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open space
Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary  
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A former rail yard, the Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary is a 27-acre natural area that provides a habitat for a variety of flora and fauna indigenous to St. Paul. With towering sandstone and limestone bluffs, along with a magnificent forest landscape, the sanctuary offers an opportunity to enjoy nature in the heart of the city. In addition to the sanctuary’s natural importance, it is also historically and culturally significant. Wakan Tipi/Carver’s Cave, a Dakota tribe sacred site and landmark for early European explorers, is also located within the park. Remnants of the land’s rail history and a historic brewery foundation and cave add cultural value to the area. The reclamation and beautification of the sanctuary land has taken place in phases, beginning in the mid-1990s. Since then, community volunteers have removed tons of debris from the site, which had become an illegal dumping ground. In May 2005, the park opened to the public and more than 13,000 plants, trees and shrubs have been planted by community members. Though the park has come a long way since its days as a contaminated rail yard, there is still much to be done and it remains a work in progress. Nature lovers look to HGTV and its partners to aid in their efforts. |
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How am I Historic? - The Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary is the site of the Fall 2007 National Trust for Historic Preservation Annual Conference as well as the site of the historic North Star Brewery. The brewery and other remnants of the land’s history will be removed as evidence of urban archeology. |
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How am I Green? - Removal of debris and contamination of Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary will create a healthier, more eco-friendly natural habitat. |
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