Whether you are a lifelong Minnesotan or a recent transplant, you know there is something undeniably special about the spring and summer months in our state. This is a time for renewal, when we emerge from hibernation to reconnect with the natural world.

For my family and me, this means birdwatching, heading up north to our cabin and, of course, getting out on the boat and fishing. My girls have all grown up looking forward to our annual family fishing trip, as this event marks the arrival of summer for us.

Now imagine for a moment, no migrating songbirds to beckon us outside. Imagine our lakes and rivers stop providing clean water for drinking and fishing. Consider the possibility that Lake Country will no longer provide the same experiences and value. These are scary scenarios, but ones we must consider if we are to address the interconnected global crises of climate change and the loss of natural areas and wildlife.

The fact of the matter is nature plays a fundamental, albeit overlooked, role in our lives and livelihoods.

Nature is where we go to take refuge, calm ourselves and find peace. But it also provides the basis for much of what we hold dear in Minnesota, from our abundant clean water to our world-class outdoor recreation.

Nature’s benefits are not guaranteed, though we largely take them for granted—and it is time for that to change.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) recently commissioned a report exploring the economic impact of natural climate solutions in Minnesota. The report clearly shows that investments in nature provide an impressive ROI for our state, including the annual addition of up to 5,200 new jobs, $148 million in new wages and a whopping $37 billion in overall benefits.

In fact, for every $1 we invest in natural climate solutions, Minnesota can expect to see $8.55 worth of public benefits.

Visit nature.org/Minnesota to download the economic impact report

As climate change takes its toll in Minnesota—in the form of floods, droughts, worsening water quality and an uptick in pest-borne diseases—we have a tremendous responsibility to act and to find solutions. Thankfully, natural climate solutions such as planting more trees, improving soil health on our farms and protecting and restoring our forests, grasslands and wetlands help tackle climate change by limiting carbon pollution. They also improve the quality of life for millions of Minnesotans by providing clean air and water, disaster risk reduction, habitat for fish and wildlife and more opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Investing in natural climate solutions at scale will require the involvement of all players, including business and civic leaders. Minnesota’s rich natural resources power our state’s strong economy, and it is up to all of us to protect them for present and future generations.

Visit nature.org/treeswatersoil to learn more about natural climate solutions and Minnesotans who are making a difference.