Finlandia University and the City of Hancock are collaborating to create Hancock's first community garden. The garden is located on the Finlandia campus at the corner of Road Street and Ryan Street across from the Finnish American Heritage Center. This project is another "strategic and creative long-term exchange of resources" between the University and the City and the Campus and Community: Together for Good initiative. View the garden's weblog >

A comprehensive guide for socially and environmentally responsible consumers. This book ranks every product on the shelf from A to F so you can quickly tell the "good guys" form the "bad guys" -- turning your grocery list into a powerful tool to change the world. Representing over 15 years of research, the data is distilled and organized into the most common product categories including coffee, energy bars, computers, gasoline, clothing, banks, cars, water and more. Available for sale at the Keweenaw Co-op in Hancock. More info>

Green Map® System promotes inclusive participation in sustainable community development worldwide, using mapmaking as a medium. Open Green Maps are designed to be explored, customized and enhanced by people like you. You can share your insights, ratings and images or suggest, compare, and share sites. View the Keweenaw Green Map >

Michigan Energy Options energy assessments educate consumers on ways to reduce their overall energy demand and increase their awareness of energy efficiency. An experienced Energy Assessor will check your home or business for ways to save you money and improve your level of comfort. Areas assessed include: Weatherization; Heating, Ventilation & Cooling Systems; Electric Energy Use; and Water Usage. A number of assessment services are available depending on your house and the scope of upgrades you are planning to perform. Their basic whole home inspection costs $150 plus mileage (about $50 from Marquette to Hancock).

The 2009 federal stimulus package provides greater tax advantages for energy-efficient improvements made to your existing primary residence and gives you a longer time to make those improvements. Eligible improvements must be completed between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010. For more details, visit www.energystar.gov and select the Tax Credits for Energy Efficieny button at the lower left of the page.