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Two high school students recently contacted Sustainable Stillwater MN, offering their volunteer hours to help the environment. These enthusiastic young volunteers were referred to the Rain Garden Work Group, where they made a significant impact by weeding and trimming two rain gardens that had not yet been adopted.
Thanks to their unexpected yet valuable commitment, two rain gardens that had not yet been adopted received much-needed care. The students weeded and trimmed the gardens, reducing the number of weed seeds in the soil, and enhancing the appeal of the corner at Third Street S. and Churchill Street W. Their hard work helps increase public acceptance of the rain garden program and keeps our community looking beautiful through the rest of the season. While working, they also engaged in a dialogue with two homeowners on the corner, sparking curiosity and conversation about the gardens.
When asked what motivated them to volunteer, Bella and Alexis offered similar reasons. Bella mentioned that she had free time after her summer elective classes and wanted to do something positive for the environment. Alexis shared that she feels anxious about the future of the planet, especially with the disturbing news about climate change. Notably, neither of them was volunteering to earn points or fulfill requirements for any program. Instead, they stepped forward as individuals who genuinely want to make a positive change in their local environment.
Bella worked with Michele Cassavante, a Master Gardener, while Alexis collaborated with Ruth Alliband, a Minnesota Master Naturalist. Together, these four women worked to improve the condition of two rain gardens along a county highway that also serves as a Stillwater city street.
Their contributions are a reminder that individual actions, no matter how small they may seem, can significantly impact our environment and community. We are grateful to these young women for their dedication and to our Rain Garden Work Group for their continuous efforts in maintaining the health and beauty of our local rain gardens.
Ruth Alliband
Sustainable Stillwater MN’s Rain Garden Work Group Leader
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