Stillwater, Minnesota, is a community deeply connected to its natural surroundings. Residents and local organizations have undertaken various initiatives to preserve and enhance the environment, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
Environmental Learning Center at Stillwater Area High School
One notable effort is the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) at Stillwater Area High School. This 55-acre area encompasses diverse biomes, including oak forests, prairies, and coniferous plantings. The ELC serves as an outdoor classroom where students engage in activities like bird banding, small mammal tracking, and wildlife photography. Public hiking is encouraged, though visitors are asked to leave their dogs at home to protect the local ecosystem.
Sustainable Stillwater MN: A Grassroots Movement
Since its inception in 2013, Sustainable Stillwater MN (SSMN) has been at the forefront of promoting sustainability within the community. Achieving nonprofit status in 2019, SSMN has spearheaded initiatives such as the Green Business Directory, Safe Routes to School, and the adoption of the GreenStep Cities plan. These programs aim to enhance environmental, economic, and social resilience in Stillwater.
GreenStep Cities Program
Stillwater’s participation in the Minnesota GreenStep Cities program underscores its commitment to sustainable practices. This voluntary program provides a framework for cities to achieve sustainability goals through best practices in areas like energy efficiency, land use, and transportation. The GreenStep team collaborates with city officials to implement these practices, contributing to a more resilient and livable community.
Water Quality and Safety Measures
Water quality is a priority for Stillwater. The city sources its drinking water from the Prairie Du Chien-Jordan and Jordan aquifers, with wells ranging from 200 to 305 feet deep. Regular testing ensures compliance with health standards, and the city has implemented measures to address concerns such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to maintain safe drinking water for residents.
Community Engagement and Education
Educational initiatives like the “We Are Water MN” exhibit, hosted by ArtReach St. Croix and the Stillwater Public Library, engage the community in understanding water’s significance. This traveling exhibit explores the science, history, and cultural relationships of water in Minnesota, fostering a deeper appreciation and commitment to water conservation.
Through these collective efforts, Stillwater exemplifies a community dedicated to environmental stewardship, balancing growth with the preservation of its natural resources.