Stillwater, Minnesota, is actively engaging in environmental stewardship through various community-driven initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability and preserving natural resources.
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 participate in activities like banding migratory birds and monitoring local wildlife. The ELC is open to the public for hiking, though dogs are not permitted to maintain the area’s ecological integrity.
Sustainable Stillwater MN: Grassroots Environmental Advocacy
Founded in 2013, Sustainable Stillwater MN (SSMN) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability within the community. SSMN has been instrumental in initiatives like the Green Business Directory, Safe Routes to School, and supporting the city’s participation in the Minnesota GreenStep Cities program. These efforts focus on enhancing environmental, economic, and social resilience in Stillwater.
Addressing PFAS Contamination
The city is actively addressing concerns about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. In 2025, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) initiated investigations to identify PFAS sources and assess private wells. Residents with private wells are encouraged to participate in testing to ensure water safety. The city has taken steps to mitigate PFAS levels by ceasing the use of affected wells and collaborating with state agencies for comprehensive solutions.
Energy Action Plan: A Collaborative Effort
In 2023, Stillwater joined Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy Program to develop an Energy Action Plan. This plan aims to help residents and businesses reduce energy consumption and carbon footprints. Community members are encouraged to participate in energy-saving programs, explore home and business rebates, and engage in local events focused on energy education and climate solutions.
Community Engagement and Education
Events like the annual Valley Eco Fair, hosted by Sustainable Stillwater MN, provide platforms for residents to learn about sustainability practices and connect with local businesses and leaders. These gatherings foster a sense of community and collective responsibility toward environmental stewardship.
Through these initiatives, Stillwater demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, encouraging residents to participate actively in preserving the natural beauty and health of their community.