When Mendota Heights resident Kirsten Ramirez began work on the applied practice experience for her Public Health Master’s Degree program at the University of Minnesota, her first thought was of her hometown.
Some impacts of concern that Kirsten Ramirez looked to address were the environmental impacts that she saw impacting Mendota Heights and her Mendota Heights Neighbors including:
- Impact of climate change in Mendota Heights:
- Record heat
- Canadian wildfire smoke and poor air quality
- Drought and watering restrictions
- Cancelation of winter recreational activities due to warmth (ice fishing, outdoor ice rinks, winter events)
- Longer season for ticks and other vectors of disease
Taking aim at addressing climate change through community involvement, Kirsten approached the City’s Parks and Recreation and Natural Resources Commissions about changing community habits and reducing environmental impacts from everyday activities.
With the endorsement of the City Council, Kirsten has now launched Fresh Air Fridays! This citizen-led initiative encourages residents to make intentional choices and efforts to reduce pollution, each Friday throughout the spring and summer months.
Whether it’s choosing to walk, bike or carpool; opting to repurpose instead of buying new; making energy efficient choices at home; or deciding to compost food waste; residents are encouraged to think outside the box and have a little fun while participating in Fresh Air Fridays.
Ready to join in? Find out more and take the pledge on the City of Mendota Heights website.