Carleton Receives Grant from Xcel Energy for Cowling Arboretum

18 June 2009

Northfield, Minn.–– Carleton College has received a $10,000 grant from the Xcel Energy Foundation to fund its “Natural Science in Natural Lands: Improving the Carleton Arboretum” project.

The grant will fund the new “Natural Science in Natural Lands” project, which will heighten the educational and recreational value of the Cowling Arboretum. The grant will help provide training for Arboretum staff on state-of-the-art restoration methods, will increase opportunities to participate in restoration activities for everyone on campus and in Northfield, and provide new signs to help visitors enjoy the Arboretum.

“One of the most common concerns we hear from Arboretum users is a need for more directional signage. We want everyone to feel comfortable using the Arboretum and not hesitate to explore new trails and sections of the Arboretum they have not seen before,” Nancy Braker, arboretum director, said. “The grant will also help us increase opportunities for community members to learn about restoration techniques and to volunteer to help maintain the area.”

“Xcel Energy’s success is directly related to the vitality of the communities we serve,” said Pamela Gorman, Xcel’s manager of community and local government relations. “It’s our mission to use our knowledge, resources and skills to meet the needs of our communities and to ensure that our service area is a desirable place for our customers to live, work or own a business. Among the ways we help build stronger communities is through our Xcel Energy Foundation focus area grants, including the one awarded to Carleton College.”

The Arboretum is open to public use year-round for recreation and nature appreciation activities.
Carleton is receiving this grant after submitting a proposal to the “Environment” program of the Xcel Energy Foundation. The grant was competitively awarded.

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