Kare 11 featured the story of the floating islands within their “Simply Science” segment last Thursday. The technology employed to clean water in this manner is indeed a great example of “cradle to cradle” design thinking. Recycled from problem waste: check. Ability to evolve: check. Desirable to the consumer: check (they are captivating).
However, not only is this project a marvel because of the science involved, it’s also a fantastic example of what collaborative partnerships can accomplish.
At the 08.17 celebration Anita Tabb stated that one of the most exciting results of this project was the feat of bringing together so many varied interests and in such a productive manner. The list of partners includes American Society of Landscape Architects Minnesota Chapter, Lowry Hill Neighborhood Association, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, City of Minneapolis, Blake School, Minneapolis Parks Foundation, Midwest Floating Islands, and Minnesota Native Landscapes. There were many more organizations and individuals that were a part of making it happen that weren’t “partners” but critically important to setting the islands afloat. From the state level (Minnesota DNR) to the local level (Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission) entities answered the call and facilitated this gem of an installation in a forgotten lake within a small neighborhood.
It certainly is a feat of science, and we look forward to seeing positive results for the lake and watershed in the next few years. However, both commissioners Anita Tabb and Lisa Goodman landed on the other crucial take-away: the positive partnerships created during this project are significant and will be ongoing. Add it all up and it’s one great example of the Landscape Architecture process.
See more images from the celebration below!
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