Since 1997, Dakota Electric has donated nearly 200 trees to member cities

(FARMINGTON, MN) May 22, 2025 –Dakota Electric Association® is proud to support local communities by donating trees to seven member cities. Between April 19 and May 9, each city selected and planted a tree of its choice. In addition, the cooperative distributed 3,000 tree planting kits throughout its service area this year. Since 1997, Dakota Electric has contributed nearly 200 trees to member cities and over 180,000 tree seedlings to the community, honoring Earth Day and Arbor Day.

By donating trees and seedlings, Dakota Electric aims to go beyond merely providing electricity to its members. This initiative reflects a strong commitment to environmentally responsible practices and assists communities in building sustainable, eco-friendly futures. “Since the program’s inception in 1997, we’ve significantly impacted the communities we serve,” said Lori Peine, Community Affairs Coordinator for Dakota Electric. “It’s a unique gift to be able to deliver and help plant fully-grown trees in our member cities. I’m excited that we can provide this special gift to them.”

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

Local students win trip to D.C.

(FARMINGTON, MN) March 11, 2025 – Five local high school students were recently selected to receive an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., sponsored by Dakota Electric Association. The students will participate in the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) annual Youth Tour, scheduled for June 16-21. The students selected are:

A panel of judges selected five students from those who applied after reviewing their applications and conducting a round of interviews. “Every year, I am amazed by not only the number but also the quality of candidates who apply,” said Peggy Johnson, Dakota Electric’s community relations director. “I know our judges have difficulty narrowing the candidates down to just five.”

Every year, over 1,800 high school students from across the United States are chosen and sponsored by their local electric cooperatives to participate in NRECA’s Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. During the week, students learn about government, electric cooperatives, and how they work together. They also have the chance to visit several monuments, memorials, and museums in Washington, D.C., while meeting members of Congress.

Dakota Electric makes applications for the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour available each January. Eligible applicants must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors currently enrolled in high school and residing within Dakota Electric’s service area. Students wanting more information can visit https://www.dakotaelectric.com/community/education-programs/.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

Crops Day will bring experts from the University of Minnesota and the Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District to Dakota County Growers

(FARMINGTON, MN) March 11, 2025 – Dakota Electric Association will sponsor and host Crops Day on Wednesday, March 12, from 9 a.m. to noon at Dakota Electric’s headquarters at 4300 220th Street West in Farmington, MN.

The event schedule is as follows:

8:30 a.m.
Registration

9:00 a.m.
Private Well Testing: Measuring Nitrate, Arsenic, Manganese, Lead, and Coliform Bacteria, Matt Belanger, Dakota County Environmental Resources Department, Apple Valley

9:15 a.m.
Stacking Practices for Soil Health, Dru Larson, Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District, Farmington

9:30 a.m.
Federal Program Updates, Matthew Lundberg, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Brandon Dahl, Farm Service Agency

9:45 a.m.
Break

10:00 a.m.
Using Cereal Rye as a Cover Crop: Seeding Rate and Termination Timing for Optimal Weed Control and Soybean Yield, Eric Yu, Extension Educator, University of Minnesota, Farmington

10:30 a.m.
Insect Updates and Outlooks for 2025, Claire LaCanne, Extension Educator, University of Minnesota, Andover

11:00 a.m.
Grain Markets in Turmoil, Edward Usset, Grain Market Economist, University of Minnesota, St. Paul

11:30 a.m.
Energy Conservation Programs, Mike Plutowski, Dakota Electric Association

Noon
Lunch with the experts and trade show

This event is free and open to the public. Lunch will be provided. Drop-ins are welcome, but pre-registration is requested for food planning. On-site registration begins at 8:30 am. To RSVP, please register online at https://z.umn.edu/DakotaCountyCropsDay.

Dakota Electric Association, Werner Seed, McNamara Farms, Compeer Financial, Dakota Soil & Water Conservation District, and the University of Minnesota Extension sponsor Crop Day.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 115,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

High-school students can win an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C.

(FARMINGTON, MN) January 8, 2025 – Dakota Electric Association is calling on the next generation of leaders to apply for a once-in-a-lifetime experience: the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. The Youth Tour was established to inspire our next generation of leaders by allowing them to explore monuments and museums, meet with members of Congress, develop leadership skills and learn about the cooperative business model. Since 1964, more than 50,000 young people have taken advantage of this unique opportunity their local electric cooperative offers.

“We encourage any student who is interested to apply,” said Peggy Johnson, Community Relations Director at Dakota Electric. “We look forward to reviewing all the applications that come in. Year after year, the applications get more and more impressive.”

This opportunity is open to students currently enrolled as sophomores, juniors, or seniors who reside within Dakota Electric’s service territory.

Students can complete the application to apply for this extraordinary trip by visiting Dakota Electric’s website. The deadline for submission is February 21, 2025, so interested students should act promptly to secure their chance.

To complete the application, students must include a letter of recommendation from a teacher, coach, or youth organization leader. This requirement ensures that applicants are recognized for their dedication, leadership, and potential to make a positive impact. Additionally, applicants must be available for in-person interviews on March 13 or 18.

Youth Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity for students to broaden their horizons, gain valuable insights, and forge lifelong friendships and memories. This immersive experience allows students to explore iconic landmarks, engage in interactive educational activities, and connect with peers nationwide.

“This is an unbelievable experience—once in a lifetime,” continued Johnson. “With Youth Tour being an annual occurrence, we can invest in our future leaders on a regular basis. That investment in our community and the next generation of leaders is something Dakota Electric is very passionate about.”

Dakota Electric Association is committed to empowering the community’s youth and providing them with unique opportunities for growth and development. By offering this all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., Dakota Electric aims to inspire and motivate students to become active participants in shaping the future.

Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to win a trip to Washington, D.C.! Apply now and embark on an unforgettable adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Please direct questions to Peggy Johnson, Community Relations Director, at (651) 463-6110 or (612) 978-4612 or email pjohnson@dakotaelectric.com.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 115,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

Bundles of Love was named the winner, with Sleep in Heavenly Peace and Foster Together named runners-up

(FARMINGTON, MN) December 18, 2024 – Dakota Electric Association named local non-profit Bundles of Love the Touchstone Energy Community Award winner. Since 2005, the Touchstone Energy Community Award has recognized organizations for their outstanding contributions to the local community. The award acknowledges the efforts of those who have impacted numerous people, addressed unmet community needs or provided necessary services. Bundles of Love’s was awarded $500 for winning the award. Their award application will be submitted to the statewide Minnesota Touchstone Energy Community Award. The Minnesota Touchstone Energy Community Award will be announced in February during the Minnesota Rural Electric Association’s annual meeting in St. Paul.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) and Foster Together were named runners-up and will receive $500 each.

“With over 30 non-profits and community organizations applying this year, we were humbled to see all the good happening in and around Dakota County this giving season,” said Jon Beyer, VP of Energy and Member Services at Dakota Electric. “We hope this giving mindset is contagious during the holiday season.”

Bundles of Love is a volunteer-driven nonprofit that partners with community organizations to assist Minnesota families in need by providing handmade items for newborns. The organization believes in a world where every newborn can access the basics.

SHP, a nonprofit with chapters across the country knows child bedlessness is a national problem, and has provided the solution. The Twin Cities South chapter is funded locally; local volunteers do the work, and the beds are delivered to local kids. Volunteer delivery teams are currently delivering beds to kids aged 3-17 who don’t have a bed of their own.

Foster Together exists to walk alongside foster, kinship, and adoptive families. Its mission is to reduce stress and prevent burnout by providing relational and tangible support. Foster Together partners with the community to create opportunities for everyone to get involved.

“I look forward to seeing the positive impacts these organizations make with these resources,” said Beyer. “Best of luck to Bundles of Love as their application heads through the statewide application process.”

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 115,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

Donations benefit Creating Healthier Communities, 360 Communities and Kaitlyn’s Kloset

(FARMINGTON, MN) December 12, 2024 – Dakota Electric Association is proud to share that its employees raised nearly $29,000 for local non-profits and community organizations in 2024 through the employee-led Dakota Cares program. Our generous employees give back to the community every year by donating to Dakota Cares. Donations come from employees participating in silent auctions, pork chop feeds, payroll deductions, and more.

“We aim to do more than just deliver safe, reliable, and affordable electricity,” said Corey Willert, Project Manager at Dakota Electric and member of the Dakota Cares team. “As a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, we care about the communities we serve. Whether through financial support or volunteering, we are passionate about helping our communities thrive.”

Since 2001, Dakota Cares has raised more than $600,000 for local non-profits and organizations impacting the community. This year, funds will be given to:

• CHC: Creating Healthier Communities;
• 360 Communities;
• Kaitlyn’s Kloset.

“I can’t wait to see how these deserving organizations use the resources given to them,” said Willert. “I hope we have an even bigger donation amount to distribute next year.”

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 115,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

Two bucket trucks and a digger derrick were sent to provide mutual assistance

(FARMINGTON, MN) October 17, 2024 – Dakota Electric Association recently sent six crew members with two bucket trucks and one digger derrick to support Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC) in Dade City, Florida, with Hurricane Milton restoration efforts. Electric cooperatives in Florida reached out for mutual assistance before the storm hit to get teams staged for more efficient restoration.

Minnesota Rural Electric Association (MREA) worked closely with WREC and Dakota Electric’s Utility Services team to mobilize and stage crews before the hurricane made landfall. Dakota Electric mechanics were in contact with WREC regarding equipment needs and worked tirelessly to prepare the trucks and equipment for the long journey to Florida. In addition to the workforce and materials sent by Dakota Electric, Kandiyohi Power Cooperative in Spicer, MN, also sent crews, trucks and materials to assist.

“This is a perfect example of cooperation among cooperatives and concern for community – two of the seven Cooperative Principals,” said Ryan Hentges, President and CEO of Dakota Electric. “By working together, we can safely improve response times and deal more effectively with community needs. We sincerely wish all the folks impacted by Hurricane Milton a safe and fast recovery.”

Earlier this month, 18 of Minnesota’s electric cooperatives sent 80 lineworkers to help restore power after Hurricane Helene caused outages to more than 1.25 million cooperative members in the Southeastern United States.

“It’s times like these, when communities are in need, the cooperative difference really shines,” Hentges continued. “Lineworkers from co-ops around the country packed bags, loaded trucks and kissed family members goodbye as they sacrificed for the sake of others in need. Thank you to Luke, Kyle, Clay, Tim, Wyatt and Bryce who volunteered to help with the mutual aid efforts.”

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 115,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

-end-

The award recognizes non-profit groups and community organizations that have shown a strong commitment to the public

(FARMINGTON, MN) October 9, 2024 – Dakota Electric Association is now accepting applications for the Touchstone Energy Community Award. The award recognizes non-profit groups and community organizations that have shown a strong commitment to the people they serve. Any civic organization or non-profit in the Dakota Electric service area can compete for the award.

In 2024, Dakota Electric will provide three Touchstone Energy Community Awards, each accompanied by a check for $500. One award recipient will be chosen to contend against other award winners from across the state for the Minnesota Touchstone Energy Community Award and a cash prize of $2,000. The statewide award winner will be recognized at the Minnesota Rural Electric Association annual meeting early next year.

Organizations are eligible to apply for the award themselves, or community members may apply on behalf of a deserving organization. The application will require a description of the project, program, or event and its positive impact on the community.

Organizations that have won in the past three years are ineligible to win again this year. Organizations that have applied previously but did not win are encouraged to apply again. Applications must be submitted before 4:30 pm CDT on November 1, 2024, to be considered. To apply, please visit www.dakotaelectric.com/community/touchstone-energy-community-award/touchstone-energy-award-application/.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 115,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to its members while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

-end-

Recipients include 360 Communities, CAP Agency and Burnsville Police and Fire Foundation

(FARMINGTON, MN) October 8, 2024 – Dakota Electric Association, along with CoBank, one of its lenders, recently donated $20,000 to three community organizations. 360 Communities received $10,000 and CAP Agency and Burnsville Police and Fire Foundation received $5,000 each. The “Sharing Success” grant program matched Dakota Electric’s donations.

“Donating to these impactful community organizations is such an honor and privilege,” said Jon Beyer, VP of Energy and Member Services at Dakota Electric. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to double our donation through CoBank’s grant. The matching grants allow our donations to go further and do more for the community.”

360 Communities delivers safety and stability that improves lives. With effective and holistic programming, 360 Communities:

• leverages community partnerships, builds trusting relationships, and breaks cycles of violence and poverty; and,
• strengthens communities with measurable success.

CAP Agency assists and empowers people to achieve social and economic well-being in partnership with our community. CAP Agency strives to:

• create a strong and healthy community of connected individuals and families;
• provide accessible and high-quality education;
• ensure safe and stable housing with energy support; and,
• impart fulfilling employment for all.

The Burnsville Police and Fire Foundation was established in response to the recent tragedies in Burnsville and helps fill the gap where resources fall short in the police and fire departments. Funds raised may support initiatives like Night Vision, increased K9 dogs, bulletproof vests, technology updates, and much more that are not included in the general budget but are imperative to keeping the community safe.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 115,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to its members while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

-end-