News

We surveyed communities in our annual GreenStep survey in January, 2019. The following topic areas have staff available to provide one-on-one assistance for the 2019 calendar year. Contact us if you are interested in connecting on any of these actions! 

Energy conservation, financing city-owned buildings 

Energy/climate change peer network

Education/regulation backyard/rec burning

Emerald Ash Borer management plans 

Fleets - efficiency, right size/purpose

Electric vehicles - charging infrastructure, fleets  

Road diet: convert undivided 4-lane roads to safer layout 

How do we know when public space supports health, and when processes that shape public spaces are inclusive? Despite the growing evidence connecting place and health, design and physical activity, the natural environment and mental well-being, and more, there are few available resources. Here is one from the Gehl Institute and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Your username and password should be the same. Click here to view the PowerPoint to learn more about: 

• Logging In (slides 3-4)
• Home Page (slide 5)
• NEW GSCs – Instruction and Registration Form (slides 6-8)
• View/Add Action Contact (slides 9-11)
• View/Add Action Report (slides 12-13)
• Editing an Action Report (slide 14)
• Adding a New Action Report (slide 15)
• Additional Website Tips (slide 16)

See current grant opportunities as part of the LMC Resource Library - https://www.lmc.org/page/1/current-grant.jsp

The Clean Water Partnership (CWP) program offers zero-interest loans to local units of government for implementing nonpoint-source best management practices and other activities that target the restoration and protection of a water resource such as a lake, stream, or groundwater aquifer.

Eligible projects include:

• Urban green infrastructure such as rain water reuse, green roofs, porous pavement, or any stormwater best management practice (BMP)
• Buffers: purchase of native seeds and vegetation
• Septic system upgrades and replacements
• Technical assistance, outreach, and education
• Equipment such as conservation tillage equipment
• Any nonpoint source BMP
• Feedlot upgrades and replacement  

Funding: Up to $2 million, 0% interest
Timing: Accepted on a rolling basis
Link: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/cwp-loans

The Center for Energy and Environment designed Home Energy Hub for residents of cold climate states such as Minnesota. Developed by home energy experts, our site encourages action — in approachable language, visitors learn about everything from new technologies to mitigating vermiculite insulation and avoiding ice dams. If anyone has questions or needs extra help, CEE’s free Energy Advisors are standing by to answer calls and emails.

Start exploring at homeenergyhub.org.

to be phased in for commercial/multi-family buildings over 25,000 sq. ft. See details of this GreenStep BP action # 2.3 in the council decision packet