Share your thoughts, hopes for Dakota County parks, greenways and natural areas

An aerial view of the Vermillion River.

Dakota County is known for its many parks and natural areas, including many along the Mississippi River (above) and major tributaries like the Vermillion River.

Now through September 22, 2024, Dakota County is seeking feedback and ideas from community members and park users on county parks, greenways and natural areas to inform its next round of park planning

Is there a park-related topic that you’re passionate about? Or something you'd like to see emphasized in Dakota County's parks and natural areas over the next few decades? Or a particular trail or park that you want to compliment or comment on? If so, this is your chance to have your voice heard.

We hope you'll take a moment to comment via the interactive map or take the survey!

Note: This survey is open to all metro residents. You do not need to live or work in Dakota County to participate. 

Survey response ideas 

Some survey questions ask you to check the boxes of topics you’re interested in. Others ask you to provide details on how to best address or approach those topics. 

Such open-ended calls for input can be tough. If you're looking for direction, we'd ask you to consider supporting FMR's goals to:

  • Protect and restore habitat
  • Emphasize the ecological benefits of nature
  • Prioritize access to nature
  • Support volunteer and other opportunities for public, hands-on involvement

We believe these are all essential for a healthy future for parks and natural spaces in Dakota County and throughout the metro.

If you have questions about the survey, or about FMR's priorities, reach out to ecologist Alex Roth at aroth@fmr.org.

Volunteers collect seed in the protected prairie

Join us for volunteer events throughout Dakota County, such as collecting native prairie seeds for use in local, FMR habitat restoration projects.

Come enjoy and help restore Dakota County parks

If you'd like to restore habitat in Dakota County, let us know! Email Carrie Pomeroy at volunteer@fmr.org to receive notices of future FMR events in the Hastings area and across Dakota County. And be sure to check our volunteer events calendar for current opportunities in the county!

 

Explore all of our Conservation updates.

Upcoming Events

Thursday, October 10, 2024 - 4:00pm to 6:00pm
Hastings Sand Coulee SNA South Unit, Hastings
Saturday, October 12, 2024 - 9:00am to 12:00pm
Pine Bend Bluffs Natural Area at the Flint Hills Resources property
Saturday, October 26, 2024 - 9:00am to 12:00pm
3M's oak woodlands, Cottage Grove

Our River Campaign:
It all starts here

At the heart of this new campaign is the vision of a healthy Mississippi River.