Dakota County Newsletter - Spring/Summer 2023

The Dakota County Board of Commissioners knows residents expect the county to provide effective services and be a careful steward of your tax dollars. In this performance edition of the Dakota County Newsletter, learn how we’re meeting those expectations. We’re making smart energy improvements, offering library services to residents and small business owners, and helping homeowners and farmers to protect the environment. We’re also providing critical resources to families with young children and delivering important services such as elections and public health. Providing excellent service in all these areas helps Dakota County remain a great place to live and work.

Contents

Feature: Page

26

Smart switches

Just as we all look for ways to cut utility costs at home, Dakota County is taking smart steps to reduce our energy use. Learn how we’re making cost-effective, energy-efficient improvements that are good for the environment and save taxpayer dollars.

SECTIONS

Page 3

IN BRIEF

Ensuring accurate vote counts doesn’t end on Election Day. The reviews confirm voters can be confident in our election results.

Page 8

OUR WORK

Clean water is important to all of us. See how we're reducing groundwater chemicals and improving water quality.

Page 11

COMMUNITY

Dakota County Library supports local small businesses with tools, classes and resources.

Page 15

PARKS

Whether by tent, RV or cabin, you can enjoy the outdoors by camping in three Dakota County parks.

Keeping you informed for 52 cents

Page 23

GO GREEN

From containers to training, Dakota County offers resources that make recycling easier for all residents.

The Dakota County Newsletter is a cost-effective way to share county news and show you how your tax dollars are used. We keep the cost down by producing it twice a year and combining it with the Dakota County Parks program guide. County staff write and design the newsletter, and printing is awarded through a competitive bid process. The same process is used for the Dakota County Plus, a smaller mailing for residents in summer and winter. Total cost to print and mail this newsletter is 52 cents per household.

Contact: Mary

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

In Brief

Getting it right

Election equipment proves accurate

Dakota County voters can rest assured their vote got counted. In the Nov.8, 2022 general election, 201,623 Dakota County residents voted. That’s a registered-voter turnout of 71 percent — much higher than the statewide turnout of 61 percent. More than 145,000 voters cast their ballot in person on Election Day. The rest voted early or by absentee.

Election work doesn’t end after votes are cast and counted. The county, which is responsible for

election administration, completes multiple steps in the weeks after the election to make sure everything adds up correctly.

The five-member Dakota County Canvassing Board meets after the election to certify the county’s vote totals. Those totals are provided to the state canvassing board, which certifies all of Minnesota’s election results.

Our work to ensure an accurate election doesn’t stop there. Counties

In Brief are required to complete a postelection review — a hand count of ballots from randomly selected precincts to ensure the electronic counters accurately tabulated vote totals on election night. This review strengthens confidence in our election system.

Accurate results

We completed our post-election review in late November. The review was open to the public, and it was conducted by election judges balanced by political party. Election staff oversee and support the review.

It doesn’t end there, however. The state canvassing board then randomly selects four precincts from each congressional district to review in detail. In 2022, one Dakota County precinct was chosen for that review. Our entire process is reviewed — from pre-election training practices to votecounting and reporting. State election officials will meet with local election staff to go over the findings this spring. This final step helps make sure we’re following the correct process.

Training and informing

Election judges hand-counted 7,243 ballots from five Dakota County precincts that were randomly selected by members of the public who attended the county canvassing board meeting. They counted votes for the office of U.S. representative and the governor’s race. The county’s canvassing board took the extra step of directing the election judges to also count votes in the county attorney race — just to provide another test of our ballot-counting equipment.

The equipment was proven accurate. The hand count showed that the voting system accurately counted all 7,243 ballots. The equipment is so sensitive that it flagged a stray mark on a ballot, and election judges agreed it was not intended to be a marked vote.

Three races hand-counted on 7,243 ballots — that’s as many as 21,000 individual votes — and not one counting error was found.

Making sure our election system is secure, accurate and transparent involves work well ahead of the election. In partnership with our cities and townships, we trained 2,500 election judges and temporary staff who handled early voting duties and worked in polling places on Election Day.

The Dakota County Newsletter last fall explained how residents can register to vote and cast their ballot. We also increased our use of social media to share election facts and voting details for the statewide primary and general elections.

Voters need to know essential election information before they cast their ballot. We provide voting details on our website, and last fall, we did even more to share information. We sent election dates and details by email to residents who signed up to receive them. To sign up for future election information, go to www.dakotacounty.us and search e-news.

Also, all registered voters received a mailing from the county before the statewide primary election that included their precinct and polling place information. That was important because some precincts and polling places changed following the redistricting process last spring.

Just like any other county service, we’re always looking for ways to improve the election process. We know residents not only want the vote count to be accurate, but they want to see results as soon as possible on election night.

Even as we continue to improve our work, Dakota County voters can be confident in the accuracy of our elections.

7,243 randomly selected ballots were hand-counted.

You can be confident in the election results.

2,500 trained election judges.

We’re always looking for ways to improve the election process.

Same-day success

New license service popular with residents

Same-day driver’s licenses at the Lakeville License Center are a hit. Since the state pilot program started on Oct. 3, Dakota County issued 3,155 same-day driver’s licenses, instructional permits and state ID cards in just the first 66 business days — that’s about 48 licenses each day.

3,115 same-day licenses made in 48 days.

Lakeville is one of two locations statewide — Moorhead being the other — to offer this new service. The

Staying healthy

Vaccine clinics are free, convenient

same-day licenses are available until the program ends on June 30. The Minnesota Legislature could extend this service statewide.

The program is for standard licenses only and doesn’t include REAL ID or enhanced IDs.

You don’t have to live in Lakeville to the use the same-day service. Any Minnesota resident can get their license from the location.

Minnesota

Different look, but still a valid ID

Same-day issued cards have a slightly different look and feel than traditional cards. This is partially due to the thickness of the card and the laminate used in the printing process. The same-

day issued cards are less flexible. They also have a different look on the front. The same-day cards have a smaller color image of the person on the ID compared to a smaller black and white photo on the traditional card. Same-day cards also don’t include an image of a person in a canoe or a laser-perforated walleye. For residents under 21 years old, the card’s background image of a shoreline appears vertically, instead of along the bottom.

For information on same-day driver’s licenses, including setting up an appointment at the Lakeville License Center, go to www.dakotacounty.us and search driver’s license.

Three years after the start of the pandemic, normality has returned to many parts of our lives.

As we enjoy those familiar routines, there are simple things we can do to stay healthy. Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines and annual flu shots can reduce the likelihood of serious illness. The county’s public health team makes getting those vaccines convenient by holding free immunization clinics.

In 2022, we provided 334 COVID-19 clinics and administered 5,211 COVID-19 vaccines to the public. Most are held at the county’s Northern Service Center in West St. Paul and the Western Service Center in Apple Valley.

Clinics and vaccine appointments are available year-round for all ages. See upcoming clinics at www.dakotacounty.us, search clinics

5,211 Free COVID-19 vaccines

Events for you

Know what to do this spring and summer.

Monthly Immunization Clinics

Dakota County offers recommended immunizations for eligible children and adults. Visit www.dakotacounty.us, search clinics, or call 952-891-7999 for more information.

Fix-It Clinics

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

• March 19, 1–4 p.m., Wentworth Library, West St. Paul

• April 15, noon–3 p.m., Pleasant Hill Library, Hastings

• May 21, 1–4 p.m., Heritage Library, Lakeville

• June 17, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Wescott Library, Eagan

• July 15, noon–3 p.m., Farmington Library, Farmington

• Aug. 19, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Inver Glen Library, Inver Grove Heights

March

Author Matt Goldman

Matt Goldman, New York Times bestselling author, playwright and Emmy Award-winning television writer for shows, including “Seinfeld” and “Ellen,” will discuss his new book “Carolina Moonset” on Wednesday, March 29 from 6:30–7:30 p.m. at Heritage Library, Lakeville.

March–April

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 21–April 25, 6–8 p.m. Field trips planned. Program graduates volunteer 30 hours to put their skills to work.

(Formerly called the Master Recycler/ Composter program.)

Ukulele Storytime

Sing along with Ms. Rose and her ukulele to explore interactive songs, movement and more. Geared for youth ages 3–5 with caregivers. Siblings welcome.

• Wescott Library

Tuesday, March 28, 6:30–7:15 p.m.

• Galaxie Library

Saturday, April 22, 10:30–11:15 a.m.

March–May

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.

March–October

Landscaping for Clean Water

Learn simple yard landscaping that also improves water quality and provides pollinator habitat during virtual workshops. www.dakotaswcd.org, search landscaping

April

Outdoor Gear Swap

Swap your usable outdoor clothing and equipment for something new to you on Saturday, April 22 from 10 a.m.–noon at Dakota Lodge at Thompson County Park, West St. Paul. Free.

Author Frank Weber

Meet author Frank F. Weber as he discusses his background in forensic work, demonstrates a lie detector test and shares stories of victim survival, including those in his latest true crime mysteries set in Minnesota — “Black and Blue” and “The Haunted House of Hillman” — on Monday, April 10 from 6:30–7:30 p.m. at Wescott Library, Eagan. Book signings planned.

WHEP volunteering

Volunteer with the Wetland Health Evaluation Program to help monitor county wetlands this summer. Registration opens Monday, April 3. www.dakotacounty.us, search WHEP

Lounging with Lizards

Meet exotic lizards from around the world during these hands-on library events. Presented by Snake Discovery. Geared for youth ages 5 and older.

• Inver Glen Library

Saturday, April 22, 10–10:45 a.m.

• Burnhaven Library

Saturday, April 29, 3–4:15 p.m.

OneBook, OneLakeville Main Event

Join author Ruta Sepetys as she discusses her book “I Must Betray You” on Saturday, April 22 from 7:30–9:30 p.m. at Lakeville Area Arts Center. Geared for adults. Free tickets are required. Visit www.lakevillemn.gov, search Ruta Sepetys. Additional events related to the book will be hosted at Heritage Library.

April–May

Plant for pollinators

Learn ways to dedicate a space for nature in your yard and how to choose which species are best suited to your goals. Presented by Dakota County Parks. Geared for adults. Registration required.

• Wentworth Library

Friday, April 21, 1–2:30 p.m.

• Inver Glen Library

Tuesday, May 2, 6–7:30 p.m.

• Heritage Library

Saturday, May 6, 1–2:30 p.m.

May

Plant sale

Buy tomato plants, peppers, native plants, and landscape annual and perennial plants at the Dakota County Master Gardeners Plant Sale Saturday, May 20 from 8 a.m.–noon at the Whitetail Woods Regional Park Empire Shelter.

Tour de Trash

Learn about waste and recycling during a field trip to a compost site, landfill, recycling center and The Recycling Zone on Tuesday, May 2 from 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Open to all Dakota County residents age 16 and older. $10 fee includes busing and lunch.

Bison welcoming event

Celebrate the return of bison to Dakota County prairieland during a welcoming event with opportunities to see the bison and enjoy other park activities in May at Spring Lake Park Reserve. Event details to be released in April at www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search bison

Construction updates

Through June

Randolph Township

Reconstruct County Road 88 from Finch Court east to Dakota County line. Traffic detoured.

Through November

Eureka, Castle Rock, Greenvale & Waterford townships

Reconstruct County Road 86 west of Galaxie Avenue to Highway 3. Replace the existing railroad bridge. Traffic detoured.

Through June 2024

Inver Grove Heights and Eagan

Reconstruct 70th Street (County Road 26) from Highway 55 to Highway 3. Traffic detoured.

April–November

Eagan

Reconstruct County Road 32 from North Hay Lake Road to Dodd Road. Traffic detoured.

Spring–October

Randolph Township

Reconstruct County Road 88 from Cooper Avenue (County Road 94) to Highway 56. Traffic detoured.

May–June 2024

Apple Valley and Rosemount

Construct roundabout at 140th Street and Diamond Path (County Road 33).

Traffic detoured.

West St. Paul

Construct roundabout at Thompson Avenue (County Road 8) and Oakdale Avenue (County Road 73).

Traffic detoured.

Marshan Township

Reconstruct Nicolai Avenue (County Road 91) from 210th Street to Highway 316. Traffic detoured.

August

Dakota County Fair

Visit the Dakota County Government Building exhibit and activities at the Dakota County Fair, Aug. 7–13 in Farmington.

Starry Trek

Search area lakes for starry stonewort, a type of algae that is Minnesota’s newest aquatic invasive species, on Saturday, Aug. 19.

www.dakotacounty.us, search AIS.

September

Native seed collection

Collect seeds from native plants growing in natural area easements. The seeds are given to the volunteers for their own prairie restorations and to the landowner hosting the collection to enhance the existing prairie on their easement.

www.dakotacounty.us, search seed collection.

June–October

West St. Paul

Construct trail along Oakdale Avenue from Wentworth Avenue to Butler Avenue. Traffic impacts.

June–November

Vermillion Township

Reconstruct intersection of County Road 47 and County Road 85. Traffic detoured.

June–December

Lakeville

Reconstruct Dodd Boulevard (County Road 9) and new construction of 179th Street from Hayes Avenue to Cedar Avenue. Traffic detoured.

June–June 2024

Lakeville

Construct County Road 60 from Dodd Boulevard to Highway Drive and add a traffic signal at Cedar Avenue. Traffic detoured.

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

Our Work

Quality control

Working to improve groundwater

Dakota County is working to protect our groundwater with a new program that targets harmful chemicals.

The Agriculture Chemical Reduction Effort (ACRE) Plan uses existing voluntary programs that give farmers tools and incentives to reduce chemicals that seep into the groundwater. The ACRE Plan, the first of its kind in Minnesota, was adopted by the Dakota County Board of Commissioners in October 2022.

The plan emerged from the 20202030 Dakota County Groundwater Plan, which identified a range of groundwater issues in rural and urban areas of the county. Chemicals like nitrates, crop herbicides and chloride were found to be significant, persistent drinking water issues for much of rural Dakota County.

The ACRE Plan focuses on nitrates — chemicals used in fertilizers that can pass through soil and contaminate groundwater. Water with high nitrate levels can be harmful to adults and especially dangerous to infants.

Two main factors contribute to nitrate contamination in the county — geology and farming. Dakota County sits on top of what’s known as karst — a landform that features the rolling hills, hollows, caves, springs and bluffs that makes the area unique in Minnesota. A key feature of karst is its dissolved bedrock, such as limestone, that allows above-ground chemicals to easily reach the groundwater. When paired with extensive farming in Dakota County, the combination makes the area especially susceptible to groundwater contamination.

The ACRE Plan aims to reduce what gets down there.

Farmers can receive cash incentives for implementing water quality practices. They also have access to state water-quality certification and participation in other programs. We

partner with the Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District to assist farmers with learning more about ways to reduce nitrate levels in our groundwater. Learn more by visiting www.dakotaswcd.org, navigating to the Services menu and selecting Land & Water.

We anticipate that increasing farming practices like planting cover crops will reduce nitrate levels over time. Cover crops — plants like rye and winter wheat — slow erosion on farmland that might otherwise get washed away by rain while fields lay bare in between growing seasons. In addition to improving soil health, cover crops’ roots absorb the nitrates before they reach groundwater.

Current implementation of water quality practices is spotty. The ACRE

ACRE aims to increase the use of cover crops that slow erosion and absorb nitrates.

plan aims to increase the use of cover crops from about 5 percent to up to 40 percent in some townships. Meanwhile, just over half of Dakota County’s farmers apply a product with their fertilizers to hold nitrogen in the soils. That would grow to about 75 percent under the plan.

The county is using a network of monitoring wells to study how chemical levels in the water change over time. We expect results will begin to show improvement patterns after about five years.

Dakota County is home to more than 8,000 private wells. The county’s groundwater plan provides free well testing every five years to every private well owner in the county. While nitrates are a focus in rural Dakota County, testing has revealed elevated levels of other contaminants such as manganese in urban areas. More than 1,000 well owners have taken advantage of the testing so far.

To learn more about the ACRE Plan, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search acre plan.

More than 8,000 private wells in Dakota County.

Water with high nitrate levels can be harmful to adults and especially dangerous to infants.

Farmers can receive cash incentives for implementing water quality practices.

Our Work

In the loop Email newsletters keep you informed

Email is the county’s most dependable way to get information out to residents. While social media is helpful, we can’t be sure how many of our followers see our posts. This creates issues when we need to share important information about county services.

By comparison, the county can better track the success of email campaigns. We can see how many people have

received, opened and clicked on our e-news. Industry standards estimate that 19.4 percent of government emails are opened. The county’s email lists for libraries, parks, environmental resources and public health all exceeded a 47.7 percent open rate for their emails in December 2022.

In addition, our subscriber numbers are growing. In two years, the list for the

E-news subscriber increase

NO RUSH ON REAL ID License

The federal government has extended the deadline to get a REAL ID, enhanced driver’s license or other acceptable form of ID to fly within the U.S. or enter some federal facilities.

Citing the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Homeland Security pushed the deadline back to May 7, 2025. This

Library News for Adults has increased from 3,309 to 5,021 — a 51.7 percent increase. News regarding the COVID-19 vaccine caused our Public Health News for residents to go from 874 subscribers to 3,012 — a more than 244 percent jump.

To subscribe to an e-news service, go to www.dakotacounty.us and search e-news.

deadline extended to 2025

is the third time the deadline has been moved due to the pandemic as many states are still dealing with significant licensing backlogs.

As of Jan. 9, 2023, Minnesota has about 1.6 million total REAL ID, enhanced driver’s licenses or compliant ID holders out of 4.65 million. That’s a 35-percent statewide adoption rate for federally compliant credentials.

Dakota County license centers have processed a total of 51,694 applications as of Jan. 9. 2023.

REAL ID and enhanced ID applications are accepted at the Administration Center in Hastings and the Burnsville and Lakeville license centers. For more information, go to www.dakotacounty.us and search driver’s license.

DAKOTA COUNTY E-NEWS SERVICE EXCEEDS A 47.7% OPEN RATE

Community

Dakota County Library is an important resource for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Using your library card, taking free classes, accessing online tools, reserving meeting space and more — all designed to help strengthen your business practices.

Help from business leaders, industry experts

Register for free classes about operations, business planning, finance and marketing. Classes are led by industry experts and community organizations such as Open to Business, South Metro SCORE and Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). Classes are offered in-person or online.

South Metro SCORE volunteers provide mentorship and workshops about the basics of starting a small business, how to create a website and more. Workshops are offered spring 2023. Connect one-to-one over the phone, email or video.

Sign up for classes led by Open to Business, a nonprofit that helps small business owners with marketing planning, tax and accounting training, and how to access financing options.

Work with experts

The library partners with The Loft Literary Center, a group of writing experts who offer classes to help sharpen communication skills like how to use social media to promote your business, copywriting tips and techniques to write a newsletter or blog.

Log into LinkedIn Learning using your library card to access thousands of on-demand instructional videos that cover the latest topics in

business, technology and creative skills. All videos are led by professionals. In 2021, more than 1,200 library customers accessed LinkedIn Learning.

Free resources

Library customers can use meeting rooms to work, host meetings and training sessions, and more. Meeting rooms can accommodate up to 104 people and are equipped with tables and chairs, whiteboards, Wi-Fi, projectors, and audio and video equipment. Equipment varies by library location and room size. Reserve meeting rooms at www.dakotacounty.us/library, search meeting room

Use iLAB makerspace equipment such as computers that have Adobe Creative Suite software or the book binder for presentation materials. Other equipment available includes a laminator, sewing machines, 3D printers and scanners, paper cutters, button makers and more. All equipment is free to use and can be reserved online.

We expanded our business-related materials to include more than 20,000 book and e-books you can check out to help you with your small business and career goals.

540 — Customers who attended small business workshops in 2021

50 — Library workshops that supported more than 200 job seekers and small business leaders

It all adds up

In 2021, Dakota County Library provided a $1.4 million value of business-related services to residents. This was calculated using the Urban Libraries Council Business Value Calculator, which estimates the dollar value of resources and services, including events and classes, research tools, computers and equipment, and meeting space.

For more information about the business and career resources, visit www.dakotacounty.us/library, search small business services.

A value for businesses

Value of business and career services available at Dakota County Library:

$1.3 million ......................... 

Research services

Access to services such as LinkedIn Learning, online business resources, research tools and more.

$63,600.................................. 

Technology & equipment

Onsite computers, Wi-Fi access, Chromebooks and hotspots, printing, scanning and faxing, iLAB makerspace equipment and more.

$6,150 ...................................... 

Physical space

Meeting and conference rooms to work or host meetings.

$78,190 ................................... 

Training and education

Small business workshops, job search tools and one-to-one counseling from industry experts.

A HEALTHY START

WIC program helping more families

We all want kids to get a healthy start in life. One of the ways Dakota County supports that is through the WIC program, which serves income eligible individuals who are pregnant or recently had a baby and infants and children up to age 5.

The number of Dakota County families receiving WIC benefits has grown over a five-year period. It also increased from about 5,100 individuals in October 2021 to 5,700 individuals in October 2022 — an increase of 12 percent in a year.

WIC helps families in three main ways. They receive nutrition counseling and guidance that can help prevent chronic diseases and improve health. WIC nutritionists talk with WIC families at least every three months about their health and nutrition and find ways to help reach their goals.

The program also provides benefits to purchase specific foods with important nutrients. Families receive a WIC card to buy dairy, cereal, whole grains, eggs, peanut butter, beans and juice. Families also can purchase fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables with their WIC card.

WIC also supports families by offering referrals to other health or community resources to address any additional needs the family may have, such as medical care, food, housing and early childhood programs.

WIC staff meet with participants in person or by phone to provide nutrition information, referrals and food benefits. New participants start with an in-person appointment. WIC staff check each participant’s height, weight and hemoglobin to ensure healthy growth and development. The families also learn about WIC and what resources are available to them. Follow-up appointments can be done over the phone — that gives families more flexibility.

Last year, the county started a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program that offers additional lactation support to WIC families. The peers are parents with personal breastfeeding experience who can share valuable advice to WIC participants. The peers are trained to help families reach their infant feeding goals.

Five breastfeeding peer counselors work part-time to serve more than 225 Dakota County WIC families. They represent different cultural backgrounds and speak multiple languages, including Spanish and Somali, to better serve all residents receiving the service.

The WIC program is supported primarily with federal funding and some county property tax dollars. We’re committed to helping families through pregnancy and beyond by making sure they have the food and nutrition information they need to be healthy.

To learn more, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search WIC

Check out this convenience Farmington Library offers extended open hours

Customers can now use the Farmington Library when it works best for their schedule.

Beginning January 2023, the Farmington Library is offering self-service hours where customers 18 years and older can register to access library resources during normally closed hours.

With the addition of self-service hours, the Farmington location is now available 6 a.m.–11 p.m., seven days a week, including holidays. Before the self-service hours, it was open limited weekday hours and closed on Sunday.

How to register

1. Register online to use the library during self-service hours.

2. Watch the training video.

3. Staff will contact you when your access card is ready for pick-up.

During the extended hours, registered customers and their guests enter through the main doors using their access card to use computers and meeting rooms and to check out materials such as books, movies and more.

Security cameras have been installed throughout the library to monitor activity. Customers must follow library policies and are responsible for their guests.

For more information, visit www.dakotacounty.us/library, search extended hours.

Dakota County Parks remain a destination for people looking to pitch tents, park RVs and cozy up in camper cabins.

Camping is available at three regional parks: Lebanon Hills, Whitetail Woods and Lake Byllesby. Each park features unique offerings, recent upgrades and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Considered the county’s flagship park, Lebanon Hills offers campers a nearly 2,000-acre outdoor oasis in the middle of the Twin Cities metro. Visitors have access to top-flight mountain bike trails, a series of lakes to be paddled, a popular beach, paved walking paths and miles of hiking trails — to name just a few activities available.

Lebanon Hills offers RV and tent camping. There are 58 sites with full RV hook-ups (water, sewer and 50-amp electricity). Additional 30-amp electric and nonelectric sites are available for tent or RV camping.

RV campers will find brand-new paved pads at the full hook-up sites. The upgraded surface replaced gravel pads in 2022.

Amenities include on-site caretakers, a camp store, laundry, picnic tables, fire rings, accessible restrooms with showers, a dump station and six accessible campsites.

Lake Byllesby Regional Park

A half-hour’s drive from almost anywhere in Dakota County, Lake Byllesby represents a true escape from the city.

Here, water is the star of the show. Lake Byllesby — a human-made reservoir formed by the damming of the Cannon River — draws boaters, anglers, paddlers and swimmers who can access a popular park beach. A separate park operated by neighboring Goodhue County can be seen across the reservoir.

Getting on the water is easy at Lake Byllesby Regional Park, which offers separate launches for motorized and nonmotorized boats. Scenic bluffs, birding and spectacular sunsets are just some of the offerings.

Up for more water fun? The park also features a splash pad that’s open midMay through September. Families will also enjoy a nature play area next to the splash pad.

Sand volleyball, horseshoe pits, a fishing pier and a connection to the Cannon Valley Trail round out the offerings at Lake Byllesby. Outside the park, visitors can explore the surrounding Cannon River Valley, including attractions in Cannon Falls, Welch and Red Wing.

Campground upgrades in 2020 brought paved sites to all 83 camping spots at Lake Byllesby, many with lakeside views. Camping amenities include on-site caretakers, a camp store, picnic tables, fire rings, accessible restrooms and firewood for purchase.

Campers looking for quieter grounds and the opportunity to camp closer to friends and family may wish to consider midweek camping. Weekend camping reservations fill quickly.

Whitetail Woods Regional Park

Visitors in search of a unique camping experience seek out this park — the newest in the Dakota County Parks system.

Whitetail Woods, located in the geographic center of Dakota County, opened in 2014 and is the only

See the bison

park in the system to offer year-round camping. Pick from five camper cabins — three elevated cabins situated in a pine forest and two modern-design cabins located on the edge of a prairie. All cabins sleep six and include full- or queen-sized bunkbeds, a sleeper sofa, a table with four chairs, comfortable deck chairs, a ceiling fan, a picnic table and a fire ring. The cabins have electricity, heat and nearby accessible restrooms with showers.

Visitors flock to Whitetail Woods for great hiking, snowshoeing and crosscountry skiing. Families will enjoy Fawn Crossing Nature Play Area, located near the park’s amphitheater and a shelter.

The cabins are immensely popular, so book early. Reservations open 120 days in advance at 7 a.m. Looking to get lucky? Watch for cancellations in the one- to two-week time frame. Visit www.dakotacounty/parks, search camping for more information.

Book it

Campground usage remains strong

Campers like what Dakota County Parks has to offer — and the numbers back it up.

Campground reservations have held strong at Lebanon Hills Regional Park since 2018 and grown significantly during the same period at Lake Byllesby Regional Park. Whitetail Woods Regional Park camper cabins are always popular.

Here’s a snapshot of 2022 campground and camper cabin use:

Lake Byllesby campers: 8,993

Occupancy rate: 41% weeknights

96% weekends

Lebanon Hills campers: 11,330

Occupancy rate: 69% weeknights

97% weekends

Whitetail Woods camper cabins (2021–2022): 4,094

Occupancy rate: 98% weeknights and weekends

After a bit of winter solitude, the Spring Lake Park Reserve bison will be more visible — with opportunities to welcome and learn about the Bison Prairie — this spring.

The animals spent their first several months in a secluded area of Spring Lake Park Reserve Bison Prairie as they adjusted to their new surroundings following their reintroduction to the park in fall 2022.

Now acclimated, the eight bison will be roaming different areas of the park where they’ll be more visible to the public.

That will include a Bison Welcome Week in May. Look for updates in early April on the Parks’ bison webpage and our social media channels. Follow our Parks Facebook page and subscribe to our e-news for regular updates.

The Dakota County bison join Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo, Minneopa State Park, Blue Mounds State Park and Minnesota Zoological Garden and as members of the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd — an effort to establish a healthy, stable herd of 500 genetically diverse bison.

for more

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

www.dakotacounty.us/parks,

click Programs & Events

Program registration for spring/summer opens March 1.

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

Bison

Learn how these huge animals live on the prairie and create a bison hoofprint to take home.

Activity Number: 112001-01

• Thu, April 6, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-02

• Sat, April 15, 10–11:30 a.m.

Spring Trees

Trees are waking up from their long winter sleep. Take a walk through the woods to explore how trees get ready for summer.

Activity Number: 112001-03

• Thu, May 4, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-04

• Sat, May 6, 10–11:30 a.m.

Who Lives in the Water?

The lake is home to animals big and small. Explore the lake to learn what calls this place home.

Activity Number: 112001-05

• Thu, June 8, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-06

• Sat, June 10, 10–11:30 a.m.

Helpful Insects

Learn how dragonflies, bees and other pollinator insects help us. Use a sweep net to catch insects and view them up close.

Activity Number: 112001-07

• Thu, July 13, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-08

• Sat, July 15, 10–11:30 a.m.

Prairie Flowers

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

Activity Number: 112001-09

• Thu, Aug. 10, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-10

• Sat, Aug. 12, 10–11:30 a.m.

Fall Migration

Not every animal wants to live in Minnesota during the wintertime. Explore which animals stay and which move to warmer places.

Activity Number: 112001-11

• Thu, Sept. 7, 10–11:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 112001-12

• Sat, Sept. 9, 10–11:30 a.m.

HOMESCHOOL LAB

Use the park as your lab for hands-on study, scientific inquiry and experimentation.

Age: 6–12

Fee: $8/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Clouds and Weather

Use a combination of environmental signs and meteorological observations to make a weather forecast.

Activity Number: 111501-01

• Wed, April 5, 9–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111501-02

• Wed, April 5, 1–3 p.m.

Activity Number: 111501-03

• Thu, April 6, 1–3 p.m.

Nesting Birds

Look high and low to spot a variety of bird nests and learn about each species and how they create their nests.

Activity Number: 111501-04

• Wed, May 3, 9–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111501-05

• Wed, May 3, 1–3 p.m.

Activity Number: 111501-06

• Thu, May 4, 1–3 p.m.

Fish On!

Learn fish anatomy and common Minnesota species and see what we catch.

Activity Number: 111501-07

• Wed, June 7, 9–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111501-08

• Wed, June 7, 1–3 p.m.

Activity Number: 111501-09

• Thu, June 8, 1–3 p.m.

Bison on the Prairie

Explore how the bison and the prairie ecosystem are connected.

Camp Spring Lake Retreat Center

Spring Lake Park Reserve

Activity Number: 111501-10

• Wed, Sept. 13, 9–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111501-11

• Wed, Sept. 13, 1–3 p.m.

Activity Number: 111501-12

• Thu, Sept. 14, 1–3 p.m.

FAMILY

FOREVER WILD FAMILY FRIDAY

Join us for family fun on the first Friday of every month with outdoor park activities, a bonfire and s’mores.

All ages

Free

Animal Crafts

Join us for a series of animal inspired crafts to make and take home.

Dakota Lodge

Thompson County Park

Activity Number: 111001-01

• Fri, April 7, 6–7:30 p.m.

Reptiles and Amphibians

Learn about snakes, turtles and toads with a live presentation from Dodge Nature Center.

Dakota Lodge

Thompson County Park Activity Number: 111001-02

• Fri, May 5, 6–7:30 p.m.

Nature Play

Explore Fawn Crossing nature play space through guided activities and free-form play.

Fawn Crossing

Whitetail Woods Regional Park Activity Number: 111001-03

• Fri, June 2, 6–7:30 p.m.

Campfire Stories

Listen to campfire stories and join call and response songs.

Lake Byllesby Beach

Lake Byllesby Regional Park Activity Number: 111001-04

• Fri, July 7, 6–7:30 p.m.

Fun and Games

Join us for lawn games in the park.

Empire Lake Shelter

Whitetail Woods Regional Park Activity Number: 111001-05

• Fri, Aug. 4, 6–7:30 p.m.

Owl Fun

Learn all about owls by making an owl mask, dissecting an owl pellet and taking a self-guided owl walk. Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 111001-06

• Fri, Sept. 1, 6–7:30 p.m.

STARWATCH

See the stars and hear meteorologist Mike Lynch share stories about constellations and their legends.

Age: 5 and older

Fee: $10/person

Empire Lake Shelter Whitetail Woods Regional Park Activity Number: 111704-01

• Thu, April 20, 8:15–10:15 p.m.

FAMILY HIKE

Learn about the seasons and what’s happening outdoors during a naturalist-led walk in the park.

All ages

Free

Thompson County Park Trailhead

Thompson County Park Activity Number: 111403-04

• Sun, April 30, 10–11 a.m.

Activity Number: 111403-05

• Sun, July 23, 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 26–29, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

McDonough Lake Loop

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110902-02

• Fri–Mon, Sept. 1–4, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

WOODCOCK WALK

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

Age: 8 and older

Fee: $5/person

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111702-01

• Thu, April 6, 7:30–9 p.m.

PARENT/CHILD CANOE

Spend time with a child learning canoeing basics 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, June 5, 6:30–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 111902-02

• Mon, July 24, 6:30–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 111902-03

• Sun, July 30, 9–10:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 111902-04

• Mon, Aug. 7, 6:30–8 p.m.

PARENT/CHILD KAYAK

Spend time with a child learning kayaking basics 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

• Tue, June 6, 6:30–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 111901-02

• Tue, July 25, 6:30–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 111901-03

• Sun, Aug. 6, 9–10:30 a.m.

Activity Number: 111901-04

• Tue, Aug. 8, 6:30–8 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

• Fridays, June 23–Aug. 4, 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

• Sun, May 7, 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: $12/person

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 111302-01

• Sun, May 14, 11 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 111302-02

• Sun, May 14, 1–2 p.m.

BISON BIKE

Join a naturalist on a gentle, guided 10-mile bike ride through Spring Lake Park Reserve on the Mississippi River Greenway. Stop along the trail to learn about the bison. Participants must bring their own bike and helmet.

Age: 10 and older

Fee: $5/person

Archery Shelter

Lower Spring Lake Park Reserve

Activity Number: 110303-01

• Sun, June 11, 1–4 p.m.

Activity Number: 110303-02

• Wed, July 26, 9 a.m.–noon

BUILD A KITE

Join David Herzig, member of Minnesota Kite Society, to build a kite where you select the pattern and color.

Age: 8 and older

Fee: $8/child

Empire Lake Shelter

Whitetail Woods Regional Park

Activity Number: 110201-06

• Sat, Aug. 19, 4–5:30 p.m.

BOTANICAL SUN PRINTS

Capture the beauty of plants with the creative art of cyanotypes or sun prints. Go on a nature hike to gather materials and then let the sunshine help create your own unique artwork. Workshop led by an Eagan Art House teaching artist.

Age: 5 and older

Fee: $8/person

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110201-04

• Sat, April 29, 2–4 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

• Sun, Sept. 10, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110101-02

• Sun, Sept. 10, 1–4 p.m.

NATURE’S PAINT PALETTE

Discover pigments found in nature and explore how to make your own eco-friendly paint and tools. Workshop led by an Eagan Art House teaching artist.

Age: 5 and older

Fee: $8/person

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110201-05

• Wed, Sept. 13, 6–8 p.m.

ADULT

NATURE JOURNALING SERIES

Use creative prompts and nature walks each week to practice observational drawing to capture nature in your journal.

Age: 16 and older

Fee: $20/person

Camp Sacajawea

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110201-01

• Tuesdays, April 11, 18 and 25, 6–8 p.m.

NEEDLE FELTED LANDSCAPE

Learn to paint with wool, silk and more using a tactile form of needle felting to create a felted landscape.

Age: 16 and older

Fee: $15/person

Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110201-02

• Wed, April 19, 6–8 p.m.

MILKWEED PAPERMAKING

Learn how to create paper using natural fibers and native prairie seeds.

Age: 16 and older

Fee: $15/person

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110201-03

• Wed, Sept. 20, 6–7:30 p.m.

OUTDOOR GEAR SWAP

Drop off unused and gently used outdoor gear or pick up new-to-you gear.

All ages

Free

Dakota Lodge

Thompson County Park Activity Number: 212401-01

• Fri, April 21, 1–4 p.m.

INTRO TO FLY FISHING FOR WOMEN

Join us for a hands-on introduction to the sport of 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 29, 10 a.m.–noon

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

Dakota Lodge

Thompson County Park

Activity Number: 111102-02

• Thu, May 11, 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

• Sun, May 7, 10:30 a.m.–noon

Trout Brook Shelter

Miesville Ravine Park Reserve Activity Number: 111403-02

• Sun, May 7, 1–2:30 p.m.

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 Sacajawea Retreat Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 111406-01

• Tue, May 23, 1:30–4 p.m.

Activity Number: 111406-02

• Sun, June 11, 6:30–9 p.m.

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

BIRDING ON THE MISSISSIPPI

Bird with a naturalist along the Mississippi River Greenway and explore the 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 2, 7:30–9:30 a.m.

Lock and Dam No. 2 Trailhead

Mississippi River Greenway Activity Number: 111701-02

• Tue, May 9, 7:30–9:30 a.m.

Pine Bend Bluffs Trailhead

Mississippi River Greenway Activity Number: 111701-03

• Tue, May 16, 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

• Fri, April 28, 8:30–10 a.m.

Thompson County Park Trailhead

Thompson County Park Activity Number: 111705-02

• Tue, May 2, 6–7:30 p.m.

Jensen Lake Trailhead

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 111705-03

• Fri, May 12, 8:30–10 a.m.

BIKE THE TRAIL

Enjoy a gentle, guided bike ride between the Big Rivers and Lilydale trailheads. Participants must bring their own bike and helmet.

Age: 16 and older

Fee: $5/person

Big Rivers Trailhead

Big Rivers Regional Trail Activity Number: 110302-01

• Thu, June 1, 9 a.m.–noon

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: $65/person

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110301-01

• Wednesdays, May 17, 24 and 31, 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: $65/person

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110301-02

• Wednesdays, May 17, 24 and 31, 6–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 110301-03

• Wednesdays, July 26, Aug. 2 and 9, 6–8 p.m.

FISH CAMP

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

Age: 8–12

Fee: $125/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110401-01

• Wed–Fri, June 21–23, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Age: 10–14

Fee: $125/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110401-02

• Wed–Fri, June 28–30, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

OUT(DOOR) ADVENTURES

From outdoor recreation and survival skills to journaling and crafts, experience camp favorites in a program for LGBTQ+ campers and allies.

Age: 12–15

Fee: $125/youth

Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110419-01

• Wed–Fri, June 21–23, 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

CAMPS

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 14, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110406-02

• Tue, June 20, 5–8 p.m.

Activity Number: 110406-03

• Wed, July 19, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110406-04

• Wed, Aug. 23, 9 a.m.–noon

SMALL FRY FISH CAMP

Join us for a day camp designed for the youngest anglers. Learn the basics of fishing, how to cast, 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 16, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Fee: $125/youth

Archery Shelter

Lower Spring Lake Park Reserve Activity Number: 110402-01

• Mon–Fri, June 26-30, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110402-03

• Mon–Fri, July 17–21, 9 a.m.–noon

Age: 10–14

Fee: $125/youth

Archery Shelter

Lower Spring Lake Park Reserve Activity Number: 110402-02

• Mon–Fri, June 26–30, 1–4 p.m.

Activity Number: 110402-04

• Mon-Fri, July 17-21, 1–4 p.m.

BACKYARD BIOLOGIST

Use the park for fun science experiments, from backyard bugs to playground physics.

Age: 6–8

Fee: $125/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110418-01

• Wed–Fri, July 5–7, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

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: $135/youth

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110403-01

• Mon–Thu, July 10–13, 9 a.m.–noon

Activity Number: 110403-03

• Mon–Thu, July 31–Aug. 3, 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: $135/youth

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110403-02

• Mon–Thu, July 10–13, 9 a.m.–noon

WILDERNESS SURVIVAL CAMP

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

Age: 8–12

Fee: $175/youth

Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110404-01

• Mon–Fri, July 10–14, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

JUNIOR NATURALISTS CAMP

Get a feel for science by working with park naturalists and ecologists to track and study plant and animal populations.

Age: 10–14

Fee: $175/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110417-01

• Mon–Fri, July 17–21, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

MYTHICAL CREATURES CAMP

Investigate the truth behind Minnesota’s creature myths and create some of your own.

Age: 7–9

Fee: $125/youth

Dakota Lodge

Thompson County Park Activity Number: 110411-01

• Wed–Fri, Aug. 9–11, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

BOOKS IN THE WOODS CAMP

Read a different book each day and use the story to explore the park in this camp for our littlest nature explores.

Age: 4–6

Fee: $125/youth

Visitor Center

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Activity Number: 110412-01

• Mon–Fri, Aug. 14–18, 9 a.m.–noon

ADVANCED MOUNTAIN

BIKE CAMP

Take your riding to the next level by diving deeper into bike skills and body separation 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: $135/youth

Mountain Bike Shelter

Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 110403-04

• Mon–Thu, Aug. 7–10, 9 a.m.–noon

EVENTS

BISON WELCOME COMMUNITY CELEBRATION

Welcome the return of the bison to Bison Prairie.

All ages

Free

Camp Spring Lake Retreat Center Spring Lake Park Reserve

Event details to be released in April at www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search bison

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.

All ages

Free

North Picnic Shelter

Thompson County Park Activity Number: 110801-01

• Sun, June 11, Noon–3 p.m.

Summer Solstice

A

SUMMER SOLSTICE PARTY

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

All ages Free

Dakota Lodge

Thompson County Park Activity Number: 110803-01

• Wed, June 21, 6–9:03 p.m. (sunset)

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. www.dakotacounty.us/ parks, search equipment rental.

MUSIC IN THE PARK

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

All ages Free

Amphitheater

Whitetail Woods Regional Park

Activity Number: 112601-01

• Tue, June 27, 5–7 p.m.

Activity Number: 112601-02

• Tue, July 25, 5–7 p.m.

Activity Number: 112601-03

• Tue, Aug. 29, 5–7 p.m.

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

Making recycling easy for everyone

Dakota County offers recycling resources for apartments, condos and townhomes

Go Green

Nearly one-third of Dakota County housing units are apartments, townhomes, condominiums or independent senior living facilities. On-site recycling is an amenity appreciated by the residents, but most multifamily housing locations don’t have enough recycling containers and need help with recycling programs.

That’s why we offer the Multifamily Recycling Program as most property owners and managers are now required to provide their tenants with the opportunity to recycle.

How we help

Dakota County makes it easy by offering property owners and managers free resources to help with recycling improvements. Resources are available on a first-come, first-served basis:

• Get recycling and trash container labels, chute signs, posters and flyers.

• Meet with Dakota County recycling experts to design a new recycling program, improve an existing one or start waste prevention efforts.

• Schedule on-site or virtual trainings for both employees and residents

to learn about recycling do’s and don’ts and to answer questions.

• Apply for funds to pay for recycling containers for common areas such as lobbies and community rooms.

Making a difference

Since 2019, more than 16,000 people in about 11,500 households have been served by the Multifamily Recycling Program.

“We are very happy that Dakota County provided my building with recycling containers to promote clean, efficient living at our community.”

Most properties that participate in the program see an increase in recycling, improve the quality of the recycling collected and create resident engagement.

STEPPING UP TO PICK UP

Adopt-a-Highway volunteers keep our roadsides clean

The spring thaw after a long winter is a welcome relief for many of us, but the downside to those warmer days is the sight of roadside garbage left behind after the snowmelt.

Dakota County volunteers in the Adopt-a-Highway program help keep

local roadways clean and free of unsightly debris. Highway cleanups also help prevent garbage and harmful pollutants from entering our waterways and natural areas.

Our Adopt-a-Highway program includes more than 180 groups that clean up hundreds of miles of county roadsides each year. Groups can maintain their roadside for as long

For example, at Lakeville Pointe Apartments, trash was getting tossed in the recycling, causing penalty fees from the recycling hauler. The property owner contacted Dakota County and added more recycling containers, hung posters in common areas, added standardized signs and labels, and provided training to the residents. As a result, recycling increased 25 percent and fees were eliminated — a savings of $960 per year.

If your building or townhome needs help with recycling, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search multifamily recycling.

Program results

from 2018-2021

109 properties received recycling education for staff and residents.

68 housing complexes received a total of $132,775 for recycling containers.

Recycling has increased by an average of 160 pounds per household per year for a total of 1.8 million pounds.

Resident at The Rowan Apartments in Eagan

Helping rural residents get rid of stuff the right way

Dakota County will host another Rural Cleanup Day summer 2023 — more information will be provided closer to the event.

Use the online Recycling Guide at www.dakotacounty.us, search recycling guide to know the best way to get rid of your stuff.

2022 Rural Cleanup Day

124 participating households

22,880 total pounds collected

Dakota County offers rural residents an opportunity to drop off nontraditional recyclables such as mattresses, tires and more during the annual Rural Cleanup Day. The most recent event was held at the county’s Empire Maintenance Facility in Rosemount.

Residents who live in the county’s 13 townships and the cities of Coates, Hampton, Miesville, New Trier, Randolph and Vermillion can participate. This event gives rural residents who can’t take part in city-hosted cleanup days a way to get rid of large items.

In 2022, mattresses and box springs, confidential documents for shredding, cardboard and tires were accepted. A $25 fee was collected for each mattress or box spring — each household received a postcard with a $10 coupon to help offset the cost.

462 tires — 10,160 pounds

1,400 pounds of confidential documents for shredding

212 pounds of cardboard

as they want. The county supplies every group with materials needed to host a safe and efficient cleanup event. In 2022, our teams filled more than 950 bags of garbage.

Most roads in the urban and suburban parts of Dakota County are currently adopted, but there are some roads in the rural areas still available for adoption. While they don’t experience traffic and congestion, these roadways are still important to keep clean since

Items were sent to local recycling facilities, and gently used mattresses and box springs were donated to Bridging, a nonprofit that supports people in need.

many of them are in environmentally important areas, including the Cannon River and Vermillion River watersheds. Adding more volunteer teams to the Adopt-a-Highway program will help us clear more roadside areas of trash.

Visit www.dakotacounty.us and search adopt a highway to see what sections of road are available near you.

Every piece of trash collected helps keep our outdoor spaces clean.

106 mattresses and box springs — 11,120 pounds

ADOPT A

In 2022, our teams filled more than 950 bags of garbage.

GOOD BETTER

Smart switches

We're making the right changes to conserve energy, go renewable and save you money.

It can be small steps — replacing less-efficient light bulbs or outdated boilers. Sometimes it’s bigger steps — designing a new building with high-efficiency equipment or using solar panels to generate electricity.

All of those improvements are part of our goal to make energy-efficiency investments where and when it makes sense. The Dakota County Board of Commissioners adopted a strategy in 2022 that supports energy conservation measures to cut energy costs, reduce fossil fuel use and curb greenhouse gas emissions. There are different goals for upgrades funded with county tax dollars and other funding sources.

County facilities consume electricity and natural gas totaling $2 million in annual expense to county taxpayers. Energy upgrades to existing buildings as well as high-efficiency design features in new buildings help the county’s bottom line.

County government’s electricity usage, per square foot, has decreased steadily over the past 12 years. There is a 17-percent overall reduction in energy use since 2011.

Energy-saving upgrades

County buildings — service and license centers, library locations and more — vary in age, so they have different systems based on what equipment was available during construction. When systems such as lighting and boilers need to be replaced, we upgrade to more efficient options. For example, LED lights and timers take the place of fluorescent bulbs, and old boilers are swapped out for energysaving models.

A building renovation is an opportunity to improve energy efficiency. Two library projects have shown how effective that can be at reducing energy costs.

In 2019, we remodeled Heritage Library in Lakeville and Pleasant Hill Library in Hastings. At Heritage Library, we installed LED lighting throughout the space and new windows in the children’s area. Those improvements cut Heritage’s electricity use per square foot by 36 percent.

We’ve seen big savings at Pleasant Hill, too. That building’s square footage increased by 8 percent in the renovation, which

Just as we look for ways to save energy and cut utility costs at home, Dakota County takes smart steps to reduce our energy use and lower the bill for taxpayers.

included more energy-efficient windows throughout the building, two new boilers and LED lighting. Making those changes reduced the building’s energy use per square foot by 25–30 percent. Electricity use dropped 22 percent and gas fell by 29 percent.

We are planning more building upgrades to improve energy efficiency in 2023. The county has committed to spending $1 million on improvements such as lighting retrofits, boiler replacements or solar panel installations. The county board will select those projects later this year.

Lower costs by design

New building construction allows us to consider newer technology, energy-saving equipment and modern features. While they can cost more up front, there is less expense to taxpayers over the long run with a more efficient system.

Energy-saving features that are standard in new county buildings include extra insulation, higherquality windows, LED lighting and high-efficiency boilers and chillers.

Those features are part of the county’s new South St. Paul Library, scheduled to open in

early 2024. Like other Dakota County Library system buildings, the 16,000-square-foot South St. Paul Library will be roughly 30 percent more efficient than standard libraries across the Upper Midwest. We know that because we can compare our energy estimates to the reported energy use of other buildings.

Beginning in 2022, when the county receives state funding for building projects, we need to meet certain energy efficiency requirements that are even higher than the county’s standards. We use that state funding — rather than Dakota County tax dollars — to pay for equipment needed to meet state sustainability goals. Our taxpayers benefit when the county’s future energy costs are less.

The first county building that will meet new state energy standards is the Crisis and Recovery Center, a 15,000-square-foot facility located near the Northern Service Center in West St. Paul. That short-term residential treatment center will offer beds for adults who are experiencing a mental health crisis.

The crisis center will feature on-site energy generation supplying a portion of the building’s energy. Solar panels will produce electricity.

South St. Paul Library will be roughly 30 percent more efficient than other libraries.

SMART SWITCHES

A geothermal system will convert heat from the ground into energy for the building. On-site energy production estimates will be determined as design and construction continue this year. The crisis center is planned to open in 2024.

“Net zero” is an emerging energy goal in construction. It can mean the energy used by a building is completely offset by energy produced on site, such as with solar panels or geothermal heat pumps. Dakota County has studied whether its new buildings can be built to this net-zero standard, but the county has determined this is not yet cost-effective to taxpayers. It takes too long to recover the higher cost for equipment.

Power-saving partners

The county has found other ways to cut energy costs.

We partnered with utility provider Dakota Electric on a program to reduce costs at Western Service Center (WSC) in Apple Valley and Wescott Library in Eagan. Those buildings have generators that supply backup electricity. When energy use is in high demand, such as on hot summer days, we get our energy from the building generators instead of from Dakota Electric.

This “off-peak” program cut our energy cost per square foot by 30 percent at WSC and a similar reduction at Wescott. The county saves $23,000 per year on electricity at Wescott alone.

At WSC, we installed LED lighting and a new generator in 2014. As a result of those improvements and the off-peak program with Dakota Electric, we cut electricity costs by 40 percent — a $77,000 savings per year to taxpayers.

We work with utility providers on other projects that save taxpayer dollars and allow the county to operate on renewable energy. For example, solar panels at our Empire Maintenance Facility have produced about 12 percent of the energy used at that site. We are upgrading the solar panel system to one that will generate an estimated 66 percent of the facility’s electricity needs.

This solar upgrade comes at no direct cost to county taxpayers. We pay a renewable energy company to install and maintain the solar panels. In return, the county receives credits from Xcel Energy for using renewable energy, and the credits exceed the cost of the solar maintenance. We expect to save $20,000 to $40,000 in electricity costs at Empire annually over 20 years.

We expect to save $20–40K in electricity costs at Empire annually over 20 years.

Fueling an efficient fleet

Buildings and facilities aren’t the county’s only sources of energy use. We maintain a fleet of more than 260 vehicles and nearly 500 pieces of equipment, including trailers, snowblowers and lawn mowers. The vehicles are used by many departments, and we’re always working to improve their sustainability. That’s done through proper maintenance, well-timed purchases and reduced fuel use. This is good for the environment and for taxpayers.

Getting the right vehicle for the job is important. Since all department vehicles were consolidated into one fleet department about 15 years ago, we have worked to match the appropriate — and often smaller — vehicle for the work needed. That includes replacing larger pickup trucks with smaller trucks or swapping out an SUV for a sedan. We’re also using less fuel because we gradually replace our gasoline vehicles with hybrid cars, SUVs and trucks that rely primarily on battery power but also use some gas.

Nearly all the Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicles are hybrid as are two-thirds of the county’s sedan fleet. We don’t upgrade vehicles just because there is a more efficient option. Seven factors are used to determine when vehicles are replaced.

All our hybrid vehicle purchases have been costeffective. They generally cost about $5,000 more to purchase, but we recover that in under 50,000 miles through less fuel use.

Over the past 17 years, we’ve improved our fleet’s fuel efficiency by 32 percent. That’s a big savings when you consider that county vehicles logged a total of nearly 2.6 million miles in 2021. We also estimate that these sustainability efforts have reduced the county fleet’s greenhouse gas emissions by 29 percent.

Charging our vehicles means less charge to you

In 2023, the county is purchasing its first allbattery vehicles in a pilot project to study how well they work for certain uses, such as parks, library and facility staff. We’ll track costs to help us decide whether it is more cost-effective per mile to use e-vehicles for certain county work.

The county charges its hybrid vehicles at stations located at some of our buildings and facilities. The public also has had access to the charging stations at Lebanon Hills and Whitetail Woods regional parks, Thompson County Park, Spring Lake Park Reserve, Pleasant Hill and Heritage library locations, and Empire Maintenance Facility.

Sustainability efforts have reduced the county fleet’s greenhouse gas emissions by 29 percent.

In 2023, we will add charging stations at Empire as well as the Administration Center in Hastings and the Northern and Western service centers. There will be a small fee to charge privately owned vehicles at the county’s charging stations. This helps offset the cost of offering this service to the public.

Our work to improve vehicle efficiency hasn’t gone unnoticed. Dakota County’s fleet department has been recognized many times by government and industry organizations. In 2022, it was named

the top fleet operation in the United States by Government Fleet, a leading trade publication, and the American Public Works Association. That award recognized our efficiency, staff leadership, vision and ability to overcome challenges.

Budgeting for the county’s future fuel use is one of those challenges. We have found ways to save money in this area by partnering with 50 metro counties and cities to purchase fuel in bulk.

By contracting for bulk purchase rather than paying at the pump, we saved $717,000 over the past 14 years. In 2022 alone, we saved roughly $200,000 by buying in bulk at $2.81 per gallon of unleaded gas compared to the local average pump price of $3.57 per gallon.

Generating renewable energy

Dakota County is not only an energy consumer, but a renewable energy generator as well.

The county owns the 110-year-old Byllesby Dam, located along the Cannon River about 18 miles south of Hastings. The dam creates Lake Byllesby Reservoir, which provides fishing and water recreation.

The dam, which uses the flowing river water to power turbines, generates enough energy to power about 2,400 households. For many years, the county sold the electricity it generated from the dam to Xcel Energy. Revenue from those sales helped to maintain the dam.

After more than a century of operation, the dam needed safety and efficiency upgrades. Later this year, we will complete work on a multi-year dam

In 2022 alone, we saved roughly $200,000 by buying gas in bulk.

safety and efficiency improvement project, including the installation of two new turbines and other upgrades. The new, more efficient equipment will nearly double the amount of energy the dam can produce — from 2.4 megawatts to 4.5 megawatts. That will be enough to light up roughly 5,000 homes.

When the improvements are complete, the county will sell the dam-generated electricity on the open market, entering into agreement with one or more energy distributors. Byllesby Dam turbines will be back online and producing electricity in 2024.

Due to its location in rural Dakota County, the dam’s energy production is not used to power county facilities. The county board has studied this possibility but concluded that it would not be costeffective to taxpayers to build the infrastructure needed to send electricity from the dam to county buildings at this time.

Here is how the $41 million project is funded:

• $22 million in federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds

• $12 million in state bond proceeds

• $7 million in county funds

The county will recover its $7 million investment from future energy production at the dam. Investing in this clean, renewable energy source is good for the environment and for taxpayers.

From the Byllesby Dam to building design, vehicle replacement to lighting upgrades, Dakota County takes the right steps to improve energy efficiency, use more renewable sources and save taxpayer dollars.

Doubling the amount of energy from the dam will light up roughly 5,000 homes.

If you or a loved one served in the military during Vietnam, the Gulf War or after Sept. 11 and were exposed to toxic chemicals, you could be eligible for new VA health benefits.

Your Commissioners

District 1

Includes the cities of Coates, Farmington, Hampton, Hastings, Miesville, New Trier, Northfield (Precinct 2), Randolph and Vermillion; townships of Castle Rock, Douglas, Eureka, Greenvale, Hampton, Marshan, Nininger, Randolph, Ravenna, Sciota, Vermillion and Waterford.

board@co.dakota.mn.us

District 2

Includes the cities of Inver Grove Heights (Precincts 1 and 4–10), South St. Paul and West St. Paul.

District 3

Includes the cities of Eagan (Precincts 1–12); Lilydale, Mendota, Mendota Heights and Sunfish Lake.

District 4

Includes the cities of Eagan (Precincts 13–18), Inver Grove Heights (Precincts 2, 3, 11 and 12), Lakeville (Precincts 16 and 18) and Rosemount (Precincts 1, 2, 4, 6–8); township of Empire.

District 5

Includes the city of Burnsville.

District 6

Includes the city of Lakeville (Precincts 1–15 and 17).

District 7

Includes the cities of Apple Valley (Precincts 1–16) and Rosemount (Precincts 3 and 5).

Mike Slavik District 1 T: 651-438-4427

Joe Atkins District 2 T: 651-438-4430

Laurie Halverson District 3 T: 651-438-4429

William Droste District 4 T: 651-438-4428

Liz Workman District 5 T: 651-438-4431

Mary Liz Holberg District 6 T: 651-438-4243

Mary HamannRoland District 7 T: 651-438-4411

PICK YOUR PASSION

Dakota County provides many great volunteer opportunities. You can help protect the environment, positively influence youth, encourage lifelong learning and so much more.

Pick your passion and have fun with others as you build a stronger Dakota County.

www.dakotacounty.us and search volunteers

Volunteer options include:

Fix-it Clinic fixers

Food packing sessions

Greenway bike repair

Group projects

Habitat restoration

Homeless support

Invasive species removal

Library assistance

Native seed collection

Park events assistance

Park trail patrol

Probation volunteers

Recycling ambassadors

River, roadside cleanup

Veteran peer mentors

Wetland health studies

Youth homework helpers