in Dakota County Resident Survey highlights the location, natural resources and county services.
IN BRIEF Budgeting for uncertainty Page 3 PARKS A plan for the future Page 15 GO GREEN A new life to old items Page 23
Please recycle
Dakota County provides many important services that make this a premier place to live and work. The Dakota County Board of Commissioners wants residents to get the resources they need in an efficient, impactful and fiscally responsible way. In this edition of the newsletter, learn what residents think of county government and see the many ways we’re contributing to your good quality of life.
Contents
Feature: Page 26
Life is good in Dakota County
Your input helps Dakota County maintain excellent services and ensure a good quality of life for our more than 453,000 residents. The Resident Survey is a valuable way for us to hear from you. Learn what residents value most about living and working in Dakota County, which services you prefer and how we’re responding to community challenges.
Page 3 IN BRIEF
We’re planning earlier, using new strategies and cutting costs to respond to unusual budget challenges.
Page 8 OUR WORK
See how we’re connecting cultures and serving families with new Dakota County Library programs.
DEPARTMENTS
Page 11 COMMUNITY
Learn how we’re bringing groups together to make life better for people with disabilities.
Page 15 PARKS
Get a glimpse of the vision for the future of Dakota County Parks. See the goals and find out how to share your ideas.
Page 23 GO GREEN
Extend the life of your items by getting them repaired for free at Fix-It Clinics.
Sending you county news for 54 cents
The Dakota County Newsletter is a cost-effective way to share county news and show how your tax dollars are used. We keep the newsletter 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. Printing is awarded through a competitive bid process. The cost for this newsletter is just 54 cents per household.
Contact:
Mary Beth Schubert, Communications and Public Affairs Director, marybeth.schubert@co.dakota.mn.us or call 651-438-8179
Budgeting for uncertainty
Earlier planning, new approaches help weather fiscal challenges
Dakota County is taking extra steps to budget carefully in a time of uncertainty.
In Brief
We’re preparing earlier for tough budget decisions ahead. We’re pausing some hiring and cutting current and future spending. We're looking a few years out, not just at next year.
Facing unusual challenges
Dakota County, like other counties, faces unusual challenges heading into 2026. Inflation and other factors are increasing our costs. Demand for services is growing, and we’re expecting state and federal funding cuts.
Counties are required by state and federal law to provide many services. We help people in crisis find shelter, get food support and apply for disability services.
When state or federal funding is cut without a reduction in mandates, counties need other ways to pay for the services. That can mean higher property taxes.
Dakota County expects $4.5 million in state and federal cost shifts in 2026 and new unfunded mandates.
A new state program called the African American Child Welfare and Disproportionality Act will go into place next year. The program is meant to make changes to child welfare and protection. This new program will cost Dakota County about $5 million. The State of Minnesota has not provided funding to offset the cost of this new mandate.
We're preparing for deeper cuts in federal aid beginning in 2027 that will affect services we provide. We estimate it could be $21 million in funding cuts and cost shifts onto the county from 2027–2029. Those services include
the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which gives food stamps to low-income residents. It could also cost the county more to administer Medicaid and other services.
Mandates limit budget options
Starting our budget work earlier this year gave us more time to plan. We reviewed every department for possible spending cuts. Budget cuts could affect both mandated and non-mandated services.
County services that are not mandated include parks and libraries, extra help for veterans and support for the Dakota County Fair and 4-H.
The county’s 2025 operating budget is $367 million. Property taxes make up 44 percent of the operating budget. State funding is 22 percent. Federal revenue is another 13 percent.
To save money while planning the 2026 budget, the county froze hiring for as many as 70 vacant or new positions.
Maintaining good financial health
Dakota County performs 116 state-mandated services.
Dakota County performs 116 statemandated services. These include economic assistance, public safety, certain public health programs and elections. Two-thirds of the county’s operating budget goes to mandated services. About 75 percent of county employees provide those services.
Experts and the public recognize how we manage finances. Residents who took our survey this year gave us high scores for the value of services for county taxes they pay. The Government Finance Officers Association gave us a national award for transparent budget work.
Dakota County has the highest bond rating — AAA — from two rating agencies. Strong bond ratings can provide good borrowing rates.
For the first time in 17 years, the county this year borrowed $37.9 million to pay for construction projects. They are a new Lebanon Hills Maintenance Facility and renovated Wentworth
and Burnhaven library locations.
Borrowing for construction is a fair way to pay for projects that benefit residents for many years.
Smart budgeting also means setting aside money for quick response to emergencies. The county’s reserve funds are equal to about 20 percent of our annual operating budget. This should be increased for community safety and protection and to help ensure the county’s long-term financial health. Our 2026 budget will start to do that.
Budget and Property Tax Open House
Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 5 p.m. at the Administration Center in Hastings
The Dakota County Board of Commissioners will set the maximum property tax levy for 2026 on Sept. 23. The board votes on the 2026 budget and levy in December. County board meetings are public.
This year, we’re adding a new Budget and Property Tax Open House on Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 5 p.m. at the Administration Center in Hastings.
We know how important it is to manage your tax dollars well and provide safety-net services for residents. The county needs to maintain a strong financial position, so we can fulfill those duties.
To learn more, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search budget
In Brief Easy pay
Direct property tax payment reduces hassle, saves money
Never forget to pay your property taxes again. Sign up for direct payment, and your property taxes will be paid automatically from your bank account on each due date.
Enrollment is easy. Go to the Dakota County website and complete the online form. You’ll need your bank’s routing and account numbers, property ID numbers, and an email address to apply. Application must be submitted at least 30 days before the due date.
Once enrolled, you will receive a one-time confirmation email letting you know everything is set up. Email reminders will be sent three weeks before your payment is withdrawn. Payments are made free of charge. You can cancel enrollment up to 15 days before the tax due date.
Direct payment can reduce the hassle of remembering to mail your payment or making a special trip to a service or license center. It can also save you some money. Paying property taxes with a credit or debit card includes a 2.29-percent convenience fee. There are also smaller fees for using the Visa debit program and e-checks.
You can’t apply for direct payment if your lending institution is paying taxes through an escrow account, or if you have a manufactured home.
Of the nearly 80,000 parcels eligible for this payment method, about 4,800 are enrolled in the program.
To get started visit www.dakotacounty.us, search pay property tax.
Speaking your language
Interpreter services available at all service and license centers
All Dakota County residents need access to county services. This can be challenging when there is a language barrier between the resident and county staff.
To make it easier for non-English speaking residents, the county provides language translation at all service and license centers. This gives everyone the ability to access driver’s licenses, game and fishing licenses, vehicle titles and registration, property records, and more.
To get translation help, residents can make a request to any county staff. Signage with instructions is also
displayed at all locations in English, Spanish, Somali, Chinese, Russian and Vietnamese. These languages are the most used non-English languages in the county, but translation can be provided in more than 260 languages.
County staff will call a professional on-call interpreter who will help the resident complete their task. Since the service started in July 2022, the Service and License Centers staff have made 422 translation calls. More than 93 percent of those calls were to translate in Spanish.
Plan on it
Know what to do this fall and winter
Monthly
Free and low-cost vaccines
Dakota County Public Health offers vaccines at mobile clinics throughout the year in communities around the county. Low-cost vaccines are available for uninsured and underinsured children and adults. Upcoming mobile clinics include:
• Tuesday, Sept. 9, 3–5:30 p.m. Apple Valley High School, Apple Valley
• Thursday, Sept. 18, 3–5:30 p.m. Queen Anne Courts Mobile Home Park, Lakeville
For future dates, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search mobile clinic.
Fix-It Clinics
Get free help fixing everything from sweaters to lamps. www.dakotacounty.us, search fix-it clinic.
• Saturday, Sept. 20, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Rosemount Community Center, Rosemount
• Saturday, Nov. 15, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Dakota Lodge, West St. Paul
• Saturday, Dec. 6, 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, St. Paul
September
Mattress recycling
Certified Recycling is offering Dakota County residents a reduced price for mattress recycling through Sept. 30. Curbside pickup of mattresses and box springs is $60 for the first item and $40 for each additional item. Quality, gently used items are donated to Bridging to help those in need. All other items are recycled. For more information, visit
www.dakotacounty.us and search mattress recycling or schedule a pickup with Certified Recycling at 952-894-1448.
November
Election Day
Five school districts in Dakota County have school board races or levies on the ballot Tuesday, Nov. 4. They are Cannon Falls, Farmington, Hastings, Lakeville and Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan. For voter registration and polling place information, visit mnvotes.gov.
December
Budget and Property Tax
Open House
Learn more about Dakota County’s proposed 2026 budget and get information about your property taxes and how they support county operations during an open house Tuesday, Dec. 2 from 5–5:45 p.m. at the Administration Center in Hastings.
Fall and winter
Dakota County Parks special events
Celebrate the seasons at special events in Dakota County Parks. Check the website for a full list of both free and ticketed events this fall and winter. www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search special events.
Adult
Feeding Your Baby
Join a certified lactation consultant, public health nurse and other parents looking for support feeding their babies. Share experiences with parents who are also adjusting to life with a baby. Bring questions or come to listen. All feeding decisions are supported. No registration needed.
Learn steps that can lead to getting a job, including setting up email and searching for positions online, with a focus on local job opportunities. Presented by Roger Hagedorn. Funded by MELSA.
• Wescott Library, Eagan
Wednesday, Sept. 3, 6–7:30 p.m.
• Galaxie Library, Apple Valley Wednesday, Sept. 24, 6–7:30 p.m.
Learn the history and meaning of mandala designs and practice techniques to create patterns using dots. Paint your own mandala art on rocks to take home. The class is designed for adults with disabilities, but all adults are welcome. Presented by Caponi Art Park. Registration required. A Minnesota Legacy program.
Learn to draw and color the facial features of dogs, cats, birds, fish or other animals using watercolor. Bring a picture of your pet or favorite animal for reference and receive step-by-step instruction to create a portrait. Presented by Tomás Araya. Registration required. A Minnesota Legacy program.
• Robert Trail Library, Rosemount Thursday, Sept. 25, 5–7:30 p.m. Meditation with Flowers and Watercolor Engage with flowers and watercolors in a calming way. Create compositions with different mixing techniques while learning breathing exercises that help your creativity flow. Presented by Tomás Araya. Registration required. A Minnesota Legacy program.
• Heritage Library, Lakeville Saturday, Oct. 4, 1:30–4 p.m. Presented in English and Spanish.
Author Marcie Rendon will read and discuss “Murder on the Red River,” her award-winning debut novel about Cash Blackbear, a young Ojibwe woman whose visions and grit help solve a murder. Rendon is an enrolled member of White Earth Nation, an award-winning author, playwright, poet, freelance writer and a community arts activist. A Minnesota Legacy program.
• Kaposia Library, South St. Paul Monday, Oct. 13, 7–8 p.m.
Performance by Bluedog
Enjoy a performance by Bluedog, a NAMMY award-winning 5-person blues and rock band from Minneapolis. Music is influenced by the life experiences of Native people. A Minnesota Legacy program.
• Pleasant Hill Library, Hastings Thursday, Nov. 13, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Youth
Afrocontigbo: African Dance Performance
Experience high-energy and visually stunning performances celebrating traditional and contemporary African dances. Learn basic movements in this interactive performance. Presented by Afrocontigbo. For youth ages 3 and older with their caregivers. Siblings welcome.
Meet Nicole Kronzer, author of young adult novels "Unscripted" and "The Roof Over Our Heads," both Minnesota Book Award finalists. Learn about the writing process, getting published and harnessing humor in your writing. For youth ages 12–18.
Experience interactive and fun visual science activities that will wow kids. Presented by America's Fun Science with science teacher Dr. Tyrone E. Carter. For youth ages 5 and older with their caregivers.
Learn to use drawing, painting, cutting and tearing to create new compositions. Use materials like old book pages, retired postal stamps, fashion magazines and more to create original artwork. Presented by eHolt Arts. For youth ages 12–18.
• Kaposia Library
Thursday, Oct. 9, 3–5 p.m.
Pipes & Pressure: Airways
Drop in to explore engineering by building airways with PVC pipes. Experiment with feathers, ping-pong balls and other lightweight props. Presented by Melon Seeds. For youth ages 6 and older with their caregivers.
Get lost in magical wiggles and swirls by mixing two different clays together to create unique marbled patterns and blends. Cut and shape your marbled creation into pendants, cabochons and mini dishes. Art pieces will be taken offsite by teaching artists to be fired in a kiln. Finished work will be returned to the library for pickup. Presented by eHolt Art. For youth ages 12–18.
• Inver Glen Library
Saturday, Oct. 18, 1:30–4 p.m.
Introduction to
Fantasy Writing
From world-building to unique character development, this introductory fantasy writing class will give you the tools to start your fantasy story or develop your stories even further. Registration required. Presented by The Loft. For youth ages 12–18.
• Inver Glen Library
Tuesday, Nov. 4, 4–5:30 p.m.
Connecting cultures
Dakota County Library offers bilingual programs
It’s important that all families feel included and represented at the Dakota County Library. A new grant has helped the library offer bilingual storytimes, create bilingual story trails and offer culturally informed play areas at all 10 locations.
Positive feedback from a Somali stories program motivated the library to seek the Library Sciences and Technology Act grant. This expanded the program and added more languages spoken by residents.
Throughout the 11-month grant period, the library held 18 bilingual story times in English, Somali, Spanish and Bengali. Community storytellers led the sessions to make them engaging and culturally relevant.
Grant funds were also used to create three bilingual story trails and purchase 10 culturally informed toys. These programs allow children to see themselves and learn about their neighbors’ heritage.
Bilingual story trails are picture books printed on large signs displayed at county and city parks. Children and their families can enjoy reading a book as they walk around and enjoy the outdoors. Story trails were displayed in city parks in Burnsville, Farmington and Lakeville this summer.
The library rotates the new culturally informed toys among all 10 library locations. This allows children to have fun, build pre-literacy skills through pretend play and explore
other cultures. The play areas feature a paleta truck, a tuktuk (a three-wheeled taxi found in Africa and Southeast Asia), a tea house, a bakery, a tailor and a soccer stadium.
Other libraries provide similar play areas, but Dakota County Library took a unique approach. By collaborating with the community to create the play areas, they reflect the cultural heritage of residents.
Kids play together, creating stories
A team approach to literacy Programs
help youth and adults in justice system
Education doesn’t just happen in a traditional classroom. Dakota County Library, Community Corrections and Sheriff’s Office work together to promote literacy.
The partnership gives access to books, enhances writing skills and creates learning opportunities for adults and youth in the justice system.
At the Dakota County Jail, inmates can learn at early literacy workshops or a book group focused on adult literacy. Teens can access reading and educational help at the Juvenile Services Center. These programs
give access to resources new to many participants.
Introduced in 2014, workshops provide adults useful activities to help build literacy skills with their own children. The program focuses on the five important practices of early literacy — talking, singing, playing, reading and writing. In 2024, library staff held seven workshops with 102 people.
In the workshops, library staff offer caregivers guidance and skills to support the development of young readers. Participants share stories about their children and reflect on how their actions as adults impact the lives of their kids. Sessions can get emotional.
with new friends they made that day. They create fun interactions between caregivers and their children. The play scenarios also help children improve their language abilities, all while in the library.
Youth, families and caregivers enjoy the programs. They say they felt welcomed and gained new knowledge. Many planned to return to the library. In fact, the storytimes drew in many families who had never visited the library previously.
It wasn’t just families who benefited. Library staff learned by working together with the community. That information will help shape all areas of library services moving forward, such as book collections, programming and outreach.
Dakota County Library will continue offering bilingual story trails and play areas and hosting more bilingual storytimes.
In 2024, the library partnered with the Great Rivers Adult Education Consortium to create a book group to improve adult reading skills. This group combines a traditional book club with opportunity to self-reflect and to improve writing skills. The group uses art projects, reading aloud, short stories and poems linked to book themes, music and discussion. Library staff motivate participants to Continued on page 10
Our Work
Continued from page 9
share what they feel comfortable with and create an environment for growth.
The library works with New Chance and Riverside schools at the Juvenile Services Center on a program focused on reading and literacy. The program provides general and special education courses for youth ages 12–18. The youth
can be in court-ordered day treatment programs or in the secure facility.
Library staff provide books, Summer Discovery materials and resources to help teachers. In 2024, library staff visited the center 40 times. Residents borrowed more than 650 books.
The program encourages teens to read and teaches them that reading
No breaks in ballot work
County supports local school district elections
Dakota County Elections staff don’t take a break from ballots in between high-profile, even-year elections.
Our work continues in odd years, such as 2025, when we support school districts in Dakota County to ensure smooth, secure local elections.
While school district elections may get less attention than other elections, many Dakota County voters still have an opportunity to cast a ballot this fall. Five school districts in the county have races or levies on the Nov. 4 ballot. Those districts combined include about two-thirds of the county’s registered voters.
Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan has a general election for three school board seats and a special election for one school board seat and a levy. Farmington and Cannon Falls have
special levy elections. Lakeville has a special school board election and a levy. Hastings has a special school board election.
Absentee voting for all school district elections will begin Sept. 19.
While school districts oversee their local elections, the county is an important partner. All absentee ballots cast by Dakota County voters in the school elections will be counted by the county’s absentee ballot board. We also administer absentee ballots for cities and townships when they have elections.
The county also helps school districts with election preparation. That includes programming ballotcounting machines. We test that equipment, which the public can observe. We test and maintain the county’s centralized counting machines, which are used for absentee ballots. We also ensure
Add your voice to art framework
Dakota County is developing its first public art framework to identify how public art can be part of county libraries, parks and buildings. The framework will define a vision and goals for public art and address funding and maintenance.
Residents can share their thoughts to shape the framework through Sept. 21, 2025 by taking an online survey or talking to county staff and
volunteers at community events. The county’s Public Art Advisory Committee and local stakeholders are working to ensure diverse views are included. It is anticipated that the plan will be finalized in summer 2026.
If you’re passionate about how art can transform public spaces or just want your voice heard, find the survey and more details at www.dakotacounty.us, search art framework
goes beyond school assignments. Students find new reading materials and research topics that interest them. They also learn important life skills, such as how to write a resume and use job websites.
All three literacy programs are making a positive difference for participants.
audio-visual ballots are ready for accessible voting.
Beyond equipment, county staff also train all school district clerks and their judges, so they know the correct process on Election Day.
Voters can be confident that this partnership helps our school districts deliver accurate, reliable elections.
To learn more Voters can call their school district to learn about their local elections.
For voter registration and polling place information, visit mnvotes.org.
For questions about Dakota County Elections, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search elections
For public art framework updates, follow Dakota County Parks on Facebook or sign up for the Parks e-news at www.dakotacounty.us, search e-news.
Making life better
Dakota County is leading efforts to improve access for people with disabilities.
Community
Our Communities for All initiative improves access and inclusion for disabled people in the community, workforce and beyond. The effort is the first of its kind in Minnesota.
Communities for All grew out of a workgroup that recommended ways to remove barriers disabled people face in the community.
We’re making clear that people with disabilities don’t need to adapt to their surroundings. Communities can welcome and accommodate disabled people who want to work, go to school and live a full life.
Bringing people together
Communities for All is bringing together two groups.
We recruit contributors. These people and groups have experience living with a disability and want to share their knowledge. They're helping to spread the word.
Next, we partner with benefactors. These businesses, organizations and cities want to learn and be more inclusive. Often, these groups want to help but aren’t sure how.
By working and learning together, contributors and benefactors can improve attitudes and opportunities for the disabled.
The need for inclusivity
The Dakota County Board created the Workforce and Provider Shortage Workgroup in 2022 to tackle staffing shortages in disability services. The workgroup made 13 recommendations. That included finding new ways to support the disabled, which led to Communities for All.
About 12 percent of Dakota County residents — roughly 53,000 people — live with at least one disability, including hearing, vision, cognition and movement. Among residents 85 years and up, 64 percent live with a disability.
Research also shows about 10 percent of Dakota County residents aged 18–64 have a disability.
Dakota County outpaces the national rate for employment among people with disabilities. This success is the result of access to training and placement services, but we know there is more to do. About 37 percent of Dakota County’s disabled residents work.
Making connections
• COMMUNITIE S •
FOR ALL
After launching in 2024, Communities for All is connecting contributors and benefactors. So far, we’ve partnered with:
National Association on Mental Illness—Minnesota (NAMI): We’ll share NAMI’s extensive tools and training about mental health issues.
New tool improves mental health support
CredibleMind offers free online tools and resources
Dakota County residents now have free, 24/7 access to trusted mental health and well-being resources.
CredibleMind, a confidential online resource, offers a library of more than 16,000 expert-reviewed articles, videos, podcasts, books and apps about more than 200 mental health and wellness topics. Dakota County residents can explore resources at their own pace, take brief non-diagnostic mental health assessments and learn ways to build resilience while reducing stress.
24% of Dakota County adults reported being diagnosed with depression. 30% reported being told they have anxiety.
The Minnesota Stroke Association: This group will provide information about how people recovering from brain injuries can return to the community.
Peacemaker Minnesota: These anti-bullying advocates visit fourth-grade classrooms through their Ambassadors for Respect program. We’re aiming to have them visit every fourth-grade classroom in Dakota County.
Meanwhile, we’re matching these groups with benefactors around the county. Some will receive education and training tailored to their business. We’ll provide small grants to help those groups with accessibility efforts.
Visit www.dakotacounty.us, search communities to get involved.
Watch the video to learn more:
According to recent data, 24 percent of Dakota County adults reported being diagnosed with depression. Thirty percent reported being told they have anxiety. While many people delay getting help, CredibleMind is a convenient first step for those seeking to learn more or support someone they care about.
The platform is designed for all learning styles and interests. Whether you want to improve sleep, manage anxiety, explore mindfulness or simply understand your own mental health, CredibleMind can help. It’s easy to use and completely private. Some features may require you to enter information or create an account, but the county and CredibleMind do not monitor or collect personal data.
CredibleMind offers many resources, but it is not a crisis service. If you or someone you know needs immediate support, call the Dakota County Crisis Response Line at 952-891-7171.
Start exploring at www.dakotacounty.us, search CredibleMind.
Supporting crime victims at every step
“You are one of the first people who made me feel validated in the feelings I have towards the assault.”
Being the victim of a crime can be overwhelming. People often feel scared, confused or unsure of what to do next. The victim-witness specialists at the Dakota County Attorney’s Office can help.
Minnesota law provides victims certain rights. They have the right to know what’s happening in their case. They also have the right to provide input about plea offers and the right to share how a crime has affected them.
Dakota County victim-witness specialists support victims throughout the criminal justice process. Their work continues through sentencing and in some cases even longer. Victims experience crimes such as assault, stalking, identity theft, burglary and more.
Victim-witness specialists:
• Offer emotional support and crisis help.
• Explain rights under Minnesota law.
• Help prepare a victim impact statement.
• Attend court hearings with them and help them understand the criminal justice process.
• Keep them updated on the case and court dates.
• Make sure they are notified about plea offers, hearings and the outcome of the case.
• Connect them to resources such as financial help, counseling and support groups.
• Assist with forms for restitution from the offender or reimbursement from the state.
Every situation is different, but we treat each person with the same care and respect.
One recent program participant said: “Thank you so much for being there with me and walking me through
this entire process. You are one of the first people who made me feel validated in the feelings I have towards the assault. I would be lost without your support.”
That kind of one-on-one support is what the program aims to offer every person it serves.
Domestic violence
These specialists also support victims of domestic violence. They connect victims to community services, like local shelters, counseling and emotional support, and other resources.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For help and information, call Dakota County Victim Services at 651-438-4471.
Learn more at www.dakotacounty.us, search victim support.
Scan the QR code for a video about Dakota County’s Victim-Witness Program.
2050 Vision Plan strengthens connection to nature
Visitors flock to Whitetail Woods Regional Park and Dakota County’s greenways all year long for recreation, reflection and rejuvenation.
Those popular places are the result of Dakota County Parks’ previous long-range planning. Now, we’re planning for the next quarter-century. That effort, the 2050 Vision Plan, was approved in July 2025 by the Dakota County Board.
The plan sets Parks’ direction for the coming decades and updates the last plan from 2008. The updated vision for Dakota County Parks is “Nature Protected, Community Reflected, All Are Connected.”
The planning process began in 2024, and we’ve sought the public’s input from the beginning. We asked how you want to experience your county parks in the future — and you responded.
We put more focus on natural resources in recent years. The public told us protecting and restoring those spaces is important. We heard the call for access to natural areas and
We’re focusing on:
• Strengthening relationships between people and nature.
• Enhancing community well-being by restoring and protecting natural spaces.
• Creating enjoyable and educational outdoor experiences.
• Connecting communities through partnerships and engagement.
the sense of belonging in nature that it brings. We also heard the public’s enthusiasm for greenways and nature play areas and the need for safety while enjoying the parks.
Aspirational, optimistic plan
The need for feedback won’t change as the plan’s details come into focus. We want it to be more visionary, aspirational and optimistic than rigid or restrictive.
The plan also accounts for realities we’ll be facing in the coming years. Safety, access and climate resilience will be priorities. We’ll reach out to residents who don’t feel the parks serve them. And, we’ll keep focusing on land protection as our population grows and development continues.
The planning process has also underscored our partnerships with cities in Dakota County. Joint efforts involving nature-based recreation — such as trails and fishing piers — are examples of these partnerships.
Parks will also explore new ways to sustainably fund the operations and maintenance of these places and programs.
As we implement the vision plan, we’ll again be asking the public to share how we make those plans work for everyone.
Visit www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search vision, to learn more about the 2050 Vision Plan.
2050 Vision Plan Goals
• Nurture the reciprocal relationship between people and nature.
• Cultivate belonging by engaging and serving the community, with an emphasis on those who are underrepresented in the outdoors.
• Provide safe and positive core services, amenities and experiences.
• Create dynamic spaces with unique and memorable experiences.
• Expand environmental stewardship through outdoor programs, learning and volunteerism.
• Offer opportunities to improve physical, mental and spiritual health.
• Strengthen partnerships with tribal nations and Indigenous communities for the protection of lands and traditions.
• Locate new park units close to people or to protect natural areas and recreational assets.
• Lead and support on ecological stewardship and climate resilience.
• Protect, improve and manage the natural resources of Dakota County.
• Elevate cultural richness through arts, historic preservation, interpretation and storytelling within the park system.
• Seek and sustain values-based and mission-driven partnerships.
• Care for the system through sustainable and innovative funding.
• Invest in a thriving parks workforce that represents the communities served.
• Support local and sustainable economic development.
Where instruction comes alive
School Nature Programs introduce children to outdoors
Sometimes the best learning happens outside of the classroom.
For tens of thousands of students, Dakota County Parks is bringing educational lessons to life.
In places like Spring Lake Park Reserve and Lebanon Hills Regional Park, students receive hands-on learning about bison, birds, water health, geology and more.
Our outdoor educators — certified naturalists and recreational professionals — align learning to state education standards in science.
The program has grown over the years by working with area schools. Numbers soared in the 2010s. We’ve watched a steady increase of students participating in postpandemic years. School Nature Programs hosted 253 school visits with nearly 21,000 students from 2020–2024.
Wide-ranging benefits
Students receive more than outdoor education. They absorb benefits simply by experiencing nature.
Research shows nature makes children healthier, happier, smarter and more environmentally aware.
Whether it’s a nature program or a regular trip to the park, there are mental and emotional health gains.
Students watch, feel and learn as classroom concepts come alive outdoors.
Through these programs, students reap the rewards of Dakota County’s investment in natural resources. They’re learning to be stewards of the land and students of the outdoors.
Visit www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search school programs, to learn more.
PROGRAMS & EVENTS
YOUTH
HOMESCHOOL LAB
Use the park as your lab for hands-on study, scientific inquiry and experimentation.
Age: 6–12
Fee: $10/youth
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
Activity Number: 211501
Forest Ecology
Learn the different levels of the forest from roots to leaves.
• Wed, Oct. 1, 9–11 a.m.
• Wed, Oct. 1, 1–3 p.m.
• Thu, Oct. 2, 1–3 p.m.
MN Rocks
Explore the geology of Lebanon Hills and how to identify common rocks.
• Wed, Nov. 5, 9–11 a.m.
• Wed, Nov. 5, 1–3 p.m.
• Thu, Nov. 6, 1–3 p.m.
Winter Shelters
Discuss different ways animals find shelter in winter and build your own.
• Wed, Dec. 3, 9–11 a.m.
• Wed, Dec. 3, 1–3 p.m.
• Thu, Dec. 4, 1–3 p.m.
Predator and Prey
Go in-depth on an important relationship in nature — predator and prey.
• Wed, Jan. 7, 9–11 a.m.
• Wed, Jan. 7, 1–3 p.m.
• Thu, Jan. 8, 1–3 p.m.
Under the Ice
Learn how animals survive winter under the ice.
• Wed, Feb. 4, 9–11 a.m.
• Wed, Feb. 4, 1–3 p.m.
• Thu, Feb. 5, 1–3 p.m.
Geocaching
Discover how to navigate with GPS and find caches around the park.
• Wed, March 4, 9–11 a.m.
• Wed, March 4, 1–3 p.m.
• Thu, March 5, 1–3 p.m.
KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS
Discover nature with a child through hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, art projects, story time and more.
Age: 3–6
Fee: $10/youth
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
Activity Number: 212001
Raccoons
Explore how these ingenious mammals thrive in Lebanon Hills.
• Thu, Oct. 2, 10–11:30 a.m.
• Sat, Oct. 4, 10–11:30 a.m.
Habitats and Hibernators
Discover which animals leave the park, which sleep and which stay active all winter.
• Thu, Nov. 6, 10–11:30 a.m.
• Sat, Nov. 8, 10–11:30 a.m.
Whoo’s There?
Owls stay in the park year-round. Listen and look for owls on a winter hike.
• Thu, Dec. 4, 10–11:30 a.m.
• Sat, Dec. 6, 10–11:30 a.m.
Pine Forest Fun
Be an explorer and discover which birds and animals thrive in the pine forest.
• Thu, Jan. 8, 10–11:30 a.m.
• Sat, Jan. 10, 10–11:30 a.m.
Insects in Winter
Go on a hunt to find insects that are active in our snowy winter.
• Thu, Feb. 5, 10–11:30 a.m.
• Sat, Feb. 7, 10–11:30 a.m.
Animal Senses
Compare your senses to how effectively different animals can hear, see and smell.
• Thu, March 5, 10–11:30 a.m.
• Sat, March 7, 10–11:30 a.m.
STORYTIME
Join Dakota County Library for a fun and interactive storytime in the yurt at Lebanon Hills.
Age: 2–6
Free
Lebanon Hills Yurt
Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 211801
• Tue, Sept. 16, 10–10:30 a.m.
• Thu, Sept. 18, 6–6:30 p.m.
• Wed, Sept. 24, 10–10:30 a.m.
• Tue, Sept. 30, 6–6:30 p.m.
• Wed, Oct. 8, 6–6:30 p.m.
• Sat, Oct. 11, 10–10:30 a.m.
• Wed, Oct. 15, 10–10:30 a.m.
WILD ART FOR YOUTH
Gather with friends to create nature inspired arts and crafts.
Activity Number: 210203
Needle Felted Autumn
Landscapes
Dive into the lush and tactile world of needle felting in this easy, introductory fiber arts program.
Age: 10–15
Fee: $40/person
Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Sat, Oct. 11, 2–4 p.m.
Pressed Plant Collages
Use pressed leaves and flowers to create a unique everlasting collage.
Age: 10–15
Fee: $25/person
Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Sat, Nov. 22, 2–4 p.m.
Eco-Printing
Experiment with preserved plants and pigments. Learn the art of flower pounding and bundle dyeing.
Age: 10–15
Fee: $25/person
Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Sat, March 7, 10 a.m.–noon
FAMILY
FAMILY CROSS-COUNTRY SKI LESSONS
Learn the basic skills of classicstyle cross-country skiing in a family-friendly environment.
Age: 5 and older
Fee: $15/person
Lebanon Hills Yurt
Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 210602
• Sat, Jan. 10, 10 a.m.–noon
• Sat, Jan. 24, 2–4 p.m.
• Sat, Jan. 31, 2–4 p.m.
• Sun, Feb. 8, 2–4 p.m.
• Wed, Feb. 18, 4–6 p.m.
FAMILY SNOWSHOE
Get outside with a park naturalist on a guided snowshoe hike with your family.
Age: 8 and older
Fee: $15/person
Activity Number: 211405
Winter Solstice Snowshoe Hike
Celebrate the longest night of the year on a guided hike with a park naturalist.
Thompson County Park Trailhead Thompson County Park
• Sun, Dec. 21, 2–4 p.m.
Snowshoe and S’mores
Gather around a bonfire with s’mores after a guided hike.
Jensen Lake
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Sat, Jan. 31, 3–5 p.m.
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 Activity Number: 211001
Bats
Explore the world of bats. Learn how they fly and how they see.
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Fri, Oct. 3, 6–7 p.m.
Friday Night Lights
Join us for a fun night of glow-in-the-dark soccer and light-up yard games.
Empire Lake Shelter
Whitetail Woods Regional Park
• Fri, Nov. 7, 6–7 p.m.
Full Moon Fun
Meet the moon through myths, stories, games and the spotting scope.
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Fri, Dec. 5, 6–7 p.m.
Celebrate the Stars
Explore the night sky and learn about stars, comets, meteors and more.
Gathering Center
Spring Lake Park Reserve
• Fri, Jan. 2, 6–7 p.m.
Fun on the Ice
Enjoy an evening of family fun on the ice. Try one of our kicksleds for free.
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Fri, Feb. 6, 6–7 p.m.
Sounds of the Night
Join us for a scavenger hunt and use your ears to search for the sounds of winter.
Camp Spring Lake Retreat Center
Spring Lake Park Reserve
• Fri, March 6, 6–7 p.m.
STORY TRAIL
Take a self-guided walk in the park while reading picture book pages displayed along the trail.
All ages
Free
Echo Point
Lake Byllesby Regional Park
Activity Number: 210902
• Thu–Sun, Oct. 16–19, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
STARWATCH
View the wonders of the night sky close up with Mike Lynch while he provides an introduction into the world of stargazing.
All ages
Fee: $10/person
Empire Shelter
Whitetail Woods Regional Park Activity Number: 211705
• Sat, Oct. 18, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
NORTHERN SAW-WHET BANDING
Explore the world of one of Minnesota’s littlest owls, the Northern saw-whet owl, in this partnership program with Carpenter Nature Center. Staff from Dakota County Parks and Carpenter will band owls and share what makes these creatures unique.
All ages
Fee: $12/person
Gathering Center
Spring Lake Park Reserve Activity Number: 211711
• Wed, Oct. 29, 8–9 p.m.
LET’S GO OWLING
Delve into the world of owls and take a hike for a chance to hear and see these nocturnal hunters at work.
Age: 5 and older
Fee: $5/person
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
Activity Number: 211702
• Tue, Jan. 6, 4:30–6:30 p.m.
• Thu, Jan. 8, 4:30–6:30 p.m.
LEARN TO ICE FISH
Join us to learn the basics of ice fishing, including equipment and technique.
Age: 8 and older
Fee: $10/person
Activity Number: 211104
Holland Lake Shelter
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Sat, Jan. 24, 1–3 p.m.
Lake Byllesby Beach
Lake Byllesby Regional Park
• Sat, Feb. 14, 1–3 p.m.
ADULT
BISON PRAIRIE WALK
Through a Dakota lens, learn about the role bison played in the lives of the original caretakers of this land.
Age: 16 and older
Free
Archery Shelter
Spring Lake Park Reserve Activity Number: 211713
• Wed, Sept. 17, 6–7 p.m.
ARCHERY
Learn everything from stance to follow through, equipment styles to archery safety, and hone your new skills with target practice.
Age: 16 and older
Fee: $20/person
Archery Shelter
Spring Lake Park Reserve Activity Number: 210102
• Sun, Oct. 5, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Sun, Oct. 5, 2–5 p.m.
CANOEING
Make the most of fall and join a park naturalist for a guided paddle on Schulze Lake.
Age: 16 and older
Fee: $20/person
Schulze Beach
Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 211901
Women’s Fall Color Paddle
Soak up the fall colors on this paddle specifically for women.
• Sat, Oct. 4, 1–3 p.m.
Full Moon Paddle
Enjoy a canoeing adventure illuminated by the full moon.
• Tue, Oct. 7, 7–9 p.m.
CYCLING
Bring your recently tuned fat-tire bike on a guided ride along Lebanon Hills premiere singletrack trails.
Age: 16 and older
Fee: $20/person
West Trailhead
Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 210301
Fat-Tire Biking - Level 1
• Sun, Feb. 1, 9 a.m.–noon
• Sun, Feb. 8, 9 a.m.–noon
Fat-Tire Biking - Level 2
• Sun, Feb. 15, 9 a.m.–noon
• Sun, Feb. 22, 9 a.m.–noon
CROSS-COUNTRY SKI LESSONS
Learn about equipment, trails and technique in this introduction to classic-style cross-country skiing.
Age: 16 and older
Fee: $25/person
Lebanon Hills Yurt
Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 210603
• Sat, Jan. 10, 2–4 p.m.
• Sat, Jan. 17, 10 a.m.–noon
• Tue, Feb. 3, 10 a.m.–noon
• Thu, Feb. 19, 4–6 p.m.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKI TOURS
Get outside with a park naturalist on a guided ski tour. All gear provided.
Age: 16 and older
Fee: $25/person
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 210605
Starlit Ski
Experience the ski trails and stars on a guided outing.
• Fri, Feb. 13, 6–8 p.m.
Ski and S’mores
Enjoy a bonfire and s’mores after an evening of exploring the trails.
• Sat, Feb. 21, 6–8 p.m.
Full Moon Ski
Join a park naturalist for a quiet and naturally illuminated ski tour.
• Sat, Feb. 28, 6–8 p.m.
FORAGING
Discover delicious and nutritious wild plants and mushrooms that thrive in your local environment with foraging workshops led by Maria Wesserle of Four Season Foraging.
Age: 16 and older
Fee: $30/person
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 212403
Autumn’s Wild Edibles
• Sat, Oct. 11, 10 a.m.–noon
Winter’s Wild Edibles
• Sun, Dec. 7, 2–4 p.m.
HIKE THE PARKS
Spend time in nature and explore hidden gems in Dakota County Parks.
Age: 16 and older
Fee: $5/person
Activity Number: 211409
Women’s Winter Hike and Bonfire
Make your way to the A-Frame Shelter and gather around a fire in this women’s hiking program. Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Sat, Dec. 6, 2:30–4 p.m.
PROGRAMS & EVENTS
Winter Bird Hike
Hear and view the birds of winter.
Binoculars provided.
Miesville Ravine Park
Reserve Trailhead
Miesville Ravine Park Reserve
• Sat, Jan. 3, 9–10:30 a.m.
Spring Equinox Hike
Celebrate the first day of spring with a guided hike.
Thompson County Park Trailhead
Thompson County Park
• Fri, March 20, 4–5:30 p.m.
FIRESIDE TAI CHI & QIGONG
Flow through a sequence of movements to support soft strength and a feeling of harmony with nature alongside a cozy fire.
Age: 16 and older
Fee: $24/person
Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 211203
• Sun, Oct. 12, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
• Sun, Oct. 26, 2–3:30 p.m.
• Sun, Jan. 11, 1–2:30 p.m.
• Thu, Jan. 29, 6–7:30 p.m.
• Sun, Feb. 8, 1–2:30 p.m.
• Thu, Feb. 26, 6–7:30 p.m.
WILD ART
Gather with fellow crafters and learn new skills taught by local artists.
Age: 16 and older Activity Number: 210202
Needle Felted Autumn Landscapes
Learn how to ‘paint’ with wool and create a flat felted landscape capturing the autumn beauty.
Fee: $40/person
Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Fri, Oct. 10, 6–8 p.m.
Basket Weaving Basics
Learn foundational basket weaving techniques and build two small baskets, one square and one oval, in this multi-class series.
Fee: $100/person
Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Thu, Nov. 6, 13 & 20, 6–9 p.m.
Foraging Basket Weaving Discover basket weaving basics and create a foraging basket in this multi-class series.
Fee: $100/person
Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Thu, Dec. 4 & 11, 6–9 p.m.
Cider and Cedars
Join us to sip on hot apple cider and create festive wreaths of cedar boughs, harvested from the park as part of natural resources restoration efforts.
Fee: $35/person
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Wed, Dec. 10, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
• Thu, Dec. 11, 1–3 p.m.
CELEBRATE THE SEASONS
Get outdoors and celebrate the season at one of many Dakota County Parks special events.
Parks offers a variety of fun and exciting events throughout the year. For a full list of both free and ticketed events this fall and winter, visit www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search special events.
Clay Coil Pot Planter
Create a new home for your favorite plant using slabs, coils and texture tools. Eagan Art House will have four glaze colors to choose from. Projects will be ready for pickup three weeks later.
Fee: $35/person
Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Thu, March 12, 6–8 p.m.
WINTER SNOWSHOE
Get outdoors in winter and explore new trails on a guided snowshoe hike.
Age: 16 and older
Fee: $15/person
Activity Number: 211401
Full Moon Snowshoe
Join a park naturalist for a quiet and naturally illuminated snowshoe hike.
Holland Lake Shelter
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Sat, Jan. 3, 6–8 p.m.
• Sat, Jan. 31, 6–8 p.m.
Valentine’s Snowshoe
Celebrate your love for nature and sip hot cocoa on this Valentine’s Day snowshoe hike.
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Sat, Feb. 14, 2–4 p.m.
Morning Coffee and Snowshoe
Enjoy the crisp winter air on a beautiful guided snowshoe hike with a coffee in hand.
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Sun, Feb. 22, 8–10 a.m.
YOGA IN THE PARK
This fall and winter, join Yoga Sanctuary for a series of classes and interactive workshops. All levels of experience are welcome.
Age: 16 and older
Activity Number: 211201
Fall Nature Walk + Yoga
Take part in a mindful walk and inclusive yoga, fostering connection to the environment and yourself.
Visitor Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Sun, Oct. 5, 2:30–4 p.m.
Winter Wellness Series
Embrace the serenity of winter with this intentional new year yoga series for all levels. Designed to nourish your body, mind and spirit in harmony with nature's wisdom, rhythms and cycles.
Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center
Lebanon Hills Regional Park
• Tue, Jan. 6, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
• Tue, Jan. 13, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
• Tue, Jan. 20, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
• Tue, Jan. 27, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
PROGRAM 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.
Payment: Payment is due at registration. Major credit cards other than American Express 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.
SUPPORT YOUR PARKS
Dakota County Parks offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for groups and individuals. If you have a passion for nature and the outdoors, volunteer in a county park or greenway near you. www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search volunteer
PRIVATE PROGRAMS, BIRTHDAYS 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
EQUIPMENT RENTAL
Rent cross-country ski equipment, snowshoes and kicksleds at the Lebanon Hills Visitor Center.
Fix-It Clinics save on new purchases and reduce waste
Most clothing and household items don’t last forever. Even the best-made items can break down or get damaged.
Go Green
It takes time and money to handle all the waste we throw away. Buying fewer items and instead extending the life of what we already own cuts down on what goes into local landfills. It also reduces demand for new raw materials and energy.
You can extend the life of your items by getting them repaired for free while learning useful repair skills at an upcoming Dakota County Fix-It Clinic. Clinics also help build community and reduce waste.
Clinics are held on the third weekend of most months, usually at a Dakota County Library location. Clinics are first come, first served, and no pre-registration is required to attend. Items must be able to be carried into the clinic, and there is a three-item limit per person at each clinic.
Volunteers with tools and supplies will help troubleshoot and repair your items. They’ll also provide practical advice on how to maintain and fix the items in the future.
Volunteers repair 85 percent of items brought to clinics, which saves money on replacement items.
Items
repaired at Fix-It
Clinics
include:
• Blenders
• Clean clothing to mend
• Coffeemakers
• DVD players
• Fans and lamps
• Jewelry
• Radios and stereos
• Sewing machines
• Toasters and toaster ovens
• Toys
• Vacuums (must be empty) Our clinics also are looking for volunteers to help with repairs. You could make an impact with your skills in sewing, tinkering, soldering, electronics repair, woodworking or general maintenance. Volunteers choose the time and frequency of volunteering. Not a fixer? No worries — more volunteers are needed to greet residents and provide event support.
Volunteers have helped keep the Fix-it Clinics strong since the program started in 2016. They have spent more than 5,941 hours helping to fix more than 5,000 items. That’s kept more than 27,000 pounds of materials out of our local landfills. Every fixed item can make a huge difference.
For more information, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search fix-it clinics.
Go Green
Help reduce salt pollution
Salt is useful in many ways, including maintaining safe roads and sidewalks in winter.
Even though it is a natural element, salt can be harmful to our lakes, streams and groundwater. Once salt is in the water, it doesn’t go away naturally and is hard to remove. It doesn’t take much salt to become a problem either — one teaspoon of salt can pollute five gallons of water.
Dakota County’s Low Salt No Salt program offers resources and teaches best practices about salt use to the community. Information includes how to effectively use the right amount of salt when deicing sidewalks and driveways.
A little effort can go a long way. Together, we can safely use salt this winter season.
To learn more, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search low salt. Scan the QR code to learn more:
Turn your food scraps into something useful
Bring collected items to county drop-off sites
The No. 1 item in our trash is food. Instead of throwing food scraps away, you can convert them into valuable compost. This increases nutrients in soil, reduces erosion and decreases the need for chemical fertilizers.
Formerly known as the organics drop-off program, Dakota County’s food scraps drop-off program works just like it did before — it simply has a new name. By participating, your food scraps are turned into compost. Composting benefits you, your community and the environment.
Sign up to participate
Food scraps drop-off sites are free and easy to use. Dakota County residents can sign up 1 of 3 ways to get started:
• Online at www.dakotacounty.us, search food scraps
• Email foodscraps@co.dakota.mn.us
• Call 952-891-7557
ONE TEASPOON OF SALT POLLUTES 5 GALLONS OF WATER
After you sign up, you will receive more information and free BPIcertified compostable bags in the mail. More bags are available for free at all drop-off locations.
Then, gather your food scraps and drop off the bags as often as needed at 11 locations in Dakota County.
Accepted items include:
• Bakery and dry goods
• Coffee grounds
• Dairy products
• Eggs and eggshells
• Meat, fish and bones
• Produce, fruits and vegetables
Food scraps drop-off vs. backyard composting
Food scraps like fruits and veggies can go into your backyard compost. Avoid adding meat, bones, fish and dairy as they can attract rodents and spread bacteria and plant diseases.
Instead, use the food scrap dropoff sites for these items. They are accepted because they are taken to a commercial compost facility that maintains higher temperatures to kill bacteria and break down materials faster than a backyard compost pile.
A full list of items accepted and not accepted at food scraps drop-off sites is at www.dakotacounty.us, search food scraps.
FEATURE Quality of life
Much higher in Dakota County than national ratings
Life is good
Resident Survey highlights the location, natural resources and county services.
‘We approve’
Most residents approve of the job the Dakota County Board is doing.
Place to live and raise a family
Higher in Dakota County than national ratings
Residents told us again this year that life is good in Dakota County. They value the location, the parks and natural resources, and the services.
County government gets strong marks, too. Residents are confident in the county and its elected commissioners. They say they get good value for the county taxes they pay. They believe county government is doing a good job.
Every three years, we conduct the Resident Survey to find out what our residents like about living here, what services they use and how we can improve. This year's survey was conducted between January and March.
The survey is statistically significant, so it's a reliable indicator of residents’ views. Of the 786 surveys completed, 433 were done on paper while 353 were taken online.
We work with four other Minnesota counties — Olmsted, Scott, St. Louis and Washington — to develop the survey with Polco, a national civic polling company. That keeps the cost down for each county, and it provides us comparisons within Minnesota.
The results are also compared with similar counties across the country. It's another way to measure our performance for residents and taxpayers.
Generally positive views of Dakota County government come at a time when national surveys show trust in state and federal government are much lower.
Dakota County is demographically, geographically and socioeconomically diverse. The survey accounts for age, gender, ethnicity, income level and housing type. We also make sure to get input from
786 surveys completed by residents, making the results statistically significant
Overall quality of life in Dakota County
‘Where do you feel the safest?’
• County office buildings
• Libraries and courtrooms
• Places of worship
• Neighborhoods
BEST RESULTS YET
each of the seven county commissioner districts.
This survey data is valuable. The results help the Dakota County Board of Commissioners to decide priorities, programs and even property tax rates.
Dakota County residents' ratings on key issues are much better than residents elsewhere. We had much higher ratings for the value of services for county taxes paid. We also scored much higher on whether the county is acting in the best interest of the community.
MANAGING TAX DOLLARS WELL
Residents here gave Dakota County a better score for managing tax dollars. Our rating in that area generally has remained consistent over the past four surveys. This year, 58 percent of respondents said it was good or excellent.
We ranked third among 34 comparable counties for the value of services for county taxes paid. That is much higher than the national benchmark.
While residents are confident in how we manage your tax dollars, taxes in general are a top concern. Fifty-six percent of respondents said taxes are a moderate or major problem.
The county board and staff work hard to limit property tax increases while still providing services to a growing population. Last year, Dakota County’s tax rate was the lowest among metro counties.
Residents saved their strongest approval for two areas — Dakota County government’s efforts to support the quality of life here and to provide information to residents. Both areas received their highest scores since they’ve been part of the survey.
Supporting the quality of life involves a lot of effort in different areas. We provide programs that make living here safer and more enjoyable. We also work with other local governments, such as cities, schools and townships, to provide basic services, support strong schools and protect the environment. We work with nonprofit and community partners to help those in need. We also have resources to support the business community.
Only a small portion of your property taxes support county government. Cities, school districts and other taxing districts also collect property taxes.
PROVIDING POPULAR PARKS AND LIBRARIES
County parks and the library continue to be two of the most popular services we provide. Both had ratings of 86 out of 100 on the survey — more than any other service. County trail and greenway systems also scored high.
‘What do you like most about living in Dakota County?’
• Location
• Quality of life
• Parks and greenways
• Neighborhoods
• Rural character
The library scored much higher than the national benchmark. Ninety-six percent of respondents rated library services as good or excellent. Residents said computer and internet access, library materials, and job and career information are the most important library services.
There are more library locations and services than ever. We opened the new Kaposia Library in South St. Paul last year, bringing the county system to 10 locations.
Dakota County Library now offers Self-Service Hours at all 10 locations. This service gives registered users more access to the library resources, meeting rooms and materials. We’re serving you when it's most convenient.
All library locations offer computer and Wi-Fi access. We add new materials throughout the year, and users can access materials from other library systems. The library also has job information and hosts career programs, such as job hunting and resume writing.
Approval of county parks has grown over nearly 20 years of our resident survey. This year, 97 percent of respondents rated park services as good or excellent. Our parks are popular for recreation, hiking, camping, outdoor education and connecting with nature.
A new Dakota County Parks vision plan, approved this summer, will guide our parks for the next 25 years. Learn more on page 16 of this newsletter.
We’re focusing on strengthening the relationships between people and nature, restoring and protecting natural spaces, creating enjoyable and educational outdoor experiences, and connecting communities through park partnerships and engagement.
Residents also approve of our trail and greenway system. Our vision of a 200-mile greenway network throughout the county is well underway. We have already completed 57 miles along our greenways with more on the way.
‘What are your environmental concerns?’
• Climate change
• Quality of drinking water
• Water quality in rivers, lakes and streams
WORKING ON ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Environmental issues are on the minds of Dakota County residents. Survey participants said their top three concerns were climate change, drinking water
quality and the water quality of our lakes and rivers.
9 in 10
Residents felt it’s important to protect and improve water quality
Most environmental scores remained consistent from the last survey in 2022. However, drinking water quality issues, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances, are a growing concern. PFAS are widely used, long-lasting chemicals found widespread in the environment.
The Environmental Protection Agency developed guidelines for PFAS levels in drinking water. PFAS levels above those guidelines have been detected in some city and private wells within Dakota County.
Cities monitor their municipal wells. Dakota County offers water-testing resources for private well owners.
PFAS contamination is one of many groundwater and drinking water issues we track. We research well water for other contaminants. We also have a groundwater protection plan that includes testing, educating and taking actions to improve our water quality.
OTHER SERVICES SCORING WELL
Most residents approve of the job the seven-member county board is doing. They gave commissioners an average rating of 68. County board support has remained consistent since the first survey in 2001.
Public safety is an important measurement for a community, and the numbers here are strong. The percentage of people who reported crime and safety as the most serious issue facing the county dropped from 20 percent in 2022 to 8 percent this year.
There were also improved scores for the sheriff’s office patrol and park protection, along with the county attorney’s office prosecution of felony or other serious crimes.
Top county services
• Parks & Libraries
• Greenways and trails
• County road snow and ice removal
• Sheriff’s deputy patrol services
Other safety services scored well, too.
Our ratings for snow and ice removal on county roads improved over past surveys. Dakota County scored much higher than the national average for this service.
We’re responsible for plowing county roads to keep them safe in the winter. Our 31 plow operators can clear all 1,034 lane miles of county roads in about five hours. They are committed to keeping the roads clear for your commute.
Residents continue to be satisfied with other well-used services.
The rating increased for The Recycling Zone in Eagan, where residents can drop off hazardous chemicals, electronics and recyclables. Survey participants also gave the county’s food scraps drop-off program a good rating.
Overall quality of life in Dakota County
How would you rate your overall quality of life in Dakota County?
The survey also showed more residents are satisfied with licensing, passport, vital record and vehicle registration services. We continue to make that process even better. You can reserve appointments online, and walk-in wait times are updated in real time on the county website.
TAKING ACTION ON HOUSING
Topping the list of concerns in this year’s survey was housing affordability.
‘What’s the most serious issue facing the county?’
• Affordable housing
• Growth issues
• Taxes
Thirteen percent of respondents said that was the most serious issue facing the county. Affordable housing had the same percentage as in 2022, but it was the highestrated issue noted in the 2025 survey.
Nearly half of all survey respondents said the county needs affordable family housing most. A growing number of residents said the community needs affordable family housing, market-rate single-family housing, affordable housing for older adults, workforce housing and apartments.
We hear these concerns, and housing is a county priority. While county government does not build market-rate homes, the Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA) builds affordable housing and provides financing for housing developers.
The CDA’s latest project is Denmark Trail in Farmington, new workforce townhomes with 1–4 bedrooms. This project provides affordable rental housing for individuals and families and includes two accessible units.
We’re also helping seniors and military veterans find affordable housing. The CDA’s Nicols Pointe
development in Eagan that opened last fall features one-bedroom apartments for people 55 and older with a preference for veterans. Overall, the CDA manages more than 2,900 units of affordable rental housing located throughout the county.
‘What type of housing do we need most in Dakota County? ’
• Affordable family housing
• Market-rate single family housing
• Affordable housing for older adults
In Rosemount, the new Croft at Rosecott provides 164 general occupancy affordable apartment units with 1-3 bedrooms for households earning less than 60 percent of area median income. This private development received financing from a variety of partners, including the CDA.
Our efforts to make the county an attractive place for people to live increase demand for more singlefamily homes, townhomes and apartments. Two Dakota County cities — Lakeville and Rosemount — have among the state’s fastest growth and most new housing permits.
COMMUNICATING WITH YOU
Next to supporting the quality of life here, survey participants gave us the strongest ratings for the job we do providing information to residents.
We know how important it is for residents, taxpayers, clients, business partners and others in the community to get accurate county information. We also know convenience is key. We want county information to be available in the most useful way.
The survey results show us that more residents want to get county information by newsletter. We’ll continue providing this Dakota County Newsletter to every household each spring and fall. It’s a cost-effective way to share information about a wide variety of programs and resources of interest to people throughout the county.
You also prefer to get county information online at www.dakotacounty.us.
‘Dakota County’s best government performance goes to…’
• Prov iding information to residents
• Acting in the best interest of the community
• Supporting the quality of life in Dakota County
We’re making that resource even better.
We’re launching a new website in 2026.
Website improvements are based on input we’ve received from users, including residents, clients and others in the community.
Residents also value email newsletters, or e-news, as a source of county information.
We offer 27 e-news options, including property tax reminders, environmental news, park and library updates,
public health news and county board meetings. There are more than 65,600 email addresses receiving e-news updates, and the list is growing. To sign up, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search e-news.
How we compare to national benchmarks
Much higher:
• Providing value of services for county taxes paid
• Managing tax dollars
• Acting in the best interest of the community
• Dakota County as a place to work
• Outdoor recreation opportunities
• Economic health of Dakota County
• Employment opportunities
• Affordable housing availability
• Overall reputation of Dakota County
To learn more
Higher:
• As a place to raise a family
• As a place to live
• Acceptance of diversity
• Affordable child care availability
Find 2025 Resident Survey findings, including data specific to your part of the county, at www.dakotacounty.us, search survey
Your Commissioners
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 Hamann-Roland District 7
T: 651-438-4411
Front row:
Mary Liz Holberg
Mike Slavik (Chair)
Laurie Halverson
Back row:
Liz Workman
William Droste
Joe Atkins
Mary Hamann-Roland
Tap the app to discover
Browse the Dakota County Library collections, place and manage holds, and renew materials — all from the convenience of a smartphone app.
The app makes things easier. Link multiple accounts to view them all from the same device and check out materials with a scannable library barcode. Search Dakota County Library wherever you get your apps.
Dakota County Library mobile technical support is available at askalibrarian@co.dakota.mn.us.
