River Bend Nature Center (RBNC), a beloved natural haven in Faribault, Minnesota, reached a meaningful milestone with the completion of its first Interpretive Concept Plan. Spanning more than 800 acres of prairie, forest, river, and wetlands, RBNC is a place where ecology, history, culture, and community intersect—from endangered wildflowers and ancient sea fossils to Dakota homelands and the legacy of Minnesota’s first institution for people with disabilities. The plan lays the foundation for sharing these layered stories with greater depth, inclusivity, and accessibility.
Scope
In partnership with RBNC, 106 Group collaborated with staff, board members, stakeholders, and community voices to shape a shared interpretive vision. The planning team created a framework that reflects the natural and human histories of the land and the people connected to it.
Outcome
The plan establishes a strategic road map for inclusive, meaningful interpretation that honors diverse histories, supports accessibility, and strengthens relationships with communities and descendants tied to the land. It will guide the development of visitor experiences that foster connection, understanding, reflection, and healing.
