Ames Cluster

Current Efforts:

• Working with the City of Ames on sustainability issues.  Three of our members are serving on the Ames Sustainability Task Force.
• Giving the presentation on sustainability, developed in 2010, to organizations in the Ames and Des Moines area.  The presentation is adaptable for different audiences: e.g. general public, business, or government officials.
• Reaching out to county government officials, to form relationships to promote sustainability.
• Monitoring bills in the State Legislature dealing with Environmental issues.

Successs:

• We were instrumental in persuading the City of Ames to start a Task Force to develop a community sustainability plan.
• A presentation on sustainability was completed and given to a number of churches and other organizations in the Ames and Des Moines areas.  It illustrates the economic, environmental, and social facets of sustainability.
• In fall 2010, co-hosted, with the Ames Public Library, a series of four programs on sustainability issues.  Titles were as follows:

• In Spring 2009, co-hosted, with the Ames Public Library, a series of four programs on sustainability issues.  Titles were as follows:              

              Top Ten Tips from a Home Energy Auditor       

    Solar Decathlon House (ISU)       

              Green Buildings, Green Communities, 

              Green Living Community Discussion on Sustainability

• In 2008, organized a forum, Ames, Be Cool, on how to conserve resources and live a more sustainable life.  The all-day forum, co-sponsored by the City of Ames and the Ames Community School District was  attended by approximately 150 people.
• With the assistance of Ames City Staff, produced the Ames, Be Cool Action Guide, a 20-page booklet of practical environmental tips and resources, localized for Ames and Story County.