Dakota County Newsletter – Fall/Winter 2020

county newsletter

OUR WORK

Cast your vote your way Page 7

PARKS

Programs & events

Fall/Winter 2020

Our pandemic playbook New ways to keep serving you during COVID-19

Page 26

Page 15

GO GREEN

A lowsalt diet Page 23

RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER ***************ECRWSSEDDM***** Dakota County Board of Commissioners Administration Center, 1590 Highway 55 Hastings, MN 55033-2372

ECRWSS THE MIDSTATES GROUP

PAID

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE

Please recycle

A constant during the upheaval of COVID-19 is our commitment to delivering on our mission of providing efficient, effective, responsive government to the residents of Dakota County. This includes launching the state’s most comprehensive free COVID-19 testing for long-term care residents, providing an online dashboard for residents to view updated county COVID-19 data, offering a COVID-19 hotline for residents to get their questions answered by public health professionals, and delivering services — from licensing to libraries — in new and safe ways. Many of the services are highlighted in this issue. In this difficult time, our core values — service, integrity, people and innovation — continue to guide every decision we make to protect the health and safety of those we serve and make Dakota County a premier place in which to live and work.

Contents Feature Page 26

Our pandemic playbook Dakota County responded quickly to the coronavirus this spring. We carefully, but swiftly, transformed the way you access many of the services you rely on.

Learn how we continued to serve you during the COVID-19 pandemic and worked to ensure the health and safety of all residents.

D E PA R T M E N T S

Page 3

Page 7

Page 11

Page 15

Page 23

IN BRIEF

OUR WORK

COMMUNITY

PARKS

GO GREEN

Good mental health is an important part of healthy living.

Learn about mental health resources that can help you and your family in the wake of COVID-19.

If you’re concerned about crowds and maintaining a 6-foot distance at the polls on Election Day, this might be a good year to try your absentee ballot option.

Unemployment reached historic levels this year.

The CareerForce Centers and libraries across the county are offering an array of programs and services to help people find work.

Know the best places for colorful fall hikes and how to beat cabin fever this winter.

Explore everything from trails to lake activities in the year’s most picturesque seasons.

Do your part to reduce the sodium levels in drinking water. Learn practical tips and suggestions about the simple changes you can make in your own home.

F O L LOW U S

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3 COVID-19 MENTAL HEALTH 5 VACCINES 6 DATES FOR YOUR CALENDAR

Promoting wellness, healing and resilience

Good mental health is an important part of healthy living. It affects how we work, learn, communicate and feel about ourselves. That's why Dakota County offers critical services to support and protect your emotional well-being.

Keeping your mental health top-of-mind

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In Brief | COVID-19 Mental health The effects of COVID-19 are leaving a lasting imprint on our residents — one that will take time to mend.

In its wake, the pandemic left thousands unemployed, many with food insecurities, and for others, it upended their mental health and emotional well-being.

Everyone faced a uniquely stressful situation as children were learning at home alongside teleworking or jobless parents. We were asked to isolate from loved ones and shelter at home for weeks. It put strains on parents, guardians, children and families.

On average, 1 in 5 people will experience a mental health condition

at some point in their life. That’s why Dakota County provides the critical services needed to support emotional well-being and remove the stigma of mental illness.

We’re here to help Our Crisis Response Unit fields incoming calls and provides in-person support for those facing a mental health crisis. All crisis responders are experts in social work, counselling or psychology, and are compassionate, caring individuals who want to help.

When receiving a call, the crisis responder stabilizes the situation and

provides interventions tailored to the caller’s specific needs.

…look to the Crisis Response Unit for help.

Responders conduct a mental health assessment and refer those in need to the appropriate level of help, including emergency psychiatry or therapists, case management services, family education and support, local medical services, or housing and food resources. They ensure clients are safe and a plan is in place before the call or in-person meeting is ended.

With increased stress on families due to the pandemic, parents can look to the Crisis Response Unit for help.

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Responders will engage both the parent and child to talk through the issue together.

For noncritical matters, both adults and children can connect with case managers for assessment of mental health needs either over the phone or in person during business hours, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Our team will gather information about the individual to determine service eligibility and find resources and available options.

Resources are available Dakota County also has relationships with organization experts and associations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Mental Health Association of Minnesota and others.

These important partnerships equip our team with the best resources, information and the latest industry trends regarding mental health — all to better serve our residents.

In Brief | Vaccines

If you or a family member is experiencing a mental health crisis,

call our 24/7 crisis line at 952-891-7171.

Safeguarding your health Dakota County also offers training and presentations or consultations on various mental health topics for local organizations and private groups.

For more information about how our mental health services can help you and your family, and how to access local resources, go to www.dakotacounty.us, search mental health. If you or a family member is experiencing a mental health crisis, call our 24/7 crisis line at 952-891-7171.

Anyone who has experienced the fever, muscle aches and fatigue associated with the seasonal flu understands the importance of an annual influenza vaccination. Influenza can cause serious, even life-threatening, complications. As we enter another flu season, it’s important to protect you and your family.

The Minnesota Department of Health recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get a flu vaccine — especially those who are considered high-risk such as adults 65 and older, pregnant women, young children and those with serious health conditions like asthma, cancer and autoimmune disorders.

Dakota County immunization clinics offer free flu vaccines for adults and children who do not have health

insurance or have insurance that does not cover vaccines, children who are American Indian or Alaskan Native, and children on a Minnesota Health Care Program such as Medical Assistance, MnCare or Prepaid Medical Assistance Program. Children under the age of 18, must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or have written consent.

For more information about the immunization clinics and the clinic schedule, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search vaccines or call 952-891-7999.

…everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine… fall/winter 2020 | www.dakotacounty.us |

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In Brief | Dates for your calendar

Plan on it Know what to do this fall and winter.

DATE

Monthly

Oct. 1–Nov. 5

October 2020–January 2021

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

• Sept. 19, noon–3 p.m.

• Oct. 17, noon–3 p.m.

• Nov. 21, noon-3 p.m.

• Dec. 5, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Master waste reduction, recycling and composting and learn to inspire others on Thursdays, 6:30–8:30 p.m. at Dodge Nature Center in West St. Paul. www.dakotacounty.us, search master recycler.

Immunization Clinics

Ride DakotaLink, a free bus service between Dakota County Judicial Center in Hastings, Cedar Grove Transit Station in Eagan and Signal Hills Shopping Center in West St. Paul. Riders start and end in Hastings. Registration required; email godakota@co.dakota.mn.us. www.dakotacounty.us, search dakotalink.

• Oct. 20, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

• Nov. 6, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Attend one of three online trainings to learn about transportation options — like Metro Transit, Transit Link and Lyft/Uber — available in Dakota County.

Email godakota@co.dakota.mn.us to register. www.dakotacounty.us, search godakota.

• Oct. 6, 1–2 p.m.

• Nov. 17, 10–11 a.m.

• Jan. 21, 9–10 a.m.

Virtual Fix-It Clinic

Immunizations are available for uninsured adults and children at the Northern and Western service centers. Find more information at www.dakotacounty.us, search immunization clinics.

Master Recycler/Composter Class

October–November

DakotaLink Ride Along

Transportation Options

Nov. 14

Recycle at Multifamily Buildings Join us online from 2–3 p.m. to learn how to improve or start recycling at your apartment, condo or townhome. www.dakotacounty.us, search community events.

Get a grip on winter driving Ease the stress and stay safe on winter roads by following these five easy tips.

Slow down

Speed limits are set for ideal driving conditions. When road conditions are less than ideal, slow down — don’t take chances.

Maintain your vehicle

Make sure your antifreeze, battery, brakes, exhaust and lights are all working properly and always keep at least a half tank of gas in your vehicle.

Give snowplows room to work

At times, it’s difficult for snowplow drivers to see your vehicle. Give them room to clear the road. If you can’t see the snowplow mirrors, the operator can’t see you. Avoid driving next to snowplows, turning in front of them or driving into snow clouds produced by the plows.

Plan for emergencies

Carry booster cables, road flares, a shovel, blankets, boots, mittens, a hat, a windshield scraper, two ropes and a winter survival kit in your vehicle all season.

Know the road

Before heading out on winter roads, call 511 or visit www.511mn.org for current road conditions. www.dakotacounty.us, search winter driving tips

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Dakota County Votes!

7 CAST YOUR VOTE YOUR WAY 9 A SMART TOOL 10 SAFE EXCHANGE

Cast your vote your way You have three ways to make your vote count this fall

We want every Dakota County resident to feel safe when voting in the Nov. 3 general election.

Knowing your voting options can help you make the best choice for you. There are three ways to cast your ballot — with an absentee ballot, by early voting or in person on Election Day.

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Our Work | Cast your vote your way

Voting absentee

Early voting

Casting an absentee ballot is convenient. You can request a ballot online, by mail or in person at your city hall or any county library, service center or license center.

When you get your ballot, just fill it out and turn it in at the service center or city hall, or mail it using the instructions and return envelope we provide. You can find absentee ballot information and your polling location at www.dakotacounty.us, search voting.

Early voting is available if you want to cast your ballot in person but prefer not to at a polling place Nov. 3. From Oct. 27–Nov. 2, you can cast your ballot and place it directly into a ballot counter, just as you would on Election Day.

You can also return your ballot in person no later than 3 p.m. on Election Day to the county or city office that sent your ballot. You can check the status of your absentee ballot at www.mnvotes.org.

Cast your ballot at your polling place on Election Day. Find your polling place at www.mnvotes.org. Voting hours are 7 a.m.–8 p.m.

Absentee voting is also available for people serving in the military or living abroad. You can apply online for an overseas absentee ballot at www.mnvotes.org.

Absentee balloting begins Sept. 18.

Early voting can be done at the county Administration Center in Hastings or at your city hall.

In-person voting

Before you cast a ballot, you need to be registered to vote. If you’re not already registered, you can take care of that anytime up to 21 days before the election, or you can register in person at your polling place on Election Day. You should register after you turn 18 years old or if your name or address changes.

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Go to www.dakotacounty.us and search voting to find registration instructions.

If you have a disability, we make sure you have the equipment needed to cast a ballot. There is an accessible voting system at every polling place as well as at county service centers and city halls for voting. You can zoom in or out on the ballot, use an audio ballot or see a high-contrast version of your ballot. You may have someone join you to help with the voting process, or a team of two election judges also can assist you.

Securing the vote As a county, we are responsible for overseeing elections, and we take that very seriously. We provide training to city and township clerks and election judges, and our election employees get the same training.

Our voting equipment is tested three times leading up to Election Day, and we double-check the results after the election. We also make sure the number of voters equals the number

Our Work | A SMART tool

Giving first responders the right tools

of votes cast. Every polling location has the same testing requirements.

At least two people handle each ballot.

To ensure your vote is counted, we check the results that are collected in each precinct on Election Day and all absentee and early ballots cast. Those numbers get reviewed and certified by our canvassing board before being sent to the Secretary of State.

…follow us on Facebook and Twitter for upto-the-minute election results.

Get election results After the vote, follow us on Facebook and Twitter for up-to-the-minute election results.

We also post election results on the county website at www.dakotacounty.us, search election results. Dakota County will report results on election night and continue to update the results until all accepted ballots have been counted by Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2020.

These results will only include votes cast within the county. For full results of state and federal races, go to www.mnvotes.org.

When our first responders help someone suffering a mental health crisis, they need tools for a difficult and unpredictable situation. That’s why we’re partnering with other agencies to build the Safety and Mental Health Alternative Response Training (SMART) Center, so law enforcement, paramedics, firefighters and other first responders have a place to learn new ways to assist people in crisis and de-escalate dangerous situations.

In June, we started construction on the SMART Center, located next to the Inver Grove Heights fire station at Highway 52 and Concord Boulevard.

The 35,000-square-foot training center will be home to the Minnesota Crisis Intervention Team, experts who teach crisis response training to our first responders and others from across the state. This team has not had a permanent facility to conduct their training.

At the SMART Center, they will use a large training room and four individual rooms that can be staged with furniture to simulate different locations, such

as a hotel room or apartment, where first responders might find someone in crisis.

Crisis training is the main purpose for the SMART Center, but it will have other important uses. It will also house investigation units that work with police departments in the county and metro area to solve crimes.

This is a smart move because they can work more efficiently as they investigate crimes that extend beyond Dakota County to the metro area and in many cases across the state.

The sheriff’s office also will keep some water rescue equipment at the SMART Center, so it’s close to rivers and lakes in northern Dakota County.

Construction is scheduled to be complete by early summer 2021.

Providing a flexible and dedicated space for our first responders to get the training they need to help those who suffer from mental illness in our community will make Dakota County and the surrounding area an even better and safer place to live.

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Our Work | Safe exchange

Sell your stuff the safe way Millions of items are bought and sold every day through marketplace websites like Craigslist and Facebook. It goes without saying, you should always use extra caution when completing online transactions. That’s why Dakota County offers swap spots for residents to exchange items that are purchased or sold online.

Regardless of where you meet the buyer or seller, it’s recommended that you always meet at a public place, bring a friend or family member, meet during daylight hours, always have your cellphone and never invite a stranger to your home. Always trust your instincts and take additional safety precautions as needed.

Two swap spot locations are available at the Government Center in Hastings.

Look for posted signs in the lobby of the Law Enforcement Center (LEC) and the parking lot next to the Juvenile Service Center (JSC) — both sites are available 24 hours a day. Residents can use the lobby of the LEC with staff present Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The JSC parking lot may be better suited for large items and has a blue security pillar with a 911 calling feature and camera recording capability.

The swap spot locations can also be used for child custody exchanges or any transaction where meeting in a public location will promote your personal safety.

For more information about Dakota County’s swap spot locations, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search swap spots.

Dakota County Sheriff

D SOL

More time to get REAL Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government has delayed 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 a federal facility. The deadline was pushed back to Oct. 1, 2021.

centers to apply for a REAL ID or enhanced driver’s license. To make an appointment, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search license centers.

the Minnesota Driver & Vehicle Services pre-application form to complete ahead of time. You can also find a list of accepted identification documents.

The Dakota County website has information to help you spend less time at the counter. You can access

Oct. 1, 2021

Dakota County is trying to make it easier for you to meet this deadline during these challenging times. You can now reserve an appointment at Dakota County license

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11 TOOLS FOR SUCCESS 14 LEARN WITH LYNDA

Library

Careerforce center

Tools for success Helping you find your career path

the job

If you’re looking for employment, want to improve your resume or sharpen your existing skills, Dakota County has the resources and expertise you need at our CareerForce Centers and nine library locations.

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Community | Tools for success With unemployment rates at historic levels, Dakota County is responding and offering services to help.

Programming and services offered at CareerForce Centers in Burnsville and West St. Paul and library locations throughout the county are tailored to meet today’s unique needs and designed to support you with every step.

Innovative services at CareerForce Centers CareerForce Center representatives are dedicated to helping job seekers land a job or those seeking a career change. Start with scheduling a one-on-one phone session with a representative. They’ll assist with job search tips, share available resources, help showcase your skills on your

resume, connect you to employers who are currently hiring, and get you prepared and ready for an interview.

Our CareerForce Centers also offer a variety of events, webinars, workshops and a host of professional development classes to learn how to create a high-quality resume, improve networking skills and more.

The Career Lab, located within each center, has available computers with internet access and printers for your job-seeking needs. All are free of charge.

Computers with internet access and printers for your job-seeking needs are all free of charge.

Hiring events are popular and held at the centers in West St. Paul

and Burnsville. Companies and organizations actively seeking employees are available to answer questions about their employment opportunities and hiring process.

Representatives provide good insight to what it’s like working at a particular company. We also offer industryspecific hiring events that feature health care, manufacturing and technology. Make sure to bring copies of your resume.

Mark your calendar for an upcoming job fair to connect and network with many local companies — all on the same day and location. It’s a valued opportunity to expand your jobseeking network with employers and fellow job seekers.

We also invite local companies to participate on a panel where you can ask company representatives about their organization. This is

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If you are looking to make a career change and not sure where to start, try Traitify, an online assessment tool that recommends a career path, possible jobs, and the education needed based on personality and preference data. Traitify is an imagebased test, and it only takes about 90 seconds to complete. Access Traitify on the library’s website to get started.

an opportunity for you to better understand what hiring managers or human resources professionals are looking for in a candidate.

The CareerForce Centers offer online webinars and virtual workshops.

Topics include how to leverage social media, finding a job over the age of 40, networking tactics and more. All classes are free.

The CareerForce Centers offer online webinars and virtual workshops.

If you’re looking to make a career change, you can take advantage of the center’s resources, too. Our tools can help make the transition easier and more productive. For starters, complete an online assessment to review your current skills and experience and find out how it aligns to other possible career options. Then, learn about the current demand and wage levels.

The centers also offer specialized career services for current and former military members, those with disabilities, people who have currently lost their job, and individuals who may have difficulty securing employment.

These services include one-on-one meetings with employment counselors and support for additional education.

For more information about the CareerForce Center and upcoming events, webinars and workshops, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search careerforce center.

Resources at your local library Your Dakota County library card gives you access to countless online tools and in-person services to help you find a job or expand your expertise.

Maximize your job search efforts with expert advice from a job coach through JobNow, an online tool with a suite of resources for job seekers available on the library website.

Connect ‘live’ with a job coach to review your resume and host a mock interview to polish your skills. Job coaches are available Monday–Friday, 1–11 p.m.

Computers are also available at the library — check availability at www.dakotacounty.us/library. All computers have word processing software to write a resume or cover letter and internet access to search and apply for jobs online.

Free interactive tutorials for career development and tools essential for workplace success.

The LearningExpress Library, a compilation of e-learning solutions, provides interactive tutorials for career development and tools essential for workplace success.

Use the resume builder to create an effective resume, explore indemand occupations, take a skills and interest-matcher quiz, and search for internships and jobs. Visit the library’s website to access the LearningExpress Library and log in using your library card.

The libraries also host a variety of free in-person or online classes to help you with your job search and to enhance your career skills. Available classes include resume rescue, email etiquette, interviewing skills, computer and internet basics, and more.

We expanded our job readiness materials in both print and digital resources like e-books and audiobooks. Connect in person or by phone with a librarian who can assist you with locating job search materials.

For more information about career services or to register for a class offered at the library, visit www.dakotacounty.us/library, search career services.

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Community | Learn with Lynda

Never stop learning with Lynda Using your Dakota County library card, you have free access to Lynda.com, an online learning platform with thousands of how-to video tutorials.

Courses are taught by recognized industry professionals with real-world experience. Learn business, software, technology and creative skills to achieve your personal and professional goals.

Whether you’re trying to find a new job, get a promotion or make a career change, training courses on Lynda.com can help. Experts offer tips about interviewing, leadership, resume writing and more. Or, learn what it takes to start your own business,

from understanding the responsibilities of entrepreneurship to discovering the legal, financial and operational aspects of a future business.

Complete individual courses or a Learning Path, a recommended list of multiple courses related to a specific professional topic or career. Once you’ve completed a Learning Path, you’ll be able to share this accomplishment on your LinkedIn account.

To access Lynda.com, visit www.dakotacounty.us/library, search lynda.com and log in using your library card credentials.

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Create a profile to build a custom video playlist of your preferences or use an already-curated list compiled by Lynda.com. To create a list, search for subject areas that interest you and click the plus sign next to the video title. All saved courses are conveniently located in one area where you can track progress and completion status.

Course offerings on Lynda.com are updated and added regularly — make sure you visit often to access more learning opportunities.

Your Parks PROGRAMS & EVENTS • FALL & WINTER 2020

Seasons of fun

What to do in Dakota County Parks this fall and winter

PLUS

Cross-country ski lessons New camper cabins Trails by Candlelight FOLLOW US

www.dakotacounty.us/parks www.dakotacounty.us/parks

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Seasons of fun

From bright gold and orange to sparkling white, Dakota County Parks offer colorful one-of-a-kind views and experiences throughout the fall and winter seasons.

Fall is an especially majestic time of year to visit with the explosion of color throughout the parks’ landscape. Varieties of maple, oak, birch and poplar trees burst into a rainbow of red, yellow, orange, green and brown. Bring the entire family to explore miles of unique hiking trails that lead deep into the forests where you can kick back and enjoy a cool autumn breeze and vibrant rustling leaves. Four-legged family members are welcome, too.

Some of the best places for fall hikes in Dakota County parks are in the woods around Jensen Lake in Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan, along Trout Brook in Miesville Ravine Park Reserve near Miesville, and atop the bluffs in Spring Lake Park Reserve near Hastings.

If you’re looking for faster paced recreation, zip past scattering leaves while biking or inline skating miles of trails on the River to River, Mississippi River or Minnesota River greenways. River to River Greenway offers gorgeous views

of brightly colored woods at Thompson County Park in West St. Paul and Kaposia Park and Simon’s Ravine in South St. Paul.

Take in panoramic views of the majestic river valleys along the northern and eastern borders of the county on the Minnesota River and Mississippi River greenways. Trail access, parking and restrooms are all available at trailheads in Eagan, Mendota Heights, West St. Paul, South St. Paul, Inver Grove Heights and Hastings.

If mountain biking is more to your liking, challenge yourself to a colorful ride on the twists and turns of one of Minnesota’s top-rated trails at Lebanon Hills Regional Park.

Winter brings both thrilling and restful family outdoor recreation to the parks.

Stay active and beat cabin fever by crosscountry skiing miles of award-winning trails at Lebanon Hills Regional Park or the beautiful trails at Spring Lake Park Reserve. If skiing isn’t your thing, visit

any Dakota County park to hike miles of winding trails or snowshoe scenic woods and prairies.

Frozen lakes in Lebanon Hills Regional Park offer opportunities for kicksledding, ice skating and ice fishing. Don’t own any equipment? No problem. Rent snowshoes, kicksleds and cross-county skis at the Lebanon Hills Visitor Center.

Throughout the winter season, many animals are still very active looking for food and shelter in the parks.

When you’re looking for more relaxing recreation, try tracking deer, opossum, red fox, squirrel and muskrat prints in the freshly fallen snow or spotting brightly colored birds such as cardinals and blue jays that pop against the winter backdrop. For a special treat, head to Schaar’s Bluff in Spring Lake Park Reserve to watch eagles soar over the Mississippi River Valley.

Winter also offers the opportunity to enjoy the subtle stillness of nature in the deep woods by day at Miesville Ravine

New camper cabins

Park Reserve or under the moon and stars on cool, crisp nights at Thompson County Park in West St. Paul. Trails by Candlelight and other special events provide great opportunities for you and your family and friends to get out and enjoy nature in this spectacular season.

If you are looking to spend a night away from the normal bustle of life, stay at a cozy cabin in Whitetail Woods Regional Park in Empire Township. Each cabin offers a camping experience you won’t soon forget. Elevated among the conifer trees, the cabin’s 14-foot glass wall offers a sense of sleeping in a tree house any time of year.

From novice to seasoned veteran, active outdoor sports to peaceful nature observation, the parks have so much to offer in fall and winter. Get out and enjoy two of Minnesota’s most beautiful seasons in Dakota County Parks.

Because of their overwhelming popularity, Dakota County added two camper cabins for you to enjoy at Whitetail Woods Regional Park.

Located on the northern edge of the park, the newly built cabins are on the edge of a pine forest, overlooking native prairie grasslands and the Vermillion River Valley.

Camper cabins are a perfect option if you want modern conveniences while enjoying the great outdoors.

Each cabin comfortably sleeps six and includes a dining table, lounge area, a sleeper sofa, bunk beds with full and queen-size mattresses, and electricity.

Outside the cabin, you’ll find a picnic table and campfire ring with seating.

Both cabins are close to showers, jug filler and toilets.

Woods like hiking, play areas and geocaching. Or, try sledding, crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months.

Camper cabins are available yearround and require a minimum two-night stay with a maximum of six nights within a 30-day period.

Reservations are accepted at least seven days prior to your arrival date and as much as one year in advance.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search camper cabins.

During your stay, take advantage of the attractions at Whitetail

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Biking Boating

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Camper cabin Camping Canoeing/Kayaking

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Cross-country skiing Dog on-leash

Pick up a Parks and Greenways Guide at any park facility.

Dogsledding/Skijoring Fishing

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Gardening Geocaching Hiking

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Horseback riding

In-line skating

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Kicksledding Mountain biking

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Picnicking Play area Recreational bonfire

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Skate skiing Sledding Snowshoeing Swimming

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Visitor Center Walking

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Nature play Paddleboarding

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Horseshoes Ice skating

Whitetail Woods Regional Park

Thompson County Park

Archery

Spring Lake Park Reserve

Miesville Ravine Park Reserve

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Lake Byllesby Regional Park

PARKS AND GREENWAYS

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Equipment Rental

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PROGRAMS & EVENTS

www.dakotacounty.us/parks Click programs & events

PROGRAM SAFETY DURING COVID-19

All programs and events are in-person and require registration. Modifications have been made to follow current COVID-19 state health guidelines. As guidelines change, some programs may be converted to virtual format.

Visit www.dakotacounty.us/parks for the latest program information.

HOMESCHOOL LAB YOUTH KNEE-HIGH NATURALISTS

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

Ages: 3–6 Fee: $8/youth Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Losing Leaves

Learn how trees change during fall to prepare for winter.

Activity Number: 212001-01 • Thu, Oct. 15; 10–11:30 am Activity Number: 212001-02 • Sat, Oct. 10; 10–11:30 am

Rowdy Raccoons

Learn about raccoons and the myths and truths about these rowdy animals.

Activity Number: 212001-03 • Thu, Nov. 12; 10–11:30 am Activity Number: 212001-04 • Sat, Nov. 14; 10–11:30 am

Winter Tracks

Explore the park to look for animal signs and tracks. Make your own track art.

Activity Number: 212001-06 • Sat, Dec. 12; 10–11:30 am Activity Number: 212001-05 • Thu, Dec. 17; 10–11:30 am

Frosty Fun

Use kicksleds or snowshoes to explore the park in winter.

Activity Number: 212001-07 • Thu, Jan. 21; 10–11:30 am Activity Number: 212001-08 • Sat, Jan. 23; 10–11:30 am

Squirrel Tales

Learn about squrriels, what they eat and where they live.

Activity Number: 212001-09 • Thu, Feb. 11; 10–11:30 am Activity Number: 212001-10 • Sat, Feb. 13; 10–11:30 am

Animal Senses

We can smell, taste, hear, touch and see. Other animals can too. Explore the world of animal senses.

Activity Number: 212001-11 • Thu, March 11; 10–11:30 am Activity Number: 212001-12 • Sat, March 13; 10–11:30 am

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

Ages: 6–12 Fee: $8/youth Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Invasive Invaders

Learn how some non-native invasive species got here and why they’re not a welcome part of the local ecosystem.

Activity Number: 211501-01 • Wed, Oct. 7; 1–3 pm

Invented by Nature

Explore the natural inspiration behind everyday objects and discover what could inspire your next great invention.

Activity Number: 211501-02 • Wed, Nov. 4; 1–3 pm

Project Feederwatch

Join an international citizen science project and make your own seed ornament.

Activity Number: 211501-03 • Wed, Dec. 2; 1–3 pm

Ice Art

Investigate the properties of snow and ice and create your own winter masterpieces.

Activity Number: 211501-04 • Wed, Jan. 6; 1–3 pm

Cross-county Skiing

Learn the basics of cross-country skiing and hit the trails to practice.

Activity Number: 211501-05 • Wed, Feb. 3; 1–3 pm

Weather

Make observations, collect data and predict the weather.

Activity Number: 211501-06 • Wed, March 3; 1–3 pm

SCOUT BADGES

Earn your scout badge or adventure in these two-hour programs.

Fee: $8/youth Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Daisy Girl Scouts — Eco Learner

Learn how to protect the environment through practices like Leave No Trace while earning your badge.

Ages: 5–6 Activity Number: 212301-01 • Sat, Oct. 24; 2–4 pm

Tiger Cub Scouts — Tigers in the Wild

Learn what you need for a hike and hike in the park to explore the trees, plants and animals along the trails.

Ages: 6–7 Activity Number: 212305-01 • Sat, Nov. 14; 2–4 pm

Brownie Girl Scouts — Outdoor Adventurer

Learn what to bring on a hike and how to read a map. Take a hike while earning your badge.

Ages: 6–9 Activity Number: 212302-01 • Sun, Nov. 15; 2–4 pm

Wolf Cub Scouts — Finding Your Way

Complete your adventure by learning how to read and use a compass and map — including symbols and keys — and going on a scavenger hunt.

Ages: 7–8 Activity Number: 212306-01 • Sat, Nov. 21; 10 am–noon

Webelos — Into the Woods

Learn the roles animals and plants play in maintaining healthy park ecosystems.

Ages: 9–11 Activity Number: 212308-01 • Sun, Nov. 1; 2–4 pm

Junior Girl Scouts — Animal Habitats

Discover the amazing ways animals build shelters and the habitats they call home.

Ages: 9–11 Activity Number: 212303-01 • Fri, Oct. 16; 2–4 pm

SENSORY FRIENDLY SUNDAYS Learn about the seasons and what's happening outdoors through books and short activities in our indoor classroom.

Ages: 5–10 Free Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Autumn

Activity Number: 211004-01 • Sun, Nov. 15; 10–11 am

Winter

Activity Number: 211004-02 • Sun, Feb. 7; 10–11 am

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

www.dakotacounty.us/parks Click Programs & Events

Raptor Night FAMILY FOREVER WILD FAMILY FRIDAY

Join us for family fun on the first Friday of every month with park activities.

All ages Free Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Bats, Bats, Bats

Explore the world of bats with fun hands-on activities, storytime and more.

Activity Number: 211001-01 • Fri, Oct. 2; 6–7:30 pm

Sounds of the Night

Try a nighttime scavenger hunt for your ears. Bring a headlamp or flashlight.

Activity Number: 211001-02 • Fri, Nov. 6; 6–7:30 pm

Nature Trivia

Test your knowledge at family-fun nature trivia.

Activity Number: 211001-03 • Fri, Dec. 4; 6–7:30 pm

Fun on the Ice

Enjoy an evening on the ice under the lights. Bring your own skates or try one of our kicksleds.

Activity Number: 211001-04 • Fri, Jan. 8; 6–7:30 pm

Sledding Party

Bring your own sled for a fun party on our lit sledding hill.

Activity Number: 211001-05 • Fri, Feb. 5; 6–7:30 pm

Wolf 101

Join the International Wolf Center in a virtual program to learn about wolves and meet a wolf ambassador.

Activity Number: 211001-06 • Fri, March 5; 6–7:30 pm

NATURE NIGHT

Join us for free family fun each season with park activities and a bonfire.

All ages Free Dakota Lodge Thompson County Park

Park After Dark

Learn about nighttime city creatures and how we can peacefully co-exist with them.

Activity Number: 211003-01 • Fri, Nov. 20; 6:30–8 pm

Learn about raptors with the Raptor Center and enjoy s'mores around the campfire.

Activity Number: 211003-02 • Fri, Feb. 12; 6:30–8 pm

STARWATCH

See the stars and learn about constellations with Mike Lynch.

All ages Fee: $8/person Empire Lake Shelter Whitetail Woods Regional Park Activity Number: 111704-01 • Wed, Oct. 14; 6:45–8:30 pm

CREATURES OF THE NIGHT

Take a hike and learn how animals adapt to the night and how darkness can play tricks on our senses.

Ages: 5 and older Fee: $5/person Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 211404-01 • Fri, Oct. 30; 6–8 pm

LET'S GO OWLING

Delve into the world of owls and take a hike for a chance to hear and see these nocturnal hunters.

Ages: 5 and older Fee: $5/person Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 211702-01 • Sat, Dec. 19; 4:30–6:30 pm Activity Number: 211702-01 • Sat, Jan. 9; 4:30–6:30 pm

PARENT CHILD CROSS-COUNTRY SKI LESSONS Learn the basic skills of classic-style cross-country skiing in a familyfriendly environment.

Ages: 5 and older Fee: $15/person Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 210602-01 • Sun, Jan. 10; 2–4 pm Activity Number: 210602-02 • Sat, Jan. 30; 10 am–noon Activity Number: 210602-03 • Sat, Feb. 6; 2–4 pm Activity Number: 210602-04 • Sat, Feb. 20; 10 am–noon

ADULT FALL COLORS CANOE

Learn how to paddle and portage to experience the brilliant colors of fall.

Ages: 16 and older Fee: $15/person Schulze Beach Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 211901-01 • Sat, Oct. 3; 1–4 pm

BEGINNER ARCHERY

Learn archery stance, follow through, equipment styles and safety. Hone your new skills with target practice.

Ages: 16 and older Fee: $15/person Archery Shelter Spring Lake Park Reserve Activity Number: 110102-01 • Sun, Oct. 4; noon–2:30 pm

BUCKTHORN SPOON CARVING Discover how to carve a spoon using freshly cut buckthorn with instructors from Women's Woodshop. Learn about axing out a blank, knife skills, and drying and finishing.

Ages: 18 and older Fee: $60/person Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 211709-01 • Sun, Oct. 18; noon–3 pm

NORTHERN SAW-WHET BANDING

Learn about the northern saw-whet owl in this program co-sponsored

by Carpenter Nature Center. Watch staff band owls and discover what makes these small creatures unique.

All ages Fee: $10/person Gathering Center Spring Lake Park Reserve Activity Number: 211711-01 • Wed, Oct. 28; 8–9 pm

CIDER AND CEDARS

Sip on hot apple cider and create festive wreaths of Cedar boughs, harvested from the park as part of natural resources restoration efforts.

Ages: 16 and older Fee: $20/person Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 210204-01 • Tue, Dec. 8; 6–8:30 pm Activity Number: 210204-02 • Wed, Dec. 9; 11 am–1:30 pm

LIVING GREEN

Join environmental specialists to learn living green techniques.

Ages: 16 and older Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Recycling 101

Can you recycle black plastic? How about wrapping paper? Get your questions answered and learn home-recycling basics.

Free Activity Number: 212402-01 • Thu, Jan. 28; 6–7:30 pm

Food Preservation

Reduce food waste by learning food preservation techniques including dehydrating, canning and freezing.

Free Activity Number: 212402-02 • Sat, Feb. 27; 2–3:30 pm

Call 952-891-7000 to register Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Vermiculture

Learn the basics of composting with worms. Learn the benefits of vermicomposting and create your own bin.

Free Activity Number: 212402-03 • Wed, March 10; 6–7:30 pm

BACKYARD AGRICULTURE: BEEKEEPING BASICS

Learn how to start your own apiary with JoAnne Sabin of the Minnesota Beekeepers Association. Discover honeybee biology and behavior, hive management and swarm prevention.

Ages: 16 and older Fee: $40/person Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 211301-01 • Weds, Jan. 13, 20 & 27; 6–9 pm

FULL MOON SNOWSHOE

Explore the woods on a guided snowshoe hike under the light of a full moon.

Ages: 16 and older Fee: $15/person Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 211401-02 • Sat, Feb. 27; 7–9 pm

CROSS-COUNTRY SKI LESSONS Learn about equipment, trails and technique in this introduction to classic-style cross-country skiing.

Ages: 16 and older Fee: $25/person Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 210603-01 • Sun, Jan. 10; 10 am–noon Activity Number: 210603-02 • Sat, Jan. 30; 2–4 pm Activity Number: 210603-03 • Sat, Feb. 6; 10 am–noon Activity Number: 210603-04 • Sat, Feb. 20; 2–4 pm

EVENTS OPT OUTSIDE: Mammoths, Mastodons and Musk Ox, oh my!

The annual open house-style, free family event returns on Black Friday.

New for 2020 are activities in three parks. Stroll along the Ice Age Trail, use your own GPS or phone app to search for themed geocaches and take on our annual medallion hunt.

All ages Free • Fri, Nov. 27; 10 am–4 pm Activity Number: 210804-01 Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Visitor Center Trailhead Activity Number: 210804-02 Whitetail Woods Regional Park, Main Trailhead Activity Number: 210804-03 Thompson County Park, North Picnic Shelter

NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY

Celebrate all things winter with candlelight ice skating, hiking and snowshoeing. Hang out at the A-frame and warm up with crackling bonfires. Stay for the ball drop at 7:59 p.m. Bring your own sled.

All ages Fee: $8/person; youth ages 3 and younger free. Tickets on sale Dec. 1.

Visitor Center Lebanon Hills Regional Park Activity Number: 210802-01 • Thu, Dec. 31; 5–8 pm

TRAILS BY CANDELIGHT

Enjoy parks by flickering candlelight and warm up by crackling bonfires.

A variety of trails and distances will be lit with hundreds of candles.

Dogs not allowed at this event.

Dakota County Parks ski pass required for skiers.

All ages Fee: $8/person; youth ages 5 and younger free. Tickets on sale Dec. 1.

Thompson County Park

Walk around the lake and through the woods on hiking and snowshoe trails and plowed walking trails.

Dakota Lodge Activity Number: 210803-01 • Fri, Jan. 22; 6–9 pm

Spring Lake Park Reserve

Take in the stunning views of the Mississippi River as you enjoy cross-country ski trails and plowed walking trails. Bring your own equipment.

Gathering Center Activity Number: 210803-02 • Fri, Jan. 29; 6–9 pm

Lebanon Hills Regional Park

Enjoy, hiking and snowshoe trails, plowed walking trails, and awardwinning cross-country ski trails.

Ski and snowshoe rental available.

Visitor Center Activity Number: 210803-03 • Fri, Feb. 19; 6–9 pm

•

INFORMATION REGISTRATION To register online, search for the program using the activity number or a keyword in the program title.

In response to COVID-19: • Registration is required for all classes and events.

• Modifications have been made to all programming to follow current COVID-19 state health guidelines.

• All programs and events are in-person. However, they may be converted to a virtual format to follow current COVID-19 health guidelines.

• For updated information, visit www.dakotacounty.us/parks.

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.

EQUIPMENT Provided unless specified.

NEED EQUIPMENT? Rent kicksleds, snowshoes and cross-country ski equipment at the Lebanon Hills Visitor Center.

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

Unplug to recharge. www.dakotacounty.us/parks

23 LOW-SALT DIET 25 RECYCLING TROUBLEMAKERS

Putting Dakota County on a low-salt diet

For years, doctors have been telling people to stick to a low-salt diet. According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, our lakes, streams and groundwater should follow the same advice.

How you can help reduce salt to reduce pollution

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Go Green | Headline When temperatures fall, we rely on salt to remove snow and ice. Salt contains chloride — a pollutant. When melting occurs, the salt washes into our waterways and groundwater. Once in the water, there’s no cost-effective way to remove chloride. That’s a big problem when roughly 90 percent of Dakota County residents rely on groundwater for drinking.

The University of Minnesota estimates more than 350,000 tons of salt is used annually on metro roads. That’s enough to pollute 200 billion gallons of water — every year.

Less is more when it comes to salting.

Using more salt doesn’t make sidewalks safer, but it can harm fish and plant life, and, over time the surfaces where it’s applied.

Dakota County continually looks for ways to curb salt use on winter roads.

Temperature and other conditions and different types and amounts of salt produce different results. Finding the best combination reduced our salt use nearly 40 percent per snow event compared to 2010.

Using the right salt makes a difference.

Regular road salt is effective to a pavement temperature of about 15 degrees. At lower temperatures, we use an organic product derived from sugar beets to improve melting. Sand can also be used at lower temperatures to provide temporary traction. Using the wrong product can result in the need to reapply — using even more salt.

To ensure we aren’t using more salt than needed, we train snowplow drivers to improve efficiency and reduce the environmental impacts of winter road maintenance. Snowplows also are equipped with computer-

assisted application and calibration to ensure the right amount of salt is used.

Homeowners can help, too.

It only takes one teaspoon of salt to pollute five gallons of water. Reducing the amount of salt used to melt ice and snow on sidewalks and driveways by just one teaspoon during each application can help. It doesn’t sound like much, but with more than 173,000 residences in Dakota County, that can add up to reducing chloride pollution in 865,000 gallons of water with each snow event.

Maintaining your water softener can also help. The salt used in softeners is discharged to septic systems or local wastewater treatment plants before it ends up in our surface or ground water.

You can help Hire certified.

Outside Shovel first.

Remove most snow and ice first to reduce the amount of salt needed.

Apply less.

Check temperature.

If the pavement temperature is 15 degrees or colder, use sand instead.

Reuse. Sweep up

When your household size changes or you purchase water-efficient appliances or fixtures, try extending time between regeneration cycles.

Fix problems.

Skip outside spigots and drinking water taps. Exception: If your drinking water comes from a private well and needs softening to reduce manganese or if your city’s water treatment does not reduce manganese.

Repair roof and downspout drainage problems on steps and sidewalks.

A 12-ounce cup of salt is enough for 10 sidewalk squares.

Inside

15°

Adjust timer.

Find certified snow removal contractors at www.pca.state.mn.us, search hire certified applicator or to get certified, visit www.pca.state.mn.us, search salt training.

Check efficiency.

If your softener uses more than one bag of salt per month, have it adjusted or replaced with a high-efficiency or demand-based model.

excess salt and reuse it.

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Soften wisely.

Save money.

Test water to determine if you need a softener. For manganese and hardness testing, visit www.dakotacounty.us, search water test.

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F E A T U R E

S T O R Y

Our pandemic playbook New ways to keep serving you during COVID-19

F E A T U R E

S T O R Y

The COVID-19 pandemic transformed our lives in so many ways. Where we go, who we spend time with, how we work and shop, and when we see family and friends — coronavirus changed all of it. It also dramatically changed how we serve you.

Dakota County responded quickly to the threat of the virus early this spring. We cautiously, but swiftly, transformed the many services residents rely on — from mental health and emergency assistance to transportation planning, real estate recording and library book pickup. We made major changes to continue serving you efficiently and safely.

We did it with three priorities in mind: • To continue providing the critical services you depend on.

• To ensure county employees can work productively and safely.

• To protect the health and safety of all residents and employees — above all else.

Dakota County helped residents stay healthy and assisted those who tested positive. We started sharing information about the risk of COVID-19

28 | www.dakotacounty.us | fall/winter 2020

in January, and by early February, set up a public health operations center to coordinate the work ahead.

The first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Dakota County on March 12. That grew to nearly 50 cases by the end of March and to more than 2,000 by the end of June. In that time, there were 86 coronavirus-related deaths in the county.

Roughly 75 percent were among people living in long-term or assisted-living facilities.

To limit the virus’ spread, county public health workers stepped up to help state employees who couldn’t process the volume of cases across Minnesota on their own. County nurses called residents who tested positive to the virus to learn when they developed symptoms, where they had been and who they spent time with. Then, those who may have come in contact with the individual who tested positive were called. In the first two months of this work, 36 Dakota County nurses logged more than 900 hours conducting nearly 300 interviews.

People who test positive for COVID-19 need to quarantine in their home for two weeks after their diagnosis. To help them get the essentials they need, we provided nearly 200 residents with food, protective equipment, medication, thermometers and household cleaning supplies from mid-April to mid-June and continued to fulfill requests for positive cases throughout the summer.

Of major concern throughout this pandemic was the spread in long-term and assistedliving facilities. Those residents are especially vulnerable because they often have underlying

health issues that can put their lives at risk. In June, we partnered with a mobile clinic to conduct coronavirus testing of these residents and their caregivers to help curb the spread.

Our public health experts are a resource for the community.

They work with local schools, businesses, churches and child care facilities, providing information to help them plan, and stay safe while making decisions about how to operate during a pandemic. These strong partnerships are important to keeping our community healthy.

We didn’t tackle this pandemic in Dakota County on our own. Safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and our partnership with the Minnesota Department of Health helped change how county services are provided and guided our response to the growth in confirmed cases. County cities and townships also benefited as we helped ensure they had face

Safety guidelines…helped change how county services are provided and guided our response…

masks, personal protective equipment and other resources for first responders.

WORKING FOR YOU IN NEW WAYS In early spring, plans for operating county government during the pandemic were underway.

The challenge was to make sure we could continue providing services without meeting with residents in person.

The Board of Commissioners began conducting meetings by video to ensure physical distancing.

Commissioners received regular COVID-19 updates and provided direction on the county’s response.

In mid-March, 80 percent of our 2,000 employees began working from home. Employees conducted appointments with clients, took resident phone calls and emails, and answered taxpayer questions — all while working remotely. Some employees

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F E A T U R E

S T O R Y

stayed on-site if their work required them to be in the office or out in the field.

Public health nurses went from meeting with new mothers and their babies in their home to meeting by phone and video. Open houses to get public input on transportation and park improvement projects were held virtually. Home inspections were conducted by video as we processed more than 850 property valuation appeals between March and June. Many other transactions were processed by mail or through drop boxes located outside county buildings. Strict procedures were put in place to keep jail inmates and staff safe.

County service and license centers opened for appointments in June, and in the first month handled nearly 500 title transfers, more than 1,300 driver’s license applications or renewals and close to 400 marriage licenses. Customers like the option to make an appointment, so that service will continue to be offered.

Librarians educated and entertained young children with storytime videos on Facebook and parks-themed art and educational activities went online. People could watch how to repair damaged household items through a live-streamed Fix-It Clinic.

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HELPING THOSE OUT OF WORK Since the pandemic started, unemployment among county residents jumped from 2.7 percent in May 2019 to 10.4 percent in May 2020. Nearly 2,200 Dakota County residents completed unemployment applications in January and February of this year — that jumped to more than 61,000 between mid-March and mid-June.

To help people find work, our CareerForce Centers are holding virtual workshops on job searching, interview skills and more. Videos that help people put together their resume are also available. We maintain a list of area employers who are hiring, even in this challenged economy, and offer limited in-person CareerForce services by appointment, including computer, phone and fax use for job searches.

As people are laid off from their jobs, more residents in financial stress are turning to us for help. The number of families in need of food and financial assistance grew in recent months. There was an 8-percent increase in food assistance cases from February to March, and in that time the number of people seeking health care assistance jumped 10 percent. We responded to the demand by training employees to handle public assistance applications over the phone, eliminating the need for in-person visits.

KEEPING YOU INFORMED One of our most important responsibilities in a pandemic is to make sure you have access to reliable information. People get county news differently, so we shared COVID-19 updates in many ways. The county website at www.dakotacounty.us provides the latest data about virus cases in Dakota County and how our services are affected by the pandemic.

Facts and tips on how to stay healthy are shared through our public health newsletter emailed to people who sign up for it. Important information about a COVID-19 crisis hotline and health tips in English and Spanish were distributed on postcards at community food pickups and outside county buildings. Our social media channels, including Facebook and Twitter, are updated regularly. County commissioners hosted public virtual town hall forums, so residents could hear directly from health experts and get their own questions answered in real-time.

Other COVID-19 resources were translated into Spanish and Somali — the top two non-English

languages spoken by county residents. Safety guidelines were also shared with residents, schools and others during virtual meetings conducted in Spanish. This was especially important as data shows that Latino residents make up a disproportionate share of COVID-19 cases in the county — about 7 percent of the county population but 24 percent of confirmed coronavirus cases.

New tools were also put in place to keep you informed. An online “dashboard” was created to provide accurate local data about the virus.

The dashboard includes the number of confirmed cases in the county, the number of fatalities, the age of people tested positive for COVID-19 and hospitalization rates. You can see data by city, age, gender, ethnicity, race and how people likely were exposed to the virus. Visit www.dakotacounty.us, search covid dashboard.

New tools were also put in place to keep you informed. Visit www.dakotacounty.us, search covid dashboard.

Our public health nurses continue to staff a local COVID-19 hotline that we set up to support the statewide hotline. We answered more than 630 phone calls and more than 60 emails from midMarch to mid-June. Language interpreters were available, and more than 30 people used the Spanish language line.

As the virus spread this spring, there was a shortage of personal protection equipment such as face masks and gloves. First responders, health care

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F E A T U R E

S T O R Y

providers and other front-line workers needed the equipment to keep themselves safe and to care for others. Dakota County residents, businesses and community organizations stepped up with donations.

During personal protection equipment drives at service center and library locations, we received more than 8,000 cloth and safety masks, nearly 1,200 surgical masks, 21,000 pairs of gloves and many other items. The equipment was inspected and then given to public safety workers, nurses and other workers whose jobs put them at higher risk of getting the virus. We also made sure county employees had the personal protective equipment they needed to serve the public safely.

PARKS, LIBRARY ACTIVITIES GO VIRTUAL Visiting a county park or trail became a popular pastime as visitors looked for ways to exercise, spend time in nature and take care of themselves physically and mentally. Park staff offered outdoor safety tips, suggested quieter parks to visit and showed visitors the safest way to share trails with others.

Some park services weren’t available early-on due to the stay-at-home order and safety guidelines that called for limiting gatherings and contact with others. As a result, the Lebanon Hills Visitor Center, Schaar’s Bluff Gathering Center at Spring Lake Park Reserve and other facilities were temporarily closed. Some park programs, such as educational classes and nature hikes, were changed to accommodate physical distancing and equipment rentals were temporarily stopped. We carefully resumed some activities and services,

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including camping and equipment rental, over the summer.

We found new ways to serve residents looking for outdoor experiences. A weekly series of fun and educational nature videos on the Dakota County Parks Facebook page was created in the spring.

We offered some virtual park programs for people to enjoy at home and added park art projects for children. Those programs are still available on the parks website at www.dakotacounty.us/parks, search virtual programs.

Temporarily closing buildings to protect the public limited access to library materials. To continue to provide access to the county’s nine library locations, curbside pick-up of books and other materials was offered. An appointment could be made to pick up checked-out materials, and orders were placed outside the library for pick up.

As school buildings and child care facilities closed this spring, families joined our librarians for entertaining and educational virtual storytimes and other programs on Facebook Live.

The library’s popular Summer Discovery program for kids continued with innovative ways to get the materials and books to children. Families could pick up a Summer Discovery bag at the library, and more than 7,000 Summer Discovery bags were distributed through lunch delivery programs offered by school districts in the county. Children look forward to this engaging summer program, so it was important to find a safe way to offer it.

Staying home as the pandemic took hold in the spring and maintaining physical distancing

helped to keep all of us healthy, but for some, it took a toll on their mental and emotional health. Our mental health experts recognized that and found ways to provide resources to help people stay mentally healthy and address the challenges they faced as a result of the social limitations caused by COVID-19.

Our COVID-19 hotline was able to directly connect us with those suffering a mental health crisis, so they could get the help they needed.

Community mental health resources were also made available on our website.

Looking ahead, there are still questions on how we’ll provide other services safely.

Elections are an example. As we get ready for the presidential election, we’re preparing for a substantial increase in absentee balloting as some voters will be more comfortable casting a ballot from home rather than in a polling place on Election Day. Even with the expected increase in absentee ballots, plans are being put into place to ensure physical distancing and other COVID-19 health guidelines can be followed for those voters who head to the polls on Nov. 3.

In these very difficult times, we’ve been working hard to ensure county services are accessible and safe for residents, businesses and visitors.

As we carefully resume in-person services, we’ll continue to look for ways to offer them safely and efficiently. That’s good for those who need our help and it’s good for all taxpayers. In uncertain times, we’re proud to say you can rely on us.

Free COVID-19 testing Get a free drive-thru COVID-19 test at Dakota Child and Family Clinic in Burnsville. For appointments, call 612-223-8838. Learn more at www.dakotacounty.us, search free covid-19 test.

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Make your vote count.

Register, get information on absentee voting and find your polling location at www.dakotacounty.us, search voting.

Your Commissioners

3 Mike Slavik District 1

T: 651-438-4427

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

Kathleen A. Gaylord District 2

T: 651-438-4428

Includes the cities of South St. Paul, West St. Paul, Sunfish Lake, and Inver Grove Heights Precincts 1 and 8–10.

Liz Workman

T: 651-438-4430

T: 651-438-4431

Includes the cities of Inver Grove Heights Precincts 2–7; Eagan Precincts 8 and 13–17; and Rosemount Precincts 1–2, 4, and 6–7.

District 3

T: 651-438-4429

Includes the cities of Lilydale, Mendota, Mendota Heights, and Eagan Precincts 1–7 and 9–12.

Commissioner Thomas Egan will retire from the Dakota County Board of Commissioners effective at year’s end. Representing District 3, he served Eagan, Lilydale, Mendota, and Mendota Heights residents for 16 years.

Joe Atkins District 4

Thomas A. Egan

District 5

Includes the city of Burnsville.

Egan’s tenure as commissioner included development of Whitetail Woods Regional Park, major stretches of the Dakota County Regional Greenway Trail System, the Robert Trail Library, and the groundbreaking of the Safety and Mental Health Response Training (SMART) Center, which will provide first responders training for mental health crisis situations.

LILYDALE MENDOTA MENDOTA HEIGHTS

WEST ST. PAUL

SOUTH ST. PAUL

SUNFISH LAKE

2

3

Contact us

Email: board@co.dakota.mn.us

EAGAN INVER GROVE HEIGHTS

BURNSVILLE

4

7

5

APPLE VALLEY

NININGER

ROSEMOUNT

HASTINGS

COATES

6 FARMINGTON

Mary Liz Holberg District 6

T: 651-438-4243 Includes the city of Lakeville.

MARSHAN

1

LAKEVILLE

Chris Gerlach District 7

VERMILLION TWP NEW TRIER

MIESVILLE

HAMPTON EUREKA

CASTLE ROCK

T: 651-438-4411

Includes the cities of Rosemount Precincts 3 and 5, and Apple Valley.

RAVENNA

VERMILLION

EMPIRE

HAMPTON TWP

DOUGLAS

RANDOLPH RANDOLPH TWP SCIOTA

GREENVALE

WATERFORD NORTHFIELD

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Give life your best shot.

Get vaccinated.

Protect yourself and your family against serious, life-threatening diseases.

Free and low-cost vaccines are available at immunization clinics.

For an appointment, call 952-891-7585. www.dakotacounty.us search immunizations