Stillwater, Minnesota, is actively engaging in various environmental initiatives to promote sustainability and resilience within the community. These efforts encompass a range of programs and partnerships aimed at preserving natural resources, enhancing energy efficiency, and fostering environmental education.
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. This space serves as an outdoor classroom where students participate in activities like bird banding, small mammal tracking, and wildlife photography. The ELC is open to the public for hiking, though dogs are not permitted to maintain the area’s ecological integrity.
Sustainable Stillwater MN
Established in 2016, Sustainable Stillwater MN (SSMN) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting social, economic, and environmental resilience. SSMN has been instrumental in initiatives such as the Green Business Directory, Safe Routes to School, and the adoption of the GreenStep Cities plan. These programs aim to enhance sustainability practices among local businesses and improve community infrastructure.
GreenStep Cities Program
Since 2018, Stillwater has been recognized as a Minnesota GreenStep City, thanks to collaborative efforts between SSMN and city officials. The GreenStep program provides a framework for cities to achieve sustainability through best practices in areas like green building, energy efficiency, and natural resource conservation. The GreenStep team is currently working on developing a Climate Action Plan to further guide the city’s environmental strategies.
Energy Action Plan
In March 2023, Stillwater joined Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy Program to develop an Energy Action Plan. This plan outlines strategies for residents and businesses to save energy, reduce costs, and lower carbon emissions. Community members are encouraged to participate in energy-saving programs and explore available rebates for energy-efficient home upgrades.
Natural Resources and Seasonal Practices
Sustainable Stillwater MN emphasizes the importance of managing natural resources through seasonal best practices. Residents are encouraged to adopt measures such as minimizing salt use in winter, clearing road gutters in spring, maintaining rain gardens in summer, and removing invasive species in autumn. These practices contribute to the overall health and sustainability of the community’s environment.
Through these initiatives, Stillwater demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability, fostering a community that values and actively participates in preserving its natural surroundings.