St. Paul, mn

 Monument to Minnesotans aims to create a connected, sustainable, and resilient landscape at Minnesota's capital. This vision brings together history, nature, and a sense of community, offering an interactive space for people, while fostering ecological health. Managing on site water, supporting wildlife, and enhancing biodiversity- inviting and honoring all life by creating a culturally and ecologically significant place.

Water features will function as a multi-step biofiltration system to purify stormwater, prevent flooding, and reduce runoff. The introduction of native plants will re-establish natural habitats for wildlife and provide aesthetic and educational opportunities for the public to connect with Minnesota’s diverse natural heritage. The water features represent the importance of water within the state of Minnesota, while also addressing present-day challenges like climate change, urbanization, and biodiversity loss.

• Past: Acknowledging Minnesota’s past by highlighting natural landscapes pre-urban development. This is reflected in the re-establishment of native plant communities and restoration of ecological systems that were once prevalent in the area. The lake serves as a symbolic reminder of the waters that have long shaped Minnesota’s identity.
• Present: The design will cater to the needs of contemporary life by providing a welcoming, accessible public space where people can gather and connect with each other. Providing opportunities for environmental education, sustainability practices, and community engagement, making it an active space that responds to the needs of local residents and statewide visitors. 
• Future: Being adaptable and resilient, serving as a living example of how cities can integrate green infrastructure to combat the effects of climate change. The water features, native plants, and habitat spaces will evolve over time, supporting an ever-changing range of species and providing a space for future generations to engage with the environment. 

*Analysis & Schematic Work Done With: Adam Pike