2026 Eden Prairie Community Guide | страница 25

EDEN PRAIRIE

COMMUNITY GUIDE 2026

Friends of Eden Prairie Parks Enhancing Natural Spaces

Eden Prairie features a distinct natural backdrop that draws people in from across the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The maintenance and preservation of the city’ s vast wetlands, parkland and ecosystems are top priorities for local officials and community members alike.
Founded in 2023 by Eden Prairie resident Glenn Olson, Friends of Eden Prairie Parks( FEPP) is a volunteer-based organization with a mission to assist the city in improving biodiversity and enhancing the ecosystems within its natural spaces, including parks and preserves.
The group upholds its mission by enlisting support from Eden Prairie community members to improve citizen engagement, nurture a healthy ecosystem and participate in invasive species removal for restoration and maintenance efforts. FEPP regularly hosts garlic mustard and buckthorn removal events and native plant rescues throughout the community.
Community volunteers are a crucial component in the success of these events. Thorough removal of invasive species requires manual labor by participants. While the work can be physically demanding, it is a rewarding part of serving the community. If volunteers are unable to provide their own tools for a removal event, FEPP supplies the necessary equipment.
The organization hosts an annual meeting each March. This meeting provides an opportunity to reflect on the past year, discuss upcoming events and strengthen conservation and restoration efforts. In addition, the organization elects new board members.
The board consists of six members serving three-year terms. An executive committee oversees the board’ s work and includes founder Glenn Olson. Since 2024, Bridget Beyer has served as president.
friendsofepparks. org
2026 | EDEN PRAIRIE COMMUNITY GUIDE | 25