Stillwater, Minnesota, is a community deeply committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Through various initiatives and programs, the city and its residents actively work to preserve natural resources and promote eco-friendly practices.
Environmental Learning Center at Stillwater Area High School
One notable initiative is the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) located behind Stillwater Area High School. This 55-acre area encompasses diverse biomes, including oak forests, prairies, and coniferous plantings, along with seasonal ponds. The ELC serves as an outdoor classroom where students engage in activities such as bird banding, small mammal tracking, and wildlife photography, fostering a hands-on approach to environmental education.
Sustainable Stillwater MN: Grassroots Efforts
Founded in 2013, Sustainable Stillwater MN (SSMN) began as a grassroots movement aiming to make the community more resilient and connected. Officially becoming a nonprofit in 2019, SSMN has spearheaded several projects, including the Green Business Directory and the Energy Action Plan adopted in 2024. These efforts focus on promoting sustainability across the community by supporting local businesses and implementing energy-saving strategies.
Bird City Program: Protecting Avian Habitats
In collaboration with the City of Stillwater, SSMN leads the Bird City Program, which emphasizes the protection of bird habitats and biodiversity. This program engages residents in bird conservation efforts, habitat restoration, and educational initiatives, aligning with best practices established by the Minnesota Audubon Society. Such endeavors not only benefit avian populations but also enhance the overall health of the local environment.
GreenStep Cities Program: Advancing Sustainability
Since 2018, Stillwater has been designated a Minnesota GreenStep City, thanks in part to the efforts of SSMN’s GreenStep team. This program provides guidelines to help cities achieve sustainability and resilience. The GreenStep team collaborates with city officials to implement best practices in areas such as green building, energy efficiency, and natural resource conservation, contributing to a better quality of life for residents.
Energy Action Plan: Reducing Emissions
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. Achieving this goal is expected to reduce energy-related greenhouse gas emissions by 58% and save the community approximately $450,000.
Through these initiatives, Stillwater demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, fostering a sustainable and resilient community for current and future generations.