Learn. Explore. See what’s happening behind the scenes in your community.
The Environmental Academy is a free educational series open to all who live or work in McLeod County. Led by the City of Hutchinson in partnership with McLeod County and local professionals, the Academy gives participants a closer look at the programs, facilities, and people working to protect and manage our local environment.
Rather than traditional classroom-style presentations, sessions are designed to be interactive and get participants out into the community. Depending on the topic, participants may tour a facility, take a guided walk, participate in demonstrations or hands-on activities, and talk directly with the people emersed in this work every day.
Topics throughout the series will include urban forestry, parks and natural spaces, organics collection and composting, recycling and household hazardous waste, soil and water conservation and management, and local climate issues.
Residents can attend one session, several sessions, or the entire series.
Registration is free, but advance registration is required.
Who Can Participate?
- Anyone who lives or works in McLeod County
- Participants under 18 are allowed if accompanied by a parent or guardian
Participants do not need to commit to the entire Academy. When registering, simply select the session or sessions you would like to attend.
2026-2027 Environmental Academy Sessions
October | Forest on the Prairie: Hutchinson’s Urban Forest
Thursday, October 8, 2026 | 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Location: South Park, South pavilion along 4th Ave SW, Hutchinson, MN
Take a closer look at Hutchinson’s urban forest and learn what goes into managing the trees throughout our community. Participants will hear about tree selection and planting, boulevard trees, pruning and maintenance, tree diversity, invasive species and diseases, storm response, and some of the common signs of tree stress.
The session will include a guided tree walk with opportunities to practice basic tree identification and look at tree health in the field.
Presented by: City of Hutchinson Forestry
Please note: This session includes walking outdoors. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
November | From Cart to Compost: Inside CreekSide Soils
Thursday, November 12, 2026 | 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Location: CreekSide Soils, 1500 Adams St SE, Hutchinson, MN
Ever wonder what happens after you roll your green organics cart to the curb?
Follow Hutchinson’s organics from collection through the composting process during a behind-the-scenes tour of CreekSide Soils. Participants will learn about food scrap and yard waste collection, contamination, compost biology, aeration and temperature, curing, screening, bagging, and how the finished compost is ultimately put to use.
Presented by: City of Hutchinson CreekSide Soils
Please note: This session includes a walking tour of an active composting facility and will take place mainly outdoors. Please wear closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
December | Where Does It Go? Recycling, HHW & Problem Materials
Thursday, December 10, 2026 | 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Location: McLeod County Environmental Services, 1065 5th Ave SE, Hutchinson, MN
Get a closer look at McLeod County’s recycling and Household Hazardous Waste programs and learn what to do with materials such as paint, chemicals, batteries, electronics, bulbs, oils, pesticides, propane cylinders, and other problem materials. The session will include a facility tour and interactive sorting activity to put your knowledge to the test.
Presented by: McLeod County Environmental Services
January | No Session
We’ll take a short winter break before the Academy continues in March.
February | No Session
We’ll take a short winter break before the Academy continues in March.
March | Protecting Our Soil & Water
Date: Thursday, March 11, 2027 | 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Location: City Council Chambers, 111 Hassan St SE, Hutchinson, MN
This session will explore how local programs and conservation practices help protect our soil and water. Learn about stormwater management, and practices used across the county to reduce erosion, manage runoff, restore wetlands, and protect land and water resources.
Presented by: McLeod County Soil & Water Conservation District and City of Hutchinson Engineering
April | Local Climate Change
Date: Thursday, April 22, 2027 | 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Location: City Council Chambers, 111 Hassan St SE, Hutchinson, MN
In recognition of Earth Day, this session will focus on the local impacts of climate change in McLeod County and what they may mean for our community and environment. Through local scientific observations, photos, and graphics, the session will explore changes such as warmer winters, earlier lake warming, longer summers, declining insect and bird populations, and increased wildfire smoke. The discussion will also cover impacts on health and well-being, public perspectives, and ways local residents are adapting to and helping address these changes.
Presented by: Doug Hanneman
May | More Than a Park: Exploring Hutchinson’s Parks & Natural Spaces
Date: Thursday, May 13, 2027 | 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Location: TBD
Get a behind-the-scenes look at how public parks and natural spaces are managed for both recreation and environmental stewardship. Explore a local park with Parks staff, learn about seasonal maintenance, and take part in a hands-on spring stewardship activity. More details and activities will be announced as we get closer to the session.
Presented by: City of Hutchinson and McLeod County Parks
Questions?
Have questions about the Environmental Academy, registration, or an upcoming session?
Cassandra Meuffels
Outreach & Education Coordinator
City of Hutchinson / CreekSide Soils
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (320) 234-4227
Ready to participate?
Registration is free, but advance registration is required.