Riverfront parcel protected in Hastings
November 18, 2009 was a good day for the Mississippi River. On that day the Dakota County Farmland and Natural Area Program completed a Conservation Easement for a five-acre parcel located along the river bluffs in Hastings. This property, which is owned by Tecla Karpen, provides critical habitat for many species of animals, especially Neotropical bird migrants that utilize the Mississippi as their migration corridor. In addition to protecting the habitat and water quality benefits that the property provides, the easement will also help protect the scenic qualities along this stretch of the river.
The formal protection of this property is the culmination of years of personal exploration and consultation with trusted friends and land conservation professionals. Ms. Karpen explained her motivation for taking this step this way, I have a dream. Minnesotas priceless, woefully, decreasing natural environment needs increased measures to preserve, protect, and even restore whole ecosystems. An ideal area is the Mississippi River corridor with its hillsides, shorelines, wetlands, lakes, rivers and wildlife. Minnesota is the source of the Mississippi and could set an example by establishing a comprehensive plan to protect this natural treasures intricate ecosystems, she said. Fortunately, FMR and Dakota County are helping to make this dream a reality.
FMR has been working with Ms. Karpen for a number of years on this project and also on restoring and enhancing the habitat on the property. With the assistance from High School students, community volunteers, and Dakota County, FMR has been leading the effort to remove exotic invasive plants from the property and replacing them with native shrubs and trees that are more beneficial to wildlife.
More and more landowners along the Mississippi River are gaining a better understanding of the importance of their property to the health of the river and are taking steps to permanently protect these natural assets. Tecla Karpen understands that she is a steward of the land and is a wonderful role model for other landowners. Friends of the Mississippi River extends our gratitude to her and to the Dakota County Farmland and Natural Area Program for permanently protecting this riverfront property. The Mississippi River is healthier for their efforts.