 April 2025
Local resources for environmental living
Thursday April 17, 2025
3:00pm to 4:00pm
Chanhassen Library
Join us on Earth Day for a panel discussion that will provide a local lens to hands-on opportunities where you can make an impact right here in our community. Learn about waste reductions projects such as the new Southwest Metro Lending Library, the building material reuse room, Craft Supplies Swaps, and Fix-It Clinics, as well as information about the Environmental Academy and more ways to live green close to home.
Presented in partnership with A Better Society, Carver County Environmental Services, Carver Scott Extension Master Gardeners, the City of Chanhassen Environmental Commission, and Minnesota Green Corps.
 Invasive phragmites, Phragmites australis subspecies australis, also known as European common reed, is a tall, robust perennial grass that has the ability to take over large areas.
It can form dense stands that alter wetlands, reduce plant diversity, disrupt habitats and diminish the abundance of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates. Its presence impacts ecosystems and infrastructure alike, from shorelines and wetlands to roadside ditches and stormwater ponds.
Carver County currently has 66 populations of invasive phragmites. The County is partnering with the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for monitoring and treatment. In 2024, 27 of the sites were treated. Through these partnerships, the County has adopted science-driven strategies and collaborative efforts that have significantly improved the effectiveness of control measures.
Carver County offers recycling grants to support local schools, businesses, and organizations in their efforts to reduce waste, enhance recycling programs, and initiate organics recycling initiatives. These grants aim to foster environmental stewardship and promote sustainable waste management practices within the community.
In addition to grants, the County provides resources such as images and brochures at no charge to help businesses, schools, and other organizations in recycling efforts. These materials can be customized to reflect common items at specific locations ensuring effective communication and education. Printing assistance may also be available in certain situations.
Through these grants and resources, Carver County demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and encourages community involvement in waste reduction and recycling efforts. Program hosted by the Environmental Services Department.
If you are planning spring plantings within Silver Creek watershed in southern Carver County, help us reduce acetochlor in Silver Creek.
Acetochlor is found in products like Tripleflex, SureStart, Resicore, Warrant, and Harness, and has been detected in Silver Creek above the state’s chronic water quality standard of 3.6 parts per billion. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency listed Silver Creek as impaired for acetochlor.
High levels of acetochlor harm aquatic life and are typically observed from early May to early June, at the same time as early-season applications and spring rain events that cause surface runoff.
To protect Silver Creek’s water quality and prevent potential restrictions on acetochlor use in the area, consider alternatives and take steps to reduce surface runoff. If you use acetochlor, consult your dealer or agronomist, and follow the best management practices for applications.
Sampling well water can be tricky. Water samples are time sensitive for accurate lab analysis and labs are a good drive away.
This spring, residents can pick up sampling kits at the Watertown special waste event on April 26 and return samples on April 30 for analysis, saving you drive time and high shipping costs. The County is partnering with RMB labs to provide the local drop off location for samples.
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Shredded paper is too small to be processed in most recycling systems. Instead of placing it in your curbside bin, check for local shredding events that accept and properly recycle it. When possible, avoid shredding paper unless necessary, as whole sheets are easier to recycle. If no events are available, place shredded paper in the garbage to prevent contamination.
For more information on what to do with your waste visit our residential recycling page or try Carver County’s recycling app Betterbin.
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Rain barrels on sale now
Order online at the Recycling Association of Minnesota. Select Carver County as your pickup location and use code “carver20” to receive your discount. Discount valid for Carver County residents only. One discount available per household, while supplies last.
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