Natural Resources

The natural resources division was created in 2005 to promote a more comprehensive approach to natural resources in Minnetonka. Natural resources is responsible for the city’s forestry programs, water/wetlands protection, restoration programs, and development guidance as well as providing education and outreach to residents on natural resource topics.

  • Natural Resource Stewardship Programs
  • Forestry
    Most of Minnetonka was forested prior to settlement, and the existence of so many fine trees is still an important part of its identity. Find out where the original forest was, how to manage the remaining woodlands, how to plant and care for trees, and how to recognize common tree problems.
  • Water Resources
    Read about Minnetonka’s creeks, lakes and wetlands and the organizations that manage them.
  • Construction Projects
    Do you work in the construction business? Are you building a house, garage or addition? Learn how natural resources are affected by construction and what can be done to minimize the impacts.
  • Backyard Conservation
    Maintain, restore and manage your part of Minnetonka’s environment.

New development review

We also review all new developments to ensure the protection of natural resources

The protection and enhancement of the natural resources is evaluated and implemented as part of new development projects. Trees and wetland protection are incorporated into the overall project goals and in many cases steps are taken to enhance the natural surroundings.

Conservation developments look at the natural resources of the particular piece of land and then try to incorporate the actual development into the site with the least amount of disturbance. Areas are preserved for the long-term enjoyment of the residents.

The planning division also reviews development proposals from a grading and erosion control perspective. The city reviews the proposal and the activity of the construction site in order to help minimize the amount of earth moving activity and to control erosion.

Environmental Goals

Minnetonka’s commitment to our natural resources is expressed through the vision and goals of the 1999 Comprehensive Plan, the basic guiding document of the city:

Community Vision

Minnetonka…Where quality comes naturally. Minnetonka will be the community of choice where people come together to live, work and play in a naturally beautiful environment. As we work to preserve our quality neighborhoods and provide exceptional city services, we will always be aware of the delicate balance between the need for urban services and the importance of protecting and managing our natural surroundings.

Strategic Goals

(Goals 1 and 3 out of 9)

1. We will vigorously protect and manage our natural surroundings. We treasure Minnetonka’s natural environment. Our lakes and creeks, woods and wetlands, wildlife, trails and parks are precious to us and will be carefully managed so they can be enjoyed by future generations.

3. We will support well-planned, reasonable development. We recognize that our community will change and evolve. As such changes occur, we strive to balance the rights of individual property owners to undertake reasonable development of their property with the desire of the wider community to preserve our natural environment and surroundings. Our goal is to achieve such a balance through appropriate and fair, yet aggressive development standards.

Additional resources