Protect Water, Preserve the Bluffs

Story

Spring Valley Friends advocates for preserving the Minnesota River valley bluff in the city of Eden Prairie, MN. The Eden Prairie bluff landscape is a unique combination of climate, geology, wildlife and vegetation. Prehistoric tribes inhabited this area, as evidenced by the hundreds of burial sites throughout this archeologically documented cemetery site. This rare landscape, along with its historical and cultural value, is being erased by intensive development. The small remnants remaining today desperately need preservation. A 28-acre portion of the bluff area is currently at risk for development. In addition to the bluff's significance, here are reasons why protecting the site around the Spring is essential: Protect Water - The land is connected to two important water resources, Riley Creek and the Fredrick Miller Spring (Mni Wakan). The spring provides access to free water to thousands of people across the metro. As per the MN Pollution Control Agency, Riley Creek is already in an impaired state due to development; this potential project could make it worse. Endangered Habitat - The DNR confirms prairie remnants on the site. Today less than 1-2% of this habitat remains in the state due to development. Read the Letter Here - from MN DNR  Public Safety - There are landslides concerns due to both the natural slopes as well as the unsafe engineering design Please send checks to: Spring Valley Friends PO Box 46262 Eden Prairie, MN 55347 *Mni Wakan - the historical name for Frederick Miller Spring, translated as sacred place of water, or sacred water. The spring is known as "curing waters." For more information, please visit: www.springvalleyfriends.org