Through the Blue Thumb Sustainable Landcare Training (SLC) program, we’re growing a local green infrastructure workforce and creating pathways in the environmental field because economic justice is key to environmental justice, and the funding invested in green infrastructure should benefit our communities first. During the 30-hour program, trainees learn about stormwater best management practices (BMPs), including rain gardens, caring for native plants, and how to inspect and report on stormwater practices. SLC is geared especially for older youth and young adults. We recruit participants mainly from communities that have historically experienced environmental injustice. We work to reduce barriers to participation, paying trainees, offering trainings at locations accessible via public transit, and providing technology, safety equipment, meals and other support. We also connect trainees with mentorship and work opportunities. For example, recent trainees have inspected stormwater best management practices in Minneapolis and worked in landcare.

Learn more about the program here. Read a 2023 blog post about the program. Watch this short video on what participants learned.

Funding partners: City of Minneapolis, Xcel Energy Foundation, Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, American Public Works Association