Special places: Habitat restoration and land protection sites

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June 14, 2022

At one of the largest undeveloped riverfront properties in the metro, we're restoring 160 acres of soybean field and grazed grasslands into prairie and oak savanna, plus stewarding 150+ acres of upland and floodplain forest in Elk River. Read more

Orvin 'Ole' Olson Park

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April 7, 2022

This former railyard is now a restored prairie on the Mississippi River in North Minneapolis. Along with the pollinator demonstration garden, Ole Olson Park adds vital habitat to our urban corridor and a beautiful riverfront spot for residents. >>

Prairie, Mississippi River, person, and Minneapolis Skyline

Vermillion River Linear Park

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April 6, 2022

Located along the Vermillion River and the Greenway trail in Hastings, this park's connection to the river and historical roots as a prairie have led us to work with local students and partners to restore its diverse habitats. Read more

Gray-headed coneflowers in a prairie at Vermillion River Linear Park

Waḳaƞ Ṭípi

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March 4, 2022

Beside riverfront railroads and beneath blufftop Dakota burial mounds, this St. Paul natural area is a sacred place. We're partnering with Native-led Wakáŋ Tipi Awaŋyaŋkapi to restore its habitat. Read more

Old Mill Park

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January 27, 2022

Part of a habitat corridor through the heart of Hastings, this 10-acre park is home to the first mill on the banks of the Vermillion River, an important tributary of the Mississippi. Visitors can find mill ruins and restored oak savanna and prairie. Read more

River Oaks Park

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December 3, 2021

A tiny 2-acre remnant bedrock bluff prairie in Cottage Grove holds mighty habitat diversity and offers stunning 180-degree views of the Mississippi River and its surroundings. >>