Residential Environmental Series Celebrates 25th Anniversary, Begins in February

The City of Fort Collins is celebrating the 25^th anniversary of its Residential Environmental Program Series with eight programs throughout winter and spring. This free and innovative series provides ways to save money, protect the environment and gain a better appreciation for our local resources.

Resilient Communities kicks off the series Wednesday, Feb. 1, 7-9 p.m., Fort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr. During the program, attendees will view Carbon Nation, a documentary about innovative global solutions to energy, food and transportation issues. Carbon Nation is entertaining, informative and provides a realistic perspective regarding the importance of being part of the new, low-carbon economy.

Following the film, local experts will discuss opportunities to create a resilient community through the FortZED residential energy project; new and free home assessments through Healthy Sustainable Homes; neighborhood grants and rebate programs (e.g., appliances, toilets, recycling services); and resources for growing and buying healthier food

All programs will be held at the same time and location as listed above. Other programs in the series include:

Your Electric Bill: Learn to Cut Costs, Feb. 8

Learn to interpret your bill, compare your usage to averages and discover clues about the biggest electricity users in your house. 

Your Electric Bill: Custom Consultation, Feb. 15

Meet one-on-one to chart steps to help lower your bill. Prerequisites: Attend the Feb. 8 program, be a Fort Collins Utilities electric customer and pre-register.

Beauty and Bugs in Urban Streams, Feb. 29

Learn how nature and art are combined through Art in Public Places and see the wonders of aquatic invertebrates found in local urban streams.

Xeriscape from the Ground Up, March 14

Discover fresh ideas to convert an area of your yard into a beautiful, water-saving landscape.

Xeriscape by Design, April 4

Learn how to prepare a design for year-round enjoyment with structure and delightful plants.

Wild Shots: Local Wildlife Photos, April 11

See the amazing behaviors and diversity of wildlife in local natural areas through remote, self-triggering cameras.

The Art and Science of Composting, May 9

Learn to turn your household yard trimmings and food scraps into excellent soil amendment and discover more advanced techniques