Nature

NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT

The City follows a professional, comprehensive, strategic Natural Resources Management Plan for the management, rebuilding, and care of city-wide natural areas and natural resources. Staff performed a Tree Canopy Analysis as part of the plan.

stormwater management

The City works to enhance, protect, and restore its water resources. Learn more about these efforts on the stormwater management & water resources page.

Oheyawahe preservation area

In 2005 the City of Mendota Heights purchased the site at the convergence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers named Oheyawahe or Historic Pilot Knob. The site was made into a preservation area to protect it from development, as it is of great importance to the Dakota people. Native restoration of the area began in 2006 and continues to the present. In 2019 the city started a task force, the Pilot Knob Preservation Association, to focus on capital improvements, natural resources management and interpretation.

Learn more on the Oheyawahe page.

natural resources commission

In 2022, the City Council established a seven-member Natural Resources Commission. The Natural Resources Commission serves in an advisory role to the City Council on matters pertaining to natural resources, sustainability, environmental and climate stewardship, and opportunities for the advancement of those areas including developing and recommending policies and initiatives that enhance and preserve natural resources within the City. 

Learn more on the Natural Resources Commission page.

reduced salt usage

This help prevent permanent surface water and groundwater pollution, the City uses a brine maker to treat winter roads with a lower salt-content solution. 

smart irrigation

Staff installed a smart irrigation controller at Mendakota Park that utilizes weather forecasts to adjust the amount of water delivered to the irrigation system when running. The Par 3 Community Golf Course has an irrigation system that monitors moisture levels to avoid unnecessary watering. 

fleet policy

The city's fleet policy has language to help limit the idling of city vehicles when not necessary.

earth and arbor day

To celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day, staff hosts events that include fishing, outdoor yoga, and raptor shows. Visit the city calendar for more information.

volunteering

The City of Mendota Heights offers residents the opportunity to volunteer for a variety of positions including tree planting, invasive species removal and landscaping. Visit the volunteer page for more information.

Annual tree sale

The City hosts an annual tree sale to provide high-quality trees at a reduced cost. Learn more on the annual tree sale page.