Stillwater, Minnesota, is actively pursuing sustainability through various community-driven environmental initiatives. These efforts aim to enhance the city’s ecological health and promote a sustainable lifestyle for its residents.
Environmental Learning Center at Stillwater Area High School
The Environmental Learning Center (ELC) is a 55-acre area behind Stillwater Area High School, featuring diverse biomes such as oak forests, prairies, and coniferous plantings. It serves as an outdoor classroom where students engage in activities like bird banding and wildlife monitoring, fostering a deep connection with nature.
Sustainable Stillwater MN
Established in 2016, Sustainable Stillwater MN is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability across the community. Their initiatives include the Bird City Program, which focuses on protecting bird habitats and biodiversity, and the GreenStep Cities program, assisting the city in achieving sustainability goals through best practices in areas like energy efficiency and natural resource conservation.
Energy Action Plan
In collaboration with Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy program, Stillwater developed an Energy Action Plan to educate and inspire residents and businesses to engage in energy-saving actions. The plan aims to save 3.8 million kWh of electricity and 198,000 therms of natural gas by the end of 2025, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and saving the community approximately $450,000.
Addressing PFAS Contamination
The city is proactively addressing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in its water supply. Construction is underway for a new PFAS treatment facility at Well #10, expected to be operational by spring 2026. This facility will ensure the provision of safe, high-quality drinking water for residents.
Through these initiatives, Stillwater demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability, fostering a healthier and more resilient community.