Dakota County reintroduced bison to Spring Lake Park Reserve, a picturesque 1,100-acre Features park near Hastings, MN. The bison herd, part of the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd, is managed in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Minnesota Zoological Gardens.
Scope
To enhance the visitor experience and promote understanding, Dakota County engaged the 106 Group to develop interpretive signs. These signs highlight the ecological role of bison in the prairie landscape, their social structure, and the significant cultural connection between bison and Indigenous communities in Minnesota. 106 Group played a crucial role in various stages of cultural resources work leading up to the design and development of the interpretive panel signages. Our involvement encompassed a literature review, Tribal engagement, Phase I archaeological survey, and parking lot survey.
Outcome
Through client collaboration and feedback with our team and Dakota partners, concepts were developed, and culturally relevant content was created in both Dakota and English. Five interpretive signs now welcome visitors to the bison viewing area, including a large panoramic sign in Dakota and English, expressing the cultural connection with Indigenous communities. Three smaller signs explore bison connections with their herd, landscape, and people, while a larger sign along the trail highlights the ecological role of bison in the prairie landscape. This project celebrates the ecological and cultural significance of bison, offering visitors a deeper appreciation for these majestic creatures and their role in the park’s ecosystem.
