More than 38 million annual visits, 49 regional parks and reserves, 170 miles of regional trails and six special recreation features... and growing!

Whether you live in the cities of Minneapolis or St. Paul, ot the Twin Cities area counties of Carver, Scott, Ramsey, Hennepin, Dakota and Washington, there is a well loved, well used regional park or trail near you.

Between 2000 and 2030 the population of the metro area is projected to grow by nearly one million people. The Metropolitan Council's 2030 Regional Parks Policy Plan calls for expanding the park system from today's 53,000 acres to nearly 70,000 acres and increasing the network of regional trails from 231 miles to 877 miles. This plan has identified some of the region's "last best places" which include areas of significant natural resources that could provide high quality recreational opportunities. Although these areas may not be developed till after 2030, acquisition of the land is encouraged before such opportunities are lost.

Many of Minnesota's most valuable and well loved parks and natural areas were created and preserved through a combination of public and private investment. Nonprofit organizations, foundations and individuals have helped shape the landscape by providing funding when it was needed to acquire resources. Formation of the Regional Parks Foundation allows area residents the opportunity to do more to support the regional parks system now and for future generations.

Help us preserve the 'last best places.'