Every action has a consequence, and the Chippewa Valley Sustainable Future Festival is designed to help residents in the Valley use their actions to leave the world better place. Through speakers and workshops, festivalgoers will learn how to live a more eco-friendly life and keep the Chippewa Valley (and beyond) sparkling for generations after us. Presenters and exhibitors will offer educational tips as well as innovative information about simple ways to include sustainable practices into everyday life. Some of the exhibitors this year include Chippewa Valley Transit Alliance, Rain to Waters, Earthbound Environmental, and Ask a Master Gardener. Next Step Energy’s Joe Maurer will demonstrate Solar Electric options in the Chippewa Valley, Judy Wibel will create rain barrels from recycled food grade barrels and teach about the benefits of using rain barrels, and Aaron Salmon of the Eau Claire Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Commission will discuss promoting and improving biking and walking infrastructure in the city of Eau Claire. Jeremy Gragert of the Wisconsin Bike Fed will lead a Traveling By Bicycle Workshop, Earthbound Environmental Solutions will teach about recycling, and the UW-Extension’s Erin LaFaive will teach how to harvest and dry herbs using low-cost techniques. Other topics include “eatable landscaping,” eco-crafts for adults, affordable solar, how to make natural soap and soap products, “vertical” agriculture, and more. 

Chippewa Valley Sustainable Future Festival • Sept. 17 • Forest Street Community Gardens, Eau Claire • 1pm to dusk • www.sustainablefuturefest.com