Promoting a smarter way to grow
 
             

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Who we are:

1000 Friends of Minnesota is a statewide nonprofit membership organization dedicated to addressing the important connections between our development patterns and the health of our communities and the environment. Our mission is to promote development that creates healthy communities while conserving natural areas, family farms, woodlands and water. To this end, all of our programs and strategies – since our founding – have been designed to promote “smart” or “balanced” growth and the conservation of water and land.


History & Accomplishments

1000 Friends grew out of citizens’ concerns with the serious ramifications of Minnesota’s sprawling growth patterns. The organization coalesced in 1993 as a program of the Land Stewardship Project (LSP). In 1998, 1000 Friends incorporated as a separate organization, receiving its 501(c)(3) non-profit determination letter. For specifics on our past projects and accomplishments, click here.

Board Directory

Staff Directory

Employment and Volunteering

We envision a Minnesota where:

  • Citizens have choices about how their communities grow and have tools to make informed decisions about their future.
  • There are efficient, diverse, pedestrian-friendly communities along with healthy family farms, woodlands, open space and water.
  • Cities and towns do not sprawl into the countryside, but are thoughtfully planned with the input of informed citizens.
  • Growth occurs in a fiscally responsible manner, using existing infrastructure and offering transportation alternatives.
  • Natural resources are protected, communities are healthy and citizens have access to jobs, housing, and clean air, water and soil.