Why are we interested in preserving this land??

Located in the very heart of Minneapolis, this land (locally known as "Anwatin Woods") borders a large pond and features a wide variety of flora and fauna. Deer, raccoons, wild turkeys, fox and countless other animals and birds live among majestic trees only a few hundred feet from the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary. A large portion of this property was landfilled in the 1940s and 50s, eliminating a large pond and creating drainage problems for area homes (see "History of the Land"). The Vincent property is landfilled to a depth of 10-15 feet, with large chunks of concrete protruding from the ground and numerous voids that constitute a danger to area children who play there.

The land is directly adjacent to Wirth Park and constitutes a natural extension of that park. Development on this land would negatively impact Wirth Park as well as the large pond located within the woods, and could taint runoff to nearby Bassett's Creek.

FBPW / Save Anwatin Woods is working to preserve and restore this property as natural parkland, protecting the Bassett Creek Watershed, extending the Minneapolis park system and providing recreational and study opportunities (Bryn Mawr Elementary and Anwatin Middle School border the land) for future generations (see Learning Center). We envision a restored woodland, cleared of buckthorn and other invasive plants. Oaks, maples and other appropriate trees have been installed. A path winds its way around a restored pond, home to wetland vegetation and waterfowl, and eventually connects to Wirth Park and the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden. Connections also allow access to the woods from the Bryn Mawr neighborhood and elementary school. Wildflower plantings grace the open areas and birds sing. Installation of a drainage system has eliminated water problems for area residents, and the landfill has been either removed or covered.