Cook County News Herald

Climate Group Re-engages in 2023



On Monday, January 9, a team of Cook County residents that has been working on local climate change issues since 2021 will renew their work. The meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. online, and the group welcomes new members. Meeting link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83501466141

The Cook County Climate Team, created by members of four local churches with help from Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light (MNIPL), sees climate change as a matter of faith and conscience and seeks to bring people together for meaningful, hopeful action. In 2022, they partnered with Cook County Local Energy Projects (CCLEP) to sponsor an Earth Day celebration attended by more than 300 people, featuring live music, presentations by field experts, and table displays by many area organizations. In the summer and fall, members weeded and replanted two rain gardens at the Cook County Library in Grand Marais with guidance of local master gardeners.

What will the group work on in 2023? That will be the topic for the January 9 meeting, and everyone’s input is welcome. The Cook County Climate Team is familiar with Grand Marais’ Climate Action Plan and with regional efforts to promote solar and energy efficiency. They look to partner with other groups and efforts when possible.

First begun by Pastors Enno Limvere (First Congregational) and Mary Ellen Ashcroft (Spirit of the Wilderness) with their congregations, the Cook County Climate Team was soon joined by Daren Blanck (Zoar Lutheran), Mark Ditmanson (Bethlehem Lutheran) and Kat Meyo (CCLEP). MNIPL supports with resources and coordination with climate efforts at the state and national level through its Duluth and Twin Cities offices.

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