Green-thumbed residents of Plymouth and those simply looking to dip their toes into sustainability practices are in for a treat. The city's Environmental Academy is back for its fifth year, promising a series of informative classes designed to help locals shrink their ecological footprints. As reported by the City of Plymouth, the free academy spans three months, offering a 90-minute class each month, where folks can learn everything from tree care to water quality management.
For anyone eager to get their hands dirty, the academy kicks off with an engaging tour of Schmidt Woods Park scheduled for 6 p.m. on Aug. 21, courtesy of the Plymouth Environmental Quality Committee. Following this immersive experience, there will be a session focused on 'Tree care and food production'—a draw for those who sow their seeds in hopes of a greener tomorrow. The class is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Sept. 11, treating participants to tips and tricks on nurturing nature's giants alongside cultivating their own food sources.
But the learning doesn't end there. On Sept. 25 at 6 p.m., a tour centered on 'Plants, ponds and practices for water quality' will help participants understand aquatic ecosystems better. This is followed on Oct. 9 by a 7 p.m. course on 'Stormwater practices 101', arming residents with the knowledge for combating urban runoff issues. These sessions not only offer practical advice but also underscore a deeper philosophy: we're all stewards of the land we live on.
The academy, an initiative of the Plymouth Environmental Quality Committee, welcomes all who are interested. Despite being a free resource, potential attendees must apply to secure their spot. Applications for the academy are available on the official website plymouthmn.gov/environmentalacademy, and are due by Friday, Aug. 15. Those pondering whether to take part are urged to consider the limited window for application. It's an opportunity to join a community of like-minded individuals, bound by a collective commitment to environmental stewardship—a chance not to be taken lightly.
