Stillwater, Minnesota, is a community deeply committed to environmental sustainability and education. Several local initiatives exemplify this dedication, fostering a harmonious relationship between residents and the natural world.
Environmental Learning Center at Stillwater Area High School
Behind Stillwater Area High School lies the Environmental Learning Center (ELC), a 55-acre expanse designed to reflect Minnesota’s diverse biomes, including oak forests, prairies, and coniferous plantings. 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 preserve the area’s ecological integrity.
Sustainable Stillwater MN: A Grassroots Movement
In 2013, a group of residents and high school students envisioned a greener future for Stillwater, leading to the formation of Sustainable Stillwater MN (SSMN). Officially launched in 2016 and becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2019, SSMN focuses on promoting sustainability through various programs. Notable initiatives include:
- Bird City Program: This program advances Stillwater’s commitment to protecting birds and their habitats through education, habitat stewardship, and community collaboration. It aligns with best practices established by the Minnesota Audubon Society.
- GreenStep Cities Program: Since 2018, Stillwater has been designated a Minnesota GreenStep City, thanks in part to SSMN’s efforts. This program provides guidelines to help cities achieve sustainability, resiliency, and a better quality of life for residents.
City’s Energy Action Plan
Stillwater’s Energy Action Plan aims to educate and inspire residents and businesses to engage in energy-saving actions. The plan sets a community-wide goal to save 3.8 million kWh of electricity and 198,000 therms of natural gas by the end of 2025, which would avoid an additional 58% of energy-related greenhouse gas emissions and save the community $450,000.
Addressing PFAS in Drinking Water
The City of Stillwater is proactively addressing the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its drinking water. Construction is underway for a new PFAS treatment facility at Well #10, with the project expected to be substantially complete by May 1, 2026. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to providing safe, high-quality drinking water for all residents.
Through these initiatives, Stillwater demonstrates a robust commitment to environmental stewardship, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant community for current and future generations.