Central Regional Sustainable Development Partnership (CRSDP) is seeking Idea Briefs by Sept. 1 for project ideas that foster community sustainability through citizen-driven University partnerships in Central Minnesota.
As a part of University of Minnesota Extension, the Regional Sustainable Partnerships (RSDP) bring together local talent and resources with University of Minnesota knowledge and seed funding to drive sustainability in four areas: agriculture and food systems, tourism and resilient communities, natural resources, and clean energy. Central RSDP offices in Brainerd and is led by Executive Director Molly Zins and a board comprised of community and University representatives.
"The project Idea Brief launches a conversation with the CRSDP by providing a sketch of the project and an early draft of the Project Proposal," said Executive Director Molly Zins. "CRSDP is looking for ideas about how the University of Minnesota and community partners can work together to foster sustainability in Central Minnesota."
In recent years, CRSDP has supported projects such as creation of a central Minnesota food hub, where growers and food entrepreneurs turn agricultural products into higher value, for-sale items; a solar thermal greenhouse in Wadena-Deer Creek School; a sustainable tourism assessment of Akeley; a solar ventilation system to make area turkey barns more energy efficient; and a project to engage Baxter and Brainerd residents in storm water planning.
CRSDP is one of five Regional Partnerships across the state that connects local communities and citizens with the resources of the University of Minnesota. Each of the five Regional Partnerships (Southeast, Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, and Central) is citizen-driven, building community-University partnerships that create new opportunities and solve problems in Greater Minnesota.
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For more information and to submit an idea to the CRSDP, see "Idea Brief" at RSDP.umn.edu or contact Molly Zins at zend0007@umn.edu or 218-828-2332.
