08/26/2026
RWMWD is proud to announce that the Lake Phalen shoreline restoration has received a Natural Shoreline Award from the East Metro Water Resource Education Program (EMWREP) at Washington Conservation District! The recognition highlights two decades of efforts to replace turf with native wildflowers, shrubs, trees, and deep-rooted vegetation. With nearly two miles of restored shoreline, expansive oak woodlands, and multiple public access points, Phalen serves as a practical restoration model for Minnesota communities revitalizing urban lake shorelines.
Find out more about the restoration and the award at the eastmetrowater.org blog.