Dakota County Newsletter - Spring/Summer 2024

As a careful steward of your tax dollar, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners is committed to providing high-quality services in effective, efficient ways. In this performance edition of the Dakota County Newsletter, see how we’re meeting those expectations. We’re finding new ways to offer programs to residents who need them and partnering with our local cities, service providers and nonprofit organizations to deliver services ranging from public health to transportation. These efforts reflect our dedication to making Dakota County a great place to live and work.

Contents Feature: Page 26 Stronger together

We provide more than 200 services to Dakota County residents, but we don’t do it alone. From emergency response to social services and from library programs to park activities, learn how we work with cities and other local partners to offer services residents need and value.

SECTIONS

Page 3

IN BRIEF

Learn about the many services and features visitors can enjoy in the new Kaposia Library in South St. Paul.

Page 8

OUR WORK

Road and bridge safety is a top priority. See how we use special survey data to maintain and improve county roadways.

Page 11

COMMUNITY

More Dakota County residents need housing support. Learn about the ways we can help those who are struggling.

Page 15 PARKS

Dakota County Parks are great for birding. See how our natural resource work has improved habitat for many bird species.

Keeping you informed for 54 cents

Page 23

GO GREEN

The Recycling Zone makes your house cleaning easier. Find out what we collect and how we plan to collect even more material.

The Dakota County Newsletter is a cost-effective way to share county news and show how your tax dollars are used. We keep the cost down by combining it with the Dakota County Parks program guide. County staff write and design the newsletter, and printing is awarded through competitive bids. The same process is used for the Dakota County Plus, a smaller mailing for residents in summer and winter. Total cost to produce and mail this newsletter is 54 cents per household.

Contact:

Mary Beth Schubert, Communications Director, marybeth.schubert@co.dakota.mn.us or call 651-438-8179

Brief

Opening doors

Kaposi a Library in South St. Paul ready to serve community

The next chapter for Dakota County Library has started. The new Kaposia Library location in South St. Paul opened its doors to the public in late February.

The new library is the 10th location in the Dakota County Library system and replaces the former city library. The 16,000-square foot building is located at the corner of Marie and Seventh avenues in the heart of the community.

In Brief

16,118 square feet

4 reservable rooms

5 study rooms

Visitors will appreciate library features before they even enter the building. A reading garden with pollinatorfriendly plants faces Marie Avenue. The garden will include four picnic tables and space for outdoor programs. Five benches outside the building offer more space to rest and read.

We’ve made it easy to get to the library. There are 19 off-street parking spaces and about 70 total spaces on Seventh Avenue North and surrounding streets. Charging stations in the parking lot serve up to four electric vehicles. Biking to the library is made easier with a rack outside the main entrance. An exterior book drop offers on-the-go convenience.

The story continues inside the library, where services are on one floor to make everything more accessible and convenient for all users.

Groups can use the library’s large meeting room, which has a projector, screen and microphone. There are three smaller conference rooms, including one with video conference technology. All meeting spaces are free to use and can be reserved in-person or on the library’s website. There are also five study rooms.

The new location is near local schools, so students can gather to study, use computers or work with classmates on a group project.

There are dedicated reading spaces for readers for all ages — children, teen and adults.

Kaposia Library features an interactive children’s area and a special calming room for library customers who need a quiet, comforting space while visiting. The space is equipped with comfortable seating and sensory tools like noise-reducing headphones and fidget devices. All customers are welcome to use the space.

A quiet zone with a fireplace will feature art and books on South St. Paul history.

Residents have access to updated technology like computers, expanded

12 computers

Calming room

Children’s area

Wi-Fi service accessible inside the library and from the parking lot, and a 3D printer. The 3D printer is a new feature that wasn’t available at the former library. All technology is free to use.

Future honors the past

The name Kaposia honors the Mdewakanton Dakota people and their seasonal village along the Mississippi River in South St. Paul and St. Paul.

The new library will continue to serve as a community hub — a place where

people can work, gather, connect, learn and create. It will offer opportunities for lifelong learning, civic engagement and access to technology for all.

Kaposia Library will be open Monday–Wednesday, noon–8 p.m.; Thursday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; and closed on Sundays.

Kaposia Library is at 131 Seventh Ave. N., South St. Paul. www.dakotacounty.us/library, search kaposia.

More hours to enjoy the library

Dakota County Library customers can now have even more access to library services.

Self-Service Hours, first a pilot at the Farmington Library, have expanded to Burnhaven, Inver Glen and Robert Trail locations. Heritage Library will be the next location to offer SelfService Hours.

Self-Service Hours give registered library customers the opportunity to use most library services and materials during hours when staff are not present. That means customers have extended access in the early morning and late evenings during weekdays and on weekends and holidays.

Customers can use computers, reserve and use meeting rooms, and check out materials like books, movies, music and more. All registered users of Self-Service Hours are responsible for their guests.

How it works

Library customers 18 years and older can sign up for Self-Service Hours and must complete a registration process. First, watch a short training video that reviews the program rules. Next, register online and agree to the wavier. Staff will contact you when your access card is ready to be picked up.

Security cameras have been installed throughout the library.

Self-Services Hours will be expanded to more library locations throughout this year.

To learn more or register, visit www.dakotacounty.us/library and search self service, or scan the QR code.

2023

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2024

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71

Events for you

Countywide events and activities

Monthly

Vaccine Clinics

Dakota County Public Health offers recommended vaccines for eligible children and adults. Supply is limited. Visit www.dakotacounty.us and search clinics, or call 952-891-7999 for more information.

Fix-It Clinics

Get free help fixing everything from sweaters to vacuums. www.dakotacounty.us, search fix-it clinic.

• March 16, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Robert Trail Library, Rosemount

• April 20, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Kaposia Library, South St. Paul

• May 18, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Farmington Library, Farmington

• June 15, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Inver Glen Library, Inver Grove Heights

• July 21, 1–4 p.m.

Burnhaven Library, Burnsville

• Aug. 17, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Wentworth Library, West St. Paul

March

Rain Barrels and Compost Bins

Starting March 1, Dakota County residents can order rain barrels and compost bins while supplies last at www.recyclemn.org. Use code Dakota at checkout for a 30-percent discount. Pick them up in May.

Recycling Ambassador Course

Learn to reduce waste, recycle more and inspire others to do the same, during this six-week virtual course on Tuesdays, March 19–April 23, 6–8 p.m. Field trips planned. Program graduates volunteer 30 hours to put their skills to work.

Salt Take Back

Dakota County will accept unused, clean salt from winter maintenance professionals to prevent improper disposal. Call 651-755-3121 for an appointment from March 1–May 31.

Landscaping for Clean Water

Learn about simple yard landscaping that also improves water quality and provides pollinator habitat during in-person and virtual programming. www.dakotaswcd.org, search landscaping for clean water.

April

WHEP Volunteering

Volunteer with the Wetland Health Evaluation Program to help monitor county wetlands this summer. Registration opens Monday, April 8. www.dakotacounty.us, search WHEP

Outdoor Gear Swap

Drop off your usable outdoor clothing and equipment for something new to you on Monday, April 22 from 5–8 p.m. at Dakota Lodge at Thompson County Park, West St. Paul.

June–August

Music in the Park

Visit Whitetail Woods Regional Park for entertaining musical performances and tasty food trucks.

www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search music

• Tuesday, June 25, 5–7 p.m.

• Tuesday, July 30, 5–7 p.m.

• Tuesday, Aug. 27, 5–7 p.m.

June

Summer Solstice Party

Celebrate the start of summer with live music, yard games, food trucks and fun on Thursday, June 20 from 6–9:03 p.m. at Thompson County Park, West St. Paul.

www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search solstice

August

Dakota County Fair

Visit the Dakota County Government Building exhibit and enjoy free activities during the Dakota County Fair, Aug. 5–11 in Farmington. Join us to celebrate the county's 175th anniversary.

Starry Trek

Search area lakes for starry stonewort, a type of algae that is Minnesota’s newest aquatic invasive species, on Saturday, Aug. 17.

www.dakotacounty.us, search AIS

Monthly Homework Help

Work with a volunteer for help with homework assignments in any subject. Open to K–12 students, no appointment necessary.

• Tuesdays, 5–7 p.m.

Galaxie Library

Wentworth Library

• Wednesdays, 5–7 p.m.

Burnhaven Library

March–April

Waggin’ Tales

Read to trained therapy dogs in a supportive environment to help build literacy skills and confidence in reading out loud. Events will be held in the children's areas. Geared for youth ages 5–10.

• March 2 and April 6, 10–11 a.m.

Robert Trail Library

• March 9 and April 13, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Farmington Library

Wescott Library

• March 16 and April 20, 10–11 a.m.

Galaxie Library

Inver Glen Library

Move and Groove

Join Miss Aimee at the library for a fun music and movement program with dancing, singing and playing. Geared for youth ages 2–8 with their caregivers.

• March 9 and April 20, 9:30–10 a.m.

Farmington Library

March

Tjärnblom

Hear acoustic traditional music from Sweden, Finland and Minnesota played on nyckelharpas, mandolins and a harmonium. Performed by Tjärnblom. Geared for adults.

• March 21, 10–11 a.m.

Burnhaven Library

Crafternoon

Bring your own craft to work on while visiting with other makers and get help with individual projects and techniques on the third Thursday of the month. Geared for adults.

• March 21, 1–3 p.m.

Inver Glen Library

April

Musician Gao Hong

Learn about an instrument called a pipa through a performance by musical wonder Gao Hong. Geared for adults.

• April 6, 2–3 p.m.

Heritage Library

Creative Writing with a Neurodivergent Lens

Explore neurodivergent perspectives in writing and artmaking through craft exploration and guided writing. Geared for adults. Register online at www.dakotacounty.us/library, click Events

• April 2, 6–7:30 p.m. Online

Construction updates

Dakota County plans the following improvements during the 2024 construction season. Projects are estimated to be complete by November unless noted otherwise.

Apple Valley

Resurfacing Cedar Avenue (County Road 23) from County Road 42 to Highway 77. Night work. Estimated completion: Spring 2025.

Resurfacing Cliff Road (County Road 32) from Highway 13 to Interstate 35E. Night work. Estimated completion: Spring 2025.

Burnsville

Construct roundabout at County Road 11 and Burnsville Parkway. Traffic detoured.

Replace traffic signals on County Road 42 at Southcross Drive/Summit Oaks Drive. Traffic impacted.

Eagan

Intersection improvements at Elrene Road and Mike Collins Drive on Yankee Doodle Road (County Road 28).

Signal improvements at Slater Road on Cliff Road (County Road 32).

Estimated completion: October.

Eagan and West St. Paul

Multiple pedestrian safety improvements:

• Construct a median on Wentworth Avenue (County Road 8) at Humboldt Avenue with a pedestrian waiting area in the middle of the median.

• Construct a median on Pilot Knob Road (County Road 31) at Wilderness Run.

• Construct a right turn lane with pedestrian waiting areas on Lexington Avenue (County Road 43) and Wilderness Run. Traffic detoured.

May

Author Allen Eskens

Enjoy an evening with Allen Eskens, award-winning and bestselling author of “The Life We Bury,” “The Guise of Another” and many more, including his recently published book, “Saving Emma.” Geared for adults.

• May 29, 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Heritage Library

Lakeville

Reconstruct Dodd Boulevard (County Road 9) from Glasgow Avenue to Pilot Knob Road. Traffic detoured.

Randolph Township

Reconstruct two lanes on 295th Street (County Road 88) from Highway 56 to Finch Court. Traffic detoured.

Vermillion and Nininger townships

Construct roundabout at County Road 46 and Goodwin Avenue (County Road 85). Traffic detoured.

West St. Paul

Construct trail on east side of Delaware Avenue (County Road 63) from Highway 149 to Marie Avenue. Estimated completion: August.

Get project updates sent to you at www.dakotacounty.us, search road construction.

Our Work

164 bridges inspected 1,050 lane miles of roadways

98% of roadways in good or fair condition

Paving the way

County scores well on safety of roads and bridges

Dakota County roadways need to be safe for everyone — commuters, freight traffic and pedestrians. Our transportation team works hard to ensure county roads and bridges are safe and efficient for all users by keeping up with careful inspections and completing well-planned maintenance and construction.

Dakota County maintains about 1,050 lane miles of roadway that stretch from urban areas to rural townships.

Every two years, we work with the Minnesota Department of Transportation

133 bridges in good shape

to survey all paved county roads. A special vehicle equipped with lasers and cameras collects pavement images of the roadway and measures the pavement condition. We use this information to determine the quality of the ride and the wear and tear on the roadway. With this data, we plan and prioritize road maintenance and repairs.

Funding and road quality

In addition to new road construction, the county annually invests $7.7 million in pavement preservation. Keeping up with this maintenance means less need for more costly reconstruction. About 86 percent of maintenance work is funded by gas

tax revenue, which the county receives from state collections. The rest of the cost is covered by local property tax dollars. Those maintenance funds and our efforts are exclusively focused on county roads.

There are no statewide rankings for county road conditions, but Dakota County’s own road quality measurements every two years help keep our roadways in good shape. Our goal is to ensure that 75 percent of county roadways meet a good standard and 95 percent meet a good or fair standard. In 2023, around 98 percent of Dakota County’s pavement quality was in good or fair condition.

Inspecting and repairing bridges

Our work doesn’t end with just the roadway — we also inspect, maintain, build and repair bridges on our roads. Dakota County inspects 164 bridges, including those owned by townships

and railroads. While our primary focus is on county-owned bridges, we will also replace township bridges.

Out of 164 total bridges inspected, 133 are in good shape and 30 are in fair condition. One is just below our standard, but that historic bridge is closed to traffic and is scheduled for replacement. It will be turned into a recreational trail crossing of the Cannon River.

We’re committed to keeping county roads in good shape. By using smart tools to understand our roads and bridge conditions better and learning from valuable MnDOT data, we’ll continue to work tirelessly to ensure your driving experience on county roadways is safe and efficient.

For more information about road and bridge maintenance, visit www.dakotacounty.us, click on the Transportation tab.

Putting kids on the right path

Not everyone has someone to show them the ropes — to teach basic life skills like good communication, working with others, receiving feedback or just showing up. That’s where Dakota County’s youth employment programming comes in.

The county uses both state and federal programs to give youth who face economic and social barriers the chance to gain meaningful work experience. According to research, youth with work experience are more likely to stay in school and avoid criminal behavior and drugs.

As part of the state’s Minnesota Youth Program, the county works

with Tree Trust, a local nonprofit, to help youth ages 14–21 hone life skills. During the nine-week summer program, teens and young adults work together to complete landscaping and construction projects. They learn how to properly use tools, be safe on a jobsite and follow directions. They also get mentoring to help set and pursue goals, learn personal finance, create a resume and build leadership skills.

The program mostly works with atrisk and low-income youth, youth in foster care, those in the criminal justice system and teen parents. They are referred to the program through

continued on page 10

Our Work

Same-day service

The same-day driver’s license service at the Lakeville License Center has been extended.

The pilot project that started in October 2022 was scheduled to end in June 2023, but the state allowed the program to continue while they decide on next steps. Lakeville is one of just two locations in the state — the other being in Moorhead — to provide this service.

At Lakeville, residents can get their ID printed on the spot instead of waiting weeks for a license to be mailed.

During the first year from October 2022–September 2023, the Lakeville License Center processed 11,996 same-day standard driver’s licenses,

permits and ID cards. That is more than a 54-percent increase from the 7,764 standard licenses that were processed the previous year. In the same period, REAL and enhanced IDs increased about 3.5 percent at the Lakeville License Center— jumping from 7,524 to 7,786.

Minnesota’s Driver and Vehicle Services will report on the same-day license project to state legislators in early 2024. Lawmakers will decide whether to expand statewide or discontinue the program. Until a decision is made, the service will be available in Lakeville.

The same-day licenses are only for standard driver’s licenses. REAL ID, enhanced and commercial driver’s licenses aren’t included.

Even with more traffic at the Lakeville License Center, Dakota County’s other license centers remained busy. The Administration Center in Hastings saw a 14.4-percent increase in driver’s licenses processed — 8,394 to 9,601.

Despite being closed for more than three months for a remodel, the Burnsville License Center processed just 10.8-percent fewer driver’s licenses than the previous year — 17,596 to 15,698. Those numbers should bounce back this year. The remodel added an extra service desk to the license center, so more residents can be served.

For more information, including business hours and appointments, go to www.dakotacounty.us and search service & license center.

continued from page 9 community organizations and schools.

In 2023, 45 Dakota County youth were in the program — a 25-percent increase from the 36 enrolled in 2022. According to the state, each dollar spent yielded a $9.29 return on investment.

Dakota County also provides year-round services with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act youth program. This federal program works mostly with out-of-school youth ages 16–24 who face barriers to education, training and employment. Its focus is to help youth graduate from high school or obtain

their GED and explore more advanced educational opportunities. Mentoring and work training are also components.

The county partners with the nonprofit Hired to provide one-on-one workplace skills training, help with job searches, including costs like transportation and interview clothing, and internship placement. Youth can learn a mix of skills such as screen printing and woodworking at Elpis Enterprises, child care at the YMCA, or retail sales at Lip Esteem or The Salvation Army.

During the 2022 program year, Dakota and Scott counties served 130 youth. Nearly 66 percent of participants

continued education or training activities or held employment six months after exiting the program. After a year, 92 percent had gained employment or continued education or training.

To get started with youth employment programming, contact CareerForce in West St. Paul at 651-554-5955.

October 2022-September 2023

October 2021-September 2022

Making

headway

Helping those struggling with homelessness and housing

Community

After experiencing a brief decline, the number of unsheltered homeless people in Dakota County exceeded pre-pandemic levels in 2023.

As we do annually, we went into communities and identified people without a permanent place to live. Last year, that number was 80 — up more than 11 percent over 2019 figures. We used state emergency rental assistance programs to provide aid during the pandemic. Temporary halts on evictions also kept more people in housing until those protections tapered off in 2022.

Yet those living on the streets only represent a portion of people in need of housing support.

For people struggling with housing, Dakota County offers help in several ways:

• Homelessness prevention

• Emergency shelter

• Housing stability

Prevention

Our first priority is keeping people in their homes during a struggle.

Dakota County offers a housing clinic at eviction court, where case workers and lawyers offer support after an eviction filing. This effort served 755 households in 2023 and helped maintain housing for 83 percent of those individuals and families. This year, we expect to serve about 1,000 households through the program, with a goal of keeping even more people housed.

Now in stable housing after shelter stay: 79% youth

Our emergency rental assistance program, supported with state funds, provides rent and utility assistance to support people facing eviction. Last year, we helped 338 Dakota County households maintain their housing.

Dakota County also provides flexible support services, which target underlying issues for people facing housing instability. We provide those services on-site at several apartment buildings throughout the county. Last year, we also started taking referrals, so people facing housing instability can get support regardless of where they live. Those services assisted 584 Dakota County households in 2023.

Emergency shelter

We’re also ready to help when people fall through the cracks.

Dakota County offers street outreach for people living in cars, outside or other places where they’re exposed to the elements. Last year, our efforts reached 925 individuals or families.

Now in stable housing after shelter stay: 59% families

We expect that number to reach 1,000 this year.

We provide emergency shelter in two ways — a hotel-based system for youth, families and single adults and the Dakota Woodlands shelter in Eagan for families.

The percentage of people who moved on from our shelter system to stable housing last year were:

• 79 percent of youth.

• 72 percent of single adults.

• 59 percent of families at Dakota Woodlands.

• 32 percent of families who stayed in hotels when Dakota Woodlands was full.

We aim to boost those numbers to 80 percent this year, with plans in

The county’s rental assistance and housing search services help people move on toward stable housing.

development for a permanent site for emergency shelter for single adults.

The county’s rental assistance and housing search services help people move on toward the goal of longterm, stable housing that is reliable, affordable and meets their needs.

Housing stability

Provided through both our Social Services department and the Dakota County Community Development Agency, we offer different options to reduce homelessness:

Rapid rehousing: Short-term rental assistance and case management.

Last year, 77 percent of the 76 households we served moved on to permanent housing.

Housing stability services: Case managers help establish housing stability for people leaving shelters.

More than 80 households were served last year — 63 percent of which achieved housing stability.

Permanent supportive housing:

We provide on-site case managers to people in three apartment buildings — Cahill Place in Inver Grove Heights, Lincoln Place in Eagan and Haralson Place in Apple Valley. These low-income apartments serve families, youth and people living with disabilities. Last year, 89 percent of the households served through this housing achieved housing stability.

Stable housing is vital to living a healthy, productive life. We’re committed to helping our residents struggling with homelessness or housing instability to get the resources they need to thrive.

Community JUMP ON IN

Volunteering is a fun way to help

Whether you have time to share or want to learn a new skill, volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and have fun at the same time. Volunteering doesn’t just benefit you — it also strengthens those around you.

At Dakota County, volunteers help expand our services to residents and makes our work more visible to the public. Since we started a countywide volunteer program in 2015, it has served thousands of residents and provided big cost savings to taxpayers.

We’ve partnered with more than 14,000 volunteers who have contributed more than 257,000 hours to support county services. They fill a range of needs — from public health clinic support to park trail patrol, environmental cleanup to homework assistance for youths. Their efforts are valued at more than $7 million. The program responds to the needs of our community and supports our mission of making Dakota County a great place to live and work. Each year, our volunteers find new ways to help the county as our needs expand and evolve. Our programs are educational, flexible to any schedule and will impact you and the community.

Explore your options at www.dakotacounty.us, search volunteer.

Scan the QR code to learn about volunteering.

Getting it done

Dakota County volunteers have accomplished a lot since 2015:

84,543 – Native plants, trees, shrubs and plugs planted in county parks

15,029 – Pounds of garbage removed from riverbanks

21,274 – Plants grown locally through our Seedsters program

8,976 – Miles patrolled by our volunteer trail patrol teams

1,801 – Greeting cards created and sent during the holiday season for local veterans and military members serving overseas

75,865 – Meals packed and sent to hungry children worldwide

3,509 – Number of items fixed at Fix-it Clinics

16,279 – Pounds of items kept out of landfills because of Fix-it Clinics

1,572 – Number of students helped through the library’s Homework Helpers program

13,255 – Number of garbage bags filled through our Adopt-aHighway program

Making vaccines easier

Mobile clinics keep our communities healthy

We know people are busy and convenience is key. That's why Dakota County Public Health’s mobile clinic is on the move, making resources such as vaccines and health information more accessible for our communities.

A trailer that houses the mobile clinic was purchased with federal pandemic funds in 2021. Its purpose was to remove barriers to receiving vaccines for residents who might not be able to access them in a more traditional way. Since 2021, the mobile clinic has provided 71 clinics to our community and administered close to 2,000 vaccines.

During the 2023 mobile clinic season from May–September, common vaccines were offered safely and conveniently to residents interested in our continued effort to keep the community healthy. Public Health

centers to host vaccine clinics. Community organizations may request the mobile clinic to appear at festivals, gatherings and other events for the 2024 mobile clinic season.

Most county residents can use the clinics free of charge with no appointment required. Interpretation services are available at every community clinic to better serve those who do not speak English or Spanish.

The mobile unit will continue to offer clinics during summer months where you can conveniently receive vaccines for school, immigration exams, work and more. The COVID vaccine and boosters will also be available. Find a list of clinics and vaccine appointments at www.dakotacounty.us, search community vaccine clinics.

Working together, we can keep

71 mobile clinics

2,000 vaccines

1,300 people served

Habitat work makes parks a birding destination

From soaring blufftops at Spring Lake Park Reserve to tranquil pine stands at Whitetail Woods Regional Park, there’s no shortage of Dakota County Parks birding opportunities.

Dozens of bird species are documented annually in Dakota County Parks. Eighty-six breeding birds have been identified at Miesville Ravine Park Reserve alone since 2018.

All Dakota County parks are destinations for birdwatching, but what makes the area so attractive to our feathered friends? In short, it’s the habitats we are restoring and maintaining — along with the location of our parks.

Habitat helpers

Species ranging from the Acadian flycatcher to the yellow-throated vireo have nested in Dakota County parks over the past five years.

A big reason many of them settle in for the season is the habitat they find

in our parks. Some of that requires a helping hand from our natural resources staff.

Rather than tailoring locations for specific species, our team looks at the bigger picture and generally manages habitat for communities of plants and wildlife.

One example of a habitat restoration tool is a controlled burn, which helps return overgrown areas to the original oak savanna ecosystem. That transformation will attract some birds but push out others that might be drawn to forested areas — which is why we also protect extensive wooded areas.

We’re creating a mosaic of different habitats. In turn, our parks generate greater numbers of birds, thanks to

Here’s what you can look for at each park:

Lake Byllesby Regional Park

This park, located along the Byllesby Reservoir of the Cannon River, has been home to 83 different breeding species since 2018.

Springtime draws birders in search of shorebirds — including the rare piping plover — that stop on their way from South America to the arctic. They’re drawn to mud flats left behind from fall lake drainage.

This park has been listed as an important birding area by the Minnesota Audubon Society.

Spring Lake Park Reserve

Over the past five years, 75 different breeding bird species have been spotted here.

Look for songbirds, warblers and American white pelicans in the spring. During a recent migration, staff spotted five separate warbler species in one tree — a remarkable find. Pelicans can be seen soaring high in the sky.

Spring Lake Park Reserve hugs the Mississippi River, which serves as an international flyway during spring and fall migration. The lush, diverse habitat at Spring Lake Park Reserve can serve as a choice spot for migrating birds before they reach the metro, where habitat can be scarce.

Pelican

Peak migration season generally runs from the end of April into May.

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Lebanon Hills Regional Park boasts the most diverse habitat — wetland basins, prairie, forest and oak savanna — in our park system, and it’s where 81 breeding species have been found since 2018.

Start at the Visitor Center and set out toward a forested area, where the habitat diversity means you’re likely to find a great number of birds in a short period of time.

Miesville Ravine Park Reserve

Warblers are abundant here, where park crews documented 86 breedingbird species in the past five years.

Rarer birds — such as lark sparrows, Acadian flycatchers and Henslow’s sparrows — can be found here. Woodcock have been documented here as well as at Lebanon Hills.

Whitetail Woods Regional Park

The connection to about 4,000 acres of a state wildlife management area helps drive numbers here, which has seen 86 separate breeding bird species since 2018. You’ll spot wetland, woodland and prairie birds.

Getting started

For more information about birding programs in Dakota County Parks, see the Program Guide listings in this section.

Protecting the threatened

Dakota County Parks staff work hard to protect critical habitat for plant and wildlife species that are struggling.

Habitat restoration projects around the park system include:

Prairie

Less than 1 percent of Minnesota’s historic prairie remains. This has caused a decline in the number of grassland bird species. But a return of some of those birds to our parks shows that our efforts are paying off.

We’re restoring prairies in our parks, so they can once again be a home to rare species. Those efforts have already led to the return of grassland species and rare birds like the field sparrow, which is listed as a species of greatest conservation need.

Prairie restoration has also helped the rusty patched bumblebee, listed as an endangered species.

This pollinator has been found in at least three parks, including Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Spring Lake Park Reserve and Thompson County Park, where prairie restoration took place near a parking lot. Even smaller-scale projects like this can provide all the habitat this bee needs to thrive.

Blanding’s turtle

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is considering whether to list the Blanding’s turtle as a federally endangered species. It is listed as a state-threatened species in Minnesota — and we’re doing our part to help this reptile.

Blanding’s turtle nests have been found in our parks. We protect their nests from hungry predators once they’ve laid eggs. We also track the turtles and monitor their movements. That way, we can pause summer mowing when we know they’re on the move.

We know the effort is working — last year we documented safe hatches from two nests.

Red-shouldered hawk

Habitat for this bird, listed as a species of special concern, includes Lebanon Hills Regional Park. The hawk has nested in the park since 2020 and prefers open woodland. We’ve been removing buckthorn at the park, which opens up the forest floor for the hawk’s hunting grounds.

Wildlife tunnels

We work with our partners in Transportation to learn about their plans for road construction. We then get to work learning where threats are for wildlife that travel through the area. That has included the installation of wildlife tunnels along Cliff Road near Lebanon Hills Regional Park.

Camera footage has revealed otters, snapping turtles, muskrats and squirrels all using the tunnel system.

Find more at www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search turtle tunnels

Pilliated Woodpecker

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

www.dakotacounty.us/parks,

HOMESCHOOL LAB

YOUTH

KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS

Discover nature with a child through hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, art projects, storytime and more.

Age: 3–6

Fee: $8/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Signs of Spring

Mild rains, mud puddles and blooms! Explore signs of spring in the park.

Activity Number: 112001-01

• Thu, April 4, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-02

• Sat, April 13, 10–11:30 a.m.

Animal Babies

Animal babies are arriving in the park. Learn where they live and how they eat.

Activity Number: 112001-03

• Thu, May 2, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-04

• Sat, May 11, 10–11:30 a.m.

Fabulous Fish

Have a fabulous time learning about fish. Make fish prints and dip a net for fish in the lake.

Activity Number: 112001-05

• Thu, June 6, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-06

• Sat, June 8, 10–11:30 a.m.

Prairie Play

Take a walk through the prairie to discover flowers of different shapes, colors and sizes.

Activity Number: 112001-07

• Thu, July 11, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-08

• Sat, July 13, 10–11:30 a.m.

Bats

Explore the world of bats by learning how they fly and how they ”see.”

Activity Number: 112001-09

• Thu, Aug. 1, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-10

• Sat, Aug. 3, 10–11:30 a.m.

Spider Web Wonders

Discover spiders through web art and a nature walk.

Activity Number: 112001-11

• Thu, Sept. 5, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-12

• Sat, Sept. 7, 10–11:30 a.m.

Use the park as your lab for handson study, scientific inquiry and experimentation.

Age: 6–12

Fee: $8/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Minnesota Trees

Use bark, twigs, seeds and leaves to identify some of Minnesota’s 52 native tree species.

Activity Number: 111501-01

• Wed, April 3, 9–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111501-02

• Wed, April 3, 1–3 p.m.

Activity Number: 111501-03

• Thu, April 4, 1–3 p.m.

Frogs and Toads

Jump into the world of amphibians and conduct a field survey of frogs and toads in the park.

Activity Number: 111501-04

• Wed, May 1, 9–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111501-05

• Wed, May 1, 1–3 p.m.

Activity Number: 111501-06

• Thu, May 2, 1–3 p.m.

Aquatic Insect Investigation

Dip a net in the lake to collect aquatic invertebrates to examine and identify.

Activity Number: 111501-07

• Wed, June 5, 9–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111501-08

• Wed, June 5, 1–3 p.m.

Activity Number: 111501-09

• Thu, June 6, 1–3 p.m.

Wilderness Survival

Learn what it takes to survive by practicing the skills of fire and shelter building, plant identification and uses, how to find water and more.

Activity Number: 111501-10

• Wed, Sept. 4, 9–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111501-11

• Wed, Sept. 4, 1–3 p.m.

Activity Number: 111501-12

• Thu, Sept. 5, 1–3 p.m.

FAMILY HIKE

FAMILY

FOREVER WILD FAMILY FRIDAY

Join us for family fun on the first Friday of every month for outdoor park exploration, a bonfire and s’mores. Learn about different creatures of the park through activities, games and a nature walk.

All ages

Free

Raccoons

Dakota Lodge

Thompson County Park

Activity Number: 111001-01

• Fri, April 5, 6–7:30 p.m.

Backyard Birds

Dakota Lodge

Thompson County Park

Activity Number: 111001-02

• Fri, May 3, 6–7:30 p.m.

Foxes

Fawn Crossing

Whitetail Woods Regional Park

Activity Number: 111001-03

• Fri, June 7, 6–7:30 p.m.

Dragonflies

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111001-04

• Fri, July 12, 6–7:30 p.m.

Bats

Fawn Crossing

Whitetail Woods Regional Park

Activity Number: 111001-05

• Fri, Aug. 2, 6–7:30 p.m.

Squirrels

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111001-06

• Fri, Sept. 6, 6–7:30 p.m.

Learn about the seasons and what’s happening outdoors during a naturalist-led walk in the park the third Sunday of every month.

All ages

Free

Thompson County Park Trailhead

Thompson County Park

Activity Number: 111403-04

• Sun, April 21, 10–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111403-05

• Sun, May 19, 10–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111403-06

• Sun, June 16, 10–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111403-07

• Sun, July 21, 10–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111403-08

• Sun, Aug. 18, 10–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111403-09

• Sun, Sept. 15, 10–11 a.m.

STORY TRAIL

Take a self-guided walk in the park while reading picture book pages displayed along the trail.

All ages

Free

Thompson Lake Loop

Thompson County Park

Activity Number: 110902-01

• Fri–Mon, May 24–27, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

McDonough Lake Loop

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110902-02

• Fri–Mon, Aug. 30–Sept. 2, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

WOODCOCK WALK

Discover the well-camouflaged woodcock and try to spot and hear the bird’s aerial display.

Age: 8 and older

Fee: $5/person

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111702-01

• Thu, April 11, 7:30–9 p.m.

PARENT/CHILD CANOE

Spend an evening with a child in your life learning the basics of canoeing and having fun with games and activities on the water.

Age: 5 and older

Fee: $15/person

Schulze Beach

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111902-01

• Mon, July 15, 6:30–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 111902-02

• Mon, July 29, 6:30–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 111902-03

• Sun, Aug. 4, 9–10:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 111902-04

• Mon, Aug. 19, 6:30–8 p.m.

PARENT/CHILD KAYAK

Spend an evening with a child in your life learning the basics of kayaking and having fun with games and activities on the water.

Age: 5 and older

Fee: $15/person

Schulze Beach

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111901-01

• Mon, July 8, 6:30–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 111901-02

• Mon, July 22, 6:30–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 111901-03

• Sun, Aug. 4, 5–6:30 p.m.

Activity Number: 111901-04

• Mon, Aug. 26, 6–7:30 p.m.

SPARK! MOBILE

Join the City of Eagan’s puppet wagon for family friendly puppet shows and activities.

All ages

Free

Visitor Center Trailhead

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110203-01

• Fri, June 21–Aug. 9, 10–10:45 a.m.

FAMILY WILDFLOWER WALK

Hike with a naturalist when the spring ephemerals are in full bloom. Learn basic wildflower identification while exploring the trails.

Age: 5 and older

Fee: $5/person

East Shelter

Spring Lake Park Reserve

Activity Number: 111403-03

• Sat, May 4, 1–2:30 p.m.

PATIO POTS

Join us on Mother’s Day to build a small patio pot with native plants collected and grown in the park.

Age: 5 and older

Fee: $15/person

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111302-01

• Sun, May 12, 11 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 111302-02

• Sun, May 12, 1–2 p.m.

PARENT/CHILD ARCHERY

Learn basic shooting techniques and range safety through games and activities.

Age: 8 and older

Fee: $15/person

Archery Shelter

Lower Spring Lake Park Reserve

Activity Number: 110101-01

• Sat, July 20, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110101-02

• Sat, July 20, 1–4 p.m.

Activity Number: 110101-03

• Sat, Sept. 14, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110101-04

• Sat, Sept. 14, 1–4 p.m.

ADULT

INTRO TO FLY FISHING FOR WOMEN

Join us for a hands-on introduction to fly fishing, designed especially for women, taught by the Fly Fishing Women of Minnesota.

Age: 16 and older

Fee: $15/person

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 111102-01

• Sat, April 27, 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

INTRO TO FLY TYING FOR WOMEN

Join the Fly Fishing Women of Minnesota for an introduction to fly-tying equipment and technique.

Age: 16 and older

Fee: $15/person

Visitor Center Trailhead

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111102-02

• Tue, April 23, 6–8 p.m.

WILDFLOWER WALK

Hike with a naturalist when the spring ephemerals are in full bloom. Learn basic wildflower identification while exploring the trails.

Age: 16 and older

Fee: $5/person

East Shelter

Spring Lake Park Reserve

Activity Number: 111403-01

• Sat, May 4, 10:30 a.m.–noon

Trout Brook Shelter

Miesville Ravine Park Reserve

Activity Number: 111403-02

• Sat, May 4, 1–2:30 p.m.

BIRDING ON THE MISSISSIPPI

Go birding with a naturalist along the Mississippi River Greenway and explore unique vantage points along the river.

Age: 16 and older

Fee: $5/person

Swing Bridge Trailhead

Mississippi River Greenway

Activity Number: 111701-01

• Tue, May 7, 7:30–9:30 a.m.

Pine Bend Bluffs Trailhead

Mississippi River Greenway

Activity Number: 111701-02

• Tue, May 14, 7:30–9:30 a.m.

Lock and Dam No. 2 Trailhead

Mississippi River Greenway

Activity Number: 111701-03

• Tue, May 21, 7:30–9:30 a.m.

BEGINNING BIRDING

Explore new birding locations in the park and learn basic birding tips and identification.

Age: 16 and older

Fee: $5/person

Schaar’s Bluff Trailhead

Spring Lake Park Reserve

Activity Number: 111705-01

• Thu, April 25, 6–7:30 p.m.

Thompson County Park

Trailhead

Thompson County Park

Activity Number: 111705-02

• Thu, May 2, 6–7:30 p.m.

Jensen Lake Trailhead

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111705-03

• Thu, May 9, 6–7:30 p.m.

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

FOREST BATHING

Immerse yourself in nature while learning the principles of forest bathing. Learn how to slow down and use your senses to reconnect with nature in a peaceful guided hike.

Age: 16 and older

Fee: $30/person

Camp Sacajwea Retreat Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111406-01

• Thu, May 9, 6–8:30 p.m.

Activity Number: 111406-02

• Tue, July 23, 3–5:30 p.m.

Activity Number: 111406-03

• Wed, Aug. 28, 6–8:30 p.m.

MOUNTAIN BIKE WORKSHOP FOR MEN

Learn mountain biking skills for men from Valley Bike and Ski. Topics include bike handling skills, equipment, safety, trails and more. For all skill levels.

Age: 15 and older

Fee: $70/person

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110301-01

• Wednesdays, May 15, 22 & 29, 6–8 p.m.

MOUNTAIN BIKE WORKSHOP FOR WOMEN

Learn mountain biking skills for women, taught by women, from Valley Bike and Ski. Topics include bike-handling skills, equipment, safety, trails and more. For all skill levels.

Age: 15 and older

Fee: $70/person

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110301-02

• Wednesdays, May 15, 22 & 29, 6–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 110301-03

• Wednesdays, July 31, Aug. 7 & 14, 6–8 p.m.

CAMPS

SMALL FRY FISH CAMP

Young anglers can learn the basics of fishing, including how to cast and tie knots, and get out on the water to catch the big one.

Age: 6–8

Fee: $55/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110407-01

• Fri, June 14, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

FISH CAMP

Explore the world of Minnesota fish through hands-on games and activities and spend the afternoons learning to cast, catch and release.

Age: 8–12

Fee: $150/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110401-01

• Wed–Fri, June 19–21, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

FISH CAMP

Explore the world of Minnesota fish through hands-on games and activities and spend the afternoons learning to cast, catch and release.

Age: 10–14

Fee: $150/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110401-02

• Wed–Fri, June 26–28, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

(OUT)DOOR ADVENTURE

From outdoor recreation and survival skills to journaling and crafts, a mix of camp favorites for LGBTQ campers and allies.

Age: 12–15

Fee: $150/youth

Camp Sacajwea Retreat Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110419-01

• Mon–Wed, June 24–26, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

ARCHERY CAMP

Learn the basics of archery, including proper technique and range safety, through fun activities.

Age: 8–12

Fee: $130/youth

Archery Shelter

Lower Spring Lake Park Reserve

Activity Number: 110402-01

• Mon–Fri, July 22–26, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110402-02

• Mon–Fri, Aug. 5–9, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110402-03

• Mon–Fri, Aug. 5–9, 1–4 p.m.

WILD CHILD

Get outside, get active and have fun! Have a blast playing games, building forts and soaking in the summer fun.

Age: 8–12

Fee: $130/youth

Empire Lake Shelter

Whitetail Woods Regional Park

Activity Number: 110420-01

• Mon–Fri, July 22–26, 1–4 p.m.

WILDERNESS SURVIVAL CAMP

Learn to survive in the woods by constructing survival shelters, building fires, learning knot tying skills, wayfinding and more.

Age: 8–12

Fee: $200/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110404-01

• Mon–Fri, July 8–12, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

JUNIOR NATURALISTS CAMP

Get a feel for science in the field. Work with park naturalists and ecologists to track and study plant and animal populations.

Age: 10–14

Fee: $200/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110417-01

• Mon–Fri, July 15–19, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

FAIRY HOMES AND WOODLAND GNOMES

Discover the secret, mythical world of fairies and gnomes through art, investigation and play.

Age: 7–9

Fee: $150/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110421-01

• Wed–Fri, Aug. 14–16, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

BOOKS IN THE WOODS CAMP

A camp for our littlest nature explorers. Read a different book each day and use the story to explore the park.

Age: 4–6

Fee: $130/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110412-01

• Mon–Fri, July 29–Aug. 2, 9 a.m.–noon

LITTLE RIPPERS MOUNTAIN BIKE CAMP

Join us for a day camp designed for young riders, taught by Valley Bike and Ski. Bring your mountain bike and helmet. No previous experience required.

Age: 6–10

Fee: $55/youth

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110406-01

• Wed, June 12, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110406-02

• Tue, June 18, 5–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 110406-03

• Wed, July 17, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110406-04

• Wed, Aug. 21, 9 a.m.–noon

MOUNTAIN BIKE CAMP

Grab your mountain bike and helmet and join Valley Bike and Ski to learn bike-handling skills, bike maintenance, trail maintenance and more. No experience required.

Age: 10–15

Fee: $150/youth

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110403-01

• Mon–Thu, July 8–11, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110403-03

• Mon–Thu, July 29–Aug. 1, 9 a.m.–noon

MOUNTAIN BIKE CAMP FOR GIRLS

Grab your mountain bike and helmet and join Valley Bike and Ski to learn bike-handling skills, bike maintenance, trail maintenance and more. No experience required.

Age: 10–15

Fee: $150/youth

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110403-02

• Mon–Thu, July 8–11, 9 a.m.–noon

ADVANCED MOUNTAIN BIKE CAMP

Take your riding to the next level by diving deeper into bike skills and body seperation drills. Must have completed previous Dakota County Mountain Bike Camp and be able to ride black trails at Lebanon Hills Regional Park.

Age: 11–15

Fee: $150/youth

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110403-04

• Mon–Thu, Aug. 5–8, 9 a.m.–noon

SPECIAL EVENTS

www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search special events

OUTDOOR GEAR SWAP

Drop off unused outdoor gear items or pick up new-to-you gear.

All ages

Free

Dakota Lodge

Thompson County Park

• Mon, April 22, 5–8 p.m.

TAKE A KID FISHING

Catch some quality time with a child in your life. Bring your own pole or borrow one of ours. Visit hands-on fishing stations to practice knot tying, baiting a hooking, casting and more. Plus, food trucks.

All ages

Free

North Picnic Shelter

Thompson County Park

• Sun, June 9, noon–3 p.m.

SUMMER SOLSTICE PARTY

Celebrate the summer with live music, yard games, food trucks and fun.

All ages

Free

North Picnic Shelter

Thompson County Park

• Thu, June 20, 6–9:03 p.m.

MUSIC IN THE PARK

Head to Whitetail Woods for entertaining musical performances and tasty food trucks.

All ages

Free

Amphitheater

Whitetail Woods Regional Park

• Tue, June 25, 5–7 p.m.

• Tue, July 30, 5–7 p.m.

• Tue, Aug. 27, 5–7 p.m.

INFORMATION

REGISTRATION

To register online, search for the program using the activity number or a keyword in the program title. Registration is not required for free programs unless noted. Satisfaction is guaranteed.

PAYMENT

Payment is due at registration.

All major credit cards are accepted.

IF WE NEED TO CANCEL

Cancellations posted at www.dakotacounty.us/parks.

IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL

Refund policy is posted at www.dakotacounty.us/parks, click Programs & Events.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Call 952-891-7000.

ACCESSIBILITY

At least three weeks before the program, tell us what accommodation would make the program accessible to you or your family. Call 952-891-7000.

EQUIPMENT

Provided unless specified.

EQUIPMENT RENTAL

Rent paddleboards, canoes and kayaks at the Lebanon Hills Visitor Center from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search equipment rental.

RESERVATIONS BIRTHDAYS, FIELD TRIPS AND MORE

Celebrate a birthday, take a school field trip or book a private program in Dakota County Parks.

www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search private program

Go Green

Exceeding expectations

The Recycling Zone makes household cleaning easier

Go Green

The Recycling Zone provides Dakota County residents a safe and reliable way to get rid of household hazardous waste and other problem materials. Since 1992, it has served more than 1 million visitors and accepted more than 34,000 tons of waste that otherwise would have ended up in a landfill.

Many common household items like paint, batteries, electronics, lawn chemicals and more require special handling. If not disposed of properly, they can harm the environment.

In 2022 alone, we collected 1.9 million pounds of hazardous waste, 1.1 million pounds of electronics, 1.2 million pounds of recyclables and 51,700 pounds of tires.

Plan your visit

Before you head to The Recycling Zone, here are a few tips to help you prepare:

• Stay in your vehicle at all times as staff will unload items for you.

• Place all items in your trunk or backseat — make sure it’s only items you want to drop off.

• Put all sharps like syringes, needles and lancets in a rigid plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep it in your front seat.

• Bring your photo ID.

• Have exact change or a credit card ready to pay for TVs, computer monitors and tires.

Cost-saving partnerships

Dakota County partners with local nonprofits and organizations that offer unique recycling programs that save us money.

The Recycling Zone is an official PaintCare drop-off site. PaintCare covers the cost of managing the recycling and reuse of leftover paint. To date, this program has saved the county more than $1.7 million.

Dakota Electric and Xcel Energy pay to recycle all fluorescent light bulbs that are brought to The Recycling Zone. In 2022, we collected 84,219 pounds of fluorescent bulbs and lamps.

Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) offers the Waste Pesticide Collection program where residents can drop off pesticides at no cost. MDA pays to properly dispose of the chemicals. In 2022, the county

received $16,868 to cover handling costs for agricultural pesticides. MDA directly paid $64,576 in hazardous waste disposal costs.

We’re growing

When Dakota County first opened The Recycling Zone in Eagan, the facility was designed to support 15,000 cars annually. In 2022, we surpassed more than 70,000 vehicles.

Because we’ve reached capacity at the existing site in Eagan, Dakota County is partnering with Scott County on a proposed new facility in Lakeville that could open in 2025 if the county receives city approval and state funding. The new facility would offer the same services, along with the possible collection of items such as mattresses, appliances and organics.

To learn more about the proposed facility, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search new drop-off.

Dakota County’s organics drop-off sites offer residents a better way to get rid of food scraps. Keeping organic material out of landfills is good for the environment and your wallet.

We offer 11 drop-off sites conveniently located throughout the county, including two new locations in Apple Valley and Inver Grove Heights that opened in 2023.

More than 10,000 households in Dakota County have registered for the free organics drop-off program. We collected 1,041 tons — or 2.1 million pounds — of organic material in 2023. That’s a 14-percent increase in

registered households and a 17-percent increase of tons collected over 2022.

Bringing organics to a drop-off site is easy — place all organics in a certified compostable bag available at each site. All food scraps, such as bakery goods, coffee grounds, eggs and eggshells, meat, fish and bones, dairy products, and fruits and veggies are accepted. Drop off bags as often as needed.

In 2022, we collected record amounts household hazardous waste

Go Green Get free product at The Reuse Zone

Stop by The Reuse Zone — located at The Recycling Zone in Eagan — for free products like spray paint, deck stain, lawn fertilizer, household cleaners and more. Bring a bag or box and shop for items you will use.

All products were previously dropped off at The Recycling Zone and are inspected before they’re placed on the reuse shelf. Products are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Check back often as inventory changes daily. Products that may be available include:

 Adhesives

67,058 vehicles used the drive-thru service

Collected 1.9 million pounds of hazardous waste like household chemicals, paint and stain, and used oil

Collected 1.1 million pounds of electronics

Collected 1.2 million pounds of recyclables like cardboard, glass bottles and jars, and metal cans

To register for the program, call 952-891-7557, email organics@co.dakota.mn.us or visit www.dakotacounty.us, search organics and complete the online form.

11 sites:

Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Farmington, Hastings, Inver Grove Heights, Lakeville, Mendota Heights, Rosemount (2) and West St. Paul.

 Cleaning supplies

 Home improvement products

 Paint and stain

 Pool chemicals

In 2022, Dakota County saved $145,483 in disposal costs by offering 309,539 pounds of free reusable products at The Reuse Zone. Residents also save money by bringing home and using free products.

309,539 pounds of free products given away $145,483 saved in disposal costs

The Reuse Zone is open the same hours as The Recycling Zone

Wednesday............................9 a.m.–8 p.m.

Thursday noon– 8 p.m.

Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Shoppers must be 18 years or older.

For more information, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search reuse zone.

10,481 registered households

40,029 pounds collected weekly 2.1 million pounds collected in 2023

Stronger

Dakota County delivers many different services to residents. We provide public safety, monitor drinking water quality and watch out for our most vulnerable residents. We repair county roads in the summer and plow them in the winter. We offer parks for outdoor activity and libraries for discovery.

We don’t do it all alone. Many of the county’s more than 200 programs and services rely on our strong partnerships with local governments, community health providers, nonprofit organizations, businesses and others. Together, we deliver high-quality services in cost-effective ways.

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners is committed to making these partnerships even stronger this year. We know this improves efficiency, saves tax dollars, keeps our communities safe and healthy, protects the environment, and makes the services you receive better.

Here are some of the many ways we work with others to deliver for Dakota County residents:

TRAINING TOGETHER, RESPONDING TOGETHER

Public safety is a priority. Our first responders train for a variety of emergencies. Some of these are very high risk and require many first responders, such as natural disasters or large fires.

We’re part of the Dakota County Domestic Preparedness Committee, a partnership of 11 cities, the county and Dakota 911. This group, which includes police officers, firefighters and county staff, plans how first responders will work together in large-scale emergencies.

As many as 150 first responders gather each year to train for major emergencies. Last year, we trained at Inver Hills Community College, practicing our response to an active shooter, a building fire and civil unrest. We’re planning our 2024 training in Burnsville. Our first responders rely on one another, so it’s important we train together.

Some emergencies call for first responders with specialized training. The Dakota County Special

Operations Team includes Sheriff’s Office deputies and first responders from cities in the county — about 35 members in all. They train for industrial fires, building collapses, water rescues and more.

Regular training and good coordination reduce the potential for harm to the public in a real emergency.

ANSWERING THE CALL

Emergency calls made in the county get answered at Dakota 911 in Rosemount, a partnership of the county and 11 cities. Working together to provide this service benefits residents.

Dakota 911 operates as a two-stage dispatch center — there are call takers and radio operators. The call taker stays on the phone with the caller while the radio operator dispatches first responders to the scene. This allows the call taker to give pre-arrival instructions without delay, such as CPR or help delivering a baby. All dispatchers are trained in both positions. Handling emergency calls this way can save lives.

Dakota 911 service calls increased by 9 percent from 2012–2022 without an increase in staffing levels. We recently went from 54 to 55 dispatchers.

We track our work to ensure we maintain a high level of service and perform well against national standards. The center received 174,400 total 911 calls in 2022. All of those calls were answered within 20 seconds. Nearly all calls were answered within 15 seconds.

We also evaluate calls and provide helpful feedback to call takers. As part of this effort, we track concerns or complaints that are received. In 2016, there were 296 inquiries. This dropped to just 23 by 2022.

Together, we answer the call and get people the help they need.

www.dakota911mn.gov

DELIVERING CONFIDENCE IN YOUR ELECTIONS

Counties are responsible for administering elections, and our local partnerships help make them successful. We follow state laws and procedures for registering voters, training election workers, maintaining and testing polling equipment, and producing, collecting and counting ballots. We work closely with our cities, townships and school districts to ensure a smooth, accurate election process that voters can trust.

Much of that work is done before you enter your polling place. Before an election, we certify and train all municipal and school district clerks with election duties. Depending on the year, the number of elections and their location, we might train up to 150 clerks and deputies and 2,500 election workers.

We’re working even closer with cities and school

districts beginning this year. Through a new agreement, the county is providing absentee ballot services — issuing ballot applications, accepting completed ballots and tallying the absentee votes — for all school districts and townships, and 21 of 22 cities. This change should streamline the process and enhance voter trust. This is increasingly important as more voters are choosing to cast absentee ballots.

All voter registrations in Dakota County are handled by our elections team. We work closely with city and township clerks to keep address information current, which makes registration easier for new voters. We also manage thousands of record updates for voters who have moved, people who turn 18 and voters who change their name.

www.dakotacounty.us, search elections

CONNECTING RESIDENTS TO HELPFUL RESOURCES

Local service providers, such as food shelves and health clinics, know where help is needed in our community. We work closely with them — sometimes we provide a service and other times they take the lead.

That plays out daily with the county’s community health workers. They are a resource for community organizations that help residents with basic health needs, others who need food assistance and more.

It’s important to represent the people we serve. Community health workers speak a total of six languages other than English. That makes it easier to serve all residents, and people are more comfortable getting help.

Community health workers visit food shelves, attend vaccine clinics and offer family home visits. They also partner with local police departments, including West St. Paul, to help with car seat safety checks and provide health information at community events.

In the last six months of 2023 alone, we worked with more than 10 local organizations to reach residents in need. Over the past five years, community health workers helped 366 people get basic health, nutrition or safety resources. And since 2020, they have met with 211 people at 25 of the county’s free vaccine clinics.

Our public health staff also partner with others. During the pandemic, we enhanced our coordination with local schools. We’ve maintained that close partnership by assigning a school health specialist to focus on public health needs in our schools. That includes coordinating hearing and vision clinics, sharing health news with school nurses through a newsletter sent to 525 people and hosting a monthly school health call open to about 145 nurses in 120 public, private and charter schools throughout Dakota County.

We have also provided technical assistance to schools as they worked to meet a new state requirement to keep doses of naloxone — medication that can reverse an opioid overdose — in each school building. Partnering with schools improves the health of our children.

www.dakotacounty.us, search health services

A BETTER RESPONSE FOR THOSE IN CRISIS

Dakota County leads the way in helping people who experience a mental health crisis to get the right service at the right time. This improves their well-being and public safety.

Collaboration starts with the first call for help. The county partners with Dakota 911, the emergency dispatch center. Instead of sending police to every emergency call, Dakota 911 transfers calls involving a mental health crisis to trained county social workers. They can answer a call from anywhere, and some of the social workers are based in city offices for quicker responses. Police officers or sheriff’s deputies still respond to crisis calls if there is a crime, weapon or violence involved.

About 80 percent of 911 mental health calls transferred directly to us can be handled by our crisis team without the need for police. We can get people resources they need and save valuable law enforcement time.

Not every crisis is resolved during that first call, so we created the embedded social worker partnership to follow up on situations better resolved with mental health experts.

Embedded social workers work side by side with officers to provide crisis follow-up and stabilization services. We want people to receive an effective, lasting response that helps them get better.

These services are especially important as we see an increase in people experiencing mental health challenges. Our crisis response unit received about 9,400 calls in 2021 and more than 12,600 in 2022.

Dakota County’s crisis response model, including our partnerships with local police, was recognized by the Association of Minnesota Counties. Other counties are designing their response efforts after what we’ve done to help our residents and strengthen public safety.

www.dakotacounty.us, search crisis response

If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health crisis, call the Dakota County 24/7 Crisis Response Unit at 952-891-7171 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Stronger together

BRINGING THE LIBRARY

TO YOU

Libraries are more than books — they are gathering places, resources for businesses and people looking for work, and spaces for children to learn. Not all of this happens in the library, though.

The Library On the Go van hit the road for the first time in January 2023. It travels throughout the county and partners with family and senior housing properties, food shelves like The Open Door, school resource fairs, and city celebrations. We work with these organizations to reach more residents, including some who don’t regularly go to the library.

Library On the Go visited 90 events last year and staff connected with more than 7,100 residents. They shared library information, offered book recommendations and talked with people who had never visited a library.

The library also partners with schools and cities to combine the love of reading with time in nature. Our Story Trails program features children’s book pages displayed along a trail, allowing young visitors to read a book as they enjoy the outdoors. Last year, the program had 16 partnerships and 52 requests for Story Trails.

We also work with community organizations to offer classes for older adults. This spring, we’re teaming up with West St. Paul police officers to lead a class on internet scams. A class on mental health will be led by the National Alliance on Mental IllnessMinnesota. These partnerships provide more opportunities for residents.

www.dakotacounty.us/library

SMALL PARTNERSHIP, BIG RESULTS

Some county partnerships serve a small population of residents who don’t have other ways to get help.

We work with Behavioral Dimensions Inc., a treatment provider, to help children experiencing severe mental health crises. This program, called Critical Care Unit Behavioral Supports, pairs county mental health case managers with

behavioral specialists to treat severe functional impairment in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. These children haven’t improved with traditional therapy, and their conditions may prevent them from being able to attend school or severely limit their normal activities. Some children have been hospitalized repeatedly and placed away from the family home.

PARTNERS MAKE PARKS BETTER

Dakota County parks and greenways are full of natural resource successes and outdoor recreation opportunities. We can’t do all of the work ourselves, so we partner with many organizations passionate about getting people to enjoy the outdoors and preserving natural spaces.

Our reintroduction of bison at Spring Lake Park Reserve is helping to restore prairie land, and the bison are a popular sight for park visitors. We teamed up with the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd partnership, which is working to establish a herd of 500 bison around the state with highly diverse genes, similar to historic wild bison herds. Without this partnership, we would not have been able to bring back bison to Dakota County.

Many local residents and groups volunteer in our parks.

Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists is a nonprofit group of mountain bikers who log hundreds of hours of work at Lebanon Hills Regional Park. They maintain and groom the park’s mountain bike trails. They recruit other park users to volunteer. They also monitor day-to-day trail conditions to ensure the public

has a safe, enjoyable experience. The group tallied 419 hours of work in 2021, 535 hours in 2022 and more than 800 hours last year.

We have other partners that focus on natural resource restoration and management. Nonprofit organizations such as Friends of the Mississippi River, Great River Greening, Mississippi Park Connection and Wilderness in the City help with a variety of work, including invasive plant and tree removal, native seed collection, pollinator-friendly plantings and more. Other groups — businesses, schools, scout troops and more — also volunteer to help preserve natural spaces in county parks.

Partnerships like these enhance our services, improve the environment and save taxpayer dollars.

www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search volunteer

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GOOD PARTNERSHIPS MEAN BETTER ROADS

County roads rarely are built or improved with just county involvement. We work closely with local cities, townships and the state and federal governments to prioritize road projects, coordinate the work and pay for the improvements.

Road projects are funded a variety of ways. Costs are shared differently depending on the type of project. We also work with cities and others to schedule future road construction, get residents’ input on the work and design a project. All of this work is tracked in a five-year plan.

In 2023 alone, the county planned 27 road and bridge projects in 18 cities and townships, plus additional transportation projects such as engineering. All of this work totaled nearly

$85 million — funded by the county, cities, the federal government, state highway funds, and local sales, wheelage and gravel taxes.

We know how important it is to maintain these partnerships. This helps to ensure residents can rely on a safety and efficient transportation system across Dakota County.

www.dakotacounty.us, search transportation projects

WORKING TOGETHER FOR CLEAN WATER

Dakota County works with others to make sure residents have clean drinking water.

The county has offered drinking water test kits at no cost to all private well owners over the last five years as part of the Community-Focused Sampling Program. The test checks tap water for contaminants that can cause health or environmental concerns, such as chloride, nitrate, manganese and lead.

We partner with different cities and townships each year. Well owners can submit a water sample for testing, and then they receive test results and information by mail. The county also gets results, and we share a summary of results with each city and township. We also recommend how to treat contaminated water.

Since we started the program in 2016, all communities have participated and more than 2,100 well owners have tested their drinking water. In 2023 alone, we helped 555 residents in Inver Grove Heights and Eureka Township test their water. This year, we’re providing test kits to well owners in Burnsville and Farmington.

Dakota County is a leader in this proactive effort to ensure safe drinking water. No other county in Minnesota has offered comprehensive drinking water test kits to all private well owners at no cost.

www.dakotacounty.us, search well test

Your Commissioners

Mike Slavik

District 1

T: 651-438-4427

Liz Workman

District 5

T: 651-438-4431

Contact us

Joe Atkins

District 2

T: 651-438-4430

Mary Liz Holberg

District 6

T: 651-438-4243

Email: board@co.dakota.mn.us

County Manager

Matt Smith to retire

Dakota County Manager Matt Smith will retire in May 2024 after nearly eight years overseeing county operations and a team of more than 2,000 employees.

“It’s been my privilege to work alongside our

county board and staff to serve Dakota County residents,” Smith said. “This organization does important work in many different ways to help make this a good place for everyone to live and work. I’m glad to have played my part in that, and I’m confident in the county’s future.”

During Smith’s tenure, the county has maintained high financial ratings, earned state and national recognition for its services, improved mental health

Laurie Halverson

District 3

T: 651-438-4429

Mary HamannRoland

District 7

T: 651-438-4411

William Droste

District 4

T: 651-438-4428

crisis programs, enhanced parks and libraries, and responded to a growing demand for services in the state’s third-largest county.

Working closely with the Dakota County Board of Commissioners, Smith also oversaw the county’s COVID-19 response and the allocation of pandemic relief funds.

Smith’s retirement caps a long career in public service. He joined Dakota County in 2008 as financial services

director and then served as deputy county manager before being named manager in 2016. Prior to joining Dakota County, Smith was the City of Saint Paul finance director. He also spent more than 14 years with the Minnesota Department of Revenue, including serving as its commissioner under former Gov. Jesse Ventura.

The county board has started the county manager hiring process.

More hours to enjoy the library

More Dakota County Library locations will have Self-Service Hours this year. Visitors 18 years and older can sign up to use the library without sta present. Access computers and Wi-Fi, reserve and use a meeting room, and check out materials such as books, movies and more.

www.dakotacounty.us/library and search self-service