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A Step into the Future: Our New Geothermal System Saves Energy and Costs
I’m Tobias Buening, an energy engineering student from FH Münster University of Applied Sciences in Germany. As the 2025 Energy Engineering Intern at West Central Initiative, I’ve been studying how our geothermal system performs by looking at its energy use and cost savings as part of my bachelor’s thesis. After analyzing more than a year’s worth…
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Restoring Prairie Habitat with United Prairie Foundation
Centuries ago, more than 18 million acres of native prairie stretched across parts of Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, only about one percent remains today, largely due to agriculture and development. Yet prairie ecosystems are vital—they provide habitat for pollinators and wildlife, and act like sponges to absorb rainwater and reduce…
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Saving Rainwater — One Barrel at a Time
Did you know that just one-tenth of an inch of rain on a 1,000 square foot roof can fill a 55-gallon rain barrel? If you’re looking for a way to conserve water and live more sustainably, rain barrels are an easy and impactful place to start. We recently connected with two residents already using rain…
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Should I Buy an Electric Vehicle? Rural EV Drivers Share Their Experiences
Thinking about buying an electric vehicle (EV)? With increasing gas prices and concern about climate impacts, more people are curious about going electric than ever before. But finding reliable info isn’t always easy. Especially in rural Minnesota, where concerns about cold weather and a lack of charging options dominate the conversation, car buyers are often…
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Harnessing the Sun: Battle Lake’s Senior Center Finds a Solar Solution
On a blustery cold morning in Battle Lake, the thermometer outside the senior center and food shelf was pointing straight at zero degrees. But inside, the bingo ball machine was powered up, and the community room was warm at 72 degrees. The senior center struggled with its aging heating system a few months ago and…
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SoapWerks Naturals’ New Owner Keeps Things Fresh
SoapWerks Naturals, a Fergus Falls staple known for its sustainable and local approach to natural bath, body, and home products, is embarking on a new chapter with new owner Chrissy Davenport. Creative Solutions Lead to Entrepreneurship Chrissy is the owner of Hay Ewe Hill Farm, a small farm with sheep, cattle, and chickens outside of…
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