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Minnesota’s Vanishing Birds: Unraveling the Causes
Minnesota has been experiencing significant declines in bird populations consistent with broader trends across North America.
Causes are varied and complex, but key factors have been confirmed

Defining the Mayor Role-Words Matter
During the Shorewood City Council work session on May 12th, a discussion regarding the proposed council “bylaws” revealed some stark differences regarding roles, responsibilities and the relative authority of elected members.

Unintended Consequences: Subdividing Property & Municipal Water
7/13/2025 update: This proposed amendment to the Subdividion Ordinance is once again on the agenda for approval at the July 14th Shorewood City Council meeting.
During the April 28th Shorewood meeting, the council discussed a proposed amendment to the subdivision ordinance, for 2.5 hours, before tabling it for future consideration.

Pando: The Quaking Aspen Titan
Aspens, known for brilliant shades of gold and yellow, create some of the most stunning fall foliage displays.
Anyone who enjoys the beauty of quaking aspens may be a fan of “Pando,” a massive clonal colony of a single male quaking aspen located in south-central Utah.

Shorewood Parks Master Plan Update 2025: Building on the Vision
Shorewood completed a Parks Master Plan in 2002 with an update in 2009.
In 2024 the Park Commission agreed to extend the Master Plan to include concepts for South Shore Park with further planning, development, and enhancement of parks, trails, natural areas, and recreational facilities.

Droning Out Mosquitoes: MMCD’s New Aerial Advantage
The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD) has proven its value treating for mosquitos, fleas and ticks.
Now, MMCD technicians are leading the way for drone surveillance and treatment.

Bees Are Safe-Invasive Species, Not So Much
In a progressive leap forward, the city of Shorewood is developing a vegetation management plan.
The extensive document will focus on invasive species, “including management of buckthorn, field and park turf, emerald ash borer (EAB), park and ROW trees, invasive species, and more.”

E-ZPass Text Scam
Scammers are sending text messages saying that you owe tolls to MnDOT or E-ZPass.
According to MnDOT, E-Z Pass will NEVER send notifications via text. Before you click on a link or send any money, contact E-ZPass or the jurisdiction in question.

E-bikes and E-motorcycles: A New Enforcement Challenge
Both enforcement actions and electric equipment have taken a step forward this e-bike/e-motorcycle season.
Three Rivers Park District enforcement vehicles were on the Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail the afternoon of Mar. 27, and had 4 bikes “corralled” for what appeared to be a serious discussion.