New: Interlochen Online to offer music and arts programs for adults.
Sustainability at Interlochen
As an institution that sees itself as a change maker and leader in sustainability, we constantly strive to educate ourselves and our community. We do our utmost to promote the unique synergy that exists between artistic creation and stewardship of our natural world.
Sustainability Lecture Series
Enjoy one or several community classes focused on creative sustainability and exploration of nature. Our goal is to inspire adult learners to interact with our local environment in a positive way. We explore cooking, artistry, and ecology while providing an educational and exciting learning experience for all.
Sustainability by the numbers
1,900
lbs. of fresh, organic produce harvested for Interlochen Center for the Arts cafeterias in 2022
600K
gallons of water saved each year with energy-efficient dishwashing systems
1M
plastic bottles saved by using WaterSense bottle refill stations throughout campus


Learning and Engagement
Interlochen Center for the Arts is committed to stewarding the environment to the best of our ability. As we continue to act on that responsibility, we also commit ourselves to sharing this passion with others. In doing so, we ensure that our care for the environment doesn’t stop with us. As leaders and change makers in the sustainability field, we inspire our community—and the next generation—to see just how much we all depend on the natural world. Every positive action we take will create a better future for us all.


Sustainable Operations
With an organization of Interlochen’s size, it’s important that we see all of our operations—the things we do on a daily basis to stay running—as opportunities to steward what’s been given to us. By 2028, we will ensure that our land use, transportation options, dining services, waste management, and purchasing all occur in a way that protects and preserves our environment. We support our artistic and cultural mission by making it sustainable for years to come.


Buildings and Energy
Interlochen’s buildings are a visual and functional reminder of everything we stand for. As we continue to make room for our growing creative community, it’s important to consider the impact each of our buildings has on the environment. Creating guidelines for construction, electrical use, and emissions help ensure that Interlochen enters its centennial with the tools to last for another century.
Volunteer with Interlochen’s Sustainability Department
We are pleased to offer a variety of volunteer opportunities including work at our pollinator gardens, hoop houses, lakeshore restoration sites, and other vital areas on campus. There are tasks available for every ability, and you can sign up for a time shift that works for your schedule. If you are interested in helping, please fill out the Volunteer Form.
Our Grant Funding Partners
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Allen Foundation
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R.B. Annis Foundation
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American Heart Association
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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
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Michigan Association of Environmental Professionals (MAEP)
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Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE)
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Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
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High Mowing Seeds
Community Supported Agriculture
Each summer, Interlochen’s Sustainability Department partners with MI Farm Cooperative to make Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm shares available to our local community. Enjoy weekly boxes of produce from area farms, including fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, eggs, and more. Our Summer 2023 share runs Wednesday, June 14 through Wednesday, Sept. 27.

Our Community Partnerships
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Northwest Education Services
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Northwestern Michigan College
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Redeemer of Interlochen Food Pantry
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Westwoods Elementary School
Sustainability stories at Interlochen
Hickman plans to start a bowl station, incorporate student recipes, and bring in additional international cuisine.

The film will showcase the power of regenerative farming practices and its connection with human nutrition and the environment.

The arts education and presentation organization will participate in the Consumers Energy Large Customer Renewable Energy Program as part of its ongoing efforts to create a greener, more sustainable community.