Otter Tail and Wilkin Counties Celebrating National Public Health Week

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Otter Tail County, MN – The Prairie Lakes Community Health Board has declared April 6–12, 2026, as National Public Health Week in Otter Tail and Wilkin counties. This annual observance, held during the first full week of April, recognizes the important role public health plays in keeping communities healthy, safe and strong.

This year’s national theme, “Ready. Set. Action!”, highlights how public health professionals, partners and communities can work together to improve health and well-being for everyone.

National Public Health Week also marks an important milestone for the region with the introduction of the Prairie Lakes Community Health Board, a joint powers partnership between Otter Tail and Wilkin counties that provides shared leadership and oversight for local public health.

Through this structure, Prairie Lakes Community Health Services delivers programs and services that support the health of people and communities across both counties. These services focus on prevention, health promotion, and responding to community health needs.

“The formation of the Prairie Lakes Community Health Board represents an exciting step forward for public health in our region,” said Wayne Johnson, Chair of the Prairie Lakes Community Health Board. “By working together across county lines, we can continue to protect and improve the health of the people we serve.”

Public health professionals work alongside partners from local governments, schools, healthcare organizations and community groups to address the many factors that influence health outcomes. From preventing disease and injury to promoting healthy environments and supporting families, public health plays a vital role in building strong communities.

Jody Lien, Community Health Services Administrator, emphasized the importance of the week and the launch of Prairie Lakes.

“National Public Health Week is a time to recognize the dedicated staff and partners who work every day to keep our communities healthy,” Lien said. “The through Prairie Lakes Community Health Board and the services it supports, we are able to work together in, serving communities across both counties.”

Story courtesy of Otter Tail County.