A local organization needs help from the community to clean up and improve the Hennepin Canal. River Action is trying to finish the final two phases of a restoration project at the environmental park in Milan, but still needs about $130,000.
Program Director Tim Chambers says last year, River Action removed vegetation, fixed the parking lot, and planted a garden at the park. This year, the group's plans include making the trail ADA accessible, re-stocking the canal with fish, and offering more educational programs.
Chambers hopes changes to the Environmental Park will reduce illegal dumping and invasive species along the Hennepin Canal.
He says the state will provide the money to add more fish to the canal. And last month, the village of Milan approved $4,000 for the project.
But, Chambers says River Action will ask the state, local organizations, and businesses to help fund the rest of the $130,000 project.
Work could continue on the Hennepin Canal Environmental Park as early as this summer.