. Find out what the fundraising goal is and how these donation drives support Farmington Police and Toys for Town.

Join Caryn as she talks to Skate School Director Molly Burmeister about the Learn to Skate Program. She mentions there are three new classes they are offering, and the fall session starts on Saturday, Oct. 5. Listen to find out details on which class is right for you and/or your child.

Feed in 5: Week of September 2The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. Who Done it HikeMovie in the ParkMuddy Waters Art ClassesTiger Cub Pep FestFarmington Liquors Tasting Event

Deputy Chief Jim Constantineau sits down with Caryn to talk about his 25-year career in the Farmington Police Department. He joined the department in 1999, and boy have things changed! From only 1 computer and 6 squad cars to an authorized strength of 27 officers and 22 squads. He even discusses the first police chief...and you would never guess how he got to a call!

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1. Water Wise Challenge2. Fire Prevention Open House3. Music in the Park – Free Ranger4. City Hall CLOSED – Monday, Sept 25. Mattress Special/Mattress Drop-off

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1. National Night Out2. PD Career Transition Q&A 3. Flagstaff Meadows Ribbon Cutting4. State Primary – Aug. 13 5. Last Puppet Wagon

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington.   1. Open Door Food Pantry2. Movie & Party in the Park Celebration3. Music in the Park, Vinnie Rose 4. Hyperspace Starcade Video Game Truck 5. The River Publication

Parks & Recreation Director Kellee Omlid and Katie Putt from the Parks & Recreation Committee join Caryn to talk about Parks and Recreation Month and the improvements at Rambling River Park. 

Join Parks and Recreation Director Kellee Omlid and Council Member Holly Bernatz for the annual Dew Days Parade. This signature event wraps up Dew Days and features a delightful array of floats, marching bands, local organizations, and spirited participants.

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington.   1. Little Camps starting this week 2. Music in the Park: featuring blues band Alligations 3. Summer Long Geocaching Hunt 4. Drop off your plastic boat wrap at Lighthouse Motorsports and Marine in Rosemount5. Register for Notify Me text and email notifications

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1. Chill with a Cop2. Recreation Fun - Safety Camp, Storytime in the Park, and Storytrails3. Dew Days - City Sponsored Events: Thirsty Thursday, Model Railroad Club Display, Police Bike Auction, and Kiss the Pig4. Puppet Wagon5. Art Camps with Muddy Waters

Kristie Kerr & Holly Shearer from the Dew Days committee joins Caryn to talk about the 2024 Dew Days Celebration. 

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. This episode is all about the Farmington Helmet Heroes event, where kids can receive a free bike helmet, learn about bike riding and general maintenance, and participate in a bike ride around Farmington.

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1. Spring Food Truck Event2. Fix-it Clinic3. Police Department Open House4. VFW Steak Fry for Rambling River Center5. Muddy Waters Adult Clay Class

Join host Caryn Hojnicki while she gets to know some of the new Farmington Faces with a new employee speed round! Welcome Josh, Melissa, & Sean from the Community Development Department and they are part of the building inspections division. They enjoy their new positions as Building Official, Building Permit Technician, and Building Inspector. They love helping people bring their project dreams to life. We also get a chance to speak with Kim the new Finance Director. She is confident that her work ethic will protect the city's finances and attributes that ethic to her dad. 

SPECIAL EDITIONThe Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1. Earth Day2. Recycling Events

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1. Farmington Fix Hub2. New Website

Liquor Operations manager Josh Solinger joins Caryn to talk about how you can participate in the April Donation Drive fundraising campaign this month at Farmington Liquors. Parks and Recreation Director Kellee Omlid explains how these funds will help pay for improvements at Rambling River Park and Officer Hagfors discusses how funds go to support the police K9 Smoke.

The Feed in Five is a shorter version of the Farmington Feed and it will be a quick update of what is going on in and around the City of Farmington. 1.        Hyperspace Starcade Video Game Truck2.       Open Door Pantry March3.       Recreation Registration is now open for summer4.       New Website coming in April5.       Liquors Tasting Event & Donation Drive

The Feed in 5 is a quick update of what is happening in the City of Farmington!1.        Firefighter Recruitment Informational Meetings 2.       Presidential Nomination Primary3.       Arts & Craft Fair 4.       Athletic Gear Swap5.       Adult + Kid Clay Class

The Feed in 5 is a quick update of what is happening in the City of Farmington!The Open Door Partnership ContinuesEarly Voting in the Presidential Nomination PrimaryWarming Houses & Ice Rinks Now Closed for the SeasonBreakfast with the Bunnies Tickets AvailableOpt-In for Text Messages with Parks & Recreation

The Feed in 5 is a quick update of what is happening in the City of Farmington!Ice Water Rescue TrainingFirefighter Recruitment Informational MeetingsFarmington Liquors Tasting EventPilot Knob Trail Project Open HouseFrustrated with Dating classHoliday Lights final collection days