Access to SOAR: Final Report

Abstract

This is a co-publication of the University of Minnesota’s Center for Urban and Regional Affairs (CURA), the Northwest Regional Sustainable Development Partnership, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, and the Friends of Tamarac. Project funding was provided by the Mary J. Page Community-University Partnership Fund. The Community Assistantship Program (CAP) is a cross-college, cross-campus University of Minnesota initiative coordinated by the Center for Urban and Regional Affairs (CURA) and the Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP). The content of this report is the responsibility of the author and is not necessarily endorsed by CAP, CURA, RSDP or the University of Minnesota. Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships bring together local talent and resources with University of Minnesota knowledge to drive sustainability in agriculture and food systems, tourism and resilient communities, natural resources and clean energy. The Partnerships are part of University of Minnesota Extension. Tamarac Refuge lies in the heart of one of the most diverse transition zones in North America. Here Eastern deciduous hardwoods, Northern coniferous forests and Western tall grass prairie converge, creating a rich assemblage of both plants and animals. Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge was established as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife by Executive Order 7902, dated May 31, 1938. The Friends of Tamarac sponsor educational programs and events, build observation platforms and pathways, generate thousands of grant dollars for water quality and habitat projects, host a popular nature photography contest, and so much more. They are an advocate for wildlife refuges and passionate about protecting wild places for generations.