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Sustainability & Energy Independence

Sustainable development is defined in the “Brundtland Report” as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Recently, emphasis has shifted to the science of sustainability and a focus on the core principles of ecological limits. Sustainable development recognizes interconnections and relationships between the economy, society, and the environment. Concepts of sustainability can guide better planning and development at all levels from individual business plans to international policy.

Driftless Region 25 x 25 Energy Independence Planning Project 2009-2010

In 2009 Crawford County started the biggest regional energy planning pilot project awarded in the state of Wisconsin. This is a collaborative effort among 10 communities, facilited by the E3 Coalition in partnership with the Crawford County UW Extension Office. Communities involved in the project includes Crawford and Vernon Counties, Prairie du Chien, Fennimore, Soldiers Grove, Ferryville, Viola, La Farge, and Viroqua.

Background Information and Documents

Crawford County 2010 Energy Assessment Reports

Energy Links and Resources

  • University of Wisconsin Sustsinability Team Capacity Center Access University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension Resources, tools, and case studies about eco-municipalities, energy efficiency and climate change, economic development, planning and land use, consumer choices. Learn about upcoming events related to sustsinability
  • 2008- 2009 Building Communities Educational Wisline Series: Focus on Sustainability The Building Communities Websinar Education Series: Focus on Sustainability is a monthly class that met every second Tuesday through 2009 at City Hall in Prairie du Chien.  These workshops were offered to the public for no fee thanks to our local sponsor, Vierbicher Associates.Audio archives, powerpoint slides, and supplemental learning materials for the following programs are available by clicking here
    Setting the Stage: Sustainability and Sustainable Community Development
    Energy Efficiency (PDF file of pwerpoint slides)
    Renewable Energy (PDF file of powerpoint slides)
    Sustainability and Comprehensive Planning
    Sustainable Business Practices and Strategies
    Green Collar Jobs: Sustainable Work in a Low Carbon World
    Local Food Networks: Food Localization as a Sustainability Sustainability Indicators and Measurement
    Community Organizing for Sustainability
  • Wisconsin Megatrends Fact Sheets Learn more about the past, present, and future of major trends over long periods of time in the state of Wisconsin. This project is designed to help Wisconsin decision-makers – from legislators and local officials to landowners and recreationalists – make informed decisions about the future of Wisconsin Read more about Megatrends fact sheets
    Climate Change Fact Sheet
    Energy Fact Sheet
    Resources from non-profits recommended by Extension Colleagues
  • Focus on Energy Renewable Energy Fact Sheets ” Focus on Energy works with eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost effective energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.”
  • Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation “Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation (WECC) is a national leader in the design and implementation of award-winning energy savings programs for utilities, municipalities and regulators across the U.S. and Canada. “
  • Midwest Renewable Energy Association ” The Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) is a non-profit 501(C)3 tax-exempt organization founded in 1990. Our mission is to promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable living through education and demonstration.”
  • RENEW Wisconsin “RENEW Wisconsin is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Madison. We promote clean energy strategies for powering the state’s economy in an environmentally responsible manner.”

    • FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

    Community Development Educator
    Crawford County – UW Cooperative Extension
    225 N. Beaumont, Suite 240
    Prairie du Chien, WI 53821
    Phone: 608-326-0224
    Fax: 608-326-0226