RCWD Receives Statewide Recognition for Hansen Park Flood Reduction Project

The Rice Creek Watershed District is proud to announce that our Hansen Park Project in New Brighton has been honored by the Minnesota Association of Floodplain Managers (MNAFPM) with their annual Project Award. The MNAFPM is a group of professionals dedicated to improving the way Minnesota prepares for, responds to, and learns from flood events. This award recognizes outstanding efforts to reduce flood risk across the state.

The Hansen Park Project is a multi-benefit water management initiative that transformed an aging pond and dam system along Ramsey County Ditch 2 into a modern, multi-functional flood risk reduction and water quality improvement system. Through innovative design, including a three-stage dam, pumped iron-enhanced sand filtration system, and strategic habitat restoration, the project significantly reduced downstream flood elevations and improved local water quality.

In partnership with the City of New Brighton and Houston Engineering, Inc., RCWD’s work on this project led to substantial community benefits, including the removal of properties from FEMA’s mapped floodplain, enhanced park amenities, and a more resilient urban watershed.

We’re honored by this recognition and grateful to our partners and community members who helped make this project possible.

MNAFPM Website: https://www.mnafpm.org/about-us/project-of-the-year/archive-project-of-the-year