1) Climate Smart has been working on a pollinator project since the summer of 2024. We have planted one plot this past spring by the viaduct retaining pond here in St. James. 2 other plots are targeted as the small pond by the Mayo Hospital and the large retaining pond adjacent to the soccer fields on the northeast section of St. James.

We are hoping to plant the other 2 plots spring of 2026...watch here for further updates!!

2) Our latest project is our Trex Plastics recycling Project!! We have super charged plastics recycling in St. James!! We are partnering with Colliers Super fair store to add several different types of plastics to our recycling through an agency known as Trex Plastics. As an added bonus, our group receives a free plastic composite bench after we collect 1,000 lbs. of plastic.

Superfair has increased the volume of plastic they are taking in and Climate Smart is picking up plastic from different businesses and the schools. Sertoma has also recently agreed to start picking up plastic in partnership on this project. By virtue of this, they will also be able to earn a bench for the community,

​Keep up with what's happening by checking out our Facebook  page!!

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3) Climate Smart St. James applied for and received a feasibility grant from UMN Southwest Regional Sustainability Development Partnership (RSDP) to study the options for establishing a program providing options for the service of organic waste collection and removal for residents, businesses, and institutions in Watonwan County. Such a service has the future potential to significantly reduce the amount of organic waste currently being unloaded at regional landfills. As part of the grant, a graduate student will be hired to research area programs and identify feasible options for organic waste collection and disposal. We are eliciting area residents to attend up to 4 field trips showcasing sites with organic waste collection/disposal programs. Check the blog or the front web page for more info on the dates & locations!!