While many people debate over its true meaning, in 1987 the United Nations defined the term sustainable development in the Brundtland Commission Report, Our Common Future, as “development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” 1 Discussion of sustainable development tends to revolve around issues relating to climate change, renewable energy, and water scarcity. While these issues
are significant, it is important to recognize that other topics must be considered in the conversation. In particular, it is necessary to discuss land preservation.
The preservation of green spaces – marshes, prairies, wooded areas, passive parks, etc. – is vital to sustainable development. For example, in an urban setting, undeveloped green spaces provide ecosystem services, community recreational space, aesthetic value, and biodiversity. This paper seeks to explore the history of green space conservation in Northfield, MN between the late 1960s to
the early 1990s. This paper specifically examines the cases of Sibley Marsh, and Lashbrook Park.