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<br /> <br />Introduction <br />Rich in natural resources: Opportunities to communicate the value of natural resources to residents <br />The City of Ramsey is experiencing strong growth pressure due to its scenic environment, proximity to <br />the Twin Cities, and location along Highway 10. The City recognizes this pressure and the stress it places on its <br />natural resources and open space. In response, Ramsey is moving proactively to develop planning policies that <br />will balance growth with natural resource protection. Within Ramsey, there is a strong interest on the part of <br />citizens to maintain a high quality of life. (City of Ramsey, 2007). <br />The preservation of natural communities and open spaces is often an important component of this goal. <br />Such areas provide opportunities for active and passive recreation, wildlife habitat, scenic vistas and buffers <br />between developed areas, and can serve as landmarks or distinguishing features for the local community. It has <br />also been shown that property values increase near natural open spaces (Geoghegan, 2002), and that effective <br />planning for natural resources can benefit all parties (Groot, 2006). <br />Preserving natural resources can come into conflict with private property rights, especially in rural areas <br />like Ramsey. When property values increase, landowners have a significant amount of money tied up in their <br />property and not in physical cash. This can cause them to be very protective of their property. Keeping natural <br />resources around private property can help to build its value. It is important to communicate this connection so <br />landowners see the importance in protecting natural resources in the city. With growing developmental <br />pressures, these landowners might feel forced to sell their land to developers without understanding the value <br />of the adjacent resources to their property and to the city overall. Education around the importance of natural <br />resources is how we can overcome this conflict with property owners. It can help the community preserve their <br />rural character, maintain opportunities for recreation, and have a sustainable community. Creative engagement <br />strategies will help landowners become engaged with their city and find new ways to protect the environment. <br />As Ramsey updates its comprehensive plan, it is crucial to begin looking for innovative strategies to best <br />communicate the value of natural resources as they pertain to sustainable development. <br />RCP partners with Designing Planning & Participation Processes Course: Developing innovative <br />communications strategies <br />PA 5253: Designing Planning and Participation Processes, a course at the University of Minnesota taught <br />by Professor Dan Milz in the Fall of 2017 focuses on the design, implementation and evaluation of participatory <br />planning processes. On a high level this course explores theories and designs of participatory planning to <br />investigate challenges with design issues, community engagement, and democratic deliberation. In partnership <br />with project lead Chris Anderson, Ramsey City Planner, our group developed innovative communications <br /> <br />Natural Resources Communication Challenge with City, Residents, and Developers <br /> <br />Problem: -wide survey results. This rural <br />character is closely tied with the natural resource base that is present in the city. However, there is a lack of <br />5 <br /> <br />