Stillwater, Minnesota, is a community deeply committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Through various initiatives and programs, the city and its residents are actively working to preserve natural resources and promote a healthier environment for future generations.
Environmental Learning Center at Stillwater Area High School
One of the standout features of Stillwater’s environmental efforts is the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) located behind Stillwater Area High School. This 55-acre parcel encompasses diverse biomes, including an oak forest, prairie, and coniferous planting, along with several seasonal ponds. The ELC serves as an outdoor classroom where students engage in activities such as banding migratory birds, studying small mammals, and utilizing camera traps to observe wildlife. Public hiking is encouraged, though dogs are not permitted to maintain the area’s ecological integrity.
Sustainable Stillwater MN and the GreenStep Cities Program
Sustainable Stillwater MN, a nonprofit organization, has been instrumental in advancing the city’s sustainability goals. Established in 2016, the organization has spearheaded initiatives like the downtown business waste management program S.E.E.D., promotion of energy management for carbon reduction, Safe Routes to School, and the adoption of the GreenStep Cities plan. In 2018, Stillwater was designated a Minnesota GreenStep City, reflecting its commitment to sustainable practices. The GreenStep program provides guidelines to help cities achieve sustainability, resiliency, and a better quality of life for their citizens.
Energy Action Plan
In collaboration with Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy program, Stillwater developed an Energy Action Plan to help residents and businesses reduce energy consumption and carbon footprints. The plan focuses on saving energy, reducing emissions, and increasing energy resiliency while preserving Stillwater’s historic character for future generations.
Community Engagement and Education
Community engagement is a cornerstone of Stillwater’s environmental initiatives. Events like the annual Valley Eco Fair, hosted by Sustainable Stillwater MN, bring together residents, businesses, and local leaders to learn about and participate in sustainability efforts. These events often feature electric vehicle test drives, educational workshops, and opportunities for community members to get involved in local environmental projects.
Through these concerted efforts, Stillwater exemplifies how a community can come together to promote environmental sustainability and resilience, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for all.