Alimagnet Park Ecological Restoration Project Underway in Apple Valley
Provided by the City of Apple Valley/Facebook.
Published: February 23, 2026.
APPLE VALLEY, MINNESOTA - A large-scale ecological restoration project in a 20.5-acre section of Alimagnet Park is underway, marking a significant investment in the long-term health and sustainability of one of the community’s most treasured natural spaces.
Heavy equipment removals began on February 20, 2026, following handwork that began the week of February 17, 2026. The effort is part of the park’s Natural Resources Management Plan and is designed to remove invasive species and restore native habitat over the next several years.
$262,009 DNR Grant Funds Project
The restoration work was made possible through a $262,009 grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Conservation Partners Legacy (CPL) Grant Program. Funding for the CPL program comes from the Outdoor Heritage Fund, which was created by Minnesota voters to support habitat protection and restoration projects across the state. City officials say the grant allows Apple Valley to address long-standing ecological challenges in the park that would otherwise be difficult to fund at the local level.
Restoring a Once-Healthy Ecosystem
According to the City, the 20.5-acre parcel was historically a healthy ecosystem consisting of:
Native oak trees
Native shrubs
Wildflowers
Prairie grasses
Over time, however, the area has become degraded due to several factors, including:
The spread of invasive species such as buckthorn
Competition from faster-growing, aggressive tree species
Suppression of natural processes, such as fire, due to urban development
Buckthorn in particular is known for outcompeting native vegetation, reducing biodiversity, and altering soil chemistry. City officials say removing invasive species is the first and most critical step toward restoring ecological balance.
Provided by the City of Apple Valley.
Burn Piles to Dispose of Woody Debris
To manage the large volume of removed brush and trees, the contractor will use on-site burn piles. Proposed burn pile locations have been flagged in red within the project area.
The City emphasized that:
Burn piles will be managed 24 hours a day by a certified professional.
A permit has been issued by the City Fire Marshal.
The Apple Valley Fire Department has been notified and is aware of the project.
Residents may notice smoke during operations, particularly during colder weather windows when conditions are most favorable for safe burning.
Park and Trail Closures Expected
Due to the use of heavy equipment, park and trail closures are expected for approximately 2–3 weeks during the most intensive removal phase.
Additionally:
Weekend work may occur over the next couple of weeks.
Crews are taking advantage of colder temperatures, which help minimize soil disturbance and environmental impact.
City officials thanked residents in advance for their patience and understanding during temporary disruptions.
Multi-Year Plan Through 2027
While the bulk of invasive species removal is expected to occur during January and February 2026, the project will continue in phases through fall 2027.
Planned next steps include:
Ongoing site management to prevent invasive species from returning
Intermittent herbicide treatments throughout 2026
Native grass and wildflower seeding in 2026 and spring 2027
Once restoration is complete, the site will be easier for City staff to maintain and more resilient against future invasive encroachment.
Long-Term Benefits for Wildlife and Visitors
City officials describe this project as the first major step toward creating a healthier habitat for the many plants and animals that call Alimagnet Park home.
Expected long-term benefits include:
Increased native biodiversity
Improved habitat for pollinators and wildlife
Greater ecological resilience
Enhanced park experience for visitors
By restoring native grasses, wildflowers, and oak savanna elements, the park will better reflect Minnesota’s natural landscape heritage.
How Residents Can Learn More
Residents interested in reviewing detailed project information can visit the City’s website, which we have linked here: Alimagnet Park Natural Resources Management Plan. You can also access the management plan for the full project here: Natural Resource Management Plan for the City of Apple Valley - Alimagnet Park.
City leaders say the project represents a community investment not just in land management, but in the long-term environmental health of Apple Valley. As restoration work progresses over the next two years, visitors are encouraged to follow posted signage and respect temporary closures while crews work to transform the park’s landscape for future generations.
Written by: Will Wight
Cover Photos provided by the City of Apple Valley.
