The Minnesota Plan to Put Water First
A public blueprint and open-source hub for advancing Minnesota’s water future
Water Is Minnesota’s Most Valuable Resource. Let’s Treat It That Way.
This open-source site shares insights, strategies, and real-world solutions to ensure Minnesota’s water remains clean, reliable, and accessible—for every person, business, and community.
What is the Minnesota Plan to Put Water First?
This is not a campaign. It’s a tool for decision-making.
Led by the Minneapolis Foundation, inspired by the Harris Family, and informed by voices across the state—from utility boards to community leaders—the Minnesota Plan to Put Water First captures the most promising ideas, partnerships, and approaches already shaping water’s future.
It’s a resource for anyone working to protect water and grow Minnesota’s economy—from planners and policymakers to business leaders and nonprofits.
“Water connects everything. Our solutions should, too.”
Key Resources
Opportunity Video
A quick, illustrated explainer on why water planning is a smart investment for Minnesota’s future.
Water Quality Blueprint & Action Plan
A clear, adaptable roadmap to align efforts across infrastructure, conservation, and economic development.
Hear from Minnesota Leaders
Short perspectives from experts across sectors, geographies, and communities.
What We Heard Across Minnesota
Real Conversations. Real Data. Shared Direction.
With our partners at Imagine Deliver, we engaged with 60+ stakeholders across 37 organizations—government agencies, farmers, Tribal Nations, business leaders, and community advocates. What we heard reflects urgency, opportunity, and innovation.
We’ve gathered stories, strategies, and challenges from across the state—from White Earth Nation to Wayzata—to shape a smarter, more connected path forward.
“Water access needs to be built into long-term land use and workforce planning.”
Minnesota Is Already Leading—Here’s the Proof
Across the state, Minnesotans are putting water first through real, scalable action. This plan doesn’t start from scratch—it shines a light on what’s working.
From policy reform and infrastructure upgrades to sustainable farming and community-led innovation, this section points to tangible examples of leadership in action.
“We’re already doing good work—now we need to scale it”
Call to Engagement
What Can You Do With This?
After more than a year of work as a convener, the Minneapolis Foundation was proud to announce Conservation Minnesota as a new partner who will take this work into the policy realms where it works best.
This plan is designed to inform real decisions—whether you’re investing in infrastructure, building a water-resilient business, shaping public policy, or supporting your community’s access to clean water.
We’re sharing these insights and tools with business leaders, regional planners, local governments, Tribal councils, and organizations across Minnesota. Use what’s here. Build on it. Share it.