The MN Brightfields Initiative is a program exploring the potential and feasibility of developing renewable energy on Closed Landfill Program (CLP) sites.  There are a number of organizations and agencies contributing information to this program (including both the Metropolitan Council and the MN Pollution Control Agency), which is attempting to identify and understand what obstacles may exist that are preventing utilizing CLP sites for installation of renewable energy systems.  The Council of Development Finance Agencies (CDFA) identified Ramsey’s CLP site as ideal for further analysis and their Brownfields Technical Assistance Program has selected the Ramsey CLP for free technical assistance in assessing the site’s solar potential.  The CLP presently cannot be developed for any purpose; if solar could be installed on that site, it could convert that land into an economic asset. 

The only commitment of the City’s is to identify local stakeholders (e.g. City Council, Environmental Policy Board, Parks and Recreation Commission, Chamber of Commerce, etc.) and extend an invitation to participate in a stakeholder meeting, including a site visit to the CLP.  The program will occur July 17 (full day) and July 18 (half day).  The stakeholder meeting will be held in the Lake Itasca Room.