Metro Greenways Program
Program Purpose
Metro Greenways was established in 1998 as a program to protect, connect and restore natural areas in the Twin Cities metropolitan region. The program was created in response to recommendations set forth by the Greenways and Natural Areas Collaborative, a public-private work group, in its Metro Greenprint 
. This report called for stronger efforts to protect natural areas in the region threatened by urban growth.
DNR's Metro Greenways Program provides grants through a competitive process to local units of government to protect, restore, and enhance nigh quality natural habitats as well as to develop natural resource-based plans, policies, and practices that conserve the region's natural heritage.
Geographic Focus
Metro Greenways assists 12 urbanizing counties in the 23 county DNR Central Region (see Metro Greenways Eligibility map).
Restore and Enhance Natural Habitats
Grants to help local governments carry out ecological restoration activities on terrestrial, wetland and riparian landscapes.
Protect Natural Habitats
Grants to help local governments acquire land (fee title or conservation easement) to protect and buffer important natural habitats from development.
Other Community Conservation Options
Grants to help local governments acquire natural resources data and information to integrate into local plans, policies, and practices.
For more information contact:
Marybeth Block
Community Assistance Specialist
tel. (651) 259-5835
e-mail Marybeth.Block@state.mn.us
