Sustainable Living

Sustainable Living

Live smarter with Sustainable Living programs at Iowa Western Community College!

Our hands-on classes focus on eco-friendly practices, renewable energy, waste reduction, and self-sufficient lifestyles. Learn practical skills in composting, gardening, solar energy, water conservation, sustainable food systems, and much more. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, save money, or live more intentionally, our sustainable living courses empower individuals and communities to make environmentally responsible choices for a healthier future. 

Available Courses

   09/09/2025 - Council Bluffs Campus

Class will be Tuesday, September 9, 2025 – 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm – Council Bluffs Campus – Looft Hall  
This course provides an overview of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations as they apply to land management and stewardship activities. Learn about safety standards for working with heavy equipment, herbicides, and in the field, as well as proper risk management practices. Ideal for land managers and those involved in outdoor conservation work, this course helps ensure a safe and compliant work environment.

Start Date: 09/09/2025
End Date: 09/09/2025
Seats Available: 15
Cost: $65
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
Last Updated: 08/22/2025 1:52 pm
   09/23/2025 - Council Bluffs Campus

Tues.9/23/25 6:30-8:30 PM Kinney Hall Room 044. Looking to cut energy costs, boost sustainability, or stay prepared when the grid goes down? This hands-on, beginner-friendly class is for homeowners, farmers, and small business owners who want practical solar solutions. Learn how to power outdoor lighting, electric fences, security systems, and essential devices—perfect for home, ag, or business use. Led by an experienced instructor, you’ll get real-world tips and simple project ideas you can put to use right away. Sign up today and start powering your space—reliably and sustainably—with the sun!

Start Date: 09/23/2025
End Date: 09/23/2025
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $30
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
Last Updated: 08/22/2025 1:52 pm

Class will be Tuesday, October 7, 2025 – 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm – Council Bluffs Campus 
Discover the techniques and tools needed to harvest, process, and clean native seeds for restoration projects. This hands-on course covers best practices for collecting seeds, ensuring quality through proper processing, and preparing them for planting or storage. Perfect for anyone interested in conservation or land restoration efforts.

Start Date: 10/07/2025
End Date: 10/07/2025
Seats Available: 14
Cost: $65
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
Last Updated: 08/22/2025 1:52 pm
   10/18/2025 - Council Bluffs Campus

Saturday, October 18, 2025 – 9:00 am – 11:00 am. Council Bluffs Campus – Looft Hall ground floor Lobby 
Join us for a hands-on Native Plant class at Iowa Western Community College! This class will introduce you to the beauty and benefits of native plants as you help beautify our campus. Under the guidance of experienced instructor Lance, you'll learn about the various native species that thrive in our region and how to properly plant and care for them. All supplies will be provided, so come ready to get your hands dirty and contribute to a sustainable landscape. Whether you're a beginner or have gardening experience, this class is perfect for anyone interested in creating an eco-friendly environment.

Start Date: 10/18/2025
End Date: 10/18/2025
Seats Available: 15
Cost: $15
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
Last Updated: 08/22/2025 1:52 pm
   11/04/2025 - Council Bluffs Campus

Class will be Tuesday, November 4, 2025 – 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm – Council Bluffs Campus – Looft Hall 
Learn the foundational skills and strategies needed to start and manage a successful business. This course covers essential topics such as creating a business plan, understanding finances, marketing your services, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Ideal for aspiring business owners or those looking to strengthen their business knowledge.

Start Date: 11/04/2025
End Date: 11/04/2025
Seats Available: 13
Cost: $65
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
Last Updated: 08/22/2025 1:52 pm
   11/14/2025 - Council Bluffs Campus

Fri. Nov. 14, 2025 6-9 PM Looft Hall. Curious about raising your own chickens? Whether you want fresh eggs, quality meat, or simply a rewarding new hobby, this class is your perfect starting point! The instructor will guide you through everything from building cozy coops and choosing healthy birds to caring for your flock and turning waste into garden gold. Take control of your food source and join a sustainable community of proud flock owners!

Start Date: 11/14/2025
End Date: 11/14/2025
Seats Available: 17
Cost: $35
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
Last Updated: 08/22/2025 1:52 pm
   11/15/2025 - Council Bluffs Campus

Sat. Nov. 15, 2025 10AM-12PM Looft Hall Fall is the best time to plant garlic, and this hands-on workshop will walk you through every step! Learn the difference between hardneck and softneck garlic, why it matters for planting in our zone, and how to grow a successful crop from clove to harvest. We’ll cover site prep, planting depth and spacing, the best tools to use, and how to mulch properly for winter protection. Discover how to set your garlic up for strong spring growth and a bountiful summer harvest — and gain the confidence to make this low-maintenance, rewarding crop a long-term staple in your garden!

Start Date: 11/15/2025
End Date: 11/15/2025
Seats Available: 20
Cost: $35
Location: Council Bluffs Campus
Last Updated: 08/22/2025 1:52 pm