OUR VALUES

Our work to support a thriving and sustainable lake ecosystem is guided by the following core values.

In the case of Lake Hiawatha (Bde Psin), wildlife are the residents and the humans are the visitors. This is literally true because the homes of the wildlife are in and around the lake and the humans reside outside of this area and visit the park. This is unaccustomed thinking for many of us because we don’t typically regard wildlife highly enough to value their existence, consider their living conditions or quality of life. We think nothing of displacing them by destroying their homes for any plan that is important to humans. This does not mean human lives should be regarded as less important than the lives of wildlife. On the contrary, the life and health of our wildlife residents are inextricably tied into human health, quality of life and even our very survival as a species. This is true both in a global sense and in our local and regional spaces.

Photo by Sofia Rooney

  • We prioritize the well-being of the lake's entire ecosystem, recognizing the intrinsic value of all living things. We listen to the needs of nature and strive to attune our actions and work to these needs, while minimizing our impact.

  • We see restoration as an opportunity to bridge the gap between the human and more-than-human world. We strive to create a space where people can develop a sense of belonging within the ecosystem.

  • We work to expand and connect wildlife habitats, recognizing the importance of biodiversity and ecosystem health. This includes wetland restoration and the elimination of harmful practices like pesticide use.

  • We actively address and confront ongoing pollution sources, such as pumping and stormwater runoff, to protect the health of the lake and its inhabitants. We are advocates for policies and practices that support a healthy and thriving ecosystem.

  • We are responsible caretakers of this land, honoring Indigenous values and traditional knowledge. We consult and collaborate with the Dakota community, recognizing their connection to the land and its history.

Photo by Sofia Rooney

  • We are committed to fostering a strong, inclusive community that shares our passion for the lake. We provide educational opportunities to mentor and empower individuals to become stewards of their local environment.

  • We are dedicated to building climate preparedness and resilience within the lake ecosystem, recognizing the challenges posed by a changing climate.