Jacob Bechtold, Industrial Engineering major and IonE Student Staff
On a chilly morning in November, a team of volunteers led by Aaron Hanson, a researcher from the Institute on the Environment, spread pollinator-friendly seeds at West Bank’s solar array. Volunteers raked and dethatched the soil in the grassy area surrounding the array before planting the pollinator habitat. The University received the seeds from the Bee & Butterfly Habitat Fund.
Sarah Bauer, J.D. Candidate, University of Minnesota Law School
Briana Beck, O&M Project Supervisor | Energy Division MNL, (center) discusses proper seed spreading technique
In addition to the planting, a second crew installed soil moisture monitoring equipment beneath the solar panels. Volunteers dug post holes and set up equipment in an effort to measure the co-benefits of mitigating stormwater runoff. The deep-rooted nature of the new plants will break up the soil and increase infiltration to help keep soil in place during heavy rainfall, preventing it from producing runoff into the river. The moisture monitoring probes are placed at both 6 inches and 12 inches deep in the full sun, as well as under the solar panels’ drip edges where concentrated runoff will occur. The ground underneath the array will also be monitored where rainfall does not directly reach.
Aaron Hanson and Bradley Luchsinger, Philosophy major and IonE Undergraduate Leaders Program Alumni install soil moisture monitoring equipment
Data will be collected for years to come as part of the Living Lab program, becoming measurable as the pollinator habitat becomes established and as the root depths increase. Although this is the only equipment being installed for the time being, other research activities around the West Bank solar array include site observation, such as looking for bees and butterflies and an increase in their visits to the site to find food. Hennepin County also hopes to use the site to monitor for avian activity and gather data on whether birds use the site as ground nesting or feed on the increased population of insects. This research will be useful going forward to see how a pollinator habitat can develop on a solar site in an urban setting.
Aaron Hanson and Bradley Luchsinger, Philosophy major and IonE Undergraduate Leaders Program Alumni install soil moisture monitoring equipment
A community grant from the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization (MWMO) made it possible for the University to receive the research equipment and additional seeds, and the University received consulting and implementation services from Minnesota Native Landscapes (MNL). Thank you!
By Sunhari Jacob, Student Engagement Strategy Assistant
The 2026 Campus Conservation Challenge engaged more than 220 students in reducing residence hall energy use, resulting in measurable savings and increased sustainability engagement. The challenge demonstrated how collective action can create meaningful environmental impact on campus.
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities has received a STARS® Gold rating! The Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System™ (STARS®) Gold rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) recognizes the long-term sustainability goals and performances for all higher education. Read the extended summary.
Check out an EV from HOURCAR and an electric Chevrolet Equinox from Fleet, and test ride bikes from Lime and scooters from Spin. Ice cream from the University Meat and Dairy Salesroom available while supplies last! Wed. May 27, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lilly Plaza.
Join the University of Minnesota Twin Cities for Bike to Work Day on Tuesday, May 12 from 8 to 10 a.m. and show your support for sustainable commuting! Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the ride, connect with fellow bikers and get rewarded for your pedal power. Stop by these two campus locations for FREE treats, giveaways and services:
- University Bike Center at Oak Street Ramp
- Pleasant Street SE at University Avenue
Upcoming Coffee Chat: Student Project Spotlight
Monday, May 4, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Our Sustainability student staff have been busy this semester! Join us to hear everything about student sustainability work happening at the Twin Cities and University Sustainability offices.
Speakers:
- Diya Shah - Graduate Student & Data Analyst Intern, University Sustainability
- Ella Chilson - Student Sustainability Assistant, University Sustainability
- Giselle Muñoz-Semple - Student Sustainability Assistant, University Sustainability
- Cole Becker - Student Sustainability Assistant, University Sustainability
- Yvonne Mongare - Undergraduate Student & Climate Resilience Public Health Task Force Coordinator, Focus on Vulnerable Communities, Office of Sustainability at Twin Cities
Recording coming soon
As Northrop approaches its centennial in 2029, the University of Minnesota landmark has reached a major milestone: one of the University’s most iconic and historic buildings is now Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) v4.1 Operations + Maintenance (O+M) Gold certified.
Northrop is the first University of Minnesota facility to achieve LEED Gold under this rigorous standard for existing buildings. The certification reflects Northrop’s commitment to honor its historic legacy while building for the future, demonstrating that sustainability is not limited to new construction. Historic buildings can also evolve, improve and lead. Read more about Northrop’s LEED Gold certification and what it means
Today, on World Health Day, University of Minnesota President Rebecca Cunningham signed the Okanagan Charter, making the University a designated Health Promoting Campus.
The signing ceremony took place during the University’s Climate Resilience Teach-In, heralding the organization’s commitment to prioritizing health and sustainability. Read more about the University's commitment to the Okanagan Charter
Explore the future of sustainable transportation at the Fleet EV Test Drive and Car Show! Stop by Maroon Lot to check out electric vehicles available through University Fleet Services, learn more about EV options for departments that purchase or rent fleet vehicles. Wednesday, April 29, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Maroon Lot, north side of Huntington Bank Stadium
April is Earth Month! Check out our frequently updated list of events to get involved. Check it out.
Have an event to share? Email us.
The Climate Teach-In returns on Tuesday, April 7 (World Health Day), this year with a focus on climate resilience. Check out the events of the day. 🏆 Know someone doing impactful climate justice or resilience work at the University? Nominate a faculty, staff or student colleague for the Climate Resilience Teach-In Honorary Recognition.